1 minute ago, Harrisfan said:

Been to both. I found Osaka a bit dull. Japan is also expensive. 2000 baht for a tiny room. Chiang Mai has larger rooms for 400 baht and 150 baht massages.

True Quality is never cheap. 

Just now, sqwakvfr said:

True Quality is never cheap. 

I don't know about that. I've stayed in a 500 baht room with large bath and supersize TV. A 150 baht massage can be just as good as a 1000 baht one.

12 minutes ago, sqwakvfr said:

Have you seen Huay Kaew Road in the afternoons from CM Ram Hospital to Nimmanhaemin Road. 

 

You know why Nimman gets busy? Because people love Nimman and all want to go there. It's extremely popular. There's a replica of a Venetian tower and a Milanese shopping centre there for God's sake! You can buy dim sum from a window in a top restaurant. You can even get a special massage for your testicles in Nimman, I don't mean sexual, I mean traditional Thai testicle massage. It's a thing. Look it up.

 

12 minutes ago, sqwakvfr said:

Best food? Does this include all types of food? I have been in CNX for 7 years and it has the good, bad and ugly. But in no ways does come close to some of the finer large cities in all parts of Asia

 

The Guardian food critic is from India, so she knows her food. She wrote, and I quote:

 

Chiang Mai food paradise: 'The best I've ever eaten'

Wherever you go in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand, the food is outstanding. ’ve lived in India all my life, eaten everywhere from Leh to Cochin, tasted extraordinary dishes by the humblest chaat-wala and the fanciest chef, but nowhere in my land, not in Delhi, Mumbai, Goa, Hyderabad or Kolkata, have I eaten so well, so cheaply, so grandly and with so much joy as in the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai.

 

Even without the food, it’s a kind of paradise: close to the Myanmar border, modern yet resolutely traditional, spotlessly clean while never sterile; easily navigable but filled with a thousand hidden treasures, urban and chic (in part thanks to the large student population from the university) but surrounded by hills and jungle.

https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/feb/24/thai-street-food-chiang-mai-tour-thailand

 

 

 

Just now, Harrisfan said:

I don't know about that. I've stayed in a 500 baht room with large bath and supersize TV. A 150 baht massage can be just as good as a 1000 baht one.

Last weekend I stayed at a 3000 baht room in CNX and it was disappoinitng.  The AC unit looked to be about 30 years old and was making this grinding noise all night. I turned it off. The breakfast was disappointing. The coffee machine brewed lukewarm lattes, the bread selection was stale and the service was lacking.  I have stayed at 400 to 500 rooms in CNX and they have been basic only. Also, how many people go to Japan to get a cheap massage? There are attractions to the Land of the Rising Sun. The words cheap and massage are things visitors look for in Japan.

19 minutes ago, sqwakvfr said:

Last weekend I stayed at a 3000 baht room in CNX and it was disappoinitng.  The AC unit looked to be about 30 years old and was making this grinding noise all night. I turned it off. The breakfast was disappointing. The coffee machine brewed lukewarm lattes, the bread selection was stale and the service was lacking.  I have stayed at 400 to 500 rooms in CNX and they have been basic only. Also, how many people go to Japan to get a cheap massage? There are attractions to the Land of the Rising Sun. The words cheap and massage are things visitors look for in Japan.

 

But no traditional testicle massage then?

1 minute ago, Cameroni said:

 

You know why Nimman gets busy? Because people love Nimman and all want to go there. It's extremely popular. There's a replica of a Venetian tower and a Milanese shopping centre there for God's sake! You can buy dim sum from a window in a top restaurant. You can even get a special massage for your testicles in Nimman, I don't mean sexual, I mean traditional Thai testicle massage. It's a thing. Look it up.

 

 

The Guardian food critic is from India, so she knows her food. She wrote, and I quote:

 

Chiang Mai food paradise: 'The best I've ever eaten'

Wherever you go in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand, the food is outstanding. ’ve lived in India all my life, eaten everywhere from Leh to Cochin, tasted extraordinary dishes by the humblest chaat-wala and the fanciest chef, but nowhere in my land, not in Delhi, Mumbai, Goa, Hyderabad or Kolkata, have I eaten so well, so cheaply, so grandly and with so much joy as in the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai.

 

Even without the food, it’s a kind of paradise: close to the Myanmar border, modern yet resolutely traditional, spotlessly clean while never sterile; easily navigable but filled with a thousand hidden treasures, urban and chic (in part thanks to the large student population from the university) but surrounded by hills and jungle.

https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/feb/24/thai-street-food-chiang-mai-tour-thailand

 

 

 

One Nimman does not look like Venice or Milan (have been to both).  The opinon of one Guardian critic does not make it true for all.  Traffic congestion is the result of many factors. High demand is one and poor traiffic planning and management are other factors. 

Just now, sqwakvfr said:

Last weekend I stayed at a 3000 baht room in CNX and it was disappoinitng.  The AC unit looked to be about 30 years old and was making this grinding noise all night. I turned it off. The breakfast was disappointing. The coffee machine brewed lukewarm lattes, the bread selection was stale and the service was lacking.  I have stayed at 400 to 500 rooms in CNX and they have been basic only. Also, how many people go to Japan to get a cheap massage? There are attractions to the Land of the Rising Sun. The words cheap and massage are things visitors look for in Japan.

3000 baht rooms are often a rip off. No better than cheap ones. I stayed in 4 hotels from 400 to 550 baht. Only 1 was small. I never worry about breakfasts in hotels.

Just now, Cameroni said:

 

But no tarditional testicle massage then?

In Japan anything is possible. But it will not be anywhere close to CNX prices. 

4 minutes ago, Cameroni said:

You know why Nimman gets busy?

Because of its proximity to CMU and Maya mall.

3 minutes ago, Harrisfan said:

3000 baht rooms are often a rip off. No better than cheap ones. I stayed in 4 hotels from 400 to 550 baht. Only 1 was small. I never worry about breakfasts in hotels.

But the swimming pool and gym were good.  Can't say much more than that. This is one of the well known Nimman area hotels and I will not mention the specifi name because TIT.  This is one of the unique traits of Thailand: Do not leave negative hotel reviews even it they are true. 

1 hour ago, Harrisfan said:

Transport is great there. 63 baht to go most places.

 

Baht buses are too low you cannot see out to know where you are going or have been. Bangkok baht buses are taller and better. Wake up CM.

"Air Quality" was evidently not a criterion, cough, cough.

 

 

Just now, sqwakvfr said:

But the swimming pool and gym were good.  Can't say much more than that. This is one of the well know Nimman area hotels and I will not mention the specifi name because TIT.  This is one of the unique traits of Thailand: Do not leave negative hotel reviews even it they are true. 

2200 baht for pool and gym, 300 baht for breakfast. 500 baht for room. 

 

Regular gym costs 60 to 100 baht. 

 

 

 

I really like Chiang Mai, see why it's rated,

Just if you live there long enough your heart is gonna be ruined from the pollution, and you'll go retarded from all the pm 2.5 in your brain. 

If it weren't for that I'd move there. 

Just now, sqwakvfr said:

One Nimman does not look like Venice or Milan (have been to both). 

 

 

One Nimma Plaza:

 

 

 

Piazza san Marco

 

 

Nimman Galleria:

 

 

Milan Galleria

 

 

2 minutes ago, Harrisfan said:

2200 baht for pool and gym, 300 baht for breakfast. 500 baht for room. 

 

Regular gym costs 60 to 100 baht. 

 

 

 

Used to belong to a 100 baht per day GYM on HK road.  Never again. Old equipment, rude staff (nothing unique about that in LOS) and sometimes open and sometimes not. "you get what you pay for".  

10 minutes ago, sqwakvfr said:

One Nimman does not look like Venice or Milan (have been to both).  The opinon of one Guardian critic does not make it true for all.  Traffic congestion is the result of many factors. High demand is one and poor traiffic planning and management are other factors. 

 

I have been to both too, and Chiang Mai is considerably better than Venice. The food is massively better in Chiang Mai, there's fewer tourists and far more to do in Chiang Mai. Venice doesn't even come close to Chiang Mai.

Just now, Cameroni said:

 

 

One Nimma Plaza:

 

 

 

Piazza san Marco

 

 

Nimman Galleria:

 

 

Milan Galleria

 

 

Then where are the gondolas and good pizza?  I know Peppinos has pizza.  No clock on the original tower.

2 minutes ago, sqwakvfr said:

Used to belong to a 100 baht per day GYM on HK road.  Never again. Old equipment,

 

Obviously you had to go to Virgin gym, who have the newest equipment. Conveniently located in a shopping mall.  Anyone knows if you want the top equipment, Virgin gym is where you go.

Only # 1 cause they grow good bud otherwise it is about a 50 place when burning season is happening or when BKK's smog cruises into the area.Personally I don't even think any of Thailand should be on this list.Phuket to me is more like a maybe 5 Chiang Mai definitely not a #1 by any stretch of the imagination.This has to be an advertisement for Chiang Mai. Indo is more likely to be closer to #1

1 minute ago, Cameroni said:

 

I have been to both too, and Chiang Mai is considerably better than Venice. The food is massively better in Chiang Mai, there's fewer tourists and far more to do in Chiang Mai. Venice doesn't even come close to Chiang Mai.

Pizza and wine is better in Chiang Mai? How much does a cheap bottle of non Thai wine cost in CNX? 

1 minute ago, Cameroni said:

 

I have been to both too, and Chiang Mai is considerably better than Venice. The food is massively better in Chiang Mai, there's fewer tourists and far more to do in Chiang Mai. Venice doesn't even come close to Chiang Mai.

Venice is cool once. Would never go back. Rome is much better than Venice. 

1 minute ago, sqwakvfr said:

Then where are the gondolas and good pizza?  I know Peppinos has pizza.  No clock on the original tower.

 

True, the Gondolas are a sadly omitted detail, they're great. But in Chiang Mai you can take a river cruise for a fraction of the price of a rip off Gondola ride.

 

But then in Manila they tried to copy the gondolas and it just looks stupid. Again, right call Chiang Mai.

Just now, Cameroni said:

 

Obviously you had to go to Virgin gym, who have the newest equipment. Conveniently located in a shopping mall.  Anyone knows if you want the top equipment, Virgin gym is where you go.

No. Never been a member of there. 

Just now, Cameroni said:

 

True, the Gondolas are a sadly omitted detail, they're great. But in Chiang Mai you can take a river cruise for a fraction of the price of a rip off Gondola ride.

 

But then in Manila they tried to copy the gondolas and it just looks stupid. Again, right call Chiang Mai.

You mean that river in CNX with the clear blue water? 

5 minutes ago, sqwakvfr said:

Then where are the gondolas and good pizza?  I know Peppinos has pizza.  No clock on the original tower.

 

First of all the pizza in Venice is absolutely terrible. Tourist trash.

 

Secondly, you get superb Pizza in Chiang Mai. Try the new Pizza Station in Mae Rim. Or go to the fabuous Jing Jai market, they have a stand there. I go there just for the pizza, though the market is world class too.

6 minutes ago, Cameroni said:

 

True, the Gondolas are a sadly omitted detail, they're great. But in Chiang Mai you can take a river cruise for a fraction of the price of a rip off Gondola ride.

 

But then in Manila they tried to copy the gondolas and it just looks stupid. Again, right call Chiang Mai.

Everytime I walked throught One Nimman I have never felt like I was anywhere eles besides CNX.  The smelll and sounds of the place is not different than anywhere else in CNX.  The Venetian in Las Vegas felt more like the original.  

6 hours ago, webfact said:

Photo of Sasikan Wattanachan courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Thailand’s tourism splendour has been firmly recognised, with Chiang Mai being crowned Asia’s best city for 2025 by Travel + Leisure, scoring an impressive 91.94 out of 100. Not to be overshadowed, Bangkok also earned praise, securing third place with a score of 91.34, while Tokyo snagged the second spot with 91.39 out of 100.

 

This accolade has set travel enthusiasts buzzing and promises to boost Thailand's tourism sector significantly.

 

The Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, Sasikan Wattanachan, celebrated the achievement as evidence of Thailand’s growing allure as a top global destination. She credited the people of Thailand for their dedication to safety, city development, and warm hospitality, highlighting the country’s potential to become the region’s tourism hub.

 

The recognition points to a bright future for Thailand's tourism industry, built on quality experiences and cultural richness.

 

Chiang Mai’s appeal lies in its unusual combination of rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality, according to Travel + Leisure. The city is famed for attractions like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and its expansive national parks.

 

Chiang Mai’s commitment to conservation through its elephant sanctuaries and eco-tourism initiatives has captivated visitors seeking authentic and ethical adventures.

 

The timing of this accolade coincides with a robust surge in tourism across Thailand, with officials eager to leverage this opportunity to showcase the nation’s diverse attractions. From the peaceful temples of Chiang Mai to the bustling streets of Bangkok, the country offers something for every tourist.

 

The inclusion of other popular destinations on the list, like Jaipur, Hoi An, and Kyoto, reinforces Asia’s reputation as a favourite among international tourists.

 

Top 15 cities in Asia for 2025:

 

• Chiang Mai, Thailand
• Tokyo, Japan
• Bangkok, Thailand
• Jaipur, India
• Hoi An, Vietnam
• Kyoto, Japan
• Ubud (Bali), Indonesia
• Siem Reap, Cambodia
• Mumbai, India
• Agra, India
• Osaka, Japan
• Hanoi, Vietnam
• Taipei, Taiwan
• Singapore
• Seoul, South Korea

In response to the announcement, Chiang Mai’s local tourism operators are gearing up for an influx of visitors. Reports indicate a spike in hotel bookings and tour enquiries as curious tourists rush to explore the city deemed the best in Asia. The momentum promises a record-breaking year for Chiang Mai, while Bangkok’s strong performance reinforces Thailand’s standing as a leading tourism destination in Southeast Asia.

 

Sasikan concluded with optimism, stating, "This is just the beginning for Thailand." Thailand is ready to welcome the world.” We expect the global spotlight on these Thai cities to draw millions of travellers, further solidifying the country's position in the global tourism landscape.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-17

 

 

Ask again in the smokey season.

The drop in ranking will be significant 😨

10 minutes ago, sqwakvfr said:

Everytime I walked throught One Nimman I have never felt like I was anywhere eles besides CNX.  The smelll and sounds of the place is not different than anywhere else in CNX.  The Venetian in Las Vegas felt more like the original.  

 

It's certainly true that Nimman One has it's own vibe and is distinctly Chiang Mai, the weekend markets you get in One Nimman with the authentic Japanese food and innovative street food, you'd never get that in Venice. The food court inside One Nimman is also very Chiang Mai, and could not be found anywhere in Venice, which is overrun with tourists and has mostly low quality and overpriced tourist food joints. You have to go to the Grand Hotel des Bains  on the Lido, where I dined very well,  to get good food in Venice.

 

One Nimman is not supposed to be an authentic replica of Piazza San Marco, that would be impossible, it's just meant to give a quirky flair and classy novelty surroundings in the Nimman area,  and in that regard One Nimman succeeds spectacularly. Also the Chinese restaruant there is superb. Combining a Venetian tower and a Milanese galleria is just bold and fun. And that's what Chiang Mai is  overalll.

38 minutes ago, Cameroni said:

 

You know why Nimman gets busy? Because people love Nimman and all want to go there. It's extremely popular. There's a replica of a Venetian tower and a Milanese shopping centre there for God's sake! You can buy dim sum from a window in a top restaurant. You can even get a special massage for your testicles in Nimman, I don't mean sexual, I mean traditional Thai testicle massage. It's a thing. Look it up.

 

 

The Guardian food critic is from India, so she knows her food. She wrote, and I quote:

 

Chiang Mai food paradise: 'The best I've ever eaten'

Wherever you go in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand, the food is outstanding. ’ve lived in India all my life, eaten everywhere from Leh to Cochin, tasted extraordinary dishes by the humblest chaat-wala and the fanciest chef, but nowhere in my land, not in Delhi, Mumbai, Goa, Hyderabad or Kolkata, have I eaten so well, so cheaply, so grandly and with so much joy as in the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai.

 

Even without the food, it’s a kind of paradise: close to the Myanmar border, modern yet resolutely traditional, spotlessly clean while never sterile; easily navigable but filled with a thousand hidden treasures, urban and chic (in part thanks to the large student population from the university) but surrounded by hills and jungle.

https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/feb/24/thai-street-food-chiang-mai-tour-thailand

 

 

 

So she knows Indian food, taste differs but i am not really impressed by it.

Close to Myanmar? There is a war going on there.

Talking about Moo Ping as being great. She had coffee with a Michelin starred chef, should have tried his food.