Christmas in Chiang Mai: Shopping, decorations and holiday cheer.
“The best way to get in the festive spirit in Chiang Mai is, without a doubt, by visiting one of the malls. Chiang Mai has several large malls, and during December, they go to town on seasonal lights and decorations. Chiang Mai’s malls are some of the best shopping destinations in the country, containing a vast range of Western and local shops. For example, you can find almost all the same things at a Western mall, so they are an excellent destination for Christmas shopping. Here is a rundown of the Chiang Mai malls most worth visiting.
1. Maya Mall
Maya Mall is one of Chiang Mai’s best destinations for shopping and dining, located on the intersection of Huay Kaew Road and Nimman. In terms of decorations, it probably takes the prize for the best in the city! The huge Christmas tree in front of the mall, as well as the lights and decorations, make for a great picture opportunity. Sometimes, they even have fake snow. As you enjoy a spot of shopping, you’ll hear all the Christmas hits being played throughout the mall, but if you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with a Christmas carol session performed by a local choir. Maya Lifestyle Shopping Center is open daily from 10 am-10 pm and can be reached easily on a bike or in a taxi.
2. Central Festival Mall
In the competition for the biggest Christmas tree in Chiang Mai, Central Festival Mall might just be the winner. Although a bit out of the center, this mall is still easy to reach – and very worth a visit! It’s the biggest mall in the city, and is located about 15 minutes northeast of the old city. Like Maya Mall, it contains the big brand names, but you’ll find even more of them here. In addition to this, its food court and supermarket at the basement level are much bigger than the dining area at Maya, with even more choice.
3. Central Airport Plaza Mall
Another mall worth mentioning is the Central Airport Plaza Mall, due to its truly unique atmosphere. It boasts a massive Christmas tree in the center of the mall, and has a great Christmas shopping atmosphere – you can even find Christmas elves here!
It is one of the older malls in Chiang Mai, and contains a mixture of some high end shops along with plenty of smaller and more thrifty stores. If a pair of jeans or a sweater for under ten bucks sounds good to you, this is the place to go.
Central Airport Plaza Mall definitely feels more authentic than some of the more modern malls and has a unique Thai touch, especially within the traditional food and craft market on the ground floor.” ~ PM Tours
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