Trekking, Chiang Dao Nest
 

My 6yr old and I are spending 4 nights at Chiang Dao Nest.(one hour from Chaing Mai) They offer private half and full day treks to the National Park and a few hilltribes. I've read nothing but great things, but I came across a blurb in a guide book that said trekking that area might be sketchy. If anyone has been there or has experience with this area I would love some feedback. I also read the same conflicting reviews about Pai.

I've heard really good things about Chiang Dao Nest and Pai. Would you share what you read about trekking in the area being sketchy...I've not heard that and though we ended up not doing trekking, we did consider and research it before we decided to do elephant camp instead.

I would choose the trek carefully, keeping in mind that a 6 year old will not enjoy the same sort of thing an adult would. Also, if your trek includes elephants, be extra careful to choose a reliablee outfit, as there are many trekking outfits who are not at all kind ot their elephants.

The "Let's Go" travel guide (which isn't my only one) has been slightly unrelible with it's contact links, so that might be a reflection on it's info. They mentioned that Pai was a beautiful area with some of the most friendly people around, but that the Government was cracking down on opium production and trafficing in the area. They also said that Chiang Dao was the least common trekking group because it runs along the "questionable" Myanmar boarder. I'll look into it more before we decide. It still looks like a beautiful place to stay.

We stayed at Chiang Dao Nest for 2 nights in Feb. and it would have been nice to have an extra day.

The place is wonderful and the hosts are very kind and always concerned that you have a great time. The food will cost more than your stay so beware! it is well worth it though!

I am not so sure that a trek with a 6 year old is a great idea but what do I know! I don't have a child.

I have some good photos of Chiang Dao at www.windjammer.smugmug.com. Just go the the "Thailand Accomodations" album to check it out.

eurotraveller - Thank you for the pictures...Chiang Dao Nest looks great to me, and now I remember from your report that you had a great time with the staff!

Thanks for the feedback Kim and Eurotraveler. The owners have a little one, so I'll wait till we get there and see what they reccomend. Maybe I'll just save the Trek money and enjoy the gourmet food and beer!

There are some great caves near The Nest that would be great fun for a kid. Fun for an adult, too! I couldn't stop laughing as I watched my 6'2" boyfriend try to crawl through this tight passage into an adjoining cave!

There is a Buddhist Monestary at the top a big hill and the view from the top is incredible! It is an easy walk from The Nest.