Chiang Mai Photo Diary Part 1: On a Journey of Faith

Hey guys! How are you all doing? I spent the entire past week on a family vacation in Chiang Mai, a northern province in Thailand. Due to poor Internet connection (and I forgot to bring my phone), I was not able to check out my blog much so I have to apologize for the lack of posts and comment replies. On the other hand, a week without being constantly caught up in browsing Internet and being on social network was a refreshing change of scenery. I got to communicate more with my family and fully appreciate what Chiang Mai has to offer. During the trip, I saw a surprising amount of foreigners, especially Westerners. I didn't know Chiang Mai has become such a popular travel destination. Contrary to the famous Bangkok, Chiang Mai is a slow-paced province. There are still many traditional architecture, and people are generally more friendly. While I was there, I went on a temple tour, which took me to 9 famous temples. I was amazed by their beauty and their interesting history.

The drawings on the wall along the corridor depict Thai history. They are all neatly drawn, and it was fun to read along while walking through.

This is one of the more impressive religious architecture. I cannot remember the exact number of the small pagodas but I recall there are a lot. This place still has some construction going on - when it's completely done, I think it will be even more beautiful and grand.

So, a random shot of a stray dog I found in a temple. He is cute and photogenic, isn't he? =)

On the way to some temples, I passed by field of rice, and sometimes I had to hike up a mountain. It was a great experience, and I got to get some fresh air. Now, that is why I like to escape from the city once in a while.

It was a day full of faith (and car rides). I've seen a lot of beautiful architecture as well as nature - It was an entire day well-spent. Next on the schedule was to get some cool air up in the mountain! Part 2 of this trip is coming soon!