NampeungMay

There are, indeed, "...small scale, innovative, surprising businesses in this area..." Izara Arts is an income generation project for Hilltribe women... offering them the option to work from home rather than being forced into city factories. The office is based here in Chiang Rai. Very small (there are but four rolling the ball, in addition to the many incredible women that they work with) they sell a number of different handicrafts from yoga mat bags to eyemasks...

It seems the fabulous folks at Doi Chaang are up to some good work as well.

I'm bran spankin' new to this neck of the woods, but will keep these eyes peeled and share when I see businesses up to some interesting things.

What about galleries in the area? Live music? I've been looking... but so far unsuccessful.

And, Limbo, who are these women in your italic text? I'd love to get in touch with women's cooperatives in the area.

Thank you for that. A very interesting link indeed... I think I am going to have a go at growing Stevia. I just moved to Chiang Rai and am trying to help out a friend who can no longer eat sugar (tough to do here in the Land of Smiles). Thanks again for the post!