We weren't planning a trip to the golden triangle but we've now found ourselves with 3 days to spare after Bangkok. We thought we would fly to Chang Mai, stay the night then the next day hire a car & drive up to the Golden Triangle, stay at the Anantara resort, then drive back down to Chang Mai via Chang Rai.
Bcoz we have such a short time I would like info on the key places to visit.
We had planned to stay the 3 nights in Chang Mai but I've read such great reviews regarding the Anantara that it made me want to stay there even if it's just for a night.
Thanks

Fly into Chaing Rai rather than Chaing Mai. The Anantara is an hour north of Chaing Rai. You'll want at least a couple of nights at the Anantara, and I'd suggest you spend all three nights there. You'll want a day trip while you're there - visit Doi Tung, perhaps the ruins and museum at Chaing Sean. There are several interesting Wats in the area. Some people like to go across the river to Laos or Burma, but those will not really give you a sense of either Laos or of Burma. There is an excellent Opium Museum across the road from the entrance to the Anantara - well worth your time. Also, the Anantara has cooking classes - if you're at all interested, take one! The spa at the Anantara is lovely, the pool and view are lovely - there is much more than three days worth... I spent 6 nights there and would go back in a minute!

I agree with Kathie! Don't waste time driving from Chiang Mai. Just fly into Chiang Rai, plant yourself at Anantara and do some day trips. 3 nights and you'll be planning your trip back As Kathie mentions, the trips to Laos and Burma don't give you sense of the countries, but it's a fun trip out anyway. The elephant ride is great, especially if you go in the afternoon and direct to to the river bathing at 3:00. We jumped right in the river along with them

I have contact for a great driver/guide if you wish to plan a full day trip, let me know. You can arrange this with Anantara, but much more expensive.

Thanks everybody, the idea to leave from Chiang Mai & return there was to see as much of the country as possible & we are going to Phuket afterwards & the only direct flight is from Chiang Mai, however we've now decided to spend 1 night in CM & 2 nights at the Anantara.