Family Adventure in Nakhon Ratchasima

First Day Back in Korat!

After a long journey from Montreal, touching down in Bangkok and then taking the train, we finally arrived in Nakhon Ratchasima, or as the locals call it, Korat. The air is thick with humidity, a familiar embrace that instantly transports me back to my childhood. It's October, and the weather is a mix of sunshine and the promise of rain, with temperatures hovering around 31°C during the day and a comfortable 24°C at night. This 15-day trip with Nang and Ananda is more than just a vacation; it's a homecoming, a chance to reconnect with my roots and share the beauty of Thailand with my family. The sights, sounds, and smells are already stirring up a sense of nostalgia I haven’t felt in years.

Our first stop was Prasat Hin Phanom Wan, an ancient Khmer temple that dates back to the 11th century. As we drove, I told Nang and Ananda stories about the temple, how it was once a Hindu shrine and later transformed into a Buddhist sanctuary. The architecture, though partially in ruins, is stunning, with intricate carvings and towering stupas that whisper tales of a bygone era. Ananda, with his keen interest in photography, was immediately captivated, snapping photos from every angle. Nang appreciated the serene atmosphere, a stark contrast to the bustling city life we left behind in Montreal.


Explore the ancient Khmer temple of Prasat Hin Phanom Wan, a historical landmark that showcases the beauty of Thailand's architectural heritage.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and today, our steps led us back in time.

After exploring the temple, we headed to the Maha Weerawong National Museum. Located within Wat Sutthachinda, the museum is home to a fascinating collection of artifacts that showcase the history and culture of the Nakhon Ratchasima region. From ancient pottery and tools to traditional textiles and Buddha images, each exhibit offered a glimpse into the lives of the people who shaped this land. Ananda was particularly intrigued by the Khmer-era stone statues, while Nang was drawn to the intricate details of the traditional Thai textiles. I enjoyed sharing stories about Somdet Phra Maha Wirawong, the former abbot of Wat Sutthachinda, whose collections formed the basis of the museum.


Explore the rich cultural heritage of Nakhon Ratchasima at Maha Weerawong National Museum, a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

For breakfast, we decided to try ChaKaFair, a local favorite known for its delicious and affordable Thai breakfast dishes. We ordered *kai krata* (egg pan), *kuay jab yuan* (Vietnamese noodle soup), and *dim sum*, all washed down with strong, sweet Thai coffee. The restaurant had a relaxed, open-air vibe, perfect for starting our day. Nang loved the *kai krata*, while Ananda couldn't get enough of the *kuay jab yuan*. I was just happy to be back in Thailand, enjoying the flavors I had missed so much. It reminded me of my early mornings in Lampang, enjoying similar meals with my family.


Experience authentic Thai flavors at ChaKaFair - where delicious food meets warm hospitality in Nakhon Ratchasima.

Lunch was at Krua Suwimol, a Michelin Bib Gourmand-recognized restaurant that specializes in Thai-Chinese cuisine. We ordered the deep-fried chicken thigh with fish sauce and stir-fried vegetables with crispy pork – dishes that came highly recommended. The chicken was perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, while the vegetables were fresh and flavorful. It was a true culinary delight, and I could see why this place was so popular with the locals. The service was quick and friendly, adding to the overall positive experience.


Discover authentic Thai flavors at Krua Suwimol in Nakhon Ratchasima - a culinary gem for every traveler seeking delicious experiences.

In the afternoon, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at The Mall Korat. This massive shopping complex is the largest in northeastern Thailand, offering a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Nang was excited to check out the local boutiques for unique souvenirs, while Ananda was more interested in the electronics stores. I enjoyed wandering through the food court, sampling various Thai snacks and street food. We ended up spending several hours at the mall, buying gifts for friends and family back in Montreal. It was a great way to experience the modern side of Korat, a contrast to the ancient temples we had visited earlier in the day.


Discover the vibrant shopping and dining experience at The Mall Korat, a must-visit destination in Nakhon Ratchasima for tourists.

For dinner, we chose Chez Andy Swiss Restaurant & Steak House, a local institution known for its Swiss, Italian, and Thai dishes. I had heard great things about their steaks, so I decided to give it a try. Nang opted for a pizza, while Ananda went for a traditional Swiss dish. My steak was cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, and the flavors were rich and satisfying. Nang raved about her pizza, and Ananda enjoyed his Swiss meal. The restaurant had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the service was excellent. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Korat, savoring the flavors of Europe in the heart of Thailand.


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

As the day drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. We had explored ancient temples, immersed ourselves in local culture, and indulged in delicious Thai cuisine. But more importantly, we had done it together as a family, creating memories that would last a lifetime. The warm October air, the friendly faces, and the vibrant atmosphere of Korat had already cast its spell on us, and I knew that the next 14 days would be filled with even more adventure and discovery.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Wat Sala Loi and the Thao Suranari (Ya Mo) Monument. I'm particularly excited to show Nang and Ananda the Ya Mo monument, as it’s a symbol of the bravery and resilience of the people of Nakhon Ratchasima. We also plan to check out BEAT BAR : bar & bistro in the evening, for some local nightlife.

It feels good to be back. I'm looking forward to sharing more of my homeland with my family, and with you, my readers, as this trip unfolds.