Experience the Magic of the Arctic Circle: A Winter Wonderland Journey through Finland and Norway

Imagine stepping into a winter wonderland, surrounded by stunning snowy landscapes, and experiencing the elusive Northern Lights. This is exactly what awaits you on a trip to Finland and Norway, where the Arctic Circle is home to some of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders. Starting from Malaysia, your journey begins with a flight to Helsinki, the capital of Finland. A city tour of Helsinki takes you to some of its most iconic landmarks, including the Sibelius Park, Helsinki Cathedral, and Uspenski Church. Helsinki’s vibrant culture and rich history will leave you in awe. The next stop is Kuopio, a city known for its stunning architecture, including the Kuopio Cathedral and City Hall. Make sure to head to Puijon Torni for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscape. From Kuopio, your adventure continues to the Tahko Ski Resort and Arora Hunting in Carvedilol before heading to Oulu. The Icebreak Ship tour takes you through the Swedish border into a Swedish port, where you can experience the vast beauty of the Arctic Circle. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot the Northern Lights. Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, is the next stop. Known as the home of Santa Claus, you’ll visit Santa Claus Village, where you can meet Santa himself and cross the Arctic Circle line. The Ranua Zoo is another stop on the itinerary, where you can see various Arctic animals up close. A visit to a Reindeer Sledging Farm is also on the cards. And as always, you can go Aurora Hunting if the conditions are favorable. The highlight of the trip is undoubtedly the stay at a glass igloo in Pyha-Luosto Kansallispuisto, where you’ll have a private bathroom and toilet. Relaxing in the Aurora Glasshouse is an experience that is second to none, and you might even be able to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. The next leg of the journey takes you to Kirkenes, Norway, where you’ll go on a King Crab Safari. This is your chance to catch and taste one of the most sought-after seafood delicacies in the world. And of course, Aurora Hunting is still on the agenda. The trip concludes with a Wild Reindeer Safari in Ivalo before heading back to Helsinki for some free and easy time to explore the city at your own pace. Finally, it’s time to head back to Malaysia, with a heart full of memories and experiences that will stay with you forever. In conclusion, a trip to Finland and Norway is a journey of a lifetime, where you’ll experience the Arctic Circle’s natural wonders and beauty. From snowy landscapes and iconic landmarks to meeting Santa Claus and Aurora Hunting, every moment of this trip is worth cherishing. So why wait? Plan your trip now and experience the magic of the Arctic Circle firsthand.

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Holiday Tour and Travel Essentials: Packing Tips for Stress-Free Adventures”

Tips / BP Holiday

Holiday Tour and Travel Essentials: Packing Tips for Stress-Free Adventures Introduction The excitement of embarking on a holiday tour is unparalleled. It’s a time to explore new destinations, immerse yourself in different cultures, and create lasting memories. However, to ensure that your journey is truly stress-free, one aspect demands careful attention: packing. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential packing tips and strategies to make your holiday tour a breeze. From planning your trip and packing smartly to maximizing luggage space, staying secure, and traveling responsibly, we’ve got you covered. Section 1: Planning for Your Trip 1.1 Choosing the Right Destination Selecting the perfect destination sets the tone for your entire holiday tour. Consider your interests, travel style, and the experiences you’re seeking. Whether it’s a tropical paradise, a cultural exploration, or an adventure-packed journey, matching your destination to your preferences is crucial. 1.2 Setting a Budget Before you start packing, you’ll need to establish a realistic travel budget. Factor in expenses like flights, accommodations, food, activities, and souvenirs. This section will guide you through creating a budget that ensures you don’t overspend during your trip and can fully enjoy your adventure. Section 2: Packing Smartly 2.1 Essential Travel Documents Your journey begins with paperwork. Ensure you have a valid passport, necessary visas, and any other essential documents. Additionally, consider creating digital copies and having backup plans in place in case of loss or theft. 2.2 Packing Clothing and Footwear Packing efficiently starts with your wardrobe. Choose versatile clothing that suits various climates and activities. Learn the art of mixing and matching to minimize the number of items you need to pack. We’ll also provide tips on maximizing luggage space. 2.3 Electronics and Gadgets In today’s digital age, electronics play a vital role in travel. From smartphones and cameras to laptops and chargers, this section will help you choose the right gadgets for your trip and offer advice on keeping them safe and charged. 2.4 Medications and First Aid Don’t forget about your health. Pack essential medications and create a compact first aid kit to address common travel-related health issues. Section 3: Packing Tips and Hacks 3.1 Rolling vs. Folding: The Packing Debate The packing method you choose can make a significant difference. We’ll explore the pros and cons of rolling and folding clothes, sharing space-saving techniques that seasoned travelers swear by. 3.2 Packing Cubes and Organizers Discover the wonders of packing cubes and organizers. Learn how these handy accessories can help keep your luggage organized and make unpacking a breeze. 3.3 Travel-Friendly Toiletries Packing toiletries efficiently is essential, especially when dealing with airline regulations. We’ll provide insights on which products to bring, which to leave behind, and how to comply with security rules. Section 4: Maximizing Luggage Space 4.1 Utilizing Carry-On Luggage Carry-on luggage is a valuable asset for any traveler. Explore its benefits and learn how to pack essential items in your carry-on to ensure you’re prepared for any situation. 4.2 Souvenirs and Shopping A holiday tour often includes souvenir shopping. Discover strategies for bringing back cherished mementos, whether it’s through careful packing or shipping items home. Section 5: Security and Safety 5.1 Protecting Your Valuables Your belongings need protection. This section offers practical tips for securing your valuables while traveling, including advice on anti-theft accessories and the importance of travel insurance. 5.2 Traveling Responsibly Responsible travel goes beyond packing. It involves respecting local cultures and environments. Learn how to minimize your environmental impact and engage with communities in a sustainable and respectful way. Conclusion As you prepare for your holiday tour, keep in mind that efficient packing is a key factor in ensuring a stress-free adventure. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your journey. Safe travels, and may your holiday tour be filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. This extended 5000-word blog post delves even deeper into each section, offering readers even more valuable insights and advice for packing efficiently for their holiday tours and travel adventures.

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Best Time to Visit Iceland from Malaysia

Life Style, Tips / BP Holiday

If you’re a Malaysian traveler with a passion for adventure and natural beauty, Iceland might just be your dream destination. This Nordic island nation is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, from cascading waterfalls and dramatic glaciers to the enchanting Northern Lights. But when is the best time to visit Iceland from Malaysia? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the seasons and factors that can influence your decision. Table of Contents: IntroductionSummer Delights (June to August)Long Daylight HoursPleasant WeatherAccess to Highland AreasCrowdsHigher PricesAutumn Adventures (September to November)Fewer TouristsMild WeatherChance of Northern LightsShorter DaysVariable WeatherWinter Wonderland (December to February)Northern LightsSnow-Covered LandscapesFewer TouristsCold TemperaturesShort DaysSpring Awakening (March to May)Longer DaysMilder WeatherFewer TouristsUnpredictable WeatherLimited AccessChoosing the Right Time for Your TripPersonal PreferencesSpecial InterestsBudget ConsiderationsTravel Restrictions and RequirementsPreparing for Your Iceland AdventurePacking TipsAccommodation OptionsTransportationTravel InsuranceExploring Iceland’s HighlightsReykjavik and the Golden CircleSouth Coast WondersThe Ring Road AdventureThe Magical NorthThe East FjordsThe WestfjordsConclusionReady to Plan Your Icelandic Adventure? Malaysian travelers are increasingly drawn to the allure of Iceland, a land of stark beauty and natural wonders. Located in the North Atlantic, Iceland offers a diverse range of experiences, from witnessing the Northern Lights to exploring volcanic landscapes and relaxing in hot springs. However, choosing the right time to visit is crucial, as Iceland’s climate and attractions vary significantly throughout the year. In this guide, we’ll delve into the four distinct seasons—summer, autumn, winter, and spring—and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each. By the end of this comprehensive exploration, you’ll have a clear understanding of when to plan your dream trip to Iceland from Malaysia. Pros: Long Daylight Hours: Summer in Iceland brings an extraordinary natural phenomenon—the Midnight Sun. During this time, the sun barely sets, providing almost 24 hours of daylight. This extended daylight allows you to maximize your exploration time and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes. Pleasant Weather: Iceland experiences milder temperatures in the summer, with average highs ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). This comfortable weather makes outdoor activities more enjoyable, whether you’re hiking, camping, or simply taking in the sights. Access to Highland Areas: Many remote and highland areas that are inaccessible during other seasons become available for exploration in the summer months. This opens up opportunities for trekking into the wilderness and witnessing the beauty of Iceland’s interior. Cons: Crowds: Summer is the peak tourist season in Iceland, with travelers from around the world flocking to the country to experience its natural wonders. Popular attractions such as the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle, and the South Coast can get crowded, requiring advance booking and patience. Higher Prices: Due to the high demand, accommodation and tour prices tend to be higher during the summer months. It’s advisable to book well in advance to secure the best deals. Pros: Fewer Tourists: As autumn arrives, the tourist crowds begin to thin out, offering a more peaceful and immersive experience of Iceland’s landscapes. You’ll have the chance to explore popular attractions with fewer people around. Mild Weather: September can still provide pleasant weather with average temperatures ranging from 7°C to 13°C (45°F to 55°F). The fall foliage adds a unique charm to the landscapes. Chance of Northern Lights: As the nights get darker in autumn, there’s an increased chance of witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Iceland’s remote locations, away from light pollution, make it an ideal place for aurora hunting. Cons: Shorter Days: As autumn progresses, daylight hours decrease significantly. By November, you’ll experience only a few hours of daylight each day, limiting the time available for exploration. Variable Weather: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable in the fall, with the possibility of rain and strong winds. It’s essential to pack appropriate clothing and be prepared for changing conditions. Pros: Northern Lights: If witnessing the Northern Lights is at the top of your bucket list, winter is the best time to visit Iceland. The long nights provide ample opportunities to see this natural wonder illuminate the skies. Snow-Covered Landscapes: Iceland transforms into a snowy wonderland during the winter months. The pristine white landscapes, frozen waterfalls, and ice caves create a surreal and magical atmosphere. Fewer Tourists: Winter is the least crowded season in Iceland, allowing you to enjoy the serene beauty of the country without the hustle and bustle of tourists. Cons: Cold Temperatures: Winter in Iceland can be quite chilly, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Proper winter gear, including insulated clothing and waterproof boots, is essential. Short Days: The trade-off for long nights is short days. In the heart of winter, you may only have a few hours of daylight. Plan your activities accordingly and be prepared for early sunsets. Pros: Longer Days: As spring progresses, daylight hours increase gradually, allowing for extended exploration time. Milder Weather: Spring brings milder temperatures, with averages ranging from 1°C to 7°C (34°F to 45°F). The thawing of the landscape and the emergence of greenery add to the beauty of Iceland. Fewer Tourists: Spring offers the advantage of fewer tourists compared to the summer months. You can enjoy the country’s attractions in a more relaxed setting. Cons: Unpredictable Weather: Early spring can still bring snow and icy conditions, especially in March. It’s important to be prepared for variable weather. Limited Access: Some highland roads and remote attractions may remain closed until late spring or early summer due to lingering snow and ice. Check road conditions and accessibility before planning your itinerary. Now that we’ve explored the distinct advantages and disadvantages of each season, how do you decide when to visit Iceland from Malaysia? Your choice should be guided by your personal preferences, special interests, budget considerations, and any travel restrictions or requirements in place at the time. Personal Preferences: Consider your tolerance for cold weather, your interest in specific activities like hiking or Northern Lights photography, and your desire for a quieter or more vibrant travel experience. Each season offers a unique atmosphere and set of experiences. Special Interests: If you’re an avid photographer, the Northern Lights in winter or the lush landscapes

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Eastern Europe Tour Package from Malaysia: Explore the Charm of Europe

Tips / BP Holiday

Introduction Eastern Europe, with its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, is a captivating destination for travelers seeking an immersive experience. From the enchanting cities of Prague and Budapest to the natural wonders of the Balkans, this region offers a plethora of attractions that will leave you in awe. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best Eastern Europe tour packages from Malaysia, highlighting the top destinations, itinerary options, and practical information to help you plan your dream journey. Why Choose Eastern Europe? Eastern Europe is a treasure trove of historical and cultural wonders, making it a must-visit destination for avid travelers. Here are some compelling reasons why you should consider exploring this fascinating region: Rich History and Cultural Heritage Eastern Europe is steeped in history, with ancient civilizations, medieval towns, and UNESCO World Heritage sites waiting to be discovered. From the grandeur of Prague Castle to the architectural marvels of Budapest, every corner exudes the charm of a bygone era. Immerse yourself in the captivating stories of Eastern Europe’s past as you explore the remnants of the Byzantine Empire, Ottoman influences, and the legacy of the Soviet era. Stunning Landscapes Nature lovers will be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes of Eastern Europe. From the majestic peaks of the Carpathian Mountains to the crystal-clear lakes of Plitvice National Park, this region offers a diverse range of natural wonders. Embark on scenic drives through picturesque countryside, hike through lush forests, and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Adriatic coastline. Eastern Europe’s landscapes are sure to leave you spellbound. Vibrant Cities Eastern Europe’s cities are vibrant and dynamic, offering a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Prague, known as the “City of a Hundred Spires,” boasts a stunning medieval old town and a lively arts scene. Budapest, divided by the Danube River, enchants visitors with its grand architecture and relaxing thermal baths. Explore the bustling streets of Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, or indulge in the vibrant nightlife of Bucharest. Each city has its own unique character and charm, providing endless opportunities for exploration. Affordable Travel Compared to Western Europe, Eastern Europe offers excellent value for money. Accommodation, dining, and transportation costs are generally more affordable, allowing travelers to make the most of their budget. With a well-established tourism infrastructure and a range of tour packages available, exploring Eastern Europe has never been easier or more accessible. Top Destinations in Eastern Europe Eastern Europe is vast and diverse, encompassing a multitude of countries and destinations. Here are some of the top highlights that should not be missed: Prague, Czech Republic Prague, often referred to as the “City of a Hundred Spires,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture and rich history. Explore the Prague Castle, stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge, and marvel at the astronomical clock in the Old Town Square. With its fairy-tale charm and vibrant atmosphere, Prague is a must-visit destination in Eastern Europe. Budapest, Hungary Situated on the banks of the Danube River, Budapest is a captivating city that seamlessly blends history and modernity. Admire the grandeur of the Hungarian Parliament Building, relax in the thermal baths, and take a leisurely cruise along the river. Budapest’s unique beauty and vibrant culture make it an ideal stop on any Eastern Europe itinerary. Dubrovnik, Croatia Dubrovnik, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a medieval walled city that exudes charm and elegance. Walk along the ancient city walls, visit the iconic Game of Thrones filming locations, and soak up the sun on the pristine beaches. Dubrovnik’s beauty and rich history make it a popular destination for travelers seeking a unique coastal experience. Bucharest, Romania Bucharest, Romania’s capital, is a city of contrasts, where Soviet-era architecture coexists with modern developments. Explore the grand Palace of the Parliament, visit the Village Museum to learn about traditional Romanian culture, and indulge in the vibrant nightlife of the city. Bucharest offers a glimpse into Romania’s complex history and vibrant present. Krakow, Poland Krakow, Poland’s cultural capital, is a city brimming with history and charm. Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town, visit the somber Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, and sample traditional Polish cuisine in the lively Market Square. Krakow’s rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere make it an essential stop on any Eastern Europe itinerary. Eastern Europe Tour Packages When planning your Eastern Europe adventure, opting for a tour package can be a convenient and hassle-free way to explore the region. Here are some popular Eastern Europe tour packages from Malaysia: 10/11D Eastern Europe Embark on a 10 or 11-day journey through Eastern Europe, exploring the highlights of the region. This comprehensive tour package includes visits to Prague, Budapest, Krakow, and Vienna, among other captivating cities. Immerse yourself in the rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes of Eastern Europe as you travel in comfort and style. Balkans Discovery Discover the beauty of the Balkans on a captivating tour that takes you through Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Albania. Explore the charming cities of Dubrovnik and Sarajevo, marvel at the stunning landscapes of Plitvice National Park and the Bay of Kotor, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the region. Grand Tour of Poland Embark on a grand tour of Poland, exploring its historic cities, picturesque landscapes, and cultural treasures. From the medieval streets of Krakow to the poignant history of Auschwitz-Birkenau, this tour offers a comprehensive insight into Poland’s past and present. Visit Warsaw, Gdansk, and Wroclaw, and experience the rich heritage and warm hospitality of this captivating country. Practical Information Travel Requirements Before embarking on your Eastern Europe adventure, it is essential to check the travel requirements for each destination. Ensure that you have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond your intended departure date. Some countries may also require a visa for entry, so be sure to check the specific requirements for your nationality. Currency and Exchange The currency used in Eastern Europe varies from country to country.

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Iceland’s Scenic Landscape Served as the Backdrop for ‘Kung Fu Yoga,’ ‘Game of Thrones’ TV Series, and Justin Bieber’s MTV

Life Style, Tips / BP Holiday

As we all know, the movie “Kung Fu Yoga / The Secret Life of Walter Mitty”, the TV series “Game of Throne”, and the MTV of singer Justin Bieber were filmed in beautiful Iceland. It is precisely because of the success of these deductive works that Iceland has become a country that everyone travels to one after another in just a few years. In addition to chasing the aurora, everyone must have taken a lot of photos when they came here, so that their youth will not be left blank. Geysir geyser Geysir is a world-famous geyser, located about 80KM northeast of Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland. The Strokkur geyser in the Geysir geyser geothermal area is very spectacular. Every 4-8 minutes, it sprays a 15-20 meter high water column, and sometimes the water column can reach 40 meters. According to records, the highest eruption height has reached 80 meters. The power and height of the eruption are quite astonishing, which is an eye-opener! Gullfoss Golden Waterfall Gullfoss Golden Waterfall is located 125KM northeast of Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, and is the largest fault canyon waterfall in Iceland. It is also one of the most beautiful and famous waterfalls in Iceland. Under the sun, in the steaming water mist, there are dots of water droplets shining with golden light, and bright rainbows are looming, as if the whole waterfall is made of gold, so it is named “Golden Waterfall”. Seljalandsfoss Seljalandsfoss Seljalandsfoss is also known as the Water Curtain Cave Waterfall, because behind the waterfall, there is a path for tourists to walk through at the bottom of the cliff. Seljalandsfoss is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. It is located between Cisco Afous Falls and Selfoss, on the Seljalands River about 30 kilometers west of Skogar. It is the most photogenic waterfall. It has been featured several times in books and magazines. Skogafoss Skogafoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. The mountains on both sides of the waterfall are covered with green plants, and the cliffs on both sides surround the waterfall in the middle. The white waterfall flow matches the surrounding green plants just right. This waterfall is also known as “Forest Waterfall”. There is a path on the right side of the waterfall, climb to the top, tourists can overlook the coastline from the viewing platform, and the waterfall falls down the spectacular scene. Plane Crash In 1973, a U.S. Navy plane was forced to land at Sólheimasandur’s in southern Iceland. The crew survived, but the wreckage remains. In order to protect the land, the Icelandic government can only walk from the parking lot to the wreckage of the plane, and the distance is 8km back and forth, about 2 hours. Glacier Walking The glacier hiking project in Vatnajokull National Park is led by a local professional guide and takes about 2.5 hours. The ever-changing glacier shapes can be seen during the glacier walk. Definitely a unique experience. Vatnajokull is Iceland’s largest glacier, located in the southeast of Iceland, covering 8% of Iceland’s area. Its area is 8,100 square kilometers. Blue Lagoon Blue Lake Spa The Blue Lagoon Hot Springs in Iceland is the world’s top health resort. The location of the Blue Lagoon is one of the most frequent underground magma activities on the earth. This activity heats the Blue Lagoon and makes the water transpiration. The water vapor heated by the lava flow near the ground is used to drive the turbine to generate electricity. The steam passing through the turbine becomes hot gas, which is then used to provide heat for the municipal hot water heating system through the heat exchanger. The average water temperature in the lagoon area of the Blue Lagoon for bathing and swimming is about 40°C. The water body is rich in minerals, such as silicon and sulfur. Soaking in the hot springs in the Blue Lagoon can help treat some skin diseases, such as psoriasis. Fjaorargljufur Gorge Feather Canyon in Iceland was born in the Ice Age 9,000 years ago. It has the title of the most beautiful canyon in the world. After millions of years of water erosion, the canyon has gradually been carved into the unique beauty it is today. Hallgrimskirkja Church Hallgrim Church is a Lutheran church in Reykjavik, Iceland. At 73 meters high, Hallgrim Church is the largest church in Iceland and the sixth tallest structure in Iceland. The church is named after Hallgrim for his great contribution to Icelandic literature. The church is novel in design and has a pipe organ structure, full of modern and minimalist style. It is a surface building in the capital and one of the places that every tourist must check in. See all that Icelandic summer has to offer with BP Holiday’s Iceland summer travel packages.

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Everything to know for your first trip To Chiang Mai!

Tips / BP Holiday

1. Prepaid mobile SIM cards are available for purchase at Chiang Mai airport! My number 1 priority wherever I travel to – mobile data. Once you clear customs at Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) and get out of the arrival gate, look out for an AIS booth near the glass doors. AIS sells prepaid mobile data SIM cards of different durations, meant for tourists, depending on your stay. I was to be in Thailand for six days, so I bought a 7-day AIS mobile data SIM card for 259 baht, which was set up by the staff in a jiffy! Alternatively, you can place an order for a Dtac Tourist SIM card via Klook, arrive at the airport, and pick up your SIM card from the Klook staff at the gate. 2. You can use Grab in Chiang Mai. Given a choice, being alone overseas, I don’t like taking cabs (yep maybe I’m weird), definitely not buses. Trains would be my preferred choice but Chiang Mai doesn’t have trains for getting around in the city. Grab was the only form of transport I used in Chiang Mai. Grab cars are aplenty at the airport and downtown. The drivers always arrive fast and I didn’t experience any problems in communication. Ps: Sometimes, Grab’s payment in the app will go haywire when I’m overseas. On my last day of leaving Chiang Mai, it suddenly disabled my credit card option until I get an SMS code, and of course, I’m not getting any SMS because I didn’t have auto-roaming. Thankfully I still had spare cash left to pay the driver. Hopefully, phone operators and apps can get more intelligent and already implement other ways to send us codes, such as through email. The other option would be public transport in Chiang Mai, such as the red trucks or even tuk-tuks. You can read more about Chiang Mai’s public transport options on this travel blog =) 3. The city is actually more modern than you think. Chiang Mai is not all greeneries and countryside and raw nature parks. Chiang Mai downtown is more of a modern city than a greenery-themed countryside. When I visualized Chiang Mai in my head before going, it’s like Ubud in Bali – full of greeneries and nature. However, the Chiang Mai I visited (Old City & Nimman) turned out to be more like, Seminyak – developed and dusty. Chiang Mai has different faces. It has plenty of elephant safaris, nature parks, golden temples, night market bazaars, modern shopping centres – a mixture! So keep your mind open and have fun doing up an itinerary. Read all about my day trip to Doi Inthanon – home to Thailand’s highest mountain! 4. Shopping in Chiang Mai will not be as exciting than Bangkok. As MAYA shopping mall was within walking distance from my AirBNB condo, I would head to MAYA for meals or to spend time. The tenant mix is not very exciting, to be honest. Night bazaars in Chiang Mai should be more fun than its shopping malls. You can head to night bazaars (which I didn’t), but, remember to check the markets’ opening days and hours! 5. Choose the right months to go. Chiang Mai’s air quality might not be as clean as you think. When I went in March, for a few days’ running, Chiang Mai got ‘awarded’ the most polluted city in the world. Blame myself for not doing sufficient research, as usual. March is popularly known as the ‘burning season’ of Chiang Mai. Forests were on fire, resulting in a haze everywhere. There was one day that was particularly bad – my eyes were stinging from being outdoors in less than twenty minutes! I had to quicken my steps to the building, and later dodge into a massage place to get a rest for my eyes first. On my last day, the Grab driver sending me to the airport kept his N95 mask on, even in the car, so I followed too.

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