Unlike some popular destinations in Thailand, the people here are not prowling on tourists. The fact that most visitors just rent scooters to go around Pai, it is encouraged to explore this place on your own. Also, locals are more than willing to help without expecting anything in return.
One of the reason why Pai is a magnet for backpackers is because staying in this place is inexpensive. This place is so laid back that spending the whole day in the front porch of your room is an acceptable thing to do.
"I am going to Thailand."
"Oh nice, where in Thailand? Phuket? Bangkok?"
"I am going to Pai."
"Pai? Where is Pai?"
"In Northern Thailand."
"Oh, Chiang Mai?"
"No, but somewhere 3 hours away from Chiang Mai."
"Oh, Chiang Rai?"
"No, not Chiang Rai"
"Ok, have a nice vacation."
You have probably never heard of a place named Pai in Thailand and if you will try to google blogs about this place, you will get articles either expressing their extreme love for this quiet town in Northern Thailand or their hate about its hippie culture.
If you are visiting for the first time and is expecting breathtaking landscapes, I think you will be a little disappointed especially if your stay is during or right after their summer when the vegetation are all seemed to be burned down. But if it is the relaxed vibe that you are after, then Pai will not disappoint.
