Rose in Thailand: Sharing Thailand with my Sister

We met Sunday morning as we had arranged at the big airport then flew by way of Bangkok airways to Chiang Mai where we stayed in a cute “Bed and Terrace” within walking distance of the famous “Sunday Night Market.” Of course we dropped our bags and went shopping! That’s what girls do… Then we had some yummy Thai food and a relaxing foot massage for our tired feet, thankful for "sister time" and the amazing skills of a Thai masseuse.

A visit to Chiang Mai must include at least one temple as there are hundreds and Wat Phrathat, Doi Suthep is rated #1 for all Chiang Mai things to do ... The temple has a huge golden chedi (spire) and sits high upon a hill with a beautiful view if the city. We opted tot take the lift instead of the stairs, it was HOT.

Doing the tourist thing we went to a silk farm where we saw many silk worms, then the spinning and weaving was all done by hand to create the brilliantly coloured beautiful world renowned woven Thai silks.

Onward we journeyed to see the making of paper umbrellas, painstakingly threaded and painted by hand to be used for decoration, protection from the sun and in the traditional Thai umbrella dance.

To complete the day we had a Thai Lana Dinner and Cultural Show with front row seats on pillows and a low table filled with many tasty dishes to try. Finally we sent our prayers heavenward via the picturesque lighted hot air lanterns. A perfect ending to a "tourist" day.

The next day we took a Thai cooking class at a local farm where the ingredients were organically grown. Master chefs we are not but we masterfully crushed chillies to a pulp as we learned a few tips and tricks. Some new recipes, lots of laughs and we ate way too much food.

Then we traveled north by van to Chiang Rai, along a narrow road winding upwards to where my personal favourite temple is located. I continue to marvel at the inspiration and dedication of the artist /designer Chalermchai Kositpipat who used his own money to build the beautiful white temple, Wat Rong Khun. With more buildings being added the creation continues.