Do you actually get out and explore Thailand, or just the same general radius of where you live ? Been here long enough to have seen my own province thoroughly, and I've started pushing further out. Thailand rewards you for it if you can be bothered. Two places I can actually vouch for in the Chiang Rai area that most foreigners skip entirely: Phu Chi Fa — about 90km from Chiang Rai city, right on the Laos border at 1,628 metres. Free entry. The sunrise draws crowds of Thais in winter (Nov–Feb) but midweek it's manageable. The walk up from the car park takes about 20 minutes. You can literally step onto the Laos border marker at the top. Most foreigners have never heard of it. Doi Tung Royal Villa and Mae Fah Luang Garden — former residence of the Princess Mother, up in the mountains above Mae Sai. The gardens are genuinely impressive and well-maintained year-round. Entry is 90 baht. The drive up alone is worth it. Neither of these is a secret exactly, but they're under visited by expats who tend to stick to the same towns. So — where have you been in Thailand lately that's actually worth the petrol? Not asking for tourist brochure stuff. Real places, honest opinions. Map links welcome and of course any pics. Thanks
