Take the kids to Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai has a lot to offer that Bangkok doesn’t – rolling green hills, temples aplenty, and stunning Lanna artchitecture. Most of all the laid-back local charm makes you feel like you’re in a local village and not Thailand’s second largest city. Lonely Planet will tell you all about Doi Suithep, the Old Quarter and other must-see sights, but let our travel gurus, Lightfoot Travel take you off the beaten path in Thailand with kids.
What to do, what to see:
Peppered with temples, it goes without saying that whilst you are in Chiang Mai, you HAVE to visit some of these holy places. Make the experience more pleasurable (and physical!) by discovering the Lost City of Wiang Kum Kan by bicycle. During your half day bike excursion, you will learn more about these ruins as you explore the various temples: Wat Chedi Liam, Wat Phraya Meng Rai and Wat Kan Thom to name a few.
Next on the agenda? Why getting your Mahout certification of course! Thailand is known for its love of elephants, and nowhere can you feel this more than in Chiang Mai. Your mahout training Takes place just outside Chiang Mai at the Patara Elephant Camp, where elephants live side by side with their caretakers. During a course, you and the kids can learn more about elephant health, biology and body language and then get a more hands-on approach as you learn to ride (harness-free!) and handle the elephants.
Thailand has cooking schools by the hundreds, but most lack the authenticity of typical home-cooked Thai food. Instead, spend a day with a family who’s opened up their home and lifestyle for guests to be part of the family for a day. You and the kids can don fisherman’s pants and live like a local: stroll through the neighbourhood, have a go at basket weaving, learn about the origins of Thai flavours, and of course, learn to cook some tasty home-made recipes.
Where to stay:
If you’ve decided to leave the kids behind and make this a couples getaway, we recommend Anantara Chiang Mai, tucked away on the quiet shores of the Mae Ping River. This riverside sanctuary merges traditional Thai and colonial elements which results in a striking contemporary style. The spa is an absolute delight – and a necessary respite after biking through fields of temples – as is the pool, perfect for plunge and a good book while listening to the sounds of nature.
Travelling with the kids? The Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai has private residences, ranging from 1-4 Bedrooms, which specifically caters to families. Each of the residences are individually decorated, giving off a ‘home away from home’ vibe and are decked out with full kitchen, living and dining. This is a great option if you’d like to do a bit of self-catering rather than eating out at every meal. There’s a spare bedroom for kids with an en suite and enough space to bring along your helper if you prefer.
Where to eat:
Though the food is excellent at Anantara Chiang Mai and Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, you may want a break from hotel food once in a while! The Deck 1 is our go-to eatery in the region. A fashionable dining destination in a splendid riverside setting, the restaurant boasts wonderfully creative Asian fusion dishes. The Jazz band and impeccable service make it really unforgettable.
Venture on:
Have a little more time on your hands and want to further explore the region? Head north to the Golden Triangle to one of these amazing properties for unparalleled one-on-one time with Thailand’s elephants.
If you’ve got under-twelves, Anantara Golden Triangle Resort is a truly unique place for little ones as they get to meet their pachyderm equivalent everyday at breakfast. The mahouts always take the little elephants out for the morning, much to the delight for all guests. Take part in activities such as elephant yoga, multi-day mahout training, elephant picnics, and in no time these gentle giants will soon become your best mates.
Overlooking the Mekong River, the Four Seasons Tented Camp is accessible only by boat and is the epitome of camping in style, or glamping! With only 15 tented suites, separated from each other by walk way, the feeling is truly private. Each tent enjoys its own balcony overlooking the lush jungle. Service is unfailingly excellent as is the cuisine, no mean feat for such a remote location. The Four Seasons tailors the amount of elephant interaction, sightseeing and just plain relaxing, to each guest’s specific needs. Just check us in already!
The elephant camps suggested by Lightfoot Travel strictly adhere to ethical animal practices, we prefer our clients to experience mahout training (riding bare-backed) and learn about caring for the animals.
This article was brought to you by Lightfoot Travel, a Singapore-based luxury tour operator offering expert travel advice & inspiration, tailor-made itineraries & full booking services.