A small village in the mountains to the east of Chiang Mai, Mae Kampong is the perfect place to experience rural life in northern Thailand. Whilst the villagers here make their income from growing a variety of crops, including tea and coffee, they also invite visitors into their homes as a homestay. Not only can you eat with a family and sleep in a traditional hilltribe dwelling but take part in typical daily activities, such as farming and cooking. Mae Kampong is also situated in a spectacular area – a local guide will be more than willing to take you on an easy hike to show the crops that are grown on the mountainside and the surrounding natural beauty – there are plenty of waterfalls and local flora to admire.