27 January 2025 – 6 February 2025
By 3pm we we seated on our Thai Airways flight to Chiang Mai arriving at our hotel at 5pm and settling into our favourite room. Over the next 10 days we just soaked up the time and enjoyed ourselves. Walks around Chiang Mai, visiting markets, shopping centres and even a couple of housing estates.
Chinese New Year with Somit Foundation
It was fantastic sharing a meal with Christina, Adeline, Matt, and the group, celebrating Chinese New Year in true spirit! We always cherish the opportunity to indulge in homemade traditional Thai dishes, which are always a highlight. The warmth and hospitality of this Chiang Mai group makes it feel like a second family. Huge thanks to everyone for making it such a special occasion – we feel so grateful to be part of this wonderful foundation!
Catch ups with the Best Australian Mate you can have in Thailand.
The highlight of our stay in Chiang Mai was definitely catching up with Steve’s best mate David – those two are like two peas in a pod, you’d swear they were long-lost brothers! The good times rolled wherever we hung out, whether we were devouring skewers at a street food stall, sipping chang at a local cafe, browsing the vibrant markets, or indulging in a delicious curry fest courtesy of Grab. The camaraderie was infectious, and we had a blast sharing laughs and stories with David.
Alison’s Crazy Julie Andrews Annual Walk
Alison tackled her annual Crazy Julie Andrews Walk, a gruelling climb up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep that pushes her to her limits. The notorious Monk’s Trail kicks off the ascent, sending her on a near-vertical hike that demands every ounce of energy she has – it’s not for the faint of heart! But the breathtaking views from the top are the perfect reward, accompanied by a well-deserved Pad Thai treat to refuel and savour the moment. And, in true style, she opted for a Songthaew ride back down – a convenient and colourful way to get back, with the added bonus of local flair! With a heart full of satisfaction and a body that’s earned a rest, Alison completed another year of this challenging tradition.
Catch Up for an Aussie Mate who was far from home.
I think there might be a slight mix-up! The Hong Son Loop is typically a scenic driving route best suited for 4×4 vehicles, given its rugged terrain and mountainous roads. It’s unlikely you’d tackle it in a Tuk Tuk, but hey, if you know someone who’s up for an adventure, go for it! Ken’s 4×4 skills, on the other hand, are probably a more suitable match for that route. It was awesome catching up with Ken and Dylan to hear the stories.
7 February 2025
Chiang Mai Flower Festival – gets off to a blooming great start! The Chiang Mai Flower Festival holds a special place in our hearts, and this was our 7th time experiencing its beauty! We’re still captivated by the vibrant colours and enchanting beauty of the flowers on display. The night markets are always a highlight, with an array of local handicrafts, delicious street food, and fragrant flowers that fill the air. The gardens are meticulously maintained, showcasing the region’s diverse flora in stunning arrangements. But the pièce de résistance is always the parade, which winds its way through the streets of Chiang Mai, featuring intricately decorated floats, traditional dancers, and marching bands. We’ve grown fond of the festival’s charm over the years, and it never fails to leave us in awe. Each time, we discover something new to appreciate, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Chiang Mai in such a unique and festive
Next year Chiang Mai Flower Festival should be 6 – 8 February 2026.
8 – 9 February 2025
As we bid farewell to Chiang Mai and Thailand, we’re filled with mixed emotions – happiness to be returning home to Australia, but sadness to leave behind the warmth, kindness, and unforgettable experiences we’ve had over the past three months. Thailand has once again stolen our hearts with its generous people, rich culture, and vibrant landscapes. From bustling cities to serene temples, scenic mountains, and idyllic beaches, every moment has been a treasure. We’ve been humbled by the kindness and hospitality of the Thai people, who have welcomed us with open arms and shared their traditions, food, and laughter with us. We’ll carry the memories of our incredible adventures and the warmth of the Thai people with us always, and can’t wait to see what the future holds. Until next time, sawatdee Thailand!
