Family Adventure in Nakhon Ratchasima

Wild Adventures and High-Flying Fun

Today was a day dedicated to the wonders of Nakhon Ratchasima, blending the excitement of wildlife encounters with the thrill of aviation history. It’s amazing how much a single day can hold when you’re open to new experiences and ready to embrace the unexpected. From exotic animals to vintage airplanes, it was a day that truly showcased the diverse attractions of this vibrant city.

Our day started, as usual, with breakfast at Le Intawaa Restaurant inside the Leosor Hotel. I always appreciate starting the day with a good Thai breakfast. It's comforting to know that even when I'm far from my restaurant in Montreal, I can still enjoy the authentic tastes of home. The warm and welcoming staff made sure we had everything we needed, setting a positive tone for the adventures ahead.


Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Le Intawaa Restaurant in Nakhon Ratchasima - where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.


Experience comfort and convenience at Leosor Hotel, the ideal urban retreat in Nakhon Ratchasima, with local cuisine, wellness services, and more!

Roaring Good Time at Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo

After breakfast, we headed to the Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo, also known as Korat Zoo. The zoo is quite expansive, and I was impressed by the variety of animals they house. Ananda was particularly excited to see the tigers, while Nang enjoyed the playful monkeys. The zoo had a wide array of animals from different parts of the world, and it was fun to see them all in one place.


Discover the vibrant wildlife and thrilling attractions at Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo, a must-visit destination in Thailand for animal lovers and families.

We decided to rent a golf cart to get around the zoo, which was a great decision considering how large the park is. It allowed us to explore at our own pace and stop whenever we wanted to observe the animals more closely. I was also relieved to see that the animal enclosures were quite spacious, which showed that the zoo prioritized the well-being of its animals.

We made sure to catch the animal show, which featured African fur seals, otters, monkeys, and various bird species. It was entertaining and educational, and Ananda seemed to enjoy it quite a bit. We also learned about the zoo’s tiger feeding program, which is designed to enrich the lives of these magnificent predators.

The best kind of travel involves a mix of planned activities and spontaneous discoveries. Today was a perfect example of that.

I couldn't help but think about the recent news regarding the zoo. It's disheartening to hear about the challenges they've faced, especially the incident involving the zookeeper. It highlights the importance of safety and the need for continuous improvement in animal welfare practices. Hopefully, the zoo is taking the necessary steps to ensure a safer environment for both its staff and animals.

The October heat was definitely a factor, and we made sure to stay hydrated throughout our visit. Luckily, there were small stores along the way where we could buy water and snacks. We also noticed the water park, which looked like a fun place to cool off, but we decided to skip it this time.

Taking Flight at Airplane Park Korat

Next on our itinerary was Airplane Park Korat, a unique attraction that I was particularly excited about. This park features a retired Boeing 747 aircraft that has been repurposed as a tourist attraction. As someone who appreciates aviation history, I found the concept fascinating. It’s not every day you get to explore a massive airplane grounded in the middle of a park.


Discover the charm of Airplane Park Korat, a family-friendly attraction featuring a retired aircraft and stunning gardens in Nakhon Ratchasima.

The park itself is spread over a large area, about 100 rai, offering plenty of space to walk around and explore. The Boeing 747 is the main attraction, and it’s quite a sight to behold. You can go inside the plane and explore its various sections, which have been converted into cafes and restaurants. It’s a surreal experience to sit inside a retired jumbo jet, sipping coffee and imagining its past life in the skies.

We spent a good amount of time taking photos with the airplane, both inside and out. Ananda, who is always up for a good photo opportunity, had a blast posing in front of the massive aircraft. Nang, too, enjoyed the novelty of the experience, and we captured some memorable family photos.

The park also has other attractions, including cafes and restaurants. We stopped for a quick snack and some refreshing drinks before continuing our exploration. The atmosphere was relaxed and family-friendly, making it a pleasant place to spend an afternoon.

One thing I found interesting was the park's opening hours. It’s closed on Mondays, and the opening hours vary on other days. It’s always a good idea to check the schedule before planning a visit to avoid disappointment.

A Culinary Evening

For lunch, we stopped at Wild Cafe and Restaurant. The restaurant had a charming ambiance, blending rustic and modern elements. I opted for a classic steak, while Nang chose a pasta dish. Ananda, as usual, went for the burger. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent.


Experience exquisite Italian and modern French cuisine at Wild Cafe and Restaurant in Nakhon Ratchasima—perfect for families seeking memorable dining.

In the late afternoon, we decided to do a little shopping at Diamond Today in Central Nakhon Ratchasima. Nang wanted to look for a special piece of jewelry to commemorate our trip. The store had a beautiful collection of handcrafted jewelry, and the staff was very helpful. Nang eventually found a lovely bracelet that she absolutely loved, and I was happy to see her so pleased.


Explore a stunning collection of handcrafted jewelry at Diamond Today in Nakhon Ratchasima, where quality meets exquisite design.

For dinner, we decided to try Chez Andy Swiss Restaurant & Steak House. I had heard good things about it, and I was curious to try some authentic Swiss cuisine. The restaurant has been around for over 50 years, so I knew it had to be doing something right.


Discover authentic Swiss cuisine combined with Italian flair at Chez Andy Swiss Restaurant & Steak House in Nakhon Ratchasima.

The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the menu was extensive, featuring a mix of Swiss, Italian, and French dishes. I decided to try one of their Swiss specialties, while Nang opted for a steak. Ananda, predictably, chose pizza.

The food was excellent, and it was clear that the restaurant used high-quality ingredients. My Swiss dish was flavorful and comforting, and Nang’s steak was cooked to perfection. Ananda enjoyed his pizza, and we all left feeling satisfied.

I learned that the chef, Chez Andy, had previously run a restaurant in Samui before moving to Nakhon Ratchasima. He’s an expert in Swiss and Italian cuisine, and his experience shines through in the quality of the food. The staff has been with him for many years, which speaks to the restaurant’s commitment to excellence.

As we headed back to Leosor Hotel, I reflected on the day’s adventures. We had explored wildlife, aviation history, and enjoyed some fantastic food. It was a day that showcased the diverse attractions of Nakhon Ratchasima and created lasting memories for our family.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Centara Korat and Meru Brahmathat. I’m looking forward to exploring more of this fascinating city and sharing our experiences with you. I’m also hoping to find a power adapter since I forgot to pack one. It’s a small thing, but it would make our travels a lot more convenient. And perhaps, if there’s time, I might even pick up some swimwear. After all, a little relaxation by the pool never hurts.

Until tomorrow, safe travels and happy exploring!