Family Adventure in Nakhon Ratchasima

A Day of History and Flavors

Today was a day of delving deep into Thailand's rich past and savoring its vibrant present. With my family by my side, I set out to explore the ancient Khmer ruins of Nakhon Ratchasima, a journey that transported us back centuries. It's days like these that remind me why I love sharing these experiences, hoping to inspire others to seek out the stories embedded in every corner of the world.

Our first stop was Prasat Muangkao, a smaller, yet significant, Khmer temple. It was a bit of a drive from our hotel, Leosor Hotel, but the anticipation of seeing these ancient stones kept our spirits high. As we approached, the temple's laterite and sandstone structure stood proudly against the clear blue sky. It was smaller than I expected, but its historical importance was immediately apparent. Prasat Muangkao, I learned, was once part of an Arogayasala, a hospital complex built during the reign of King Jayavarman VII in the 12th and 13th centuries. Knowing that this was once a place of healing and spiritual significance gave the site a profound sense of peace. Ananda, my son, was particularly fascinated by the architecture, pointing out the intricate carvings and the way the stones had weathered over time. Nang, ever the pragmatist, was more interested in the temple's layout and how it reflected the beliefs of the people who built it. I appreciated both perspectives, finding myself lost in contemplation of the past and the ingenuity of ancient civilizations.


Discover the ancient grandeur of Prasat Muangkao, a stunning Khmer archaeological site in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, rich in history and culture.
From Prasat Muangkao, we journeyed to Phimai Historical Park, a much larger and more imposing complex. The drive itself was scenic, passing through the rural landscapes of Nakhon Ratchasima, giving us a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals. As we approached Phimai, the scale of the historical park became evident. This wasn't just a temple; it was an entire ancient city.


Explore the majestic Phimai Historical Park, a treasure of ancient Khmer architecture and serene natural beauty in Thailand's cultural heart.
Stepping through the gates of Phimai Historical Park felt like stepping back in time. The main sanctuary, Prasat Hin Phimai, is an impressive structure, a testament to the architectural prowess of the Khmer empire. As we walked through the complex, I couldn't help but marvel at the intricate carvings, the towering walls, and the sheer scale of the construction. It's easy to see why Phimai is considered one of the most important Khmer temples in Thailand.
Ananda, ever the curious one, peppered me with questions about the temple's history, its purpose, and the people who built it. I did my best to answer, drawing on my own knowledge and the information provided in our travel guide. Nang, meanwhile, was busy capturing the beauty of the site with her camera, documenting every detail for posterity. I took a moment to simply soak it all in, feeling a deep connection to my Thai heritage and a sense of awe at the achievements of our ancestors.

Traveling through time, one temple at a time, is like piecing together a beautiful puzzle of human history.

After a morning of exploring ancient ruins, our stomachs were rumbling. It was time to sample some of Nakhon Ratchasima's culinary offerings. For breakfast, we enjoyed a delightful meal at Le Intawaa Restaurant, located in our hotel. The restaurant offered a range of traditional Thai dishes, each bursting with flavor and spice. I opted for a classic Thai breakfast of Jok (rice porridge) with pork and a side of crispy fried dough sticks. It was the perfect way to start the day, fueling us for our adventures ahead.


Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Le Intawaa Restaurant in Nakhon Ratchasima - where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
For lunch, we decided to try something different and ventured to Muaysom Vietnam Restaurant. I've always appreciated the subtle differences between Thai and Vietnamese cuisine, and this was a great opportunity to explore those nuances. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a menu full of tempting options. We settled on a selection of dishes, including Pho, fresh spring rolls, and Banh Mi. Each dish was a burst of fresh flavors, a testament to the skill and care of the chefs.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Muaysom Vietnam Restaurant in Nakhon Ratchasima - A culinary adventure awaits!
As the sun began to set, we made our way to Chez Andy Swiss Restaurant & Steak House for dinner. It might seem odd to eat Swiss food in Thailand, but I had heard good things about this place, and I was curious to see how it compared to the Swiss restaurants back in Montreal. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, reminiscent of a cozy Swiss chalet. The menu was extensive, featuring a range of Swiss and European dishes. I opted for the Steak, while Nang chose the Pizza, and Ananda went for the classic Swiss Fondue. The food was delicious, a comforting taste of Europe in the heart of Thailand. The experience reminded me of the importance of variety in travel and the joy of discovering unexpected culinary gems.


Discover authentic Swiss cuisine combined with Italian flair at Chez Andy Swiss Restaurant & Steak House in Nakhon Ratchasima.
Before heading back to the hotel, we made a quick stop at Toys“R”Us - Terminal 21 Korat. It might seem like an odd choice after a day of historical exploration, but Ananda insisted. He wanted to pick up a souvenir, a small reminder of our trip to Nakhon Ratchasima. I relented, knowing that sometimes the simplest things can hold the most meaning. As we browsed the aisles of the toy store, I couldn't help but smile, thinking about the memories we were creating as a family. It's these moments, big and small, that make traveling with loved ones so special.


Explore a world of toys and imagination at Toys“R”Us - Terminal 21 Korat, the ultimate destination for family fun and shopping in Nakhon Ratchasima.
Reflecting on the day, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Exploring the ancient ruins of Prasat Muangkao and Phimai Historical Park was a humbling reminder of the rich history and cultural heritage of Thailand. And savoring the diverse culinary offerings of Nakhon Ratchasima was a delicious way to connect with the local culture and create lasting memories. As we prepare for tomorrow's adventures, which include a visit to Suan Rak Park and Wat Sala Loi, I'm filled with anticipation for what new discoveries await.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Suan Rak Park for a relaxing morning stroll and then explore the unique architecture of Wat Sala Loi. In the evening, we'll be trying out Aftermath Bar & Bistro. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing Wat Sala Loi, as I've heard it has a fascinating history and distinctive design. It's these contrasts – the ancient and the modern, the natural and the man-made – that make Nakhon Ratchasima such a compelling destination. Good night from Nakhon Ratchasima!

It's truly remarkable to witness how ancient civilizations have left their mark on this land, and how the flavors of different cultures blend together to create a unique culinary tapestry. It reminds me of the importance of preserving our heritage while embracing the new and the different. As I drift off to sleep, I'm already dreaming of the adventures that await us tomorrow.