Family Adventure in Chiang Mai: Exploring Culture and Nature

Farewell, Chiang Mai!

As our ten-day family adventure in Chiang Mai draws to a close, I wanted to capture the essence of our final day—a day brimming with unexpected discoveries and delightful experiences. It's amazing how a place can feel like home in such a short time, and Chiang Mai has certainly woven its way into our hearts. Though I'm a bit sad to be leaving, I'm also excited to share the highlights of our last day with you all!

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Thai Akha Kitchen - Chiang Mai. I'd heard wonderful things about their cooking classes , but since we couldn't squeeze one in, we decided to experience their kitchen through a meal. David opted for a traditional Thai breakfast, while Thandi, ever the adventurous eater, surprised us by trying (and loving!) a mild curry. As for me, I couldn't resist the Akha-style coffee—a rich, aromatic brew that perfectly captured the spirit of the region. It was a great way to start our day, fueling us up for the adventures that lay ahead.


Discover authentic Thai cooking at Thai Akha Kitchen in Chiang Mai – where culinary traditions meet hands-on learning experiences.

Our first stop was the Museum of World Insects and Natural Wonders. I must admit, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect, but the name alone piqued my curiosity. Thandi, who is usually fascinated by all things creepy-crawly, was especially excited. The museum is a labor of love by a Thai couple, Manop and Rampa Rattanarithikul, who have dedicated their lives to studying insects, especially mosquitoes.


Explore the extraordinary diversity of insects and the wonders of nature at the Museum of World Insects and Natural Wonders in Chiang Mai.

The museum, in summary, is a delightful paean to not only insects but also to all-encompassing human weirdness.

The museum was unlike anything I've ever seen. It was less of a formal museum and more of an eccentric collection displayed in their home. Upstairs, rows upon rows of pinned insects from around the world filled glass cases. Thandi was in her element, marveling at the enormous beetles and vibrant butterflies. I was particularly fascinated by the sheer variety of mosquito species—it turns out that only a small percentage of them are actually harmful ! Downstairs, we learned about mosquito-borne diseases and the couple's holistic beliefs about nature. It was quirky, charming, and surprisingly educational. I even found myself developing a newfound appreciation for these tiny creatures that play such a crucial role in our ecosystem. The neon paintings were amazing.

Next on our itinerary was Baan Kang Wat, an artist village nestled at the foot of Doi Suthep mountain. This place was recommended to me by a fellow blogger and I am so glad that we came. It was a serene escape from the bustling city, a haven of creativity and community spirit. As we wandered through the village, we admired the traditional teak houses, each one housing a unique art gallery, café, or workshop. Thandi was thrilled to find a small shop selling handmade dolls, while David was captivated by the intricate wood carvings on display. I loved the overall vibe of the village – a blend of traditional Thai charm and modern artistic flair.


Discover the artistic charm of Baan Kang Wat in Chiang Mai, where local artisans showcase unique handicrafts and souvenirs in a vibrant cultural setting.

We stopped for lunch at Tong Tem Toh, a restaurant renowned for its authentic Northern Thai cuisine. Fortunately, we arrived early enough to avoid the long queues that often form outside. The menu was extensive, offering a wide array of Northern Thai dishes. We decided to try a few local specialties, including *khao soi* (a coconut curry noodle soup) and *sai ua* (a flavorful pork sausage). The flavors were bold and intense, a delightful explosion of herbs and spices. Thandi, surprisingly, enjoyed the *khao soi*, slurping up the noodles with gusto. I particularly loved the *gaeng hang lay*, a Burmese-style pork curry that was rich, sweet, and incredibly satisfying. It was the perfect culinary conclusion to our Chiang Mai adventure.


Savor authentic Northern Thai cuisine at Tong Tem Toh in Chiang Mai – a culinary delight that embodies local flavors and culture.

After lunch, we strolled through the Jing Jai Market, a vibrant weekend market known for its organic produce, artisan crafts, and handmade clothing. Although it was a Tuesday and not a weekend, there was still a lot going on. It had a lively atmosphere, with vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to unique souvenirs and local delicacies. I picked up a few handmade gifts for friends back home, while Thandi was delighted to find a stall selling colorful hair accessories. The market was a great place to soak up the local culture and support local artisans.


Discover the cultural heartbeat of Chiang Mai at Jing Jai Market, where local crafts, fresh produce, and delicious food await.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Mr. KAI Restaurant for our final dinner in Chiang Mai. This restaurant was recommended to me by a local friend, who raved about their *khao soi*. And she was right – it was absolutely delicious! The coconut curry was creamy and flavorful, the noodles were perfectly cooked, and the crispy noodles on top added a delightful crunch. David and I savored every bite, while Thandi happily devoured a plate of chicken fried rice. It was the perfect ending to our culinary journey in Chiang Mai.


Experience authentic Thai flavors at Mr. KAI Restaurant in Chiang Mai – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

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

As I sit here now, reflecting on our ten days in Chiang Mai, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it's been an opportunity to immerse ourselves in a different culture, to connect with each other on a deeper level, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. From the majestic temples to the bustling markets, from the delicious food to the warm hospitality of the locals, Chiang Mai has captured our hearts in a way that I never expected.

Tomorrow, we head back to Bristol, carrying with us the sights, sounds, and flavors of this enchanting city. I know that a part of me will always remain in Chiang Mai, and I hope to return someday to explore even more of its hidden gems. Thank you for joining us on this incredible adventure. Until next time, *la good bye* from Chiang Mai!

This trip reminded me so much of my home country, Malawi. The people here are so kind and the culture is so vibrant. I can't wait to share more of my travel experiences with you all, and hopefully inspire you to embark on your own adventures. Maybe our next trip will be to Malawi, so Thandi can learn more about where I grew up. I’m excited to show her the beauty of Lake Malawi and the warmth of our community in Chilumba. It would be a dream come true to share my roots with my family and for them to experience the magic of Malawi firsthand.

And to anyone reading this who's considering a trip to Chiang Mai, I say go for it! You won't be disappointed. It's a city that offers something for everyone, a place where you can relax, explore, and discover the beauty of Thailand's northern gem.