30 November 2023
Bidding farewell to Sukhothai, we were showered, packed, and ready to hit the road towards Chiang Mai by 8:36 am. Fueled by morning tea – muffins and milk drinks from a convenient PTT 7-Eleven stop – we embarked on a smooth and efficient journey.
Reaching Chiang Mai, our priority was to address the Apple Car Play issue with our rental vehicle. Budget’s helpful staff sprang into action, offering a swift car swap. A brand new Fortuner, boasting only 90 kilometers on the odometer, awaited us.
Next on the agenda: lunch and essential supplies. Big C beckoned, and the familiar comfort of KFC beckoned for a quick and satisfying meal.
With full stomachs and a stocked pantry, we checked into 3Season. While Bee, our usual contact, was absent, Gig, a new staff member with impressive English skills, assisted us seamlessly. As promised, we were once again ensconced in our favorite room – 503! Bee’s return added a personal touch, helping us settle in with our luggage.
By 2:40 pm, the Budget representative arrived to finalize the car swap. Coincidentally, he was the same individual who had picked up the car from 3Season at the end of our previous rental period.
With the car situation resolved, Alison headed off for a relaxing hair appointment, while Steve took care of unpacking and freshening up. Reunited, we embarked on an exploratory stroll through the neighborhood, catching up on any changes and reconnecting with familiar faces like Pam and Tom. Delighted to see each other, we enjoyed some beers and a delicious dinner at their restaurant. Alison savored a red curry shrimp dish, while Steve indulged in crispy chicken with a delightful combination of grilled chilies, garlic, and rice. Lemongrass chicken wings added another layer of flavor to the satisfying meal.
The lively atmosphere of the restaurant buzzed with activity. Bidding farewell for the evening, we returned to 3Season, ready to unwind and cap off the day with a quiet night in.
1 December 2023
Today, we’re taking you on a whirlwind tour of our first full day back in the captivating city of Chiang Mai. With a rumbling in our bellies and a thirst for adventure, we decided to ditch the city center and head north towards the majestic mountains and national parks.
Big C Bonanza:
No adventure is complete without proper supplies, so our first stop was the massive Big C shopping center. We stocked up on essentials and snacks to keep us fueled for the day’s explorations.
Stairway to Wat Phra That Chop Kitti:
Our first temple stop was Wat Phra That Chop Kitti, a stunning sight perched atop a small mountain. Even from afar, we could spot the gleaming white Buddha gracing the temple. We, being the exercise enthusiasts we are, opted for the challenging (but rewarding!) climb up the steep set of stairs instead of the easy road access. The effort was absolutely worth it! After reaching the summit, we were greeted by the serenity of the Wat, the magnificence of the Buddha, and a breathtaking panoramic view – perfect for a sunset visit, we noted.
Namtok Phu Kae and the Seven-Colored Wonder:
Deeper into the mountains and higher in elevation, we found ourselves at Namtok Phu Kae within the Nam Phu Chet Si National Park. This park boasts a hidden gem – a limestone waterfall nestled amongst the lush jungle canopy. We also came across a culturally significant spot – the Seven Colours Fountain, a natural spring bubbling out of the earth. While the colours were faintly visible in the pond, the flow of the fountain itself seemed a little underwhelming.
Mall Mishap (But Supermarket Success!):
On our way back to the hotel, we took a detour to visit the much-hyped Rimping Supermarket Meta Mall. However, upon arrival, we discovered it was still very much under construction. Only the Rimping Supermarket section was operational, leaving the “mall” aspect quite incomplete.
Tom Yum Time and 7-Eleven Treats:
Back at the hotel after a quick siesta, we couldn’t resist a trip to Tom and Pam’s Restaurant. It’s become a tradition to greet our friendly hosts and indulge in their delicious food. To top off a perfect day, we swung by a 7-Eleven, our go-to spot for some classic ice cream to enjoy back at the hotel.
2 December 2023
Jing Jai Bustle and Siri Wattana Treats: A Day of Markets and Maya in Chiang Mai
Greetings, fellow travellers! Today’s Chiang Mai adventure took us on a market marathon, fueled by delicious street food and a successful phone plan update.
Morning Market Mania:
We started bright and early, leaving our hotel for the Lotus’s Kham Thiang shopping center. We parked there to explore the nearby Jing Jai markets. Compared to our previous visit, the markets were buzzing with tourists! There seemed to be a lot of new infrastructure, and the overall feel was more organized, although not necessarily in a charming way. After browsing the stalls, we wandered back to the car, ready for the next stop.
Siri Wattana Delights:
Our next market conquest was the beloved Siri Wattana Markets. This traditional Thai wet market is a familiar friend, and we knew exactly where to find our favorites. We snagged a bag of those addictive BBQ-flavored homemade chips, then treated ourselves to pork sausage, chicken on a stick, and some spring rolls. Feeling satisfied, we grabbed some drinks from a 7-Eleven before heading back to the car.
Maya Mission Accomplished:
With full bellies, we drove over to Maya Shopping Centre to tackle our phone plans. Parking proved a bit tricky, so we settled for a less crowded spot down the road. Inside Maya, we discovered the AIS store had relocated, but thankfully, we found it on a higher floor. Unfortunately, new one-year pre-paid plans weren’t available, but they did allow us to extend our existing plans for a whole year on both phones! Bonus points for Steve, who also scored a monthly pre-paid data plan for his iPad. Mission accomplished, we strolled back to the car and headed back to our hotel for a relaxing afternoon.
Evening Eats and Exploration:
Come sunset, we ventured out for dinner at our favorite “hole in the wall” cafe. A couple of steaming plates of rice and pork later, we were ready for some sweet treats. We walked down Suthep Road, stopping for delicious roadside desserts before taking a scenic route through Wat Suan Dok. The sight of the little lit-up lanterns was a charming way to end the evening. Back at the 3Season, we chatted with Bee at the reception and then retreated to our room for movies, beers, and a perfect end to a busy day.
3 December 2023
Chiang Mai Chill: Markets, KFC, and Cozy Nights
Today in Chiang Mai was a delightful day of relaxed exploration and delicious eats.
We started our morning with a stroll down to the markets on Suthep Rd, right across from the university. The fresh air and vibrant atmosphere of the market were a perfect way to wake up. And guess what? We stumbled upon a vendor selling our all-time favourite custard puddings! Needless to say, a few made their way into our shopping bag for later indulgence.
Feeling a bit peckish, we continued our walk towards Maya shopping centre. But instead of our usual lunch fare, we decided to try the new KFC that had just opened. It was a fun little change, and the familiar flavors hit the spot.
The afternoon called for a slower pace. We opted for the backstreets on our way back to 3Season. The quieter lanes offered a glimpse into the local life, and it was a peaceful way to spend the heat of the day.
Feeling the need to get those steps in, we ventured out for another walk in the late afternoon. This time, our destination was a hidden gem – a “hole in the wall” cafe. These little spots are some of our favorites, offering delicious and authentic local food at fantastic prices. We snagged three dishes to take back home, a perfect takeaway feast.
Back at our place, we cracked open a cold beer and enjoyed our delightful dinner. The portions were generous, and we even had leftovers for a late-night snack (bonus!).
To top off the perfect chill day, we curled up with the iPad and dove headfirst into a new series. Early to bed, early to rise, right?
Chiang Mai may not have been all action today, but it was a perfect example of how this city allows you to create your own perfect pace. From market finds to hidden cafes, there’s always something to discover, and sometimes, the best experiences are the simplest ones.
4 December 2023
Chiang Mai Adventure: Climbing Stairs, Buddhas & Unexpected Elephants!
Today, we ventured west of Chiang Mai for a day trip filled with stunning scenery, historical temples, and a surprise encounter with some gentle giants!
Conquering the Four Buddhas
By 10:30 am, we found ourselves at the foot of a daunting yet exciting challenge – a massive staircase! With a spirit of adventure, we eagerly embarked on the climb. The anticipation grew with each step, and finally, we reached the summit, greeted by the grandeur of the Four Buddhas. These towering statues stood tall, radiating a sense of serenity.
Wat Doi Suthep’s Panoramic Views
Our quest for elevated viewpoints wasn’t over yet. We tackled another set of stairs, this time leading to the peak of Wat Doi Suthep. The reward at the top? Breathtaking panoramic vistas of lush forests and sprawling farmlands stretching out before us.
Timber Wonder: Wat Luang Khun Win
Next on the itinerary was Wat Luang Khun Win, an architectural marvel perched nearly 900 meters above sea level. This incredible temple, crafted primarily from timber, left us awestruck by its intricate beauty.
An Unexpected Encounter
As we crossed a bridge during our travels, a delightful surprise awaited us. A small herd of elephants, part of a local attraction, stood nearby. It was heartwarming to see them grazing peacefully, enjoying their natural environment.
A Day to Remember
As the day drew to a close, we returned to our Chiang Mai hotel, our hearts brimming with the memories of this unforgettable adventure.
5 December 2023
Chiang Mai Delights: Hair Refresh and Shopping Spree!
After a day packed with exploration, the next day offered a welcome change of pace. It was all about relaxation and indulging in some well-deserved pampering for Alison.
Hair Refresh
Alison took some time for herself, visiting a local salon for a refreshing haircut and wash. Feeling rejuvenated, she was ready to tackle the day’s next adventure.
Shopping Spree at Maya Lifestyle Shopping Centre
We then headed to the popular Maya Lifestyle Shopping Centre, a haven for shoppers. With its wide array of stores, from international brands to local boutiques, it was the perfect place to browse, find souvenirs, or simply enjoy a leisurely lunch break.
6 December 2023
Chiang Mai’s Mountain Majesty: Temples, Monks, and Marketplace Encounters!
Fueled by the exhilaration of our previous western adventure, we set out once again to explore the cooler embrace of Chiang Mai’s mountains. This time, we ventured deeper, discovering hidden gems and experiencing heartwarming cultural encounters.
High in the Mountains: Wat Hardhat Doi Nok
By 11:30 am, we arrived at our first stop: Wat Hardhat Doi Nok. This temple, perched precariously yet majestically high in the mountains, is still under construction. The sight of its evolving beauty against the backdrop of the lush landscape was truly captivating.
A Red Buddha’s Blessing: Wat Mai Ro Pho Cho
Our journey continued to Wat Mai Ro Pho Cho, where we were awestruck by a stunning, vibrantly painted red Buddha statue. Here, we were fortunate enough to meet a kind monk who generously provided us with a personal tour of the temple grounds. Filled with gratitude for his hospitality, we bid farewell and continued our exploration.
Lunchtime Delights and Unexpected Connections
Feeling peckish after our morning adventures, we headed towards Thetsaban Tambon Samoeng Tai, a vibrant local market. While savoring delicious local fare, Steve had a delightful encounter with a Thai lady named Pat who, in a heartwarming twist of fate, was sporting the same hat as him! This serendipitous meeting called for a photo opportunity, a perfect memento of our day’s cultural exchange. We talked to Pat and Paul for a while and they told us how they like to visit Pat’s home village every now and then to catchup with family. It was a delight meeting them and we hope we will cross paths with them again.
Wat Phra That Is Mueang Pong: Witnessing Progress
Reaching Wat Phra That Is Mueang Pong by 2:30 pm, we were impressed to see the significant progress made on the temple’s construction since our last visit. The dedication and pace of its development were truly inspiring.
Evening Stroll and Dinner at Maya
By 4 pm, we found ourselves back at our hotel, rejuvenated and eager to share our day’s discoveries. To cap off the adventure, we strolled up to the lively Maya Shopping Centre, indulging in a delicious dinner and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
7 December 2023
Mountain Views, Mango Mishaps, and Miniature Airplanes: A Chiang Mai Adventure
Today’s adventure took us east of Chiang Mai, with the goal of conquering another mountain viewpoint. But, as with any good travel story, things didn’t go exactly according to plan!
Banking Break and a Wrong Turn
Our journey began with a quick stop at the Bangkok Bank to update our passbook. Refreshed and ready to explore, we hit the road towards Doi Thon View Point. However, a wrong turn (thanks to a detour through a friendly mango plantation!) had us questioning our navigational skills. Thankfully, we found the correct path and continued our ascent, passing a tranquil monk’s camp nestled at the mountain’s base.
A Steep Climb and Unexpected Company
The road to the viewpoint was no joke – a narrow, winding concrete path that climbed relentlessly. With limited passing points, we envisioned a comical head-on meeting with another car. Finally, we reached the summit, surprised to find a bustling scene with several cars and people. Talk about infrastructure we weren’t expecting!
At the lookout, we encountered a group of international hikers who had conquered the climb from the base that morning, led by their Thai guide, Team. We also met Chang, an unofficial tour guide who added a local touch to the experience.
Descent, Disappointment, and Deliciousness
Our descent from the viewpoint was swift, leading us back towards Chiang Mai. We made a pit stop to check out a Chiang Mai airshow, which turned out to be a little underwhelming – miniature toy planes instead of the roaring jets we might have envisioned.
Feeling peckish, we refueled at a trusty PTT gas station before indulging in a quick lunch at KFC. Our scenic drive back continued down Lamphun Road, lined with the towering giants of the Chiang Mai rubber industry.
Back at our hotel, we reconnected with Bee and enjoyed a well-deserved rest before our evening adventures.
Hello Night Market
A stroll down to the Chiang Mai University markets for some tasty finger food rounded out the day. And to top it all off, we finally experienced our first bit of Chiang Mai rain – a refreshing change after a day of sunshine and exploration.