Thailand Real Food Adventure 8 Days

After an early breakfast, set off to the Maeklong Railway Market, roughly 1.5 hours away, to catch your first snack of the day. Indulge in local delights like khnom krok (rice pudding) or khnom gui chai (fried Chinese chives rice cake). Get ready as vendors swiftly clear their stalls to make way for the train that literally passes through the heart of the market. Next, switch from tracks to water and head to the Tha Kha Floating Markets. Stroll along canals lined with vendors showcasing vibrant fruits and goods at this authentic local market, then hop onto a paddleboat to delve deeper into the waterways. Known for its coconut palm sugar production, you’ll stop by a riverside workshop to witness the process firsthand. Afterward, return to Bangkok, where you’ll have the afternoon free to shop, sightsee, or unwind at a café. Later, you’ll board a train to visit a traditional night market. This lively shopping area is perfect for tasting local street food, so be sure to ask your guide for tips and recommendations. You might also want to check out the vintage stalls for unique souvenirs or enjoy live music at one of the quirky bars.

After breakfast, depart Bangkok and journey for about an hour to a local village and community farm for an exciting day of cooking Central Thai specialties and enjoying a meal with your hosts. Discover the timeless agricultural practices still in use today, and savor the freshest ingredients sourced directly from the garden. You’ll assist in preparing a homemade lunch featuring local dishes like kaeng som (green papaya soup), spicy fish cakes, and a watercress salad with chicken, complemented by a variety of desserts made from coconut, rice milk, and crispy noodles! Later this afternoon, hop on a longtail boat to cruise the Chao Phraya River and visit a Buddhist temple on a secluded island. In the evening, arrive in Ayutthaya and have some free time to explore and, naturally, indulge in more delicious food!

Today, we will delve into Ayutthaya, the second capital of Siam following Sukhothai and once a dominant city in Asia. Begin with a visit to a street food stall for a demonstration and tasting of roti sai mai, a dish emblematic of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya. This treat features a thin pancake wrapped around delectable strands of spun cotton candy. For lunch, enjoy a comforting bowl of guay-tieo-ruea, or boat noodles. This local variation of the classic dish includes aromatic pork broth, tender slices of roasted meat, Thai-style pork balls, morning glory stalks, fresh green onions, and your choice of rice noodles, often regarded as the original and finest version. While the noodles are no longer served from boats on the river, decorative rowboats adorn roadside eateries to hint at the menu. Explore the remnants of Ayutthaya’s golden age with a guided tour of the stunning ruins and temples scattered throughout the town. The sight of headless Buddhas at Wat Phra Mahathat, a result of the Burmese invasion in the 18th century, creates a haunting atmosphere, while a Buddha head enveloped by Banyan tree roots stands as one of the most photographed spots in Ayutthaya. After freshening up at the hotel and grabbing a bite to eat, prepare to board your overnight train to Chiang Mai (approximately 13 hours).

Arrive in Chiang Mai by mid-morning. Known as the most lively city in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is home to many renowned temples and a captivating old town. Famous for its stunning scenery and friendly locals, this "Rose of the North" will likely enchant you, making it hard to leave. A highlight of Chiang Mai is its Northern Thai cuisine, featuring many beloved dishes. For lunch, savor khao soi, a famous curry noodle dish from the region. After lunch, take some time to unwind before regrouping with your leader in the early evening for a stroll to Wat Chedi Luang temple. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, included in your itinerary. Later, consider visiting the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, brimming with local crafts and delicious Northern street food.

Today, you'll be greeted by Aoi, your wonderful host for an unforgettable homestay in a quaint Thai village tonight. On your journey to the village, enjoy lunch at a restaurant known for its specialty: fermented rice noodles. Afterward, visit several local producers, including a mushroom farm, where you'll gather ingredients for a Northern Thai cooking class. Once you arrive at Aoi’s home, get ready to whip up a delicious meal! The traditional khantohk dinner is a cherished way to welcome guests; the term 'khantohk' refers to a raised tray used for serving food in Northern Thailand. Prepare for an exciting afternoon as you learn to create eleven dishes from this traditional khantohk menu. Roll up your sleeves and immerse yourself in the preparation, cutting, chopping, and cooking dishes such as Northern-style gai tod (fried chicken) and naam prig ong (minced pork and tomato chili paste), all while enjoying the music and dance of local performers during dinner.

Start your day with a delightful Northern Thai breakfast featuring fried rice, sweet sticky rice, and egg custard. After saying goodbye to your homestay hosts, embark on a picturesque drive (about 1.5 hours) to one of Thailand's most breathtaking temple complexes: Doi Suthep. Ascend the 300-step stairway guarded by naga serpents, and enjoy the rewarding views and the soothing chants of Buddhist monks—an experience you won't forget. Return to town for a tasty local lunch recommended by your guide. In the afternoon, consider visiting the vibrant Warorot Market (Kad Luang). As one of Chiang Mai’s largest markets and a lively community hub, it’s an ideal spot to immerse yourself in daily life and sample unique regional ingredients and snacks. Be sure to taste sai ua (Chiang Mai sausage) or even bamboo worms as you explore the stalls.

Today is a free day, marking the conclusion of your delightful Real Food Adventure. You're welcome to depart at your convenience, but your journey doesn't have to stop here! If you wish to extend your stay in Chiang Mai, we’d be glad to assist in arranging additional accommodations for you, depending on availability.