Sai Oua – ไส้อั่ว (Thai sausage according to Lanna recipe)
Of course we all know Tom Yum Goong, Phat Kaphrao, Pad Thai and Som Tam, but Thai cuisine has more dishes that will bring your taste buds to a state of utter delight. Many of these dishes of Thai cuisine can be found in the regions. An example of this is Sao Oua (Sai ua) from Northern Thailand with its own unique taste.
'Chiang Mai and its story of struggle and pride'
In northern Thailand, where mountains and rice fields reflect the ancient Lanna empire, Chiang Mai has its own story of struggle and pride. Amid temples and market stalls, the city struggles with the burden of tourism that both nourishes and threatens its cultural heritage. The past lives on, but demands understanding, not just admiration.
Wiang Kum Kam in Chiang Mai
Are you staying in Chiang Mai? Then be sure to visit the ancient ruins of Wiang Kum Kam, a pyramid-shaped temple built by King Mengrai in memory of his late wife.
The Lanna influences in Northern Thailand
Those who visit the north of Thailand such as Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai still see many influences from the Lanna era. Lanna means in Dutch: one million rice fields. The Lanna kingdom, which also covered part of Burma, lasted for 600 years and was founded in 1259 by King Mengrai the Great. He succeeded his father as leader of the Chiang Saen kingdom.
Looking for Burmese traces in Chiang Mai
In the official Thai historiography, there are a number of historical phases that people prefer to talk about as little as possible. One of those periods is that of the two centuries that Chiang Mai was Burmese. You can already question the Thai identity and character of the Rose of the North anyway, because formally Chiang Mai, as the capital of the kingdom of Lanna, has not been part of Thailand for even a century.
Gingala Lanna Bird Dance (video)
The Gingala Lanna Bird Dance is a traditional dance that originated in the Lanna culture of Northern Thailand. It is a remarkable dance known for its graceful and subtle movements that mimic the movements of birds.
The Temples of Mae Hong Son
When I first visited Mae Hong Son, the capital of the least populated province in Thailand, more than thirty years ago, I was immediately sold. Back then it was one of the country's most pristine and remote towns, tucked away between towering mountains and difficult to reach from Chiang Mai via a road that seemed to wind forever in sharp hairpin bends between the steep, densely forested slopes.
I've never made a secret of my affinity for Chiang Mai. One of the many – for me already attractive – advantages of the 'Rose of the North' is the large concentration of interesting temple complexes within the old city walls. Wat Phra Sing or the Temple of the Lion Buddha is one of my absolute favourites.
Discovery of the hidden Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a city that appeals to the imagination. With its rich history, breathtaking nature and unique cuisine, it is a place where tradition and modernity merge. This city in Northern Thailand offers an unforgettable mix of adventure, culture and culinary discoveries, leaving every visitor enchanted. Discover what makes Chiang Mai so special.
Travel to Mae Hong Son, an undiscovered treasure in the north of Thailand. Surrounded by misty mountains and rich cultural traditions, this province offers a unique combination of natural beauty, adventure and spiritual depth. Discover the secrets of this fascinating region, where every turn reveals a new wonder.
Discover Lampang, a city where time stands still and traditions flourish. Located near Chiang Mai, this historic gem in northern Thailand offers a unique blend of Lanna architecture, vibrant markets and horse-drawn cart charm, making it a must-visit destination for culture vultures.
Discover Chiang Rai, a hidden gem in Northern Thailand, where ancient temples and vibrant markets merge with modern art and natural splendor. Rich in cultural heritage and enveloped by misty mountains and lush jungles, this city promises an unforgettable journey through its fascinating history and vibrant contemporary scene.
Discover the unforgettable soul of Chiang Mai, a city that defies time. Intertwined with the rich history of the Kingdom of Lanna, it offers a unique symbiosis of culture, nature and tradition. Here, where every corner tells a story, adventure is never far away.
Phra Khruba Sri Wichai, the saint of Lanna and the lost battle for religious independence in the North
On the eleventh day of the waxing moon in the seventh lunar month, in the Year of the Tiger, in the 97th year of the Ratanakosin Era, a baby boy was born in the village of Ban Pang, Li districht, Lampun.
Phrae, a paradise in the North
Phrae is a province in the north of Thailand with a lot of natural beauty and cultural attractions, a charming lifestyle and good food. The Yom River flows right through it and Phrae has many green mountain regions.
Lamphun, the charm of the Lanna kingdom (video)
Lamphun, on the Ping River, is the capital of Lamphun Province in Northern Thailand. This historic place was once the capital of the Haripunchai kingdom. Lamphun was founded in 660 by Queen Chamthewi and remained the capital until 1281, when the empire came under the rule of King Mangrai, a ruler of the Lanna dynasty.
One of my favorites: Wat Chedi Luang
What Chedi Luang on the corner of Prapokkloa and Rachadamnoen Road is, in my opinion, the most interesting temple complex in Chiang Mai and that is saying something because this city has just over three hundred Buddhist temples and shrines.
Chiang Rai, one of the oldest cities of the former principality of Lanna, has quite a few temple and monastery complexes. The most important temple from a historical point of view is undoubtedly Wat Phra Kaew at the intersection of Sang Kaew Road and Trairat Road.
Culinary memories of a Burgundian diner - Chiang Mai
Eating in the north of Thailand is a very different experience than in the rest of the country. However, too few Farang and even expats realize this. Too often people underestimate the very rich and deep tradition that forms the basis of cooking.
Historic Chiang Saen
One of the most important Thai places with a very rich historical background is undoubtedly Chiang Saen. Dating from 733 AD, this small place with a great past is a stone's throw from the famous Golden Triangle. Once, a very long time ago, an earthquake hit the place and it was completely wiped out.
Phaya Mangrai, the first Lan na monarch
One of the most intriguing monarchs in Southeast Asia's turbulent but rich history has undoubtedly been Mangrai or Mengrai. Much has been written about him, but much of the published material can be called apocryphal and can hardly be historically substantiated. I limit myself to the historically established data, and believe me, they are impressive enough…
Sweet nothings in Nan
The province of Nan in the far north of Thailand, slightly tucked away against the border of Laos, is one of rural beauty with rustic Thai charms.