Family Adventure in Chiang Mai: Exploring Culture and Nature

Chiang Mai's Embrace: A Day of Discovery

Today was a beautiful blend of culture, compassion, and culinary exploration here in Chiang Mai. It was a day filled with unique experiences that I'm excited to share, from meeting gentle giants to exploring artisan villages and savoring the local flavors.
As I reflect on the day, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to immerse myself in the beauty and warmth of Northern Thailand.

Our day began bright and early with a hearty breakfast at Benny's Home Cooking Chiang Mai. It felt like stepping into someone's home, with Benny's warm hospitality making us feel immediately welcome. Thandi was particularly excited, and Benny made sure to offer her some treats. The food was delicious and plentiful, setting us up perfectly for the adventures that lay ahead.

After breakfast, we headed to the Elephant Nature Park Office. I've always been passionate about wildlife conservation, a value instilled in me during my upbringing in Malawi, and I was eager to learn more about these incredible creatures. It's truly inspiring to witness the dedication and care provided to rescued elephants. I think it is important to show Thandi what it means to respect animals and their natural habitats.


Discover the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, a sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating elephants while promoting conservation and education.

Travel is not reward for working, it's education for living.

From the Elephant Nature Park office, we ventured to Baan Tawai Woodcarving Village. This village is a treasure trove of artisanal wonders, and I was immediately captivated by the intricate craftsmanship on display. As someone who appreciates cultural exchange and the preservation of traditional crafts, I found myself completely immersed in the artistry of the local artisans. Thandi was fascinated by the wood carvings. She kept asking how they were made and what inspired the artists. I was happy to see her curiosity piqued, and it reminded me of the importance of exposing children to different forms of art and cultural expression.


Explore the artistic heart of Chiang Mai at Baan Tawai Woodcarving Village, where exquisite craftsmanship and rich Thai culture meet.

I even had a chance to try my hand at wood carving, and let me tell you, it's not as easy as it looks! It requires patience, skill, and a steady hand. I gained a newfound appreciation for the talent and dedication of the artisans in Baan Tawai. We picked up a few small souvenirs, each one a unique reminder of our visit to this charming village.

For lunch, we chose The Riverside Bar & Restaurant, a delightful spot with a romantic setting by the Ping River. The atmosphere was perfect, with great sunsets and multi-floor seating offering unique riverside views. The food was excellent, with a diverse menu of both Thai and international dishes. David enjoyed a local craft beer, while I savored a refreshing fruit shake. Thandi was thrilled with her kid-friendly meal, and we all enjoyed the lively atmosphere and the sound of live music in the background. The Riverside truly lived up to its reputation as a legendary Chiang Mai establishment.


Experience authentic Thai cuisine with stunning riverside views at The Riverside Bar & Restaurant in Chiang Mai.

As evening approached, we made our way to Chez Marco Restaurant and Bar for dinner. This restaurant is known for its Mediterranean cuisine and warm, inviting atmosphere. The owner, Chef Marco, is a charming character, and he made us feel right at home. The food was delicious, with a range of classic French dishes. We shared a few appetizers and indulged in some perfectly cooked red meat, while Thandi enjoyed a comforting bowl of pasta. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with cultural exploration and culinary delights.


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

Finally, to cap off the evening, David and I decided to visit the Writer's Club & Wine Bar. As a blogger, I was naturally drawn to this establishment, and I was curious to see what it had to offer. The Writer's Club turned out to be a cozy and welcoming space, with a relaxed atmosphere and a great selection of wines. It's known as the city's unofficial press club, and I could see why. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. I enjoyed a glass of wine while chatting with David and jotting down some notes for my blog. It was a lovely way to end a memorable day in Chiang Mai.


Discover the Writer's Club & Wine Bar in Chiang Mai, a charming retreat for literature lovers and wine enthusiasts alike, blending relaxation with creativity.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the natural beauty of Chiang Mai with visits to Royal Park Rajapruek and Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden. I'm particularly excited about Wat Umong Suan Putthatham, a forest temple that promises a serene and spiritual experience. Before that, we plan to have breakfast at Hummus Chiang Mai. I am excited to try middle eastern food in Thailand. Maybe we will also find time to shop for silk at Thai Silk Village Co.,LTD.

I'm already looking forward to another day of discovery in this enchanting city. The blend of culture, nature, and culinary delights is truly captivating, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

It’s moments like these, sharing experiences with my family, that remind me why I love to travel. Seeing the world through Thandi's eyes brings a fresh perspective to everything we do. It's not just about ticking off landmarks; it's about creating lasting memories and fostering a sense of connection with the world around us. And as we continue our journey through Chiang Mai, I'm excited to see what other hidden gems we'll uncover together.

As I reflect on today, I'm reminded of a quote that perfectly encapsulates my travel philosophy:

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

Chiang Mai is certainly adding many colorful pages to our family's book of adventures. I am grateful for the opportunity to experience its beauty, warmth, and rich cultural heritage. And I can't wait to share more of our journey with you all!