Family Adventure in Nakhon Ratchasima

Spiritual Reflections and Culinary Delights in Korat

Today was a beautiful blend of the spiritual and the savory, a true immersion into the heart of Nakhon Ratchasima. From the tranquil temples to the bustling eateries, every moment was a new discovery, a deeper connection to my homeland. It's days like these that remind me why I wanted to share these experiences with my family and with all of you.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Banjong. It's funny, even though I've lived in Montreal for so many years, the smell of a Thai breakfast still feels like home. Nang and Ananda enjoyed it as well. We fueled up for a day of exploration, eager to see what Korat had in store for us.

Our first stop was Wat Sala Loi. As we approached, the unique architecture of the temple immediately caught my eye. It's not every day you see a temple designed to look like a Chinese junk sailing on waves. The intricate details and the serene atmosphere made it a perfect place for reflection. The temple was built in 1827 by Thao Suranari and her husband. Inside, the large white standing Buddha image exuded peace, and Nang spent a few moments in quiet prayer. Ananda, ever the curious one, was fascinated by the superhero statues in the nearby flower park. It was a delightful contrast of the sacred and the playful, a reminder that life is about balance.


Experience the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Wat Sala Loi, a captivating Buddhist temple in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.

Next on our itinerary was the Thao Suranari (Ya Mo) Monument. This monument is a tribute to Lady Mo, a local heroine who played a crucial role in defending Nakhon Ratchasima against invading forces. As we stood before the statue, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. Lady Mo's courage and sacrifice are an inspiration to us all. The monument stands in the heart of the city, surrounded by a vibrant park area. Locals and tourists alike come to pay their respects, and it's easy to see why. The atmosphere is filled with reverence and gratitude. I took a moment to tell Ananda about Lady Mo's story, hoping to instill in him the same sense of admiration and respect.


Discover the rich history and serene beauty of the Thao Suranari Monument, a tribute to courage in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.

For lunch, we headed to The Orchard Restaurant. Located in the Kantary Hotel, this restaurant offers a wide range of international and Thai dishes. After a morning of temples and history, we were ready for a good meal. The restaurant was clean, the service was great and the atmosphere was perfect for a family. We started with some traditional Thai dishes, savoring the familiar spices and flavors. Then, we decided to try some of their international options, including pizza and sushi. It was a delightful mix of cuisines, a testament to the diverse culinary scene in Korat.


Discover authentic Thai flavors at The Orchard Restaurant in Nakhon Ratchasima – where every dish tells a story.

As the day drew to a close, we ventured out to BEAT BAR : bar & bistro. I wanted to experience some of Korat's nightlife, and this place came highly recommended. It had a lively atmosphere, with music and a great selection of drinks. Nang and Ananda enjoyed the vibe, and we spent a couple of hours soaking it all in. It was a fun way to end a day filled with cultural exploration and culinary delights. I even ran into an old friend from my school days in Thailand, which was a pleasant surprise, and we reminisced about the good old days.


Experience the vibrant nightlife at Beat Bar, Nakhon Ratchasima's go-to spot for cocktails, snacks, and a lively atmosphere.

For dinner, we chose Nailed It Downtown. This restaurant is known for its tasty dishes and cozy atmosphere. We ordered some of their signature pizzas and salads, and they did not disappoint. The service was prompt, and the staff was friendly, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.


Experience authentic Thai flavors and international cuisine at Nailed It Downtown in Nakhon Ratchasima - where every meal is a celebration.

As I sit here reflecting on the day, I am filled with gratitude. Nakhon Ratchasima has so much to offer, and I am excited to continue exploring it with my family. Tomorrow, we are heading to Phimai Historical Park and Phimai National Museum [see tomorrow's itinerary]. I've heard so much about these historical sites, and I can't wait to see them for myself. Ananda is particularly excited about visiting Terminal21 Korat [see tomorrow's itinerary], and I'm sure Nang will enjoy the shopping experience. It's moments like these that make traveling with family so special. Sharing these experiences, creating lasting memories – that's what it's all about.

Before I close for the night, I want to share a quick tip for anyone planning to visit Nakhon Ratchasima. Be sure to dress respectfully when visiting temples. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Also, be prepared for warm weather, even in October. Light clothing and sunscreen are essential [see trip essentials]. And don't forget to try the local cuisine. Korat has some of the best Thai food in the country, and you won't be disappointed.

Until tomorrow, Sawasdee Krap!

I am looking forward to sharing more of our adventures with you.

On a side note, I'm glad I remembered to pack my camera [see trip essentials]. I would have been kicking myself if I had forgotten it. Capturing these moments is so important, and I want to make sure I have plenty of photos to look back on. I was a little frustrated that I forgot my power adapter and swimwear [see trip essentials forgotten], but I will try to buy these items tomorrow.

I'm also grateful for Nang's constant support and companionship. Traveling with her makes every experience even more special. Her attention to detail and her ability to find the best local spots are invaluable. And Ananda's enthusiasm and curiosity make every day an adventure. I am truly blessed to have them by my side. I am also grateful that my restaurant in Montreal is being well-managed in my absence. It allows me to travel without any worries.

As I prepare for tomorrow's adventures, I am filled with anticipation. Phimai Historical Park and Phimai National Museum await, and I can't wait to explore them. Until then, goodnight from Nakhon Ratchasima.