2.7.12

North (of the) Country

"Snuggled into the foothills of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a sanctuary of sorts with a refreshing combination of city accoutrements and country sensibilities."*

I couldn't have said it better myself (which is why I didn't really bother, to be honest).
Chiang Mai really is that perfect little nook in the country- surrounded by mountains and history, it is a great escape from the city stress. It also helps that it's cooler (temperature wise) than central Thailand making exploring the Old City that much better.

First day I walked around and stooped by at the Chiang Mai City Arts & Culture Centre.

Untitled


The Three Kings Monument (Anusawari Sam Kasat) is overlooking a small plaza in front of the Centre.

I wandered around and came across the Museum of Insects and Natural Wonders.

Untitled




Untitled

The close-to-center butterfly was my favourite: it's so "cosmic".

Untitled


Untitled


The next day, it was off to an Elephant Camp. **

Untitled

Now, I'm not saying I ever thought elephants to be stupid, but I can't get over how intelligent they really are. So noble and oh so graceful too.


Untitled

Jungle trekking.

Untitled

That's my dad- I've blurred him out because I know he wouldn't want me to upload his face on a blog...
At one point, the elephant snorted on my right leg. It wasn't very pleasant, but then again, I was on top of him...

Afterwards, I took on the role of Bamboo Rafter.

Untitled


Day 3 was Wat (temple) visiting.

Untitled


Untitled

This old lady, whom I thought had such a beautiful (and photogenic) face, was selling birds- they were in a wicker sort of basket. The birds were not to keep. If you bought a basket, you made a wish and opened the basket to let them go as a symbol of a granted wish.

Wisdom

Untitled


Bridge over the Ping River

Untitled


We had lunch at a cute little place which was Cat Lady Heaven- 14 cats were roaming sleeping about!

Untitled


Untitled

The last temple we visited was Doi Suthep, a breathtaking and serene temple atop a mountain.
I think it's safe to say this is my favourite temple in all of Thailand. ***

Untitled

These guardians are called "Mom".
Uncanny- my mom looks like that when she gets mad. *crickets*

Untitled

A cute shrine offering- makes for great garden decoration inspiration, don't you think?

I'll be uploading my panoramic pictures of said Temples and sights this week- so do stop by (I'll let you know when!)

Have you had the chance to travel to any new enchanting place?
Do share!

* So says, rightfully so, Lonely Planet's Discover Thailand (pg. 106) . It's been a very helpful guide in getting around the country and deciding what to see and where to eat! 
** This was included in the tour package- but I still wish my will were stronger to have said no... 
*** Well, for now, at least.

6 comments:

  1. What a lovely adventure ... I would have been in heaven with all those cats :) xxCat

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It was heaven! Though my dad didn't think so haha. :)

      Delete
  2. wow que increible la 'aventura' que estas haciendo! I've always wanted to ride an elephant haha

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Es toda una experiencia- muy interesante! (Aunque luego me siento muy mal por los pobres animales...) Pero hay que tomar las oportunidades.
      So, you totally should when you get the chance :)

      Delete
  3. Beautiful pictures! I'm so jealous of the elephant ride!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Aw, thanks! :)
      You never know, maybe you'll ride one too someday.

      Delete