Chiang Mai is the 2nd city of Thailand but is just a fraction of the size of Bangkok. It is compact, bustling and despite some recent development, it retains a market town atmosphere. It is the main gateway to the region. Flying time from Bangkok 60 minutes. Chiang Rai is in the extreme northeast of the country, even smaller and more traditional, with the focal point of interest being the Golden Triangle, the area where Thailand, Laos and Burma (Myanmar) all meet.