Thailand is one of those places that has been in majority of the people’s bucket list. If it is in yours as well, it is best suggested for you to start the tour off with Chiang Mai. This northern city is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities around and every traveler’s dream destination too and all for the right reasons. Known around for its rich culture and delectable food along with the budget-friendly options to explore around, Chiang Mai is definitely a place that is a must visit if you wish to visit Thailand. All that being said, it is futile if you visit this city and don’t indulge in some of the unusual things around.
Eat a one hundred-year-old egg
As disgusting as it sounds, it is something the majority of the tourists try attempting. These eggs are also often known as century eggs and are quite a popular Asian tradition. In this, the people selling them preserve the eggs for weeks and months using ingredients like clay, ash, quicklime, rice hulls etc. The smell of the egg is strongly similar to ammonia but the appearance is what sets the people off. It looks like a green moldy hard boiled eggs and is predominantly believed to be an acquired taste, something that not everyone likes.
Get a foot massage
Now, you must be here thinking, what is so unusual about a foot massage, right? Well, in Chiang Mai, you can get a foot massage from a prison inmate. It is in the Women’s Correctional Institution that they have massage centers established where one can go to get a foot massage done. They have a busy queue there and you might need to wait for your turn, but if you get bored, you can binge eat in the café beside the place as well.
Ride in a Tuk Tuk
Now, this might necessarily won’t be something unusual in Chiang Mai but if you are from some western countries, it will be a completely new experience for you. This 3-wheeled motorized vehicle is a local favourite and very pleasant to travel in. The fares are cheap too but make sure that you are aware of someone ripping you off because you are a tourist.
Have a chat with a Monk
If you have been trying to seek peace and solace in your life, what better way to do so than to directly talk to a Monk in Chiang Mai. You will come across a few temples across the city which does provide with a “Monk Chat” programme which can be very therapeutic for a number of reasons. This is also an amazing way to get knowledge about the lifestyle and habits that the Monks have and delve into. Wat Chedi Luang is actually one of the best places to do so in.
Binge eat some insects
First of all, don’t be disgusted. It is very common there in the city and you will often find a crowd around those shops too. Many people often do have a list of things to do in Chiang Mai and this is one of them. When there, visit the popular Sunday market for one of a kind experience in trying out deep-fried insects. There is nothing you won’t find there because the spread of the edible insects is actually quite vast.
Experience a Muay Thai Boxing Match
Witnessing Thai Boxing is a must when you are in Chiang Mai. It is the national sport and does entice a lot of crowds visiting and witnessing the act. The best way to get access to one is by walking down the city center. You will find people giving out flyers for the competitions and you can easily slide through in one of the tournaments.
Any trip becomes great when you get along with the locals who helps you know the place better than anyone or anything. Withlocals is an amazing platform through which you can connect to the locals and reveal the best of that place. It helps you getting in touch with the locals the best way.
Visiting Chiang Mai will make you want to stay there all along. The main reason is because of the place around and the plethora of activities that you get to indulge in. Make sure to plan your itinerary accordingly.
