Chiang Mai for Foodies

If I ever have to make a list of must-do-Asian destinations for the discerning foodie, Chiang Mai will take top honours. Like Penang, this place has a veritable spread of cheap and delicious eats in every corner, 24/7. Hmm, but isn't Bangkok similar, you say? Well, unlike her more frantic cousin in the south, Chiang Mai has a bigger variety of indigenous cuisine due to her proximity to Laos, Burma and the minority tribes. Since there are less tourists here, the food is hardly compromised to suit the Western tongue. The Khao Soi Gai (curry noodles) presents a fiery red coat , the Sai Ua (pork sausage) glistens with Pork Fat and Water Beetles(roach lookalike) and Bamboo Larvae are sold as street snacks. If you think these goodies sound more Fear-factor esque than delicious, you can still find the ubiquitous Banana Pancakes and Starbucks. But really, why limit yourself to the same bland food you can find at home? These days, it is almost de-riguer for travellers here to do a one-day cooking course here due to the overwhelming popularity of Thai Food. So what are you waiting for? Pack your apron and come over to Chiang Mai.