Chiang Mai Province is where I call home.  It is the second largest city in Thailand at about 1.5 million people.  It is in the Northwest and is surrounded by mountains.  It is said to have over 1000 temples.  The inner, old city, is surrounded by a moat and the remains of ancient walls and gates.   There is a mile long night market that sells every souvenir or handmade product imaginable on the main street.  Festivals and parades are abundant. 

The city itself is pretty much geared around tourism.  Guesthouses, shops, and tour agents are everywhere.  It is however a great place for traveling from.  It is not far from many of the hill tribe villages, and Myranmar or Laos Borders.  A days drive will get you into just about any type of adventure you may desire.