Travel:
Arriving at Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is the best way to get to the venue. There are also daily train rides from Bangkok, with stops at different tourist destinations such as Ayutthaya, Phitsanulok, and Lampang.
Ground Transportation:
The majority of hotels are clustered in the heart of the Nimman Area. Traveling from the airport to the hotel or hotel to AstroPark would take around 15 minutes by car.
There are a few choices of transportation, such as the "red jeepney" (needs expert-level negotiation skills), Airport taxi (a less-stress choice for first-timers), and rideshare apps. The popular rideshare apps in Chiang Mai include Grab, Maxim, and Indrive. These services may require a working SIM card, which can be purchased at the airport or any 7-Eleven.
Venue:
The Headquarter of the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT) or Princess Sirindhorn AstroPark
Free Conference Shuttle Services:
While you are free to explore the city and come and go to the conference at your own leisure, we also provide free shuttle services from two locations. The accommodation listed in this page are the places where our pickup and dropoff locations will be located. Note that participants are still able to find out own lodging outside of the listed accommodation, but it is recommended to find places within walking distances from these locations if you would like to make use of our shuttle services.
There are currently two designated shuttle pickup-drop off locations:
1. ibis Chiang Mai Nimman Journeyhub
2. ibis Styles Chiang Mai
The first shuttle will depart from these location 60 minutes before program start of each day, then another shuttle will depart every 15 minutes, up until the last shuttle which will depart 15 minutes before program start.
All the shuttles will depart from venue at the same time shortly after each day's program concludes.
Meals:
Complimentary coffee snack breaks during the days of the conference.
Lunch will be provided daily (all included) and a reception dinner will be served on the first night.
*On the excursion day, the coffee break and lunch will be provided only for those register for excursion only.
The Area:
The venue is in the vibrant area of "Nimmanhaemin Road", or Nimman. This mile-stretch main strip is homed to many Michelin bib gourmand restaurants, department stores, cafés, coffee shops, arts and crafts stores, and street food stores. It is also just a hop away from the old town, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai Zoo.
Still a cash-dominated society:
Thailand has recently made a significant progress towards being a cashless society. However, that only applies if you have Thai bank account capable of making electronic transaction via QR code. For most travelers, cash still remains the best method of payment. Credit cards may be welcome at department stores and well-established restaurants. However, we recommend you bring some cash to try street foods and snacks, buy souvenirs, or get a short ride around town. You may get an exchange at the airport and money exchangers in the town.
