[Day 02/03] First trip to Northern Thailand, Chiangmai

Our stay was inclusive of breakfast, and I must say the spread was quite decent with a fair selection of international and Thai dishes.

After breakfast, we went on a journey to visit as many temples in Chiang Mai. There are several magnificent and very old temples within the walled old city of Chiang Mai, with the Wat Phra Singh being one of the most attractive.

Wat Chedi Luang isn't as grand as the Wat Phra Singh, but it is the ruins of a Lanna-style chedi. It was possibly the largest structure in ancient Chiang Mai, but the top of the chedi was destroyed by either an earthquake or by cannon fire.

Wat Phan Tao is relatively small, and there is no fee needed to visit the temple.

Wat Phra Singh is one of the biggest temples in Chiang Mai to visit, apart from Wat Chedi Luang. It is one of the finest examples of classic Lanna styled temple architecture in Northern Thailand. 

After visiting all these temples, we walked back to our hotel for a body massage! We passed by a cozy café which was selling homemade coconut ice-cream. We decided to get our refreshments to beat the hot weather!

 

I was surprised to receive a full set of dessert which was served to our table - a coconut husk full of coconut ice cream, 2 glasses of coconut water and a rice cookie! The coconut ice cream was so delicious and refreshing!

The walk to WAYA Spa which is located within our hotel premises was full of serenity and tranquility!

 

 I loved the service they rendered, as they began by washing our feet with ‘RED WINE’, yes the wine that was meant for drinking or cooking before leading us to the massage room for our treatment.

We were given rice cookies and lemongrass tea after our treatment. The damage was definitely on the high side as compared to our massage parlors that were located on the streets, but I think it was worth it!

We went to Poppy’s for lunch after our massage session and the interior was pretty well-set! 

We started off with our drinks!

I had the Northern Thailand’s specialty- Khao Soi, while Baby opted for Southern Thai food - Pork Basil with Jasmine Thai Rice instead. We shared the Tom Yum Goong.

Our damage was pretty affordable, and we loved the overall dining experience at Poppy’s!

After our meal, both Baby and I were craving for some tea, so we went for afternoon tea at the Thai Rice Barn. This is the complimentary offering to all guests during their stay at Chala Number 6. It is served daily in the afternoon from 2-4pm. I was greeted warmly and was happy to be served a selection of a selection of snacks and bites, together with a cup of an aroma tea.

We used the 'Grab' app to book a taxi to the 'Central Festival' Chiang Mai shopping mall for dinner and some shopping.

We had steamboat for our last night in Chiang Mai, and we settled at MK Steamboat which is located at the mall itself. MK is specialized in Thai-styled Hot Pot & Sukiyaki. 

We ordered some ala carte items off the menu. 

Both Baby and I love the Chilli dipping sauce which was pretty different from the usual sauces one is accustomed to. With the dip, it definitely enhanced the taste of the sliced meat better!

The damage was pleasant after conversion to SGD, and we had a lovely steamboat meal. Nothing beats having a good meal with my loved ones!

After our meal, we took another 'grab' to Chiang Mai Sunday Night Market which is located at the THA PHAE GATE. It was a lively 1.5km long night market! I love the vibes, it was absolutely mind-blowing! We literally walked through the entire market, as it ended just outside our hotel. Both Baby and I bought quite a number of stuffs back from the night market.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Chala Number 6 Chiang Mai. It was pleasurable, relaxing and was a luxurious experience. It definitely made an impact on my travelling memories while staying in Chiang Mai. The inner courtyard is an exhibition of beauty, and a luxury secret garden perfectly located in the heart of Old City.

Chala Number 6 is an exceptional experience and I highly recommend anyone looking for a unique luxury experience to visit this dainty boutique hotel!

The next day, after our breakfast, we went back straight to our room to do our packing as we decided to do an early check-out, and took ‘grab’ to Central Chiang Mai Airport for our last-minute shopping. 

We had some Northern Thai Seafood for our last delectable meal in Chiang Mai before our flight at 3pm. The damage was about SGD55-ish after conversion. 

There is definitely a huge difference between Northern and Southern Thai food. In terms for food wise, we prefer those in Bangkok, but in term or overall traveling experience, our hearts are leaning towards Chiang Mai. We will come back again soon!