She loves everything Far Eastern — art, shopping and food so when an opportunity to visit her favourite place — Thailand arises, Sophie Choudry is happiest. This April a few days in Chiang Mai and Phuket was a welcome break.
“The trip to Chiang Mai was for the very first time,” recalls Sophie. “With the riots rife in Bangkok we were told that this part of Thailand was the most peaceful and the safest at the moment.” A quaint little city up in the mountain area, she found Chiang Mai “incredibly different to Phuket, Bangkok and Koh Samui. It’s rather quiet and ridden with history.”
Temple town, alright!
On the two days she was there, she made a round of the temples that are so known for their architecture. “One of them, Chedi Luang, is over 600 years old and was absolutely beautiful. There were huge, imposing antique Buddhas throughout the property, including a stunning jade one, monks chanting and sweeping the grounds. Seeing them all in their saffron robes, quietly going about their daily business, was really lovely!” She also visited the Royal temple Wat phra Sing. “There, like the locals, I offered candy, incense and a flower garland to Lord Buddha. There is a tremendous amount of peace in these Buddhist temples; no-one hounds you for money, they are well maintained and a great place to meditate. Wat phrathat Doi suthep is perhaps the oldest temple and is in the mountain peak. It’s an absolute must-visit for its history and spectacular views over the city,” she advises.
Elephants show:
The highlight of the trip was the Maesa Elephant show. “We may have seen elephant playing football and polo in the past but the elephants here actually paint fabulous and colourful paintings…such an amazing sight!” says Sophie. “The cutest part is when the elephant takes a bow once his painting is complete and with his trunk lifts his paint pot and walks off! The paintings actually sell for between 3000 to 30000 baht! I was actually challenged to a game of darts! I also went for an elephant ride and saw just how well maintained all the facilities are. The morning ended with me feeding the elephants kilos and kilos of bananas and getting a huge hug and kiss in return!
Food and markets:
A visit to Thailand must include a visit to the night markets. “I went to the Kalare Night Bazaar, which was vibrant and had everything to offer from the usual fake bags and t-shirts to beautiful beads, lanterns and wind chimes. Part of the fun is the hardcore bargaining. It’s amazing how I’m willing to spend 500pounds on a pair of Louboutin shoes but in the markets I bargain over 50baht!” she laughs,
Nightlife and shopping:
Sophie advises that Chiang Mai is the place for handicrafts and teak furniture. “I got a few things for our home from there last year - lanterns and hangings! My mother and I went to the various furniture stores and had a blast,” she says.
So is she hoping to go back? “Yes, the two days in Chiang Mai were truly unique and allowed me to see a completely different side to the country I love so much. I can’t wait to go back and explore Thailand,” she adds.
