Set in a plateau about 40 minutes outside Chiang Mai, Lanna Farm is a subtle yet breathtaking place. This large traditional teak house sits among landscaped gardens and is a great place to relax and just take in the fresh air and scenery. In the early evening there is a spectacular sunset framed by a backdrop of rice paddies and mountains.

Visitors are encouraged to go bamboo rafting down the gentle river running through the farm, explore the area by bicycle, or just wander the grounds feeding the ravenous fish that breed in the pond.

The house itself is built entirely from teakwood in the traditional Lanna style. It is perched on sturdy stilts, with a large open air central living area surrounded on two sides by comfortable airy bedrooms, all tastefully decorated with regional handicrafts.

The food, prepared by the local villagers employed at the farm is the delicious genuine article, featuring fragrant Thai rice and several shared dishes. Unlike in the West, where everyone jealously guards their own plate, guests sit on the floor around the table and sample the various foods in family style, varying the taste sensation from sweet to sour to spicy to bitter and back again in different orders - your tongue never knows what’s coming next.

Among the northern specialties, and a big point of pride for any dedicated cook are the spicy herbed chili pastes. If you aren’t used to chilis, go a little easy on these - some of them can blow your head off.

Cooking classes are also offered at Lanna Farm, including a grounding in Thai herbs (grown in the farm's herb garden) and cooking techniques -- you even get a recipe book to take home with you so you can taste the fond memories for years to come.