Chiang Mai [เชียงใหม่] Province, some 700 kms north of Bangkok, often referred to as the Rose of the North, is a fascinating example of merging the city's 700-year tradition with modern development. The old city of Chiang Mai with its indigenous cultural identity such as diverse dialects, cuisine, architecture, traditional values, festivals, handicrafts and classical dances is a prime location in its own right. Visitors can find handicrafts of silk, silver and other jewels, umbrellas and wood produced locally as timeless souvenirs. For a few years one can find as well masterpieces of Thai contemporary art.