Day 9 & 10

I woke up a little later today, so perhaps I am starting to chill out! 

I’m off to see some of the Temples I missed yesterday, in particular one called Wat Chedi Luang. The old Chedi ( Chedi means Stupa or a hemispherical structure that contains relics or artefacts of monks or people of note) was built in 1441, the famous Emerald Buddha that I saw in Bangkok used to be kept here until 1475.

The Chedi is very tall and the top was destroyed back in the 16th century either by an Earthquake or by cannon fire during the re capture of Chiang Mai from the Burmese in 1775. 

It was very imposing, and magnificent. I spent a while walking round and admiring things. It was earlyish so there weren’t many people, which was nice. 

After this I jumped into a Red Bus to go and visit a part of the city called, Nimman. It is where the University is and has lots of hip cafes, restaurants and Galleries. I think I was expecting a more modern area, which it isn’t and I think that things are much more buzzing at night not really at 11.30 am!! 

I popped into a trendy salad bar and had a smoothie, then had a wander along the Nimman Road and called into a couple of trendy shops, apparently there is a ‘Lookout Tower’ in a small shopping complex that offers amazing 360 views of Chiang Mai, unfortunately when I eventually found it it was closed!! Further along the road was another larger shopping Mall which I thought might have a vantage point with seating and coffee, like they had in Bangkok. 

It did indeed have this, but it was part of a restaurant, which didn’t open until the evening, I tried asking if I could just go in the gardens to have a look, but no luck. 😏

I didn’t fancy staying in the Mall, so I jumped back into a Red Bus and headed back to the Old City. I stopped at ‘Stories’ for an iced latte, a cool down and to read for a bit. 

On the way back to the hotel I passed a ticket office selling Mauy Thai fight tickets. It also happened to be attached to the Gym, Venue where the fights are held. Even more convenient it is a 3 minute walk from the hotel! 

I asked about tickets and the guy showed me round the venue, he was very surprised that I was in Thailand on my own and even more surprised that I wanted to come to a Mauy Thai fight alone!! He suggested a ringside seat, with easy access to the Bar! He said it was the best seat and he would reserve it for me! 

I’m going to this as my Grantley has been doing Mauy Thai for about a year with JG, Adam and Andrew. I promised I would go to a fight if I could! I’ll let you know how it goes in a couple of days!!

The rest of my day was spent chilling by the pool, reading, visiting the Saturday Walking Street then having Dinner at Kats Kitchen, Fried Rice and Spring Rolls. Yum. 

Today is Sunday and I’ve decided to do very little except chill, no sightseeing, no long walks. 

I had a lovely leisurely morning and took a short walk to a place I’d seen a few days ago called, Hummus. (This would be Nikki and Clementine’s favourite place!) 

It was really, really good! When you arrive (in my case all hot and sweaty!) they give you a small glass of the house drink, which is Pomegranate, lime and mint, OMG! Is soo good. I ordered another large glass of the juice and a falafel sandwich, both were so yummy! When I asked for my bill,it came with a little piece of Baklava, smart move, as it was so good I ordered one to take away! 

This place is a great find, they make their own falafel, pitta, hummus, juices. It’s good to have something other than Thai food to choose from, but which isn’t burgers or Italian! For some reason lots of places offer Thai dishes then a random selection of Italian things 🤷‍♀️😀

I spent the afternoon, in and out of the pool, reading and relaxing. 

Tonight there is another ‘Walking Street’ just nearby, it looks like a big one so wanted to be rested for the walking! 

Tonight’s ‘Walking Street’ was very similar to yesterday’s, larger but essentially the same. There are some wonderful stalls selling all sorts of stuff, handmade crafts, clothes, food, so much food! Such interesting things, I wish I were brave enough to try some of the items, soon! 

Having walked up and down the entire street I was on my way back towards the hotel when I walked to Thapae Gate Square, which is the Old City Gate just near me. Only to discover the Chiang Mai Pride Celebrations and Festival!! 

It was wonderful, lots of people, lots of fabulous costumes, music, dancing. One of the things going on was a series of Wedding Celebrations between different couples. 

There was an older person, very small, with a wonderful smile, they and their partner partner seemed very nervous and emotional. (They are in the photos below) Watching their ceremony was deeply moving, the whole thing was wonderful and joyous. I felt privileged to witness this. 

After that a fabulous person came on stage and belted out ‘This is Me’ from the Greatest Showman, my bloody favourite! I sang along and danced and just had the most amazing time. I also got my first hug in Thailand from a gorgeous gay guy. ❤️

Next was the best costume competition and it felt a bit like Ru Pauls Drag Race, stunning costumes and performances. 

I had a blast, so, so glad I came across Chiang Mai Pride! 🌈🌈

A fabulous way to end my Sunday!! 

That’s all for now folks.

Have a great day. 😘❤️