Updates on our top tips, your Q&A and what people are saying

FAQ

  1. Climate

The climate in Chiang Mai is a well kept secret. You are unlikely to find it uncomfortable at anytime during the year apart from perhaps late March through to late April, when temperatures can reach 40c (albeit a very dry heat, that is not altogether unpleasant). Even during the wet season, it usually rains for only an hour every 2 to 3 days. The weather from November to January is usually amazing: No rainfall and rarely over 30c with blue skies on most days.

Forest fires can cause haze from February through to April. An added bonus of staying in the country is the reduction in temperature compared to town. Typically Lanna Hill House is 2c cooler than town, but can be as much as 7c cooler.

A very good description of the climate can be found at www.chiangmai.net/weather/

             Weather stats for Chiang Mai

 

  1. Driving

Driving your own vehicle in Thailand is a certain way to make your travel experience more authentic, giving you the flexibility to go almost anywhere in your own time. If you prefer a driver, this is also an inexpensive option. The following list is designed to address most questions you might have driving in Thailand.

 

  • You will need a car or car with driver if you are staying at Lanna Hill House, unless you really feel you can stay in a single place for one time.
  • Thais drive on the left
  • The roads are very good. Even in remote parts of the country, they are generally well maintained. In addition there is a vast road network rarely used by foreign visitors.

  • Driving in the countryside is pleasant as there is little traffic. In towns it can be a chaotic. However, if you drive like you would at home (i.e. safely) then you are unlikely to have a problem. Particular hazards to look out for include swarms of motorbikes, drivers only concerned with what is in front – not behind, inside over taking and no concept of giving way. First come first serve is the principle behind how most people drive.
  • Rental rates are very reasonable (we can arrange for car rental). We would recommend a four wheel drive vehicle as this gives more flexibility in the countryside and more grip when the rain is heavy.

 

  1. Salt water pool

What are salt water pools? Very simply they use salt to make chlorine which in turn cleans the water. They are generally accepted to be gentler on the skin than chlorinated pools.

  1. Fires

From late January through until March, there is a risk that some local people will burn the forest undergrowth. This has been practiced for centuries, but is slowly being prevented by the authorities. The only real risk to tourists is from smoke (although is generally clears quickly). The fires are tame since only the fallen leaves are burnt (the trees are resistant to fire). However, if you are an asthma sufferer or sensitive to smoke inhalation it is probably best to avoid these periods

  1. Security

Lanna Hill House is located in a remote location. Is it dangerous? Crime in Thailand is generally much lower than in the West, particularly in the country where communities are still very tight knit. There is therefore unlikely to be any risk to guests staying at Lanna House. However, for peace of mind, there are four staff living in their own house on the grounds; there is an alarm system; all windows have shutters and we have two dogs that act as bark alarms.

  1. Eating

Do we have to eat at Lanna Hill House? The answer is no. There are some very good restaurants nearby and we are sure you will want to spend some evenings in town.

Can you self cater? Yes. You have the option of self catering if and when you like. This might be especially attractive if you have young children. There are excellent supermarkets in Chiang Mai which stock a huge array of western foods, and we will be happy to assist you shop.

  1. Drink

Can we bring our own drink to Lanna Hill House? We ask guests to only bring their duty free purchases. The house has a bar, partly to fund fair plus wages for staff. Also, mixing guests’ own drinks with ours could become confusing.

Our drinks are not expensive by hotel standards and you will be served by our staff.

  1. Nannies

I am worried about a Thai nanny looking after my children. Can you reassure me? Thais are fantastic with children, in addition our nannies are qualified to look after young children as either nurses or qualified nannies. We can assure you that your children will be in safe hands

  1. Wildlife

Since we are staying in the country, should we be worried about the wildlife?

The answer is no, providing you are sensible. There are snakes, but they tend to be very shy and you’re unlikely to see them. Even the most dangerous do not want to confront humans. You should however avoid walking in long grass and barefoot when outside.

Mosquitoes can be a problem, so we advise wearing repellent when you are outside at dusk and dawn. Note: Chiang Mai is not malarial.

You do need to be aware that like all houses in Chiang Mai, there are resident Jing Jogs. These are small geckos (or lizards) that are completely harmless, but do a great job clearing up the insects.

  1. Dogs

Lanna Hill House has two permanent residents: See Mae and See Moo. They were rescued from a dogs home and are both friendly with people and kids of all ages. However, if you don’t like dogs or you have an allergy to them, we can make sure that they are kept in a segregated area for the duration of your stay

11. Getting to Chiang Mai

 There are some international flights and charters that fly directly to Chiang Mai. However, if you are traveling from Europe or the US, then you are likely to arrive via Bangkok. Thai Airways provide connecting flights, or alternatively you can fly with one of many cheap carriers. You need to be careful if you do this. There are two airports in Bangkok, but most international flights come in to Suvarnabhumi but most cheap carriers fly from Don Muang. Air Asia flys from Suvarnabhumi, and this is the carrier we would recommend using.