Now that so many spots in Northern Thailand have become commercialised by tourism how does one get to see the real side to this country? Well there are still opportunities that exist for this kind of experience, a little bit of time and research can help you get off the tourist trail. Here are some tips:
1. As a rule of thumb, the further away you venture from developed areas the more likely you are to find natural and authentic areas that remain true to Thai culture and way of life
2. It does not take a lot to reach these places, just an hour outside of Chiang Mai you can be in the rural hinterlands. There are regular public buses to Mae Hong Son and Chiang Rai, if public transportation is not for you then I would suggest hiring a car and guide
3. Surprisingly hiring a driver with a car is not much more expensive than driving yourself. In addition to this a guide can be hired for approximately 800baht a day
4. Although hiring a guide costs a little bit more, their contribution to an authentic experience can be invaluable
5. Without a guide your travel will probably be only observatory, missing out on a lot of valuable information and cultural insight. A guide not only acts as translator but a valuable and educational source of information. A good guide will be able to offer opinions and information outside of what you can read in a travel book
6. Thailand is renowned for its friendliness sand hospitality. A friendly encounter with a local can turn into an invite to his home and there you have it an authentic experience right before you
7. Venture down the little lanes that run off the main roads called 'sois' look carefully and you will find intimate aspects of local life
8. Homestays are also a great way to experience how locals live. Outfits now offer homestays with a Thai family or in a hill tribe village. This accommodation option is often cheaper than staying in standard hotels but offers a much richer experience
9. Take a visit to the local markets which are a great introduction to regional cuisine and produce. The Thais love their markets, at least a handful can be found in every town
10. A common cause of why people do not venture further afield is that they do not allow enough time, so factor in travel time to get off-the-beaten-path. Quantity of time will bring you a quality experience
Melissa Ah-Sing is the co-founder of Thailand Hilltribe Holidays a responsible tourism outfit in North West Thailand http://www.thailandhilltribeholidays.com/
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