Guidebook with a conscience

Chiang Mai on the plate

The Hug Chiang Mai Club - citizens who think their northern gem of a city deserves a hug - has published another edition of its innovative guidebook called "Mai Ruk Mai Bok" that's packed with intheknow recommenda¬tions for places to eat.

But a full belly's not enough - the book also voices the club's core concern that the local environment is taking a bashing.

"Mai Ruk Mai Bok" covers more than 100 eateries around the city - and they're all reasonably priced, as well as delectable.

Then it gets serious with articles about the ecological issues facing Chiang Mai - which were what got the group together in the first place.

The first edition of the guide in 2005 addressed government plans to build a new dam on the Ping River and other proposed megaprojects.

"We hold many environment activities," says member Dhanapume Asoketrakul. "For example, we examined the government's big invest¬ments that could affect Chiang Mai's surroundings, like the Night Safari and the Royal Flora Ratchapruek.

"We launched the guidebook to raise these issues among Chiang Mai residents and visitors."

But the bulk of the first edition of 2008 is a survey of dozens of restau¬rants and food stalls, plus a map showing where everything is, including temples and shops.

"We want to promote the small restaurants that people might not have heard about but that actually serve delicious food."

The club plans to release a fourth guide in October - in both Thai and English - focusing on health food and global warming.

You can pick up the latest edition for just Bt20. All proceeds go to Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep.

Drop by for a chat

Hug Chiang Mai Club

16 Thepsathit Road, Ampur Muang, Chiang Mai

Call (084) 041 5096 or visit www.HugChiangMai.com. 

Pattarawadee Saengmanee

Special to Daily Xpress