(72 Reviews)
99% Recommended

Rey Alton

Bellaire, TX
Travel Lifestyle Specialist

The process of planning, coordinating, booking, and managing travel arrangements can be a daunting experience.  But, with a seasoned and respected travel advisor, your travel planning experience will be streamlined and hassle-free. With more than ...
Learn more about me.

CHIANG MAI TRAVEL SPECIALIST

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Chiang Mai, located in northern Thailand, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. The city is famed for its ancient temples, such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Chiang Mai also hosts vibrant festivals, like the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, and provides access to nearby natural attractions, including lush jungles and serene waterfalls.


 


Best time to visit Chiang Mai:  


The best time to visit Chiang Mai is from November to early April, when the weather is cooler and dry, perfect for exploring the city's attractions and natural surroundings.


 


Best hotels in Chiang Mai: 


Anantara Chiang Mai Resort



  • Property Location: Anantara Chiang Mai Resort is centrally located, a 15-minute walk from Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and Warorot Market.

  • Rooms: The 84 rooms feature minibars, Smart TVs, private balconies, free Wi-Fi, and luxurious bathrooms.

  • Amenities: Enjoy a full-service spa, outdoor pool, sauna, fitness center, and dining options. The resort also offers a business center, event space, and free self-parking.


Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel



  • Property Location: Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel is centrally located, just a minute from Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and a 12-minute walk to Tha Phae Gate.

  • Rooms: The 383 rooms feature minibars, Smart TVs, free Wi-Fi, and luxurious bathrooms with deep soaking tubs.

  • Amenities: Enjoy a full-service spa, outdoor pool, sauna, and 24-hour fitness center. The hotel also offers dining options, a business center, and free valet parking. 


Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai



  • Property Location: Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai is located in the serene countryside of Northern Thailand, surrounded by lush rice fields, just a short drive from Chiang Mai's city center.

  • Rooms: Rooms at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai include 99 suites with private terraces, luxurious bedding, spacious layouts, deep soaking tubs, Smart TVs, and high-speed internet. 

  • Amenities: The resort offers a full-service spa, Lan Sai Village shopping boutiques, meeting rooms, a chef’s garden, and walking and cycling trails.


 


Chiang Mai's Festivals:


1. Yi Peng Lantern Festival (November): Celebrated with the release of thousands of paper lanterns into the sky, creating a stunning visual display.


2. Loy Krathong (November): Features floating decorated baskets on rivers and canals to honor the water goddess.


3. Songkran (April): Marks the Thai New Year with citywide water fights and traditional ceremonies.


4. Chiang Mai Flower Festival (February): Showcases colorful floral displays and parades in honor of the region's rich horticultural heritage.


5. Thai New Year (Songkran) (April 13-15): Involves street parties, water fights, and cultural events to celebrate the traditional Thai New Year.


 


Here are the top 10 activities to do in Chiang Mai:


1. Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: Explore this revered temple with panoramic views of the city.


2. Explore the Old City: Wander through ancient streets and visit historic temples like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh.


3. Shop at the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: Enjoy vibrant shopping, local crafts, and street food at this popular market.


4. Experience the Elephant Nature Park: Interact with rescued elephants and learn about their rehabilitation.


5. Stroll Through the Chiang Mai Flower Festival: Marvel at the colorful floral displays and parades held annually.


6. Take a Thai Cooking Class: Discover traditional recipes and cooking techniques in a hands-on class.


7. Relax at a Traditional Thai Spa: Pamper yourself with massages and wellness treatments.


8. Visit the Jim Thompson House: Explore the museum dedicated to the American silk entrepreneur and his traditional Thai home.


9. Explore the Weekend Walking Streets: Enjoy the Saturday and Sunday markets with local food, crafts, and performances.


10. Hike in the Mae Sa Valley: Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and waterfall visits in the scenic countryside.


 


B O N U S !


Here are the top 5 must-visit places in Chiang Mai:


1. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: This iconic temple offers stunning views of Chiang Mai and holds great spiritual significance.


2. Chiang Mai Old City: Explore ancient temples, including Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh, and experience the historic charm of the Old City.


3. Elephant Nature Park: Spend time with rescued elephants in a sanctuary dedicated to their care and rehabilitation.


4. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: A vibrant market where you can shop for local crafts, souvenirs, and enjoy street food.


5. Chiang Mai Flower Festival: Held annually, this festival showcases spectacular floral displays and lively parades.


 

My Travel Albums

Anantara Chiang Mai Resort
Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

My Reviews

70 of 114 people found this review helpful
Another fabulous trip!
Rey has booked several domestic and international trips for me over the years. Each time the experience was fantastic. Rey is not only a knowledgeable and experienced travel agent, he is patient with groups and always provides stellar customer service. The resorts are always fabulous and his recommendations on what to do when we arrive at our destinations make my vacations more enjoyable. I’ve counted on Rey to book fabulous vacations for over 10 years and he always delivers the best. I’ve always enjoyed the individual attention and care Rey provides his clients. He understands the apprehension that comes along with trying new places and is thorough and accommodating as a result. He’s also great at making suggestions on future vacations and I’ve never been disappointed when I follow his suggestions. Rey will remain my travel confidante for many years to come. He’s the best, hands down!
By  TC  from  San Antonio, Texas
Traveled to  Punta Cana ~ Dominican Republic ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
72 of 121 people found this review helpful
Travel Expert
We have worked with Rey for many years and have always enjoyed the experience. Most of our travel has been river cruises in Europe but last year we did a trip to South Africa. Rey is very thoughtful, thorough and responsive.
By  Randy  from  Houston
Traveled to  Europe
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
62 of 108 people found this review helpful
Destination Wedding Planner
Love working w/ Rey! Very knowledgable and detailed!! Definitely recommend to any and everyone traveling abroad.
By  Destination Wedding Planner - Elite Eventz   from  Houston, Texas
Traveled to  Jamaica ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
63 of 112 people found this review helpful
July 4th Fun!!!
Rey and the Almeda Travel family have been so good to my family in assisting us in all of our travel needs/goals from beginning to return. Rey has shown nothing but the utmost professionalism, patience,guidance, and quality service that is so difficult to find these days. We have trusted Almeda Travel for the last 5-6 years for our vacations and will continue to do so, I also strongly recommend if you’re looking for an agent/team that is knowledgeable and consumer responsive go with Almeda Travel!
By  Lady on the Go  from  Beaumont, Texas
Traveled to  Washington D.C. ~ District of Columbia ~ USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
56 of 100 people found this review helpful
Anniversary Trip
I have the opportunity to book travel with Rey at Alameda Travel several times over the past 5-8years. He is very informative and knowledgeable about different places to travel and the hospitality service companies in those areas. I have been very pleased with every interactions and trip we have been on.
By  Chris Cooper  from  Humble, Texas
Traveled to  Montego Bay ~ Jamaica ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
Go to my main profile

Destination Expert:

  • Chiang Mai

Travel Specialist:

  • Photography
  • Spa & Fitness
  • Arts & Culture
  • Shopping
  • Luxury

Certifications/Awards:

  • CTIE
  • Travel Weekly Magellan Award Winner 2013
  • Travel Weekly Magellan Award Winner 2011
  • Travel Weekly Magellan Award Winner 2009

Connect with Me:

Industry Affiliations:

©  Travel Leaders Group