Highs, Lows, and Joys
Highs: elephant day, birding, changed up my hair
Lows: the pre-thanksgiving crunch at work
Joys: finally figuring out coffee at home, grab bikes in the rain, jazz
The Details
During my third week in Chiang Mai and 7th in my year abroad, I headed to the Big Market for some shopping. I had already grown tired of some of the clothes I brought, and I was ready to replace them with something new. I successfully found some nice items and then headed to Free Bird Cafe for a delicious vegan meal, more thrifting, and clothing donations. That evening, everyone seemed to be busy, so I took myself out for a massage and cocktail at The Continental.
The following day, I went on a tour of Doi Inthanon National Park, including the pagodas at the highest point in Thailand. The two pagodas are a must-visit in Doi Inthanon. They were built to commemorate the 60th birth anniversary of the late King Bhumibol in 1987 and Queen Sirikit in 1992 respectively. The pagodas are made to represent immaterial aspects of Buddhism through its architecture. The setting is spectacular. The gardens around the Pagodas are also very pretty. We walked along a popular nature trail, which was a highlight for me. The rainforest reminded me of the Pacific Northwest, with varying types of ferns, towering pine trees, and incredible birds. I even got to see a green-tailed sunbird!
The next day, I worked for a little in the morning before heading to a Muay Thai boxing class. At the gym, we did some basic drills, learning hook and elbow punches, blocks, and kicks. We progressed to learn a few fighting techniques and opponent holds. I enjoyed the chance to practice with the people on the tour and the teachers. After the class, we had a two-hour traditional Thai massage that was just amazing! We headed to Khao Soy Nimman for an early dinner and I was so exhausted I went to bed early.
I spent the rest of the week catching up on blogs and work after several days away. Alex and I spent our Thursday morning on a hike up to Doi Suthep Temple. We spent the day completely soaking in the completely peaceful surrounding of trees, waterfalls, and streams of rivers.We went up the Pilgrim's Path, a moderately challenging 2.5-mile route. After a short time in the forest, we walked through Wat Pha Lat Temple and the meditation area. There is a lovely waterfall that we took a break at - the breeze through the trees was cool and refreshing. We continued our way up on a rather rugged trail before arriving at the monk's quarters near Phrathat Doi Suthep temple area. When I first visited Thailand in 2017, this was my first temple! It was amazing to be back and bask in the incredible view from the top.
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