Songkran and Chiang Mai

Hello Folks!
This is my first visit in this group.
I´m from germany so please be patienced with my english.

I have been several times in Thailand.
i´m not a backpacker in classic sence, i´m a DIY traveller
who stays the first days and the last days in booked hotels.
then i start my journey with bus and train in the country
and stay overnight in local motels or B&B.

My Question:
I´m in luck.this year it´s my first time to stay over Songkran in
Thailand. So i decided to start the party in Chiang Mai -
i never been ther before!

Would you please recommend me a place to stay - not far from the centrum. !?
And is there a good advice to see the jungle near Chiang Mai ?

I have been in Khao Yai - beautiful and rich on tourist...

Thanx to you ,

Ingo