Family Cultural Adventure in Chiang Mai

First Impressions: Chiang Mai's Embrace

Our first day in Chiang Mai was nothing short of magical. From the moment we landed, the city exuded a charm that was both captivating and comforting. The air was warm, carrying the scent of exotic flowers and the promise of adventure. I was excited to share this experience with Eleanor and Kenji, eager to see Chiang Mai through their eyes.

Our journey began with a smooth flight from Bristol to Bangkok, followed by a short domestic flight to Chiang Mai. Traveling with family always adds a layer of complexity, but the anticipation of exploring a new culture together made it all worthwhile. The Hotel M Chiang Mai, nestled in the heart of the old city, welcomed us with open arms, providing a perfect base for our adventures.


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

Ascending to Doi Suthep

After a quick freshening up, we headed straight to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a temple perched high on a mountain overlooking the city. The drive up was an experience in itself, winding through lush greenery as the air grew cooler. Kenji was particularly thrilled, his face pressed against the window, pointing out every interesting sight.


Discover the spiritual heart of Chiang Mai at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a stunning temple with breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.

Reaching the base of the temple, we faced a choice: brave the 309 steps or take a cable car. Kenji, full of energy, insisted on the stairs. Eleanor and I, always up for a challenge, agreed. The climb was invigorating, with vibrant stalls lining the way, selling everything from local snacks to intricate handicrafts.

Emerging at the top, we were greeted by a sight that took our breath away. The golden chedi shimmered in the sunlight, surrounded by ornate temples and intricate statues. The panoramic view of Chiang Mai was simply stunning, stretching out before us like a living map. We wandered through the temple grounds, soaking in the serene atmosphere and marveling at the artistry and devotion evident in every detail.

Regardless of how you feel about temples, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a must-visit in Chiang Mai. It's a striking temple, which oddly enough, I found calming and soothing in spite of the mass of tourists.

I took a moment to explain to Kenji the significance of the temple, sharing stories of its history and the legends surrounding its founding in 1383. He listened with wide-eyed fascination, absorbing the cultural richness of the place.

A Walk on the Wild Side

Next on our itinerary was the Chiang Mai Zoo. While I generally have mixed feelings about zoos, I was keen to see the efforts being made in conservation and education. Kenji, of course, was ecstatic at the prospect of seeing animals from around the world.


Explore Chiang Mai Zoo, a captivating destination showcasing diverse wildlife amidst lush surroundings in the heart of Thailand.

The zoo was vast, and we opted for the tram to navigate the sprawling grounds. We saw everything from majestic elephants and playful zebras to the adorable pandas, Lin Hui and Lin Ping. Kenji was particularly captivated by the penguins, his laughter echoing through the enclosure as they waddled and swam.

Eleanor and I appreciated the zoo's efforts to create natural habitats for the animals, although it was hard not to feel a pang of sadness for those confined to enclosures. We made sure to focus on the positive aspects, highlighting the conservation work and the opportunity for children like Kenji to learn about wildlife.

We also ventured into the Chiang Mai Zoo Aquarium, walking through the underwater tunnel surrounded by a myriad of colorful fish. The shark and ray feeding show was a particular highlight, with Kenji jumping up and down in excitement.

Market Delights at Warorot

As the afternoon sun began to dip, we decided to immerse ourselves in the local culture with a visit to Warorot Market (Kad Luang). This bustling market is a sensory overload in the best possible way, a vibrant tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells.


Discover the essence of Chiang Mai at Warorot Market – a vibrant hub of fresh produce, local handicrafts, and authentic street food.

The market was teeming with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample the local delicacies and hunt for unique souvenirs. We wandered through the narrow aisles, marveling at the array of goods on offer, from fresh produce and spices to clothing and handicrafts.

We sampled some of the local street food, including *sai oua* (northern Thai sausage) and *khao soi* (a flavorful curry noodle soup). Kenji, surprisingly, was quite adventurous, trying everything we offered him with gusto. Eleanor, ever the cautious one, made sure everything was freshly cooked and from a clean stall.

I picked up a few souvenirs for friends and family back home, including some hand-carved wooden items and hand-woven textiles. Bargaining is part of the experience, and I enjoyed the friendly banter with the vendors, always remembering to negotiate with a smile.

Culinary Adventures

For breakfast, we started our day at Tikky Cafe, a charming little spot known for its authentic Thai cuisine. I opted for a classic Pad Thai, while Eleanor enjoyed a refreshing smoothie bowl. Kenji, predictably, went for the mango sticky rice, devouring it with gusto.


Discover authentic Thai flavors at Tikky Cafe in Chiang Mai - where every dish tells a story.

Lunch was at Madame Koh Fun Dining, a restaurant recommended for its modern ambiance and delicious dishes. We tried the *khao soi*, duck confit, and crabs, each dish bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. The warm atmosphere and attentive service made it a truly enjoyable experience.


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 headed to The Riverside Bar & Restaurant for dinner. This iconic establishment, set in a charming wooden house by the Ping River, offered a romantic setting and a wide variety of Thai and international dishes. We enjoyed the sunset from our table, savoring the delicious food and the gentle breeze coming off the river.


Experience authentic Thai cuisine with stunning riverside views at The Riverside Bar & Restaurant in Chiang Mai.

The Riverside also had live music, which added to the vibrant atmosphere. Kenji, tired from the day's adventures, eventually fell asleep in Eleanor's arms as we listened to the music and watched the boats glide along the river.

Reflections on Day One

Our first day in Chiang Mai was a whirlwind of temples, markets, and culinary delights. It was a day filled with laughter, exploration, and cultural immersion. As I lay in bed that evening, reflecting on our adventures, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Doi Suthep-Pui National Park and visit Wat Chedi Luang. We're also looking forward to trying some vegan cuisine at Goodsouls Kitchen for breakfast and unwinding at Writer's Club & Wine Bar in the evening. I can't wait to see what new adventures await us in this enchanting city.

“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” I feel this quote encapsulates my experience today, as I am already looking forward to sharing many stories with you all.

Despite a wonderful day, I did realize I forgot to pack a universal travel adapter and a portable power bank. I will need to pick these up tomorrow.

Until then, *oyasumi nasai* from Chiang Mai!