Family Adventure in Chiang Mai: Exploring Culture and Nature

Echoes of the Past, Tastes of Today

Today was a beautiful blend of old and new, a day where we truly immersed ourselves in the heart of Chiang Mai. From exploring ancient ruins to bustling markets, and savouring the local cuisine, it was a day that painted a vivid picture of this enchanting city.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at LINK Cuisine. It was a delightful start, fuelling us up for the adventures that lay ahead. Thandi was particularly excited, and David and I were just as eager to dive into the day's itinerary. I must admit, after weeks of planning, seeing it all come together is incredibly fulfilling. I'm truly grateful for these moments, especially sharing them with my family.


Experience culinary excellence at LINK Cuisine in Chiang Mai - where authentic Thai flavors meet modern dining.

Our first stop was Wiang Kum Kam, the ancient underground city. It was like stepping back in time, wandering through the ruins of what was once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. It's fascinating to think that this entire city was lost to floods for centuries, only to be rediscovered in recent times. We opted for a horse-drawn carriage tour, which was a lovely way to see the sprawling site. Thandi absolutely loved it, giggling as the horse clip-clopped along the dusty paths. The temples, though weathered by time, still held an air of grandeur, whispering stories of a bygone era. It's amazing how much history is buried beneath our feet, waiting to be unearthed.


Explore Wiang Kum Kam, an ancient city near Chiang Mai, where history, culture, and stunning ruins come together in a tranquil setting.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

After our historical immersion, we headed to Warorot Market (Kad Luang), a complete contrast to the serene ruins of Wiang Kum Kam. The market was a riot of colours, sounds, and smells. It was a true sensory overload, in the best possible way. We wandered through the narrow aisles, marveling at the sheer variety of goods on offer – from fresh produce and spices to clothing and handicrafts. I was particularly drawn to the food stalls, where vendors were selling everything from grilled meats to sweet treats. It was a feast for the eyes, and the stomach! I managed to pick up a few souvenirs, including some beautiful hand-woven scarves and some fragrant spices to remind me of Chiang Mai when I'm back in Bristol.


Discover the essence of Chiang Mai at Warorot Market – a vibrant hub of fresh produce, local handicrafts, and authentic street food.

Lunch was at Huen Phen, a renowned Northern Thai restaurant. The atmosphere was rustic and charming, and the food was simply divine. We tried a variety of local specialties, including Khao Soi and Sai Oua, all bursting with flavour. Thandi, surprisingly, was quite adventurous with her choices, trying a bit of everything. It's wonderful to see her embracing new culinary experiences. David, as always, enjoyed sampling the local beers, declaring them a perfect accompaniment to the spicy dishes. I am so glad we chose this place, as it gave us a real taste of authentic Chiang Mai cuisine. The restaurant itself was a maze of small rooms filled with handicrafts, making it feel like we were dining in someone's home. It was a truly immersive experience.


Experience authentic Thai flavors at Huen Phen in Chiang Mai—where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we made our way to Tha Phae Gate, one of the most iconic landmarks in Chiang Mai. The gate is part of the ancient city walls that once surrounded the Old City, and it stands as a reminder of Chiang Mai's rich history. The square in front of the gate was bustling with activity, with street performers, food vendors, and tourists milling about. We took some photos, soaking up the atmosphere, before taking a stroll along the city walls. It was a perfect way to end the afternoon, watching the sun slowly dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the city.


Discover the historical charm of Tha Phae Gate, a must-visit landmark in Chiang Mai, rich in culture, architecture, and local vibrancy.

Before dinner, we took a leisurely walk around the Old City, admiring the beautiful temples and traditional houses. Chiang Mai is a city that seamlessly blends the old and the new, with ancient temples nestled alongside modern cafes and shops. It's a city that is both vibrant and laid-back, a place where you can easily lose yourself in its charm. The air was filled with the scent of frangipani and the sound of monks chanting, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

For dinner, we decided to try B Samcook Home16, a restaurant that had been highly recommended to us. It was a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away in a quiet side street, but it was well worth the effort to find. The restaurant had a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with an open kitchen where you could watch the chefs at work. The food was a modern take on traditional Thai dishes, beautifully presented and incredibly delicious. Chef Boy came out to greet us, and his passion for food was evident. We opted for the tasting menu, which was a culinary journey through the flavours of Thailand. Each dish was a work of art, and the wine pairing was perfect. It was definitely one of the best meals we've had on this trip, a true celebration of Thai cuisine. I was especially impressed by the creativity and innovation of the dishes, a testament to Chef Boy's talent.


Experience the best of Asian Fusion cuisine at B Samcook Home in Chiang Mai – where traditional flavors meet modern culinary artistry.

As the day drew to a close, I couldn't help but reflect on how much we had experienced. From the ancient ruins of Wiang Kum Kam to the bustling market of Warorot, and the delicious food we had savoured along the way, it was a day that had truly captured the essence of Chiang Mai. I am so grateful for these moments, for the opportunity to share them with my family, and for the memories we are creating together. We're making the most of this family adventure, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. As I write this, Thandi is already fast asleep, dreaming of temples and elephants, I'm sure. Tomorrow, we're heading to Mon Jam and the Hmong Doi Pui Village, I can't wait to see what wonders await us there. I think David is particularly excited about the prospect of visiting Boy Blues Bar in the evening, he's been looking forward to some live music.

Chiang Mai continues to surprise and delight us at every turn. It is a city that has captured my heart, and I know that I will carry these memories with me long after we have left.

And as I reflect on today's adventures, I'm reminded of a quote that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of travel:

Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.

Goodnight from Chiang Mai!