Family Adventure in the Cultural Heart of Chiang Mai

A Day of Serenity and Soul

Today was a beautiful blend of the old and the new, the serene and the soulful. Chiang Mai never ceases to amaze me with its ability to hold so much history and culture while still pulsing with a modern, vibrant energy. Klaus and Ama were both excited for the day's adventures, and I was eager to share these experiences with them.

Our day began, as most do here, with a delightful breakfast at Its Good Kitchen. The name doesn't lie; it really *is* good! I opted for my usual: a steaming bowl of *khao soi*, the quintessential Chiang Mai noodle curry. It's rich, creamy, and has just the right amount of spice to wake up your senses. Ama enjoyed some fresh fruit, while Klaus had a plate of pad see ew. This cozy little spot always sets the perfect tone for the day. It’s amazing how they manage to cater to gluten-free needs without compromising the authentic Thai flavors. I even had the chance to chat with one of the staff members, who recommended some local spots to visit in Southern Thailand, as they knew we were planning a trip there soon. The warm hospitality made us feel right at home.


Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Its Good Kitchen in Chiang Mai—where flavor meets tradition in every dish.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to explore the ancient wonders of Wat Chedi Luang. This temple is a true spectacle, a testament to the rich history of the Lanna Kingdom. As we approached, the sheer scale of the chedi was breathtaking. Despite the earthquake that damaged it centuries ago, it still stands tall and proud, a symbol of resilience and faith. Klaus, with his architect's eye, was particularly fascinated by the structural details and the various restoration efforts. Ama, of course, was more interested in the elephant statues that flank the base of the chedi. She insisted on giving each one a hug! I love seeing the world through her eyes; everything is so new and exciting. We took our time wandering through the temple grounds, admiring the intricate carvings and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The temple dates back to the 14th century, with King Saen Muang Ma initiating its construction in 1391 to enshrine his father's ashes. It wasn't until 1475 that it was completed. For nearly five centuries, its magnificent chedi reigned as the region's tallest structure, visible from miles away, and for a considerable period, it housed the revered Emerald Buddha, now located in Bangkok. A replica now sits in the eastern niche.


Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Wat Chedi Luang, a majestic Buddhist temple at the heart of Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Travel is about the gorgeous feeling of teetering in the unknown.

After Wat Chedi Luang, we ventured to Wat Umong Suan Putthatham, a completely different but equally captivating temple. This temple is known for its network of underground tunnels, which were built in the 13th century as a meditation retreat for monks. Walking through these tunnels felt like stepping back in time. The cool, dark passages were incredibly peaceful, and it was easy to imagine the monks seeking solace and enlightenment within these walls. Ama was a bit apprehensive at first, but she soon got into the spirit of exploration, her little footsteps echoing through the ancient tunnels. We also spent some time in the temple's serene gardens, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. Wat Umong, with its ancient tunnels and tranquil gardens, provided a stark contrast to the bustling city outside. The inscriptions of Buddhist teachings on stone slabs around the temple added to the historical narrative of the place. Founded by King Mengrai in the 13th century, Wat Umong served as a peaceful sanctuary for a monk named Thera Chan, leading to the creation of the meditation tunnels.


Experience the serene beauty of Wat Umong Suan Putthatham, a historic Buddhist temple offering tranquility and rich spiritual heritage in Chiang Mai.

For lunch, we stopped at Jen Moy Local Thai Restaurant, a charming little spot that Klaus had discovered online. This place is a true gem, serving up authentic Thai dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. I ordered the green curry, which was fragrant and flavorful, while Klaus tried the Pad Thai. Ama, surprisingly, devoured a plate of spring rolls. What makes Jen Moy unique is that it also operates as a cannabis store. While we didn't partake, it was interesting to see how they've integrated this aspect of local culture into the dining experience. The restaurant's warm decor and comfortable seating made it a perfect place to relax and refuel after our morning of temple hopping. It's the kind of place where you can unwind and savor the flavors of Thailand.


Experience authentic Thai cuisine with a twist at Jen Moy Local Thai Restaurant in Chiang Mai - where flavor meets innovation.

As evening approached, we decided to embrace Chiang Mai's vibrant nightlife. We dropped Ama off at the hotel with a promise of cartoons and a bedtime story, and then Klaus and I headed to Boy Blues Bar. I've heard so much about this place, and I was eager to experience it for myself. Boy Blues Bar is an institution in Chiang Mai, a haven for blues lovers from all over the world. Founded by a local guitarist named Boy, this bar features live music every night, showcasing a mix of blues, jazz, and rock performances. The atmosphere was electric, with a laid-back, intimate vibe that made you feel right at home. The bar is located above the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, offering stunning views of the bustling market below. We grabbed a couple of cold beers and settled in to enjoy the music. The band was fantastic, playing a mix of classic blues tunes and original compositions. I found myself tapping my feet and singing along, completely lost in the moment. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring temples and ancient tunnels. The Monday Jam Night is especially a highlight, offering a stage for some of Chiang Mai's most talented musicians.


Experience the pulse of Chiang Mai at Boy Blues Bar, where soulful blues melodies and a lively atmosphere await every night.

The air was thick with the scent of incense and street food, a sensory symphony that is uniquely Chiang Mai. Klaus, who usually prefers quieter evenings, was also captivated by the energy of the bar. We even struck up a conversation with a local musician who shared some fascinating stories about the Chiang Mai music scene. It was one of those serendipitous encounters that make travel so rewarding. The bar is on an open deck, overlooking parts of the night market. The artsy stage backboard and moody lighting really add a lot to the venue.

Before heading back to the hotel, we made a quick stop at a street food stall for some mango sticky rice. No trip to Chiang Mai is complete without indulging in this sweet and creamy treat! We savored every bite as we walked back to the hotel, the sounds of the city fading into the background. The sticky rice was the perfect way to end such a fulfilling day.

Back at the hotel, Ama was already asleep, her face peaceful and content. I tucked her in, feeling grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. As I reflected on the day, I realized that Chiang Mai is more than just a destination; it's a feeling, a state of mind. It's the serenity of the temples, the vibrancy of the markets, and the warmth of the people. It's a place that nourishes the soul and awakens the senses.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar for some souvenir shopping and to immerse ourselves in the local crafts. We'll also have a final dinner at The Good View Bar & Restaurant Chiang Mai, hopefully enjoying some more live music by the river. It's hard to believe our trip is coming to an end, but I know that the memories we've made here will last a lifetime. As I drift off to sleep, I can still hear the faint strains of the blues echoing in my mind, a reminder of the soulful heartbeat of Chiang Mai.

I am so grateful for the chance to show my family the beauty of Thailand. It’s experiences like these that remind me of how important it is to connect with different cultures and find common ground through shared experiences. As a Ghanaian woman living in Germany, I find that travel allows me to bridge different parts of my identity and share them with my family. It’s something I cherish deeply.

As I prepare for our final day in Chiang Mai, I'm reminded of a quote by Ibn Battuta:

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.

And I can't wait to share more stories from our adventures in Chiang Mai.