A few things about Chiang Mai

 So, right, Chiang Mai is a lovely city if you want to hang around with hundreds of patronizing expats and thousands of fun-looking tourists (and there's admittedly a WIDE range of fun activities of all kinds over there).

 There's also no denying that the many temples are gorgeous. Crowded with global bermudaed people fighting for the best photo shot or waiting more or less patiently for the enlightening 30 mn talk wih the monks.
Good if you can fit it between a thai boxing game and the night market.

 The city centre itself is pretty tiny and even the market smells neutral, which was one of the things I was really disappointed about.

But if you're into it, you can get your fair share of Budddhas in any positions, attitudes, ages (FYI, this one is a resting Buddha)

So obviously, Chiang Mai was not my favourite place even if I had lots of fun there based on soy milk, noodle soup and beer.

But just right  now and probably for the few months to come, there's a place I would pay a dear price to hide into.
 Oh well...