Family Adventure in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai's Golden Glow

Today was a day of contrasts, from serene temple visits to aromatic coffee plantations and ending with a vibrant rooftop experience. Chiang Mai continues to surprise and delight, offering a blend of cultural richness and modern pleasures that make traveling with the family an absolute joy.

We started our Tuesday with a hearty breakfast at LINK Cuisine. The reviews online were spot on – the food was delicious, especially the coconut soup, and the staff were incredibly friendly. Naomi was particularly taken with the pizza, a little taste of home amidst our Thai adventure. Fuelled up, we were ready to tackle the day's itinerary.


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

Our first stop was Wat Phra That Doi Kham, also known as the Golden Temple. Perched high on a hill, the temple offered panoramic views of Chiang Mai. The climb was a bit of a workout, but the sight of the massive 17-meter-high sitting Buddha made it all worthwhile. The temple itself is steeped in history, dating back to the 7th century. It felt like stepping back in time. Naomi was fascinated by the intricate details of the temple architecture and the serene atmosphere. Klara, ever the pragmatist, made sure we all dressed respectfully, covering our shoulders and knees as required.


Experience the spiritual beauty and stunning views of Wat Phra That Doi Kham, a must-visit Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Sometimes, the most beautiful views come after the hardest climbs.

After soaking in the spiritual vibes and snapping some photos, we headed towards Khun Chang Khian. The drive was an adventure in itself, winding through lush mountain roads. As we ascended, the air grew cooler, a welcome change from the city's warmth. Khun Chang Khian is an agricultural research and training base, and it's also known for its coffee plantations. As a chef, I was eager to see where some of Thailand's best coffee comes from.


Explore the serene beauty of Khun Chang Khian in Chiang Mai, where nature and culture intertwine for an unforgettable travel experience.

The Khun Chang Khian Coffee farm was a sight to behold. Rows upon rows of coffee plants stretched across the hillside, interspersed with cherry blossom trees – a truly picturesque scene. We learned about the coffee-making process, from bean to cup, and of course, sampled some of the local brew. The coffee was rich, smooth, and aromatic, with a hint of chocolate. I even bought a bag of dark roast beans to bring back to Yaad Vibes in Berlin. I can already imagine serving it to my customers, sharing a taste of Chiang Mai with them. Naomi, surprisingly, enjoyed a small cup of coffee with lots of milk. She declared it grown-up juice and felt very important sipping it alongside us.

After our caffeine fix, we had lunch at Hummus Chiang Mai. After all that Thai food, we wanted something different. The hummus was incredibly creamy, and the falafel was perfectly crispy. Naomi devoured the pita bread, using it to scoop up every last bit of hummus. Klara was delighted to find vegan options clearly marked on the menu. It’s always a win when we can find something that caters to everyone’s tastes.


Experience authentic Middle Eastern flavors at Hummus Chiang Mai - where deliciousness meets tradition in every bite.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to the THC Rooftop Bar. I must admit, the name had me slightly apprehensive, but the reviews were too good to ignore. Plus, I was curious to see Chiang Mai’s rooftop bar scene. The bar was located in the Old City, and as we climbed the stairs, the atmosphere shifted from bustling street to laid-back chill. The rooftop was decorated with floor pillows and had a definite reggae vibe. It was an eclectic mix of tourists and locals, all enjoying the stunning views of the city.


Experience the magic of Chiang Mai at THC Rooftop Bar, where stunning views and a unique drink selection await you in an inviting atmosphere.

I ordered a local beer, Klara had a cocktail, and Naomi sipped on a fruit smoothie. The music was mellow, the conversation flowed, and the city lights twinkled below. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration. Naomi even got up and danced a little to the reggae beats, much to our amusement. It’s moments like these, unexpected and joyful, that make family travel so special. I couldn’t help but think about my own childhood in Linstead, Jamaica, and how much I would have loved a view like this.

Dinner was at Redbox Restaurant, a Michelin Guide recommended spot. The restaurant was tucked away in a quiet residential street, and the ambiance was elegant yet inviting. We opted for the tasting menu, and each dish was a work of art. The flavors were complex and nuanced, a modern take on traditional Thai cuisine. The butter shrimp with salted egg yolk was a particular highlight, a dish I'll definitely try to recreate back at Yaad Vibes. The staff were incredibly attentive, explaining the history and ingredients of each dish. It was a truly immersive dining experience.


Savor authentic Thai cuisine at Redbox Restaurant in Chiang Mai – where every dish is a flavorful journey into Thailand's culinary heritage.

As we walked back to the Moon Dragon Hotel, the night air was filled with the sounds of Chiang Mai. Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore Wiang Kum Kam and Wat Phantao. Wiang Kum Kam, the ancient underground city, sounds like an incredible historical site, and Wat Phantao, with its beautiful wooden architecture, is supposed to be stunning. I'm also looking forward to trying the vegan restaurant, Goodsouls Kitchen, for breakfast.


Experience comfort and convenience at Moon Dragon Hotel, a perfect retreat in Chiang Mai, where local culture meets modern amenities.

I'm also hoping we can squeeze in a visit to Sawasdee Craft -handmade costume-, a shop Klara found online. She's always on the lookout for unique souvenirs and gifts. I’m also hoping to find some inspiration for the restaurant. Maybe I can incorporate some of the local crafts into the decor at Yaad Vibes.

Chiang Mai continues to enchant us with its blend of ancient traditions and modern delights. It’s a city that caters to all senses, offering a feast for the eyes, the palate, and the soul. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.