Thailand borders three countries: Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia. Their influences are well reflected in the food and in the culture of Thailand. There is so much more to this country in all other aspects; in its cuisine, cultural/ethnic diversity, and language.

Food is diverse from one area of the country to the others; from northern Thailand through central Thailand to southern Thailand, for instance. Language is an another example - There are many different dialects and accents prominent in the countryside.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is most know for its beautiful temples surrounded by the mountainous landscape. Now the largest city in northern Thailand, it was once the capital of Lana Kingdom until 1558. Along with the ancient temples, the walls and the moats are well preserved remnants of the history.

What to See:

-Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

“Wat” means “Temple” in Thai language. This wat is located in the mountain, Doi Suthep, about 15 km from the city of Chiang Mai. Constructed in the early 19th century, it’s considered one of the most sacred temples in Thailand. The most notable is the Ching Saen style golden pagoda above the seven-headed serpent lined stairs. The panoramic view of the city of Chiang Mai from atop at elevation of 1073 m is impressive and a must-see!

-Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market

This night market takes place every Sunday from 4 pm to midnight, in the walled city area of Chiang Mai. The full length of Ratchadamneon Road is festive with vendors selling street foods, local handicrafts, clothing, accessories and so much more. This is by far the best night market in Chiang Mai with the variety of foods, paintings done by local artists and handicrafts made with wood, paper, glass, metal and fabric.

What to Eat:

Due to the cooler climate in the north, the food here is richer in meats and in fat content for the body to stay warm. Northern Thai food is almost always served with sticky rice, perfect with grilled meats.

-Chiang Mai Grilled Chicken

A local staple, grilled chicken marinated with delicious northern Thai herbs and spices is grilled to perfection. Sticky rice and som tam (green papaya salad) completes a meal.

-Kao Soi

Kao Soi is a well known northern Thai noodle soup. Yellow noodles are served in rich and fragrant coconut curry broth with a variety of meats.

-Sai Qua

Homemade sausage made with fresh herbs and spices such as lemongrass, galangal and kaffir lime leaves. There are many variations of this northern sausage which is also found in Laos.

Ayutthaya

What to See:

Ayutthaya is located about 80 km north of Bangkok and known for Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ancient city was the second capital of Siamese Kingdom (before Siam became Thailand in 1939) and flourished with global commerce and diplomacy from the early the 14th century to the 18th century. In 1767, the Burmese army attacked and burned the city - what remains of today is known as the archaeological site.

It’s truly amazing to see the remnants of the once powerful empire in the scattered forms of brick ruins and headless Buddha statues. Top must-sees are Wat Phra Si Sanaphet (it once held a 52-foot tall Buddha entirely covered with hundreds of kilograms of gold), the Royal Palace (at Wat Phra Si Sanaphet) and the stone Buddha head set in a living tree (inside Wat Mahathat).

What to Eat:

The food in Ayutthaya is all about fresh water prawns and fish from the river. Boat noodles are a must-try too!

-Fresh Water Fish

Whether they are grilled, steamed, or fried/pan fried, the fresh catch is delicious!

-Giant Prawns

Ayutthaya is well known for the giant river prawns. People from all over Thailand come to eat them.

-Boat Noodles

Thin rice noodles are served in rich meat broth with blood. In the old days, they were served on river and canals - the reason for the small potions is to prevent spilling on unsteady boats.

Best Destinations 2020 Pt. 5 - Chiang Mai & Ayutthaya Thailand

Chiang Mai

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Ayutthaya

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