Cultural Immersion and Adventure in Chiang Mai

Saturday's Serene Discoveries

Today was a beautiful blend of art, history, and delightful culinary experiences here in Chiang Mai. As my journey nears its end, I find myself reflecting on how deeply this city has touched my soul. It's not just the stunning temples or the vibrant markets; it's the spirit of the people and the way they've preserved their culture that resonates so profoundly. Today was about soaking in as much of that as possible, one temple, one painting, and one delicious meal at a time.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Alice's Restaurant. I had read mixed reviews, but I decided to give it a try, and I'm glad I did. The atmosphere was cozy, and the food was quite satisfying. Fuelled up, I set off to explore the ancient beauty of Wat Lok Moli.


Discover the best of Thai and Japanese cuisine at Alice's Restaurant in Chiang Mai - where organic ingredients meet vibrant flavors.

Wat Lok Moli: A Step Back in Time

Wat Lok Moli was everything I had hoped for and more. The temple exudes a sense of calm and history that's palpable as soon as you step through its gates. The Lanna-style architecture is simply stunning, with intricate wood carvings and a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection. It's a quieter temple compared to some of the more famous ones, which made the experience all the more special. I spent a good hour wandering around, admiring the details and soaking in the peaceful ambiance. I even took a moment to sit in the main hall, feeling an overwhelming sense of peace wash over me.

The temple's ancient chedi, resembling a stone castle, stood as a testament to the rich history of the area. The two white elephants, adorned with silver coins, added a touch of whimsy to the otherwise solemn setting. It was easy to imagine what life might have been like centuries ago within those walls. Wearing my traditional Senegalese attire felt particularly special here, a quiet nod to my own heritage amidst the beauty of Lanna culture.


Experience the tranquility and cultural richness of Wat Lok Moli, a stunning Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai, perfect for spiritual reflection and exploration.

Art in Paradise: A Playful Interlude

From the solemn beauty of Wat Lok Moli, I ventured into a completely different world: Art in Paradise Chiang Mai. This 3D art museum is an explosion of color and creativity, a place where you can truly let your inner child run wild. I must admit, I approached it with a bit of skepticism, but it didn't take long for me to get caught up in the fun.

The museum is divided into different zones, each with its own theme. I found myself posing with marine creatures in the Underwater World Zone, narrowly escaping wild animals in the Wildlife Zone, and even inserting myself into classic artworks in the Classic Art Zone. It was an absolute blast, and I ended up taking dozens of photos. I even downloaded their app, which made the paintings come alive!

Sometimes, the most profound cultural experiences come from embracing the unexpected and allowing yourself to be immersed in the playful spirit of a place.

It was a welcome change of pace after the quiet contemplation of the temple, and I left with a smile on my face and a camera full of silly pictures. This is definitely an attraction that's fun for all ages.


Experience the magic of 3D art at Art in Paradise Chiang Mai, where creativity comes to life in an interactive and immersive environment.

Crafting Memories at Mainiji.Everyday Craft Shop

After my artistic adventure, I decided to do a little shopping. I stumbled upon Mainiji.Everyday Craft Shop and was immediately drawn in by the unique and handcrafted items on display. It was a treasure trove of local artistry, and I spent a happy hour browsing through the beautiful creations. I ended up buying a small, hand-painted ceramic bowl as a memento of my trip. Supporting local artisans is something I always try to do when I travel, and this shop was a perfect opportunity to do just that.


Discover the charm of Thai craftsmanship at Mainiji Everyday Craft Shop, your go-to destination for unique clothing and accessories in Chiang Mai.

A Culinary Finale at Favola Chiang Mai

As the day drew to a close, it was time for a special dinner. I had made a reservation at Favola Chiang Mai, an Italian restaurant at the Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the rave reviews I had read. It did not disappoint! The restaurant's ambiance was sophisticated and inviting, with a view into the open kitchen and a walk-in wine cellar.

I started with the Crema di Porcini e Patate, a delectable porcini and potato cream soup. For my main course, I chose the Tagliata di Manzo Wagyu, a perfectly grilled Wagyu striploin that was cooked to perfection. The flavors were exquisite, and the presentation was impeccable. It was a delightful culinary journey that transported me far from Thailand for a little while. It was a nice change of pace after many Thai meals, and I appreciated the variety. Plus, I learned that Italian food is quite popular in this region!

The service was also outstanding, with the staff being attentive and friendly. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with exploration and discovery. I felt incredibly content as I headed back to the Cozy Inn Chiang Mai, my heart full of the day's experiences.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Favola Chiang Mai, where traditional flavors meet exquisite dining in Thailand's cultural capital.

Tomorrow is my last full day here, and I plan to make the most of it. My itinerary includes a visit to Baan Kang Wat, an artisan village, and Wat Suan Dok, another stunning temple. I'm also planning to check out Boy Blues Bar for a final taste of Chiang Mai's nightlife. As my solo adventure nears its end, I'm already dreaming of bringing Hans and Aisha here to experience the magic of Chiang Mai with me.

Before I turn in for the night, I want to mention that I learned there's an International School Education Fair happening here in Chiang Mai. I overheard some families talking about it, and it seems like a great opportunity for those interested in international education. How wonderful to see such diverse opportunities available here!

Chiang Mai continues to surprise and delight me at every turn. I'm so grateful for this experience and the memories I'm creating here. Goodnight from Thailand!