Family Adventure in Chiang Mai: Exploring Culture and Nature

A Day Among the Clouds & Culture

Today was a day of contrasts, from the serene heights of Mon Jam to the vibrant traditions of the Hmong people. It’s amazing how much you can pack into a single day when you're exploring a place as diverse and captivating as Chiang Mai. I was especially excited to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that I know we’ll cherish for years to come.

Our day started with a delightful vegan breakfast at Reform Kafé - Vegan Garden Restaurant. This charming garden restaurant offered a peaceful start to our adventurous day. Thandi was particularly thrilled with her coconut yogurt bowl, while David and I enjoyed their creative take on traditional Thai flavors. It's always a joy finding places that cater so well to different dietary preferences, making family meals stress-free and enjoyable.


Discover the best vegan garden restaurant in Chiang Mai offering delicious plant-based dishes in a serene setting.
With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off towards Mon Jam. The drive itself was an experience, winding through lush landscapes and offering glimpses of rural Thai life. As we climbed higher, the air grew cooler, a welcome change from the city's warmth. The anticipation was building, and I couldn't wait to see the panoramic views I had heard so much about.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mon Jam, a stunning garden retreat in Chiang Mai, offering panoramic views and a tranquil escape into nature.
Reaching Mon Jam felt like stepping into another world. The gardens were absolutely stunning, a riot of colors against the backdrop of rolling hills. The almost 360-degree view was breathtaking, and we spent a good hour simply wandering among the flowers, taking photos, and soaking in the serene atmosphere. Even Thandi, who usually has a limited attention span, was captivated by the beauty around her.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of moments, surrounded by nature's beauty and the warmth of family.

After Mon Jam, we ventured towards the Hmong Doi Pui Village. The contrast between the manicured gardens of Mon Jam and the rustic charm of the village was striking. Here, we immersed ourselves in the culture of the Hmong people, learning about their history, traditions, and way of life. The village was a blend of the traditional and the modern, with some houses built in the traditional style alongside those constructed with more modern materials. It was fascinating to see how the Hmong people have adapted to the changing times while still preserving their unique cultural identity.


Experience the vibrant culture and breathtaking views of Hmong Doi Pui Village, a cultural gem in Chiang Mai's lush mountains.
We explored the village market, where local artisans displayed their crafts, from colorful textiles to intricate silver jewelry. Thandi was particularly fascinated by the hand-sewn traditional Hmong clothing. I picked up a beautiful hand-embroidered scarf as a souvenir, a reminder of the vibrant culture we had experienced.

For lunch, we headed to Madame Koh Fun Dining. The reviews I had read mentioned the cozy atmosphere and lovely decor, and it certainly didn't disappoint. The menu was a mix of Chinese and Malaysian cuisine. I decided to try the Khao Soi, a northern Thai specialty, while David opted for the duck confit. Thandi, ever adventurous, surprised us by ordering the fried chicken, which she declared was the best she had ever tasted.


Experience the rich tapestry of Asian flavors at Madame Koh Fun Dining in Chiang Mai - where every dish tells a story.
As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Chiang Mai, but not before a quick stop at Boy Blues Bar. It was Sunday and I knew that the bar was usually closed, but I took my chance anyway. It was indeed closed, but I could hear music from the distance and I could peek inside. I made a mental note to come back another time, perhaps on my own, to enjoy the music and the atmosphere.


Experience the pulse of Chiang Mai at Boy Blues Bar, where soulful blues melodies and a lively atmosphere await every night.
For dinner, we chose Favola Chiang Mai, an Italian restaurant. After several days of Thai cuisine, we were ready for a change of pace. The restaurant had a sophisticated ambiance, and the menu featured a wide range of Italian dishes. We started with a Caprese salad, which was fresh and flavorful. For our main courses, David chose the Tagliata di Manzo Wagyu, while I opted for the Viola & Manzo, purple potato gnocchi with slow-braised Australian Wagyu. Both dishes were cooked to perfection, and we savored every bite.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Favola Chiang Mai, where traditional flavors meet exquisite dining in Thailand's cultural capital.
As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm struck by the incredible diversity of experiences that Chiang Mai has to offer. From the serene beauty of Mon Jam to the cultural richness of the Hmong Doi Pui Village, every moment was a feast for the senses. And to think, tomorrow we’ll be exploring the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and Tha Phae Walking Street – two more iconic Chiang Mai experiences that I’m eager to share with my family. I’m also hoping to find some time to visit the Ton Phayom Fresh Market and pick up some local produce. I'm also looking forward to trying Eing Restaurant for breakfast, Bodhi Terrace for lunch, and Jacky Show Restaurant for dinner. I can already tell that tomorrow will be another day filled with unforgettable moments.

This trip is not just a vacation; it's an opportunity for us to connect with each other and with the world around us. It’s a chance to learn, to grow, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. And as I look at Thandi, her eyes shining with excitement, I know that we are building a foundation of curiosity and understanding that will serve her well in the years to come. It reminds me of my childhood in Malawi, surrounded by the beauty of Lake Malawi and the warmth of my community. Those early experiences shaped who I am today, and I hope that our travels will have a similar impact on Thandi.

The rain ponchos we forgot to pack would have been useful today, but fortunately, the weather held up. I must remember to buy travel adapters tomorrow so we can charge our devices without any issues. I am also thinking of buying a Thai cooking book as a souvenir, so I can try to replicate some of the delicious dishes I tasted here.

Chiang Mai, you continue to surprise and delight us. Thank you for another day of unforgettable memories.