This month we talk to the Department of Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation. In Thailand, rainmaking centres are found nationwide, and this year, having never needed it before, resulted in setting up the first centre in the south. The department’s rainmaking services seem to be ever increasing in demand; a process that was previously only needed in the dry months leading to monsoon season, has now become a year-round effort.

I drive around the suburb of Hang Chat in Lampang, stopping every few minutes to ask another person to point me towards the town’s sword maker. Down a rural road, past a Tesco Lotus sign, some noodle shops, and a field of horses, I find a sign that reads “Hit the Knife Group Station.” It is the shop and home of Bunthun Sitthipaisan, one of Thailand’s last and most renowned sword makers.

Whether you are looking for a day of pampering and relaxation, a sanctuary to escape the frenetic everyday life, or seeking to alleviate fatigue or pain, Oasis Spa promises to deliver.

Be Green, Be Local, Be Organic, Be Italics…

In the autumn of 2013, Wowdow “Jane” Poocharoen’s life was embroidered with misfortune. Her long-term relationship came to an end, the stress from her job was taking its toll, her eyesight suffered from long hours at her computer and the roof on her house had fallen in.

In Chiang Mai, where the acoustic guitars are oh-so-delicate and the sweet lullabies of modern pop covers pair perfectly with a steaming, artsy latte, it’s easy to conclude that you’re in a musical fairyland void of anything heavy. But when they get the chance, Chiang Mai’s fledgling scene of metal and hardcore bands turn up loud, and force all virgin ears to run for the hills.

Thailand used to be notorious, and in many ways still is, for its sabai sabai pace of change, especially when it came to reform and the implementation of government policies, the much needed education reform and now the constitutional reform seem to be moving at a slug’s pace.

Jaruwat Kitisith, 30. Bass player and music teacher.

In a land where it’s easy to grow pretty much anything under the sun, Chiang Mai offers a plethora of meat-free dining options. Going the extra mile and finding vegan cuisine can be a little trickier however, so we hit the pavement to bring you a list of seven mouth-watering, vegan-friendly diners and cafes around town.

From northern curries perfected over time, Italian cuisine to satisfy any critic, to expert steaks and connoisseur coffee, these new spots around town are doing what they do and doing it well.

There’s nothing like some serious me time with some pampering thrown in to make you feel like a million bucks. These new spas are sure to give you that extra-special treatment and leave you feeling rejuvenated, relaxed and prepared to take on whatever comes your way!