I’m planning a trip to Thailand in 2025 and trying to decide whether to include Chiang Mai in my itinerary. I’ve heard it’s a great place for cultural experiences, but I’d love to hear from people who have actually been there. Is it really worth visiting Chiang Mai if my main interest is local culture—things like temples, festivals, food, and traditional crafts? How many days should I plan to stay to get a good cultural experience, and are there any must-visit spots or unique activities that make Chiang Mai special compared to Bangkok or Phuket?”