Family Adventure in the Cultural Heart of Chiang Mai

Blooming Beauty and Royal Retreats

Today was a day of floral wonder and regal elegance here in Chiang Mai. We ventured out to explore some of the city's most beautiful spots, trading our coding screens and architectural blueprints for the vibrant colors of exotic flowers and the serene ambiance of royal gardens. It's amazing how a change of scenery can refresh the mind, especially when shared with my family.


The day began, as most do on vacation, with a delightful breakfast at Cafe de Thaan Aoan. Ama was particularly thrilled with her pancake, while Klaus and I opted for a more traditional Thai breakfast set. Fuelled up, we set off to our first destination: Royal Park Rajapruek. The park was hosting the Flora Festival, which was a real treat, and we were immediately greeted by a riot of colors and fragrances. As someone who appreciates the intersection of technology and nature, I couldn't help but marvel at the park's meticulous landscaping and the sheer variety of plant species on display. Ama was captivated by the vibrant displays, running from flowerbed to flowerbed with infectious glee. It was a fantastic opportunity for her to connect with nature, something I always encourage, given our increasingly digital lives back in Potsdam.



Discover the beauty and tranquility of Royal Park Rajapruek, a captivating blend of nature and Thai culture in Chiang Mai.

We strolled through the international gardens, each representing a different country with its unique horticultural style. It was like taking a mini-trip around the world, right here in Chiang Mai. I found myself particularly drawn to the African section, naturally, feeling a sense of pride seeing plants from the continent thriving so far from home. Klaus, ever the architect, was fascinated by the different garden designs, snapping photos and making mental notes for future eco-friendly housing projects. This park is also hosting the Amazing Chiang Mai Countdown 2025, but we will miss it, since we are leaving before New Year's Eve.

The earth laughs in flowers.

After a lovely morning amidst the blooms, we headed to Hummus Chiang Mai for lunch. I had heard great things about their Middle Eastern cuisine, and it certainly didn't disappoint. The hummus was incredibly creamy and flavorful, and the falafel was perfectly crispy. It was a welcome change from the rich Thai food we'd been indulging in, and Ama surprisingly enjoyed dipping her pita bread into the hummus. Klaus was happy to find a vegetarian-friendly spot, given his preference for plant-based meals.



Experience authentic Middle Eastern flavors at Hummus Chiang Mai - where deliciousness meets tradition in every bite.

Our afternoon was dedicated to the Bhubing Palace, a royal residence nestled in the mountains overlooking Chiang Mai. The drive up was scenic, with winding roads offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The palace itself is a beautiful example of Thai architecture, and the gardens are truly spectacular. The cool mountain air was a welcome respite from the afternoon heat. I learned that the palace was built in 1961 to accommodate the royal family during state visits and that King Frederik IX and Queen Ingrid of Denmark were the first royal visitors in January 1962.



Explore the royal heritage and stunning gardens of Bhubing Palace in Chiang Mai, a serene escape into Thailand's cultural richness.

The rose gardens were particularly stunning, with a wide array of temperate plants not commonly found in Thailand. Ama was fascinated by the different colors and shapes of the roses, and Klaus and I enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere. The palace offered a glimpse into the lives of the Thai royal family and their connection to the northern region of the country. As we wandered through the grounds, I reflected on the importance of preserving cultural heritage and the role of architecture in reflecting a nation's identity.


Before heading back to our hotel, we made a stop at the Elephant Parade shop. I've always admired their mission of elephant conservation through art, and I wanted to pick up a small souvenir. Ama, of course, was immediately drawn to the colorful elephant statues, and after much deliberation, she chose a small, brightly painted elephant to take back home. I bought a slightly larger one, reminding me of Mosha who received a prosthetic limb through donations, to place on my desk in Potsdam, a reminder of our trip and the importance of supporting ethical causes.



Discover a unique selection of handcrafted elephant-themed souvenirs at Elephant Parade in Chiang Mai, supporting local artisans and conservation efforts.

For dinner, we decided to try Chez Marco Restaurant and Bar. It was a delightful culinary experience. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the menu offered a mix of French and Thai dishes. Klaus raved about his steak, while I savored a flavorful Thai curry. Ama enjoyed her pasta, and the friendly staff made us feel right at home. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and cultural immersion.



Experience the exquisite blend of French and Mediterranean flavors at Chez Marco Restaurant and Bar in Chiang Mai.

As I write this, reflecting on our day, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Chiang Mai with my family. It's moments like these that make all the hard work worthwhile. Tomorrow, we are planning to explore Wiang Kum Kam and Art in Paradise Chiang Mai. We'll also visit the Jing Jai Market. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us, but for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today and the joy of sharing them with my loved ones. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to experience new cultures, and to share those experiences with others. This journey is not just about seeing new places, but also about creating lasting memories with my family. It's about broadening our horizons and deepening our understanding of the world around us. And most importantly, it's about appreciating the beauty and diversity of our planet, one flower, one palace, and one elephant at a time. It's amazing to think that in just a few days, our family adventure in Chiang Mai will come to an end. But I am committed to making the most of every moment, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!