Nan: Thailand's Hidden Gem

• Helloสวัสดี
  [sawasdee]
• Goodbyeลาก่อน
  [laa kon]
• Yesใช่
  [chai]
• Noไม่
  [mai]
• Please/You're welcomeโปรด/ยินดีด้วย
  [bproht/yin dee duay]
• Thank youขอบคุณ
  [khop khun]
• Excuse me/Sorryขอโทษ
  [khor toht]
• How are you?สุขสันต์ด้วยไหม
  [suk san duay mai]
• Fine. And you?สบายดี คุณล่ะ
  [sabai dee khun la]
• Do you speak English?คุณพูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม
  [khun poot pha saa ang grit dai mai]
• I don't understandฉันไม่เข้าใจ
  [chan mai khao jai]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseขอดูเมนูหน่อย
  [khor doo menu noi]
• I don't eat meatฉันไม่กินเนื้อ
  [chan mai gin nuea]
• Cheers!ชนสุดๆ
  [chon sut sut]
• I would like to pay, pleaseขอจ่ายเงินหน่อย
  [khor jai ngern noi]

• Help!ช่วยด้วย
  [chuai duay]
• Go away!ไปห่างๆ
  [pai yang yang]
• Call the Police!โทรตำรวจ
  [thor tamruat]
• Call a doctor!โทรหมอ
  [thor mor]
• I'm lostฉันสูญหาย
  [chan soon hai]
• I'm illฉันไม่สบาย
  [chan mai sabai]

• I'd like to buy...ฉันต้องการซื้อ...
  [chan dtong gaan seuu...]
• I'm just lookingฉันแค่ดู
  [chan kae duu]
• How much is it?ราคาเท่าไหร่
  [ra kha thao rai]
• That's too expensiveแพงเกินไป
  [paeng geun pai]
• Can you lower the price?ลดราคาได้ไหม
  [lot ra kha dai mai]

• What time is it?ตอนนี้เวลากี่
  [ton nee welaa kee]
• It's one o'clockเป็นโมง
  [pen mong]
• Half past (10)สามสิบครึ่ง
  [sam sip kheung]
• Morningเช้า
  [chao]
• Afternoonบ่าย
  [bai]
• Eveningเย็น
  [yen]
• Yesterdayเมื่อวาน
  [meua wan]
• Todayวันนี้
  [wan nee]
• Tomorrowพรุ่งนี้
  [proong nee]
• 1หนึ่ง
  [neung]
• 2สอง
  [song]
• 3สาม
  [sam]
• 4สี่
  [si]
• 5ห้า
  [ha]
• 6หก
  [hok]
• 7เจ็ด
  [jet]
• 8แปด
  [paet]
• 9เก้า
  [gao]
• 10สิบ
  [sip]

• Where's a/the...?...อยู่ที่ไหน
  [...yu tee nai]
• What's the address?ที่อยู่คืออะไร
  [tee yu keu a rai]
• Can you show me (on the map)?ช่วยแสดงให้ดูได้ไหม
  [chuai sa dang hai du dai mai]
• When's the next (bus)?รถเมล์ตอนต่อไปเวลาไหน
  [rot mel ton dtor bpai welaa nai]
• A ticket (to ....)ตั๋วไป...
  [dtua bpai...]

Nan's history dates back over 700 years, rooted deeply in the Lanna Kingdom, an ancient kingdom in the north of Thailand. Founded in the late 13th century, Nan was initially an independent city-state before becoming a part of the Lanna Kingdom in 1449. This period marked the beginning of a rich cultural and historical journey for Nan, evidenced by its distinct architectural styles and religious sites.

During the 15th and 16th centuries, Nan saw a significant influx of Tai Lue people from southern China. This migration greatly influenced the local culture, bringing unique customs, traditions, and artistic styles that are still evident today. The Tai Lue people contributed to the agricultural and social development of Nan, making it a vibrant cultural hub.

In the 16th century, Nan, like much of northern Thailand, fell under Burmese control. This period of occupation lasted until the late 18th century and had a profound impact on the city’s cultural landscape. Many temples and structures built during this time show a blend of Lanna and Burmese architectural influences.

By the late 18th century, Nan was integrated into the Kingdom of Siam (modern-day Thailand) under King Rama I. This transition brought about significant changes in governance and societal structure. Nan's rulers, known as Chao, were allowed to maintain semi-autonomous control, which helped preserve the city's unique cultural identity while integrating into the broader Siamese realm.

The 20th century brought modernization to Nan, alongside the rest of Thailand. Infrastructure improvements, such as the construction of roads and the introduction of electricity, transformed the city's landscape. Despite these changes, Nan has managed to preserve much of its historical charm and cultural heritage. The city remains a testament to its storied past, with numerous temples, museums, and historical sites that attract visitors from around the world.

In recent years, Nan has experienced a cultural renaissance, driven by efforts to preserve and promote its rich heritage. Festivals celebrating Tai Lue traditions, restoration of ancient temples, and initiatives to support local artisans have all contributed to a renewed interest in Nan’s cultural legacy. This renaissance has made Nan an increasingly popular destination for those seeking to explore the deep cultural and historical roots of northern Thailand.

Nan is located in the northern part of Thailand. The nearest major airport is Nan Nakhon Airport (NNT), which offers daily flights from Bangkok operated by airlines such as Nok Air and AirAsia. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Bangkok's Mo Chit Bus Terminal to Nan, which takes approximately 9-10 hours. There are also train services to Den Chai, the nearest train station, followed by a bus or taxi ride to Nan.

In Nan, transportation options include local taxis, songthaews (shared taxis), and motorbike rentals. Songthaews are an affordable way to get around and are available in most parts of the city. Motorbike rentals are convenient for exploring the surrounding areas. For longer distances, you can hire a private car or use intercity bus services from the Nan Bus Terminal.

The official currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available throughout Nan, and currency exchange services can be found in banks and some hotels.

Nan is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly-lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Petty theft can occur, particularly in busy areas like markets, so remain vigilant. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always stay aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 191 for police assistance or 1669 for medical emergencies. Nan Hospital is the main medical facility in the city, and there are several clinics and pharmacies for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Keep a copy of important documents, such as your passport and travel insurance, in case they are needed.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting temples. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering temples and dress appropriately. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'wai' (a slight bow with palms pressed together). Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Nan like a local, visit the local markets such as the Nan Walking Street Market, which operates on weekends and offers a variety of local products and street food. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Nan National Museum and the Wat Phumin temple, known for its stunning murals. For a unique experience, explore the nearby Doi Phu Kha National Park, which offers beautiful scenery and hiking opportunities.