Chiang Rai is the old capital of the kings of Thailand. But despite a history going back centuries today's Chiang Rai is a pretty cosmopolitan place. Chiang Rai is a small city so of course it is not in the same league as Bangkok or even Chiang Mai for night life. However, there are still lots of places to go out, to see and to be seen. The most convenient is the Night Bazaar. There are a few quiet pubs and vibrant beer bars here. With the night market starting around 8 pm, the area comes alive with tribal vendors, musicians, transgender singing groups, etc. It is a good place to shop, eat and drink and walk around.
A recently popular hangout with the young hip crowd is at Sohub, on the corner of Sanambin and Banphaprakan roads. The other lively place until about 11 pm is Chiang Rai Beach. You'll need some form of transportation to get there as it about 8 km from the city but it is considered "romantic" and one of the few places where you might just see Thai people kissing in public.
The go-go bars are limited to a small strip near the Wang Come Hotel, off Jetyod Rd., near the clock tower. Girls trying to drag you inside indicate you have found it.
A couple of places you might want to try to get off the tourist circuit are Sabun Nga, Be Fine and Bai Bon. Finally, for romantic dining, go north on the superhighway. Just as you are approaching the bridge to go over the Maekok River, exit to the left and do a U-turn under the bridge. Take your first left and you will find a group of restaurants overlooking the river. Take your pick!
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