Family Cultural Adventure in Chiang Mai

A Day of Serenity and Adventure

Today was a beautiful blend of cultural immersion and thrilling adventure. Chiang Mai continues to surprise and delight me with its diverse offerings. From the serene mountaintop temples to the exciting nocturnal wildlife, it was a day filled with memorable moments for the entire family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at The House Kitchen. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. I opted for the traditional Thai breakfast, while Eleanor and Kenji enjoyed some familiar Western dishes. It's always nice to start the day with a good meal, setting the tone for the adventures ahead.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences come from embracing the unexpected and finding beauty in the blend of cultures.

After breakfast, we made our way to Wat Phra That Doi Kham, also known as the Golden Temple. The drive up the mountain was quite scenic, with lush greenery on either side. As we approached the temple, the massive golden Buddha statue came into view, shimmering in the morning sun. It was truly a sight to behold. The temple itself is steeped in history, dating back to the 7th century. We took our time exploring the grounds, admiring the intricate architecture and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Kenji was particularly fascinated by the giant Buddha and the many smaller shrines dotted around the complex. I made sure to explain the significance of the temple and its importance to the local culture, hoping to instill in him a sense of respect and appreciation for different beliefs. The panoramic views of Chiang Mai from the temple were breathtaking. From up there, you could see the entire city sprawling out before you, surrounded by rolling hills and verdant landscapes. It was the perfect spot to take some family photos and capture the beauty of the region. Eleanor and I took a moment to appreciate the serenity of the place, while Kenji ran around exploring every nook and cranny.


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

For lunch, we decided to try Parc Thai Eatery, a restaurant known for its authentic Thai cuisine. The restaurant’s ambiance was lovely, blending modern and traditional Thai elements seamlessly. The food was exceptional, with each dish bursting with flavor and spice. Eleanor and I shared a variety of dishes, including Tom Yum soup and green curry, while Kenji opted for something a little milder. It was a delightful culinary experience that gave us a true taste of Northern Thailand. I was particularly impressed by the freshness of the ingredients and the care that went into each dish. The restaurant also had a charming outdoor seating area, where we enjoyed the pleasant weather and the vibrant atmosphere of Chiang Mai.

As the sun began to set, we headed to the Chiang Mai Night Safari, an experience we were all eagerly anticipating. The night safari is divided into different zones, each showcasing a variety of nocturnal animals in their natural habitats. We boarded a tram that took us through the Savanna Safari and Predator Prowl zones. It was incredible to see animals like zebras, giraffes, lions, and tigers roaming freely in the darkness. Kenji was wide-eyed with excitement, pointing out every animal we passed. The guides provided informative commentary about each species, adding an educational element to the adventure. The highlight of the night safari was the Jaguar Trail, a walking path that allowed us to get up close and personal with jaguars, flamingos, and other fascinating creatures. The atmosphere was electric, with the sounds of the jungle all around us. It was a truly immersive experience that left us in awe of the natural world.


Discover the enchanting world of nocturnal wildlife at Chiang Mai Night Safari, a captivating attraction for families and animal lovers alike.

After the night safari, we decided to unwind at Boy Blues Bar. The bar had a relaxed and laid-back vibe, with live blues music filling the air. I enjoyed a local beer while Eleanor sipped on a cocktail. Kenji, though tired, was still captivated by the music and the atmosphere. It was a perfect way to end a long and eventful day. The band was fantastic, playing a mix of classic blues tunes and original compositions. The crowd was friendly and welcoming, creating a sense of camaraderie and good cheer. I even struck up a conversation with a local musician, who shared some interesting insights about the Chiang Mai music scene.


Experience the pulse of Chiang Mai at Boy Blues Bar, where soulful blues melodies and a lively atmosphere await every night.

As we head into tomorrow, we plan to visit Wat Suan Dok and Baan Tawai Woodcarving Village. I'm particularly excited about Baan Tawai, as I've always been fascinated by traditional crafts and woodworking. I'm hoping to find some unique souvenirs to bring back home to Bristol.

Today was a reminder of why we love to travel – the opportunity to experience new cultures, explore new places, and create lasting memories with our family. Chiang Mai has exceeded all our expectations, and I can’t wait to see what adventures tomorrow will bring.

Looking back on the day, I realized how fortunate I am to be able to share these experiences with my family. Eleanor’s enthusiasm and Kenji’s boundless curiosity make every adventure even more special. As we walked back to Hotel M Chiang Mai, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to create these memories together. I'm also grateful I didn't forget any of the trip essentials today, which makes traveling so much easier.


Experience the charm of Chiang Mai at Hotel M, where modern comforts meet traditional Thai hospitality, just moments from cultural hotspots.

The blend of cultural immersion and thrilling adventure today made it a day to remember. I hope our journey inspires others to step outside their comfort zones and explore the world with their loved ones. After all, the greatest adventures are the ones we share.

We'll see what tomorrow brings!