Chang Mai - A Hub Of Exquisite Colour.

On my way back from Australia, I was fortunate enough to spend 6 weeks travelling around South East Asia. My first port of call was Chang Mai, to the north of Thailand.

Although I feel some of the areas I visited in Thailand have lost their cultural ambience, Chang Mai still boasts rich colourful markets and shops selling traditional art and textiles.

Endless colourful, patterned and stitched textiles.

Many pieces of textiles sold in the markets are pieces of traditional-style tribal clothing. If you dig deep, you can be lucky enough to find little antique gems!

A piece of old textile from a traditional baby carrier.

If you’re interested in the production of silk, and want to buy some high quality silk fabric, there is a silk factory, Jolie Femme, where you can see how silk is made.

Silk thread spools being created.

Chang Mai is home to a variety of inspiration. Temples, known as Wats, can be found on almost every corner, each with individual intricate patterns and details.

Filigree detail on a Wat.

Flowers bloom all over the place, displaying bold shapes and colours.

Clothing stores aimed to entice tourists display interesting arrangements.

Interesting objects and artefacts can be found almost anywhere. I found this old cycle behind a Wat. I fell in love with it’s texture, shape and colour.

Floral garlands decorate Wats and statues as offerings to the gods. Although mostly made from plastic and synthetic materials, you cant help but love the effect they give.

If a culture shock is what you wish from a travel experience, then Chang Mai might not be for you. If you want to experience an easy-going holiday with a difference and a touch of culture, then it is a great place to visit. You can afford a little luxury but still walk around the nitty gritty streets of Thailand!

All images Gemma Lofthouse ©