TheLoneRider
a seeker in search of Easter Eggs
people of Chiang Mai, Thailand

Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Jan 24 - Mar 13, 2019

Peoplescape of Chiang Mai

Location: Chiang Mai, Thailand

A Gathering Space at Nawa Saraan Hotel
I'm a people-person and a place's peoplescape remains one of the highlights for me. What makes it unique this time around, is I have the serenity of Nawa Saraan Hotel's stone garden/Koi pond to invite new friends to. Here, I can whip-up my coffee concoction, offer freshly grated turmeric or ginger tea, toss a pizza or experiment on piadina to celebrate looming friendships - without the expense of meeting up in cafes or trendy restos.

Peoplescape of Chiang Mai

Mikey ChongMike Singapore
From Day 1 I met him, Mike has always been my benefactor - from accepting my barter offer 3 years ago, all the way to now, where he offered me a dream job - to be the soul of Nawa Saraan Hotel. He has been very supportive in my efforts to play that role. Now, I am officially a part of his organization. Mike is tough as nails but fair and generous - even when no one's looking (so it's not for show). I've already lost track of how many times he has helped me in my journey. I keep finding ways to express my gratitude. With Nawa Saraan, I now have that option (despite the obvious benefit to me as well).

Mike blogs:
  1. 2022: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2022
  2. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Oct 10, 2022
  3. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Jul 31, 2022
  4. April Chronicles 2022 Apr 30, 2022
  5. February Chronicles 2022 Feb 28, 2022
  6. 2021: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2021
  7. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug 31, 2021
  8. Continuing Friendships in Chiang Mai Jun 30, 2021
  9. On the Brink of Hunger, the ENABLERS Come to Light Jun 21, 2021
  10. Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021
  11. Coffeemates, Breadmates and Yogamates in Chiang Mai Jan-Mar 2021
  12. 2020: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2020
  13. Shifting Peoplescape Of Chiang Mai July 2020
  14. 2019: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2019
  15. Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Jan 24-Mar24, 2019
  16. Resuming Life in Chiang Mai Jan 24, 2019
  17. Overnight in Pai with Mike Jan 1, 2019
  18. 2018: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2018
  19. Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Dec 12, 2018 - Jan 1, 2019
  20. Mike Chong Aug 8, 2018
  21. Kneaded and Pampered at Zira Spa Aug 4, 2018
  22. Savoring a Baht 3,500 Birds Nest Soup at Natural Bird Nest by Burapa Aug 3, 2018
  23. Chiang Mai's Amazing Peoplescape Apr 9-23, 2016

Suaykee NantaBee Thailand
During my previous visit, Mike introduced me to his lovely wife, Bee, where we all had pizza and bird's nest soup. This visit, I got to know her a little more. She tagged me along the furniture mall and Makro as she bought hotel supplies/furniture for the 4th hotel the couple will be opening up - Arun Hostel. I consult with her about local life and where to source things in the city. She is helpful and gracious about her ways.

Karen NewloveKaren USA
Burningman buddy, Hanka, gave me a heads-up about her friend visiting Chiang Mai - Karen. It was spot-on connection with Karen. We spent the evening over vegan food and Blues at Northgate. Lots of sharing. I thought we'd be hanging out a lot, but I had my massage course and she had her out of town trips. She was a free spirit who loved life and welcomed it with open arms. Before I knew it, she was gone for BKK. But it was all good while it lasted.

Wenyuan LiWenyuan China
We were introduced by Mike and the three of us gelled, with Mike joining us if he could squeeze time out of his busy schedule. Wenyuan and I were practically inseparable during her 4-day stay in Chiang Mai. We both stayed at Nawa Saraan and Chiang Mai became our playground - coffee talks by the stone garden, yoga, long walks to the movie house, cheap eats, etc. She is smart, grounded and anchored in character. She had long term plans for Chiang Mai with her vision of a tea house, but pressing matters constrained her to go back home. We keep in touch across the ocean...and I miss her company as I write this.

Irene HerodotouIrene Greece
Irene was perhaps the most endearing guest teacher from the Thai massage course at ITM. I liked her vibe and energy. After the course, I invited her to join me for morning coffee. Spending time with her is like having the ease of a comfortable glove - there's just an earthly warmth and fit to our headspace. She reciprocated by inviting me for breakfast at Satiphan. She is generous in sharing what she knows as she is gracious in her ways. She would be a regular at Nawa Saraan for lazy coffee talks and reconnection.

Vesna Milosavljevic DeleonVesna Serbia
Vesna was one of ITM's Level 5 students who wanted to train and certify Thai massage therapists. That's how we met. She had a gentle persuasion as much as a keen eye for subtleties. I liked her muted but anchored presence. I invited her for brunch (serving my pizza French toast) and had a fun and insightful conversation. Her friend joined us and together, they took me to an art exhibit by Rushdy at Mimme where I met more of her friends. It was a wonderful time but short-lived - as she was on her way back to Serbia. We continue to keep in touch.

beautiful_oneAnastasia Russia
In the first 7 weeks I'd been in Chiang Mai, despite due diligence in seeing her again, it never happened. If a person wants something to happen, she will find a way to make it happen. If not, then she'll find all excuses why it can't. I had to walk away and attend to other looming possibilities on the horizon. But in a surprising comeback, my universe had us reunited, only to be separated again - it was such an emotional drain. She has an imposing but fleeting presence. Strong but vulnerable, loving yet aloof, worldly yet insulated, amalgamated and at the same time fragmented. Yes, she's a blurred dichotomy of contrasts on a broad spectrum where she oscillates within the varying shades of gray. I've always likened her to be wind that flows around you...don't grasp it, don't own it, don't even try to comprehend it. I had to learn that the difficult way. Just let it be and enjoy the breeze...while it lasts...then move on.

Anastasia blogs:
  1. Continuing Kaleidoscope Of Chiang Mai's Peoplescape July 27, 2019
  2. Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Mar24, 2019
  3. Peoplescape at the Wat Pa Tam Wua Forest Monastery Jan 1, 2019

Ryan ShermanRyan USA
I met Ryan at the Reiki-share event at BrainSpa - his disarming smile caught my attention. As a general rule, anyone with good energy, I reach out to. We had a long share over coffee as he talked about his journey and where it is taking him. Currently, he is Reiki Master at Focusing Love where he deepens his practice. Ryan has many modalities under his belt, not just Reiki. His daily practice lasts up to 7 hours! That's like being a monk. Like me, he approaches spirituality with critical thinking.

Sarah McCarthy-SitthiketSarah USA
Like Ryan, I met Sarah at the Reiki-share - another presence that stood out. She finally accepted my coffee invite where we talked about our journeys. She runs the Chiang Mai Intuitive Center, a living arts studio providing the community with arts, education, and wellness programs. Sarah is at her best teaching teachers how to teach intuitively. She's devoted to her practice of counseling people...perhaps too devoted as it takes its toll on her. When not in the service of humanity, she's into meditation, painting, singing a new song daily, or watching the sky out the window to self-inquire. And yes, she can sing! Her integrity serves as her moral anchor. Subsequent coffee talks added dimension to a brewing friendship where I glimpsed layers to her spiritual grounding.

Hanka StratmannHanka Germany
I met Hanka at the airport from Burningman in 2003 and I've invited her a few times to my pizza nights in Toronto. We've remained connected through the years across the oceans but it's only during this visit that we got to sit down and talk at length about matters-that-be.

Her message about the exponential doomsday timeline brought about by climate change was nothing less than alarming. I knew it was coming, but I didn't know it was going to happen that fast - extinction level within our lifetime! Had I heard that from someone else, I may have dismissed it as alarmist thinking. But with Hanka, it's serious business. She knows better. She's been up to speed with the issues for the last 2 years with the leading experts and has radically changed her life in anticipation of the inevitable. She's not an alarmist...just a pragmatist who deals with facts without the sentimentalist baggage and does what needs to be done.

It wasn't all doom-and-gloom talk, we talked about so many other things under the sun. I've had conversations with many intelligent people but talks with Hanka take on a different level - facts are discussed with analysis, insight and call-to-action. I can only be glad she stopped by Chiang Mai on her global travel and shared time with me. Love you, Hanka ❤. My merits and affection go with you.

    Hanka blogs:
  1. Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Jan 24-Mar24, 2019
  2. 2018: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2018
  3. Revolving Peoplescape of Bangkok Oct 8 - Nov 8, 2018

Aysenem AndicLuna Turkey
I met Luna in Penang in June 2016, and somehow, we'd been bumping into each other here in Chiang Mai. A wonderful soul who has been traveling for the longest time like me as well, we sink into a comfortable niche talking about our travels and the conscious path. I hope her motorcycle injury heals well and restores her functionality back. I'm sure our paths will cross again.

    Luna blogs:
  1. Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Jan 24-Mar24, 2019
  2. Resuming Life in Chiang Mai Jan 24, 2019

Alan StrydomAlan South Africa
I met Alan during Chris' album launch at Heart Space. I got a sense of his positive energy and invited him over for coffee. A conscious soul who builds community of like-minded people, we found ourselves along similar paths. As lead trainer and master coach, he conducts workshops on HeartMath, an esoteric science using biofeedback to activate your Intuitive Heart. He's a man of intelligence and dimension, much like most of the people who join me for my coffee talks. He also holds ecstatic dance sessions, attends yoga classes and has his fingers on the local ongoings of Chiang Mai's conscious community.

Alan blogs:
  1. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug 31, 2021
  2. Everybody's Only Friend Aug 13, 2021
  3. Coffeemates, Breadmates and Yogamates in Chiang Mai Jan-Mar 2021
  4. Shifting Peoplescape Of Chiang Mai July 2020
  5. The Podcast Series: Alan "Heart Math" Strydom Jul 17, 2020
  6. Secret Sunrise: Nelson Mandela International Day July 17, 2019
  7. Farewell Picnic with Alan and Nicola July 15, 2019
  8. Optimizing Life thru Heart Math May 8, 15 and 22, 2019
  9. Fascinating Peoplescape Of Chiang Mai II May 22, 2019
  10. Secret Sunrise Interactive Dance May 9, 2019
  11. Peoplescape Of Chiang Mai Jan 24 - Mar 13, 2019

Ending Thoughts
Some of them have left, some will come back, but those who are still around are more or less regulars to my coffee talk gathering. I'm still in Chiang Mai, still crossing paths with wonderful lives who will soon grace Nara Saraan's gathering space. Chiang Mai's peoplescape continues to fascinate.

--- Gigit (TheLoneRider)
YOGA by Gigit Yoga by Gigit | Learn English Learn English | Travel like a Nomad Nomad Travel Buddy | Donation Bank Donation Bank for TheLoneRider

Chinese New Year celebration with Mike, Bee and baby
La Pizza dinner with Mike's family
yoga, pranayama and meditation with Wenyuan
a fleeting moment with Anastasia
Christoph's album release at Heart Space
food, brandy and friendship with Mike and Ng
connecting with Karen, a friend of Hanka
reconnecting with Dani, a traveler I met in the Philippines
chill time with Andi, a classmate at the Thai massage course
coffee talk with Sarah and Bee as we were joined by hotel guests
fun moment with Luna
mirror, mirror on the wall...who's the shiniest head of them all?
with Bee and Hanka
with Qi Gong master, Daniella
with my adorable Hanka
post-laughter yoga coffee-talk with Saffiya, Tieima, Stephanie and hotel guest, Annette
with my lovable Irene
with Fiona and Lyla
pizza time with Mike and Wenyuan
more hang-time with Mike and Wenyuan
trading stories with Ryan
post-yoga pic with Stephanie
Tammy stopping by
piadina with Tieima and hotel guests Vera + 1

Chiang Mai Peoplescape blogs
  1. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Oct 10, 2022
  2. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Jul 31, 2022
  3. Tom Maher's Muay Thai Fight Apr 8, 2022
  4. Peoplescape Mar 31, 2022
  5. February Chronicles 2022 Feb 28, 2022
  6. Welcoming the New Year Jan 31, 2022
  7. 2021: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2021
  8. Stepping Forward / Reaching Out Oct 31, 2021
  9. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug 31, 2021
  10. Continuing Friendships in Chiang Mai Jun 30, 2021
  11. Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021
  12. Coffeemates, Breadmates and Yogamates in Chiang Mai Jan-Mar 2021
  13. Guess Who's Coming to Bread Day? Mar 1, 2021
  14. Are You My Queen? Feb 25, 2021
  15. 2020: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2020
  16. 2020: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2020
  17. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug-Sep 2020 Sep 30, 2020
  18. Shifting Peoplescape of Chiang Mai July 31, 2020
  19. The Podcast Series: Alan "Heart Math" Strydom Jul 17, 2020
  20. Friends, Coffeemates and Breadmates (Dec 2019) Dec 31, 2019
  21. Coffeemates and Breadmates (Nov 2019) Nov 30, 2019
  22. Coffeemates and Breadmates (Oct 2019) Oct to Nov 5, 2019
  23. The Conscious Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Aug 31, 2019
  24. Kaleidoscope of Chiang Mai's Peoplescape July 27, 2019
  25. The Outsiders (people you need to push out of your sacred circle) May 31, 2019
  26. Fascinating Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 22, 2019
  27. Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Jan 24 - Mar 13, 2019
  28. Chiang Mai's Amazing Peoplescape Apr 9-23, 2016

Reader Comments:

Saffiya ArnousSaffiya France
Power of Laugh
(Mar 13, 2019) Cool one Gigit! I'll be back for turmeric/ginger infusion after Vietnam 🙂
Vesna Milosavljevic DeleonVesna Serbia
(Mar 3, 2019) My warm ❤ recommendation! Breakfast at Gigit's at Nawa Saraan...the best in my life! Thank you dear Gigit, always in my heart!🙂
Ryan ShermanRyan USA
(Mar 3, 2019) It was great to swap stories with you Gigit!

Next stop: Being the Soul of Nawa Saraan Hotel


Chiang Mai INFORMATION

Chiang Mai Map
Google Map

Chiang Mai, Thailand

important places in Chiang Mai IMPORTANT PLACES
Chiang Mai Bus Station Bus Station
Chiang Mai Train Station Train Station
Chiang Mai airport Chiang Mai International Airport
Nong Buak Hard Park Nong Buak Hard Park - free yoga classes daily

hotels in Chiang Mai HOTEL
Chiang Mai Arun Dara Villa Arun Dara Villa - 7 exclusive rooms, 1 swimming pool for every room, grand opening
Chiang Mai Nawa Sheeva Hotel Nawa Sheeva Hotel - big rooms, high ceiling, salt-water pool, restaurant, cafe
Chiang Mai Nawa Saraan Hotel Nawa Saraan Hotel - low density (4 spacious rooms), stone garden setting, Koi fish pond, Old City location
Arun Suite, Chiang Mai Arun Suite - 3 bedrooms in a 3-storie guesthouse within Old City, ideal for families

birds nest restaurants in Chiang Mai RESTAURANT
La Pizza Chiang Mai La Pizza Chiang Mai - Italian pizza, pasta, wine, dessert, coffee
Chiang Mai birds nest restaurant Natural Bird Nest by Burapa - authentic bird's nest soup

Thai massage in Chiang Mai WELLNESS
ITM – International Training Massage School ITM - International Training Massage School - Chiang Mai's most prestigious massage school
Float Chiang Mai Float Chiang Mai - sensory deprivation float pod
Chiang Mai, Royal Thai Lanna Massage Zira Spa - upscale authentic Thai massage and spa treatment

motorcycle rental in Chiang Mai MOTORBIKE RENTAL
Chiang Mai birds nest motorcycle Tawan Bike - motorcycle rental | +66 91 635 2863 | Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200



Chiang Mai FYI / Tips
  • crop-burning season in Chiang Mai is between late Feb to early April. But laws change everytime. This year, 2019, there is a 61-day ban on burning so the farmers started burning early. When my plane was approaching Chiang Mai on Jan 24, 2019, there was already a thick blanket of smog covering the entire city (and beyond). But within the city itself, you won't feel it (but that doesn't mean the air is healthy). To monitor air conditions in real time, refer to site: Chiang Mai Air Pollution: Real-time Air Quality Index (AQI)
  • hot season begins March and lasts until June
  • wet season begins July and lasts until September
  • best time to visit Chiang Mai is mid-September to mid-February - after the monsoon and before the burning
  • you have to try Khao Soi, this is north Thailand's culinary staple
  • the tourist area where most of the hotels, restaurants, ticket offices, tour operators are, is located in the Old City
  • to exchange your dollars to Thai Baht, the Super Rich Money Exchange give the best rates. There are many branches scattered around Chiang Mai
  • get a red cab (songthao) outside the train station for Baht 50 (instead of paying B100 if inside the train station) to Old City - if you haggle nicely enough...I did!
  • shared red taxi (songthao) - B30 standard fare plying all over Old City
  • for only B50/day, best to rent a bike to go around the Old City - it's a 2.5km2 with lots to discover
  • FREE daily yoga classes from 9:00am to 10:15am at Nong Buak Hard Park (southwest corner of Old City). Resident and passing-through teachers take turns conducting yoga classes.
Blues/Jazz Bars in Chiang Mai
  1. North Gate Jazz Coop - at Chang Phueg Gate, great Tuesday jam session, Blues on Sundays at 11pm by the Chiang Mai Blues band
  2. Boy Blues Bar - at the Night Bazaar. Mondays at 9:30pm is open mic
  3. My Secret Cafe - near Wat Phra Singh. Tuesdays at 7:30pm for the changing front-act and 9:00pm for the Panic Band
  4. Taphae East - 88 Thapae Rd. (just north of Night Bazaar). Fridays at 9:30pm by Chiang Mai Blues Band
Chiang Mai Cost Index
  • B60 Chiang beer
  • B250 1 hour drop-in yoga session
  • B200 one hour Thai body massage at WAYA Massage (highly recommended)
  • B50 noodle soup with meat
  • B50 coffee
  • B40 pad thai
  • B30/kilo wash-only laundry
  • B50/kilo wash+iron laundry
  • B100-150 dorm bed/night
  • B250 fan room/night
  • B30 internet cafe/hour
  • B170-190 Movies Sat-Sun and public holidays
  • B130-150 Movies weekdays
  • B100 Movies Wednesdays (movie discount day)
  • B750 1/2 day Thai cooking lessons
  • B900-1000 1 full day Thai cooking lessons
  • B400 Muay Thai boxing ticket
  • B2500 starting room rate at the luxury hotel, Nawa Sheeva (highly recommended)

    • Transportation
  • B450 bus, Chiang Mai to Bangkok
  • B160-180 bus, Chiang Mai to Pai
  • B1250 bus, Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang
  • B1650 slow boat, Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang
  • B210 bus, Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, 3-4 hours
  • B360 Green VIP bus, Chiang Mai to Mae Sai (Thai border town for visa run to Tachileik, Myanmar)
  • B50 bicycle rental, 24 hours
  • B200 motorbike rental, 24 hours
  • B273 #51 sleeping train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
  • B638 #7 a/c train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
  • B50 red taxi fare from point to point
  • B100 red taxi fare from train terminal to city

    • Tours
  • B2000 full day elephant sanctuary
  • B750 Chiang Rai one-day tour
  • B1500 mountain biking scenic ride
Chiang Mai Trains by Train36.com
  1. Chiang Mai trains for Bangkok - 2 day trains, 3 night trains, daily schedule
  2. Train 14 to Bangkok - departs 5pm daily, arrives BKK 6:15am, 1st class and 2nd class sleeping accomodation, Special Express
  3. Chiang Mai trains to other destinations -
Chiang Mai to Bangkok Trains source: railway.co.th
  1. Check Train Schedule & Fares
  2. Book Online - direct booking with State Railway of Thailand. Best to register first. If going to BKK from CNX, click "Northern Line".

    note -- big difference between booking direct with the State Railway and booking with an online 3rd party agent. 12GO was charging B1330 for the same trip that only cost me B941 with the State Railway.

    note -- Oct 2022, I took the #10 Train from CNX to BKK, upper berth, 2nd class, a/c, sleeper, B941. The train was clean, fast, comfortable and modern. If you have heavy luggage that will cost more money in flight checkin, I would suggest this train. Otherwise, the flight now is so much cheaper it doesn't even make sense to take the bus or train.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Train from Bang Sue Train Station

For more train info: Bangkok to Chiang Mai trains - departing from Hua Lamphong - MRT (Bangkok)

(I'm using Bang Sue as a starting point because I was closer to it, but you may be closer to the Hua Lamphong station)

  1. take the MRT train to Bang Sue Station. Take the #1 Exit to the north provincial trains
  2. Proceed to Counter 2. You will see an information booth, a train schedule chart and the ticket counter. Choose the train and pay at the ticket counter.
  3. daily train schedule:
    • 8:48am - #7 Train, arrive Chiang Mai 7:30pm, not sleeper, B638
    • 2:06pm - #109 Train, arrive Chiang Mai 4:05am, sleeper
    • 6:31pm - #9 Premium Train, arrive Chiang Mai 7:15am, sleeper, B938 upper deck, B1038 lower deck
    • 7:56pm - #13 Train, arrive Chiang Mai 8:40am, sleeper, B768 upper deck, B838 lower deck
    • 10:22pm - #51 Train, arrive Chiang Mai 12:10pm, sleeper, 3rd class B270 (non sleeper), 2nd class B438, B728 upper deck, B798 lower deck
Loei to Chiang Mai by Bus
  1. From Loei town center, take a tuk-tuk ride to the bus station, B30. There is only one bus station.
  2. As of June 28, 2020 (still on Covid schedule), there are only 3 night trips: 8:30pm, 9:30pm and 12 midnight. 9 hours, B470.
  3. The bus makes the following stops at the following times from a 9pm Loei departure: Phu Ruea (9:50pm), Phitsanulok (12:40am), Uttradit (2:20am), Lampang (4:35am)
  4. Final bus stop is at the Red Bus Arcade, Chiang Mai, 9 hour-trip, arriving 6am (from 9pm Loei departure).
  5. Take a red songthaew to Old City, B50. They'll try to charge you B100, but they'll take B50 (just assure the driver you won't tell the other passengers).
Chiangmai Blogs by TheLoneRider
  1. Goodbye Chiang Mai Jan 24, 2019 - Oct 10, 2022
  2. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Oct 10, 2022
  3. Siamaya Chocolates Oct 2, 2022
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  4. September Snapshots Sep 30, 2022
  5. Carrot Cake Sep 12, 2022
  6. Making Coconut Bread Sep 3, 2022
  7. August Snapshots Aug 31, 2022
  8. Yoga Nidra with Chunyah and Tom Aug 18, 2022
  9. Coconut Pancake Aug 11, 2022
  10. July Snapshots Jul 31, 2022
  11. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Jul 31, 2022
  12. Jason, Max and Elizabeth Pizza Nite Jul 28, 2022
  13. Yakiniku Dinner with Max and Jason Jul 25, 2022
  14. Icebath at Nawa Saraan Jul 6 - Oct 5, 2022
  15. June Snapshots Jun 30, 2022
  16. Tom, Chunyah and Simona Pizza Nite Jun 23, 2022
  17. Yoga Class Pizza Nite Jun 15, 2022
  18. Pranayama with Nicha Jun 14, 2022
  19. May Snapshots May 31, 2022
  20. Lover's Quarrel May 26, 2022
  21. Getting Lost on a Hike May 25, 2022
  22. Biohacker Meetup at 'Living with The Spirit' May 22, 2022
  23. Music and Magic at Paapu House May 5, 2022
  24. Breathwork + Icebath @ Alt_Chiangmai II Apr 20, 2022
  25. April Chronicles 2022 Apr 30, 2022
  26. Tombstone Epitaph Apr 29, 2022
  27. Kayaking along the Ping River with the BioHackers Apr 24, 2022
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  28. Pizza Nite with Jerry, Paolo and Abby Apr 9, 2022
  29. Tom Maher's Muay Thai Fight Apr 8, 2022
  30. Breathwork + Icebath @ Alt_Chiangmai Apr 6, 2022
  31. Yoga with Leo Apr 5, 2022
  32. March Chronicles 2022 Mar 31, 2022
  33. Street Photo Mar 31, 2022
  34. Peoplescape Mar 31, 2022
  35. Chiang Mai's Recovering Music Scene Mar 31, 2022
  36. Street Photo Mar 31, 2022
  37. Yoga and Fitness Mar 26, 2022
  38. Friday Bitcoin Meetups Mar 18, 2022
  39. Pizza Nite with Aida and Sophie Mar 14, 2022
  40. Pizza Nite with Kevin, Jamie and Kris Mar 10, 2022
  41. In Search of Genetic Immortality Mar 5, 2022
  42. February Chronicles 2022 Feb 28, 2022
  43. Palm-Feeding Wild Birds Feb 26, 2022
  44. Cuckoo Feb 16, 2022
  45. Tell John Feb 16, 2022
  46. Pizza Nite with Kris, Simona and Mary Feb 15, 2022
  47. Pizza Nite with the Chiang Mai Boyz Feb 6, 2022
  48. Welcoming the New Year Jan 31, 2022
  49. January Snapshots Jan 31, 2022
  50. ABS Fitness Challenge Jan 16 - Apr 16, 2022
  51. Pumpkin Tahini Recipe Jan 3, 2022
  52. 2021: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2021
  53. Pizza Nite with Simona and Lisa Dec 28, 2021
  54. Tahini Salad Dressing Dec 27, 2021
  55. Baba Ganoush Recipe Dec 23, 2021
  56. 7 Universal Laws Dec 20, 2021
  57. Sacred Circuitry Dec 18, 2021
  58. Cave-Living in a Boutique Hotel in Chiang Mai Dec 14, 2021
  59. Tummo Yoga + Wim Hof Breathing + Full-Body Muscle Contraction Dec 13, 2021
  60. Monk Chat Dec 10, 2021
  61. Making Tahini and Hummus Dec 8, 2021
  62. Watering the Plants Hands-Free Dec 2, 2021
  63. Vietnamese Phin Coffee Filter Dec 2, 2021
  64. Tummo Yoga Dec 1, 2021
  65. The Bliss of Inner Fire: Book Summary/Review Dec 1, 2021
  66. The Bliss of Inner Fire: Heart Practice of the Six Yogas of Naropa Dec 1, 2021
  67. 'Must Experience' Cafés of Chiang Mai Nov 30, 2021
  68. British Hobnob Cookies Nov 22, 2021
  69. New York Cheese Cake Nov 22, 2021
  70. Dham's Poetry Nov 14, 2021
  71. Pizza Nite with Simona and Nat Nov 11, 2021
  72. Stepping Forward / Reaching Out Oct 31, 2021
  73. Cancel Culture Attack Oct 31, 2021
  74. Mantra Primer Oct 29, 2021
  75. Spinal Mobility Oct 7, 2021
  76. Swedish Cinnamon Rolls [Kanelbullar] Oct 4, 2021
  77. Just Bring 2 Chinese Oct 3, 2021
  78. Sep Snapshots Sep 31, 2021
  79. One-Leg Yoga Asana Sequences Sep 30, 2021
  80. Pizza Nite with Nut, Monika and Yuki Sep 27, 2021
  81. 23-Minute Ice Bath Sep 27, 2021
  82. Pizza Nite with Nut, Simona and Malee Sep 23, 2021
  83. Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep) Sep 23, 2021
  84. Making Cornbread Sep 15, 2021
  85. Kombucha: 2nd Batch Sep 11, 2021
  86. Making German Stollen Bread Sep 9, 2021
  87. Pizza Nite with Jackson, Goi and Paapu Sep 6, 2021
  88. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug 31, 2021
  89. Making Homemade Kombucha Aug 30, 2021
  90. Wrong Question to Ask This Crowd Aug 29, 2021
  91. Pizza Nite with Tom, Chunyah and Goi Aug 20, 2021
  92. Pizza Nite with Moms and Kids Aug 15, 2021
  93. Bahya Kumbhaka (breath-hold on the exhale) Aug 14, 2021
  94. Everybody's Only Friend Aug 13, 2021
  95. Vanillekipferl (German Vanilla Crescent Cookies) Aug 11, 2021
  96. Fighting Infection through Yoga Aug 3, 2021
  97. Too Close for Friendship Aug 2, 2021
  98. Manifesting: Epicurus' Pursuit Jul 31, 2021
  99. Homemade Rum Raisin Ice Cream Jul 30, 2021
  100. Ice Bath at Nawa Saraan Healing Space Jul 25, 2021
  101. Pizza Nite + Slack Line + Hammock Jul 23, 2021
  102. Yin-Yoga & Hypnosis with Christine Thiel Jul 20, 2021
  103. Pizza Nite with James and Nat Jul 19, 2021
  104. Antara Kumbhaka on Nadi Shodan Pranayama: Yogic Breath-Hold on the Inhale Jul 17, 2021
  105. Moving and Cashing-Out Bitcoin Jun 2 - Jul 11, 2021
  106. 'The Bow' Yoga Jul 7, 2021
  107. Yoga Classes with Calum Mar 27 - Jul 4, 2021
  108. Hike to Wat Pa Thammachat Waterfall Jul 2, 2021
  109. Pizza Brunch with the Yogis July 1, 2021
  110. Continuing Friendships in Chiang Mai Jun 30, 2021
  111. On the Brink of Hunger, the ENABLERS Come to Light Jun 21, 2021
  112. Hatha Vinyasa Yoga with Katharine Day Jun 17, 2021
  113. Pranayama Basics II Jun 16, 2021
  114. 36-Hour Love Life Jun 11, 2021
  115. Pranayama Basics I Jun 9, 2021
  116. Biohackers Meetup in Chiang Mai Jun 6, 2021
  117. Learning How to Breathe Jun 2, 2021
  118. Not the Usual Day-to-Day Life May 31, 2021
  119. Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021
  120. Breathwork & Ice Bath with Jason Ryer of Zen Strength May 23, 2021
  121. It's Raining Bell Peppers May 7, 2021
  122. Yoga Classes with Nana Apr 20, 2021
  123. You Want to be Wonder Woman? Apr 8, 2021
  124. Kunjal Kriya / Vamana Dhauti (induced vomiting) Apr 1, 2021
  125. Coffeemates, Breadmates and Yogamates in Chiang Mai Jan-Mar 2021
  126. Varisara Dhauti (cleansing of the entire digestive tract) Mar 26, 2021
  127. Spiritual Backpacker Interview by Napasorn 'Cherry' Suvarnapradip Mar 23, 2021
  128. Private One-on-One Yoga Classes with Doriana Feb 17 - Mar 14, 2021
  129. Transformational Life Events Mar 13, 2021
  130. Guess Who's Coming to Bread Day? Mar 1, 2021
  131. Mula Shodhana (anal cleansing) Feb 27, 2021
  132. Are You My Queen? Feb 25, 2021
  133. Breaking the 5-Minute Breath-hold Barrier Feb 25, 2021
  134. Kirtan with Chiang Mai's Khun Thai Seekers Feb 7, 2021
  135. Breaking the 4-minute Breath-hold Feb 7, 2021
  136. Pranayama Primer Feb 2, 2021
  137. Heartbreak in every Song Jan 24, 2021
  138. The Silent Killer is Baaack! Jan 12, 2021
  139. Learning the Thai Language Jan 9, 2021
  140. 2020: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2020
  141. Reversing/Slowing Down the Aging Process Dec 30, 2020
  142. Hike to Huay Keaw Waterfall Dec 20, 2020
  143. Yoga Mat Dec 19, 2020
  144. Hiking to Wat Pha Lat along the Monk's Trail Dec 19, 2020
  145. Am I Psycho? Dec 9, 2020
  146. Muffin Man Dec 8, 2020
  147. Polyamory Dec 4, 2020
  148. The Wim Hof Ice Bath Dec 3, 2020
  149. RSVP Nov 25, 2020
  150. High Intensity Interval Yoga (Yoga + HIIT) Nov 14, 2020
  151. Cleansing the Nadis (Energy Pathway) Nov 13, 2020
  152. Yoga for a 360-degree Core Nov 6, 2020
  153. Edward Witten: 'the smartest living physicist' Nov 4, 2020
  154. Srinivasa Ramanujan: Mathematician of the Divine Oct 27, 2020
  155. Bashar as Channeled by Darryl Anka Oct 26, 2020
  156. Vinyasa Krama and Ashtanga Yoga with Aida Yoga Oct 18, 2020
  157. Deepak Chopra: author, lecturer, healer Oct 12, 2020
  158. Facebook Friends Oct 1, 2020
  159. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug-Sep 2020 Sep 30, 2020
  160. Siddhis (yogic super powers) Sep 30, 2020
  161. Learning the Import/Export Trade Sep 4, 2020
  162. Music and Magic at Justin's Birthday Bash Sep 3, 2020
  163. Biggest Stone in his Shoe Sep 1, 2020
  164. Abandoned Aug 25, 2020
  165. Intelligent Romantic Break-up Aug 25, 2020
  166. Dad-Zoned Aug 18, 2020
  167. Public Display of Affection Aug 9, 2020
  168. Gabriella's Birthday Bash at Mothership Resort Aug 8-9, 2020
  169. Shifting Peoplescape of Chiang Mai July 31, 2020
  170. Yoga Class for Strength and Muscle Jul 30, 2020
  171. Yoga Class for Optimum Digestion July 29, 2020
  172. Yoga Class for Healthy Eyes Jul 27, 2020
  173. Hippie Night at Nawa Saraan Healing Space July 24, 2020
  174. The Podcast Series: Alan "Heart Math" Strydom Jul 17, 2020
  175. Prana Vayu Adhitthana Yoga Class July 11-12, 2020
  176. Coming Back to Chiang Mai Jun 29, 2020
  177. Goodbye Chiang Mai Jan 23, 2020
  178. Prasnopanishad: Understanding Prana Jan 17, 2020
  179. Hiking the Monk's Trail Jan 15, 2020
  180. Chaturanga Jan 10, 2020
  181. You Spooned Me Jan 3, 2020
  182. 2019: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2019
  183. Friends, Coffeemates and Breadmates (Dec 2019) Dec 31, 2019
  184. Visiting Mae Sot Dec 27-30, 2019
  185. Let's Make it About You - an Epiphany Dec 17, 2019
  186. Shut-Up! Dec 7, 2019
  187. Roasted Red Bell Pepper Puree Dec 3, 2019
  188. Coffeemates and Breadmates (Nov 2019) Nov 30, 2019
  189. Bhujangini Mudra Nov 25, 2019
  190. Mathangini Mudra Nov 24, 2019
  191. Kaka Mudra Nov 23, 2019
  192. Pasini Mudra Nov 20, 2019
  193. Aswini Mudra Nov 18, 2019
  194. Sambhavi Mudra Nov 16, 2019
  195. Manduka Mudra Nov 15, 2019
  196. Tataka Mudra Nov 14, 2019
  197. Sakti Calana Mudra Nov 10, 2019
  198. Vajroli Mudra Nov 9, 2019
  199. Coffeemates and Breadmates (Oct 2019) Oct to Nov 5, 2019
  200. Yoni Mudra Nov 1, 2019
  201. Viparita Karani Mudra Oct 31, 2019
  202. Khecari Mudra Oct 30, 2019
  203. Mahadeva Mudra Oct 28, 2019
  204. Sacred Cacao - Chakra Dance Journey Oct 26, 2019
  205. Partner Healing with Natascha Oct 24, 2019
  206. Maha Bandha Mudra Oct 24, 2019
  207. Point-Of-Failure Birthday Workout Oct 22, 2019
  208. Mula Bandha Mudra Oct 21, 2019
  209. Hugfest at Thapae Gate, Chiang Mai Oct 19, 2019
  210. Anushasan Mudra Oct 18, 2019
  211. Ling Mudra Oct 17, 2019
  212. Jalandhara Bandha Mudra Oct 15, 2019
  213. Learning Thai with Cee Oct 13, 2019
  214. Uddiyana Bandha Mudra Oct 10, 2019
  215. Nabho Mudra Oct 9, 2019
  216. Maha Mudra Oct 7, 2019
  217. 20 Essential Mudras by T. Krishnamacharya Oct. 6, 2019
  218. Mindfulness Gong Bath by Vee (Veerayuth Pongsiri) Oct 3, 2019
  219. Cuddle Party by Abundant Love CM Oct 1, 2019
  220. Vayu Mudra Oct 1, 2019
  221. Visa-Run to Tachileik, Myanmar Sep 28, 2019
  222. Sankalpa Mudra Sep 27, 2019
  223. Surya Pradarshini Mudra Sep 26, 2019
  224. Eye-Gazing at Heart Space Sep 20, 2019
  225. Prana Vayu (Pranic Wind) Sep 20, 2019
  226. 2-Week Yoga Challenge by Agnese Erba Sep 17, 2019
  227. The Mudra Project Sep 13, 2019
  228. Sunday Vinyasa Flow with Marina Forster Sep 8, 2019
  229. Shamanic Breathwork by Rachel Constantino Sep 4, 2019
  230. The Conscious Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Aug 31, 2019
  231. Of Winos and Yogis Aug 26, 2019
  232. The 9 Jhanas of Buddha Aug 22, 2019
  233. Wicked Game: Anger and Pain August 19, 2019
  234. Full Moon Ceremony at Heart Space Aug 15, 2019
  235. Yin Yoga - Water Element by Martina Barabas Aug 15, 2019
  236. Hatha Mix Yoga with Christin Aug 13, 2019
  237. Boy Blues Bar Rocks Chiang Mai Aug 5, 2019
  238. Back to my Beloved Chiang Mai Aug 1, 2019
  239. Kaleidoscope of Chiang Mai's Peoplescape July 27, 2019
  240. Secret Sunrise: Nelson Mandela International Day July 17, 2019
  241. Farewell Picnic with Alan and Nicola July 15, 2019
  242. Secret Sunrise: Water July 3, 2019
  243. Hotel Review: Arun Suite June 27, 2019
  244. Bruce Lipton: Epigentics to Transcend Genes June 24, 2019
  245. Optimizing Life thru Heart Math May 8, 15 and 22, 2019
  246. Connective Cacao and Sound Journey June 12, 2019
  247. Chiangmai BLUES June 6, 2019
  248. Hatha Slow Flow with Neil Jefferson June 3, 2019
  249. Meditating with One Million Meditators Movement June 1, 2019
  250. Vinyasa Happy Flow Series by Vaida May 31, 2019
  251. Muay Thai at the Chiang Mai Boxing Stadium May 30, 2019
  252. Yoga Flow Through the 7 Chakras by Sabrina Pilz May 30, 2019
  253. The Outsiders (people you need to push out of your sacred circle) May 31, 2019
  254. Fascinating Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 22, 2019
  255. World Meditation Day at Heart Space May 21, 2019
  256. Abs Yoga by Gigit May 12, 2019
  257. Kundalini and Vinyasa Yoga with Nicola Symons May 10, 2019
  258. Secret Sunrise Interactive Dance May 9, 2019
  259. Tok Sen Massage from Ying May 8, 2019
  260. Bruschetta: Nawa Saraan Style Apr 22, 2019
  261. Thai Cooking at Pra Nang Thai Cookery School Apr 20, 2019
  262. Bonding with the Elephants in Chiang Mai Apr 11, 2019
  263. Ziplining in Chiang Mai with Eagle Track Zipline Apr 10, 2019
  264. Getting Thai Massage from Chiang Mai's Best (Lar Thanakrit Khamtanong) Mar 21, 2019
  265. Being the Soul of Nawa Saraan Hotel Mar 18, 2019
  266. Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Jan 24 - Mar 13, 2019
  267. Curing Cancer with Yoga? Feb 21, 2019
  268. International Training Massage School (ITM): Level 1 Feb 11-15, 2019
  269. Sandesch Album Launch by Christoph Joerg Feb 13, 2019
  270. Meditation in a Sensory Deprivation Tank at Float Chiang Mai Jan 29, 2019
  271. Reiki Share at the Mastermind Brain Spa Jan 26, 2019
  272. Resuming Life in Chiang Mai Jan 24, 2019
  273. 4 Days in Chiang Mai at Nawa Saraan Hotel Jan 2-6, 2019
  274. Mike Chong Aug 8, 2018
  275. An Intimate Conversation with my Universe in Chiang Mai Aug 8, 2018
  276. Kneaded and Pampered at Zira Spa Aug 4, 2018
  277. Savoring a Baht 3,500 Birds Nest Soup at Natural Bird Nest by Burapa Aug 3, 2018
  278. Yoga Exploration at The Yoga Tree with Gernot Aug 1, 2018
  279. Laughter Yoga with Saffiya Arnous July 31, 2018
  280. Yoga with Adam at Hidden House Yoga, Chiang Mai July 29, 2018
  281. 2 Weeks in Chiang Mai July 25 - Aug 7, 2018
  282. A First Timer in Chiang Mai Apr 9-23, 2016
  283. Chiang Mai's Amazing Peoplescape Apr 9-23, 2016
  284. Dance Mandala in Chiang Mai at The Yoga Tree Apr 19, 2016
  285. Songkran Waterfight Festival in Chiang Mai Apr 13-15, 2016
  286. Border Crossing from Siem Reap (Cambodia) to Bangkok (Thailand) to Chiang Mai April 9-10, 2016
General Travel Tips
  1. arrive early - in case there is a snag (visa snag, documentation snag, transport ticket snag, etc.), you will have ample time to troubleshoot the problem if you arrive early (to the airport, to the bus terminal, etc.)
  2. put detailed itinerary on the Calendar apps of your smart-phone according to timelines - this is where you do all your thinking and planning. Once written down, you don't have to think anymore while you are on the journey...you just follow the steps. This frees your mind for something else that might happen while you are already en route
  3. avoiding scams - as a general rule, I ignore the touts or anyone I don't know who call out to me. The calling comes in many forms - "Hi! Where are you from?", "Excuse me! Excuse me!", "Where are you going?". I don't look them in the eye and I remain non-verbal with them. If you reply to them, you just gave them an 'in' to hound you. In order not to look rude, I smile and wave the 'not interested' hand to them, without looking at them.
  4. power bank - hand-carry your power bank. Do not check it in. You can be called in when you are already inside the plane to go all the way to the loading dock so you can personally remove the power bank...and chances are, you'll have to surrender it to them. And you might delay the plane departure!
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