We're off to Thailand at the end of December and will be going to Chiang Mai. I have heard that this is THE place to shop. What are your favorite items to buy in Chiang Mai and where?

Thanks so much!

Margy

celadon and other ceramics, wood items, table runners and place mats, hilltribe silver. In general any type of craft.

Elements - asian home and fashion.
402 Tha Pae Road, Chiang Mai.
Jewelry and purses, small home items.
Small boutique store.
Two stores next to each other.
Owner is Adrien Schnee.

ttt

Woven textiles - 2 outstanding studios - Sop Moei Arts - www. sopmoeiarts.com and Studio Naenna, one near the Four Seasons and one other. Hand painted umbrellas tho tough to carry. Celadon - take a look at www.baanceladon.com. I am not a big fan of the store, NANDAKWANG but u may find it interesting for woven cottons and I recall that all the stores in the vicinity were fab - address is 6/1-3 Nimmanhemin Rd. ChiangMai 50200, near the Amari Rincome hotel. I picked up a stunning lacquer with mother of pearl insets tray from there. In the same area is one of my all time fav shops, Gong Dee Gallery - I have a lamp from there whcih I love. www.gongdee.com. I ADORED Chiang Mai shopping - sure u will have a ball! Don't forget to visit the Night market - I got some terrific lacquer albums there.

Everyplace Hobbes listed are great-- and among my favorites. You will see a level of quality and uniqueness that is exceptional. And very reasonable for the price. There is also a wonderful store on that street for old hilltribe silver. If you want jade the best place is at the foot of Doi Suthep.Not cheap but excellent quality and you know you're getting the real thing.

What exactly is hilltribe silver? Can someone describe it to me please?
thanks-