All these roads cut across and around and up and down a very, very wild terrain. A straight line barely exists in these parts and makes for unadulterated biking pleasure. Since most of the roads start and end in the middle of nowhere, hardly anyone uses them and there is virtually no traffic. As good as the riding is, the off-bike activities give formidable competition. Few of our stops are mentioned in even the most comprehensive guidebooks.
Shopping is top quality, with a wide range of antiques, native handicrafts, furniture, and textiles.
Their cuisine is distinctive from the south and equally delicious. Traditional massage is the perfect anecdote for a hard day in the saddle. There's all the nightlife you can handle, plus some. The first day of our tour we spend on a sightseeing ride circling Chiang Mai. A scrumptious north Thai feast is followed by a digestive stroll through Thailand's biggest night market.