BostonGal

Kathie, I got a quote from our hotel for a driver to Doi Suthep. Here's their response and I was wondering your thoughts (as well as anyone else who wants to chime in):

The trip to Doi Suthep is 800 Baht. However, we have another idea so that you can make a full use of the afternoon without spending much more. We can arrange for a driver to pick you up at the airport, bring you to Baan Orapin for check-in/leaving luggage, (or directly), go to handicraft shopping villages/areas (Borsang Umbrella village/Sankampaeng handicrafts (silk weaving, celadon etc.)). Then go up to Doi Suthep in the late afternoon and take you back to Baan Orapin. The cost will be about 1,000 to 1,100 Baht.


To me, that sounds like a very fair price considering the airport to hotel taxi would cost about 150 THB, and then to Doi Suthep and back would be 800. But I'm very hesitant to visit the handicraft village. That to me sounds like nothing but a tourist trap. What do you think, worth it, or just do Doi Suthep and back?

Thanks!

Kathie

The "handicraft villages" were factories when I first visited them over 20 years ago. Unless there is something specific you want to buy (like a whole set of celadon custom-made to your specifications) there is no reason to go. But if you want to shop, you will need a car and driver. So if there are things you are looking for, you might take Baan Orapin up on the offer of the driver for the day. By the way, Baan Orapin is one of the (few) places that won't overcharge you for a driver.

Craig

I think the handicraft area is worth doing. We found that the goods made at the small factories were of high quality: hand-painted umbrellas and fans, leather goods, lacquerware, wood carvings, silks etc. It is interesting to see the work being done if you have never had this experience. This is in my opinion the only worthwhile shopping in Chaing Mai although some enjoy the night market.

Keep in mind that your driver will probably get a commission from any place he takes you to. However, as Kathie said, you do need a driver to take you there.

BostonGal

Ok thanks for your input.

I think I'll take them up on their offer.