13 November 2024: Celebrating Loy Krathong Festival 2024 in Chiang Mai
Today was a magical day as we experienced the first day of the Loy Krathong Festival here in Chiang Mai.
This beautiful festival, which coincides with the Yi Peng Festival, is a celebration of light, water, and gratitude. While Yi Peng is often criticized for being expensive and touristy, we decided to focus on the more traditional and accessible Loy Krathong celebrations.
Our day began with a leisurely morning walk to Tonpayom Market to stock up on more fresh fruit. The vibrant flavors of the local produce never disappoint, and it was a refreshing way to start the day. Afterward, we rested up in preparation for the evening’s festivities.
The celebration we attended was held in front of the Three Kings Monument in central Chiang Mai. By 5:30 p.m., the area began to fill with locals and tourists alike, all eager to witness the magic of Loy Krathong. As the sun set, the festival officially began with the lighting of candles, casting a warm, golden glow over the square.
Traditional Thai music soon filled the air, setting the tone for the evening. The head monk officiated the gathering, adding a sense of reverence and spirituality to the event. Young performers then took center stage in front of the Three Kings Monument, showcasing traditional dances and music for about an hour. The performances were mesmerizing, a beautiful blend of culture and artistry that left us in awe.
After the performances, there was an opportunity to take photos with the performers, a lovely way to capture the memories of the evening. The atmosphere was filled with joy, light, and a sense of community, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
As we made our way back to our hotel, we couldn’t help but feel grateful to be part of such a beautiful celebration. Loy Krathong is a reminder to let go of negativity and embrace gratitude, and tonight, surrounded by light and laughter, we felt truly blessed.
14 November 2024: A Day of Walking, Markets, and Ceramics in Chiang Mai
Today was all about exploring Chiang Mai on foot, and it turned out to be a delightful day filled with markets, food, and culture. We set off around 9:30 a.m., eager to soak in the sights and sounds of the city.
Our first stop was the Siriwattana Markets, one of my absolute favourite spots in Chiang Mai. These markets are a treasure trove of delicious food and are run by some of the warmest, most welcoming Thai people you’ll ever meet. We wandered through the stalls, sampling local treats and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
From there, we continued our walking adventure to the Ceramic Festival held at the Jingjai Market site. The festival was a feast for the eyes, showcasing stunning handmade ceramics from local artisans. It was inspiring to see the craftsmanship and creativity on display, and we couldn’t resist picking up a few unique pieces to take home as souvenirs.
By midday, our feet were ready for a break, and our stomachs were calling for lunch. We made our way to Lotus’s, a familiar spot where we enjoyed a delicious bite to eat. The food was as satisfying as ever, and it gave us the energy we needed to continue our day.
It was a simple yet fulfilling day, filled with the kind of experiences that make Chiang Mai so special.
15 November 2024: A Simple, Relaxing Day in Chiang Mai
Sometimes, the best days are the simplest ones. Today was all about slowing down and enjoying the little things that make Chiang Mai so special.
We started the day with an early morning walk around the streets of the city. The air quality here is perfect at the moment—crisp, clean, and refreshing. It’s such a contrast to other times of the year, and it reminded us why this is such a great time to be in Northern Thailand. The quiet streets, the gentle morning light, and the occasional greeting from locals made for a peaceful start to the day.
Later, we had the pleasure of catching up with the wonderful team from the **Somit Foundation**. This group is always a highlight of our yearly visit to Chiang Mai, and today was no exception. Their dedication and kindness are truly inspiring, and it’s always a joy to hear about the incredible work they’re doing in the community. We shared a quick dinner together, filled with laughter and meaningful conversation.
It was a day of relaxation, connection, and gratitude—a perfect reminder of why we love coming back to Chiang Mai year after year.
16 November 2024: Another Relaxing Day and a Second Catch-Up
This year’s trip around Thailand is all about balance—exploring new places while also taking the time to truly relax and soak in the moments. With still a few more days in Chiang Mai before we move on, we’re embracing the slower pace and enjoying the chance to reconnect with the people and places we love.
Today was another laid-back day, and we were thrilled to catch up with our friend David for the second time during this visit. It’s always a pleasure to spend time with him, hearing about the latest developments in his business and sharing stories. Steve and David especially enjoy reminiscing about their time in Toowoomba, swapping tales that always bring a smile to their faces.
The day was simple but meaningful—filled with good conversation, laughter, and the kind of camaraderie that makes Chiang Mai feel like a second home. It’s these moments that remind us why we keep coming back year after year.
17 November 2024: Final Relaxing Day in Chiang Mai – Preparing for the Road Trip
Today marked the end of our relaxing stay in Chiang Mai and the beginning of our next adventure—a road trip through Thailand! We spent the day tying up loose ends, repacking our bags, and washing all our dirty clothes to ensure we’re fresh and ready for the journey ahead.
Of course, no day in Chiang Mai would be complete without a visit to Tonpayom Markets.
We took a morning stroll to stock up on fresh fruit for the road trip, savoring the vibrant flavors and chatting with the friendly vendors. Along the way, we also took the time to admire some of the local graffiti art that adds so much character to the city’s streets.
For our final meals in Chiang Mai, we made sure to enjoy our favorite local dishes one last time. It’s always bittersweet to say goodbye to this city, but we’re excited for what lies ahead.
Tomorrow, the road trip begins! Stay tuned as we share updates from our journey through Thailand’s stunning landscapes, charming towns, and hidden gems.