An Unplanned Delight

Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand

Greatest Moment: Chiang Mai was lovely! More so because it was not originally pre-planned, and we couldn't be happier with the surprise of this northern city. On two particular days we found rest, relaxation, and discovery to be the greatest memories of our stay in Chiang Mai. One day was dedicated to hiking up Doi Suthep, and as we followed the path of yellow monk clothes tied around trees, we found a temple truly in the heart of the jungle. The path we were on turned from fallen bamboo leaves and dirt forest ground to statued columns lining stone steps, and then the opening that took our breath away with its naga stairway and surrounding nature. The temple and the forest were one, maybe not to the extent of Ta Phrom in Cambodia, but enough to make us feel as though we stumbled on a sacred treasure!

The following day did not disappoint. With our motorbike, we went to Ristr8tolab, which is renown for their coffee, using a blend that is from the mountains of Chiang Mai itself. Jamie was pleased with her hot chocolate, convinced this was the best she ever had.

Worst Moment: Our hike to Doi Suthep is ranking in our favorite moments, however, whether we did not eat a hearty dinner the night before or breakfast that morning, we could've skipped the constant steepness of the incline. Taking breaks was a common occurrence! The woman who pointed us up the mountain told us that monks commonly do this hike, hence the tied clothes to help the younger monks find their way. They do it to remind themselves that life is not always easy, that it is a struggle. Life was very tough that day for us.

Lesson Learned: Thai's love the lottery. They hike to the temples, especially the one at the top of Doi Inthanon, and pray for good fortune for their many lottery tickets. If they win, or if any of their wishes comes true, they must go back to the temple and adorn it with their appreciation. And as we heard about this, the people with leaflets along almost every street now made sense. They sell lottery tickets!

Cultural Insight: Food is so much of the culture here, just as it is many other different cultures. However, in comparison to what we know about, for example, Italians, it is very different. Their meals are small and scattered here, as if they eat without a set schedule but instead during hours in between work. Italians, seem to make more of an event of their dining experiences, instead of always on the go or on a whim. Meals here are small (most are in comparison to America), and people are seen eating regularly behind their business stalls at most hours of the day.

"There are four fundamental tastes identified in Thai cuisine-- spiciness, sourness, saltiness, and sweetness-- and diners aim to share a variety of these dishes that impart a balance of these flavors, along with complementary textures." -Rough Guide to Thailand

The exact hours before our departure from Chiang Mai to Hua Hin, we ran into a movie theater and watched Kung Fu Panda 3! What better place to watch it than here?? Where bamboo sticks lined our hikes and dumplings sit, hot, at every street corner?! Jamie and I walked out of the theater in the fun, excited mood that usually occurs after good movies of animation. It has truly made us consider our own Chi, inner peace, and where we can do kung fu near a lake or cave. Stay tuned.