In the far north

Chiang Rai is also a popular tourist destination, especially because of its location near the Golden Triangle. Most people come here to take trips to the borders of Thailand. The city itself has little to offer apart from a few temples and a night market. It lacks the relaxed atmosphere found in Chiang Mai. The night market has a food court that offers good food and is not as crowded with tourists, so you can also find locals here. We try the HotPot, a type of fondue. You get a clay pot with coals and can cook meat, fish, and vegetables in the hot broth. We were lucky to come here shortly after the Flower Festival in the city, and the festival grounds are still being set up.

The next day, we rent a scooter to explore the surroundings. First, we go to Wat Rong Khun, the White Temple: While most Buddhist buildings have a long history, artist Chalermchai Kositpipat began construction of the white temple only 20 years ago. It is still not completely finished. We then drive to Singha Park, a very well-maintained facility that resembles a golf course. You can explore everything there by bike or on a tour, and you can also feed zebras and giraffes. If you want a bit more action, you can also experience a zipline. Admission is free and you can visit the park with your own vehicle, but some paths are closed. After that, we make our way to a Buddha cave, where a cave is located by the river. Apart from a monk and a few bats, there is no one here.

Our next destination is the Hot Springs. The path takes us over bumpy roads, passing by beautiful nature. Rice fields, mountains, and no tourists. When we arrive, there are several artificially created pools where you can soak your feet. One pool was so hot that we burned our feet. But apparently, that's not a problem for the locals.

Lastly, we visit the Black House, but unfortunately, it was already closed.

To wrap up our stay here, we went to the Cat 'N' A Cup Cafe - the pictures say it all.