Northern Thailand holiday bungalow: Chaing mai

We decided to choose Chiang Mai over the usual southern beach resorts in Thailand primarily to experience some real Thai culture and avoid the herds of package holiday tourists.
We were not dissapointed.
We arrived at Chiang Mai airport on Friday evening our Thai air connecting flight from Bangkok took just over an hour and did "exactly what it says on the tin".
As arranged "Wat" Homestays full time driver was there to meet us a little under 15 minutes later we arrived at the bungalow. Nestled within a new residential development of very smart luxury dwellings called "Home in Park" This even has Thai security guards at the entry road into the estate who always gave us a friendly wave. The Homestay bungalow felt like home as soon as we stepped in. The bedrooms were all very comfortable the master bedroom has a full en-suite and the two twin bedrooms are right next to another smart shower and W.C. Clean bedding was all made up ready and within minutes the air conditioning in every room cooled us down nicely.(Our visit being in mid April the temperatures could be in the low to mid 40s during the day).The kitchen was well equipped and the lounge/dining room luxurious .Outside one could relax on the patio.The surroundings were quiet and it all felt very private.We stayed for 7 nights which did not seem long enough to see all the attractions and beautiful scenery this region boasts.Nestled at the extreme eastern end of the Himalayan mountain chain with the highest peaks in Thailand. The views are astounding over the surrounding jungle.The city of Chiang Mai is about 10 minutes drive away. Although Thailands second largest City it is only about 15 square miles with a poulation of around 140.000. It had a very rural feel about it.The ancient walled city centre being where most of the bars and excellent Thai cuisine is to be sampled. We found the locals to be very friendly and cheerful.
Our driver/interpreter/guide "Wat" was worth his weight in gold his local knowledge of where to go and what to see is vast and by the end of the week he felt like an old friend.One can also dine at the excellent Bali restaurant on site next to the luxurious swimming pool, a meal for 5 costs only 1.000 baht.
After returning from our daily trips out with Wat we found that the lovely "Mae" had cleaned the house made the beds and done our laundry for us "wonderful". I would recommend Homestay to all. I intend to return next year (For 2 weeks this time) a great holiday for all