Some of the most rewarding travel experiences come from seeing a place through the eyes of a local, and that’s exactly what we found in Chiang Rai. One of Kat’s best friends is from Chiang Rai, so recently we decided it was time to explore her hometown together. We didn’t know what to expect going into the trip, but after three days of incredible local experiences we were totally blown away by this gem of Northern Thailand.

Temples play a big role on our Thailand travels. For Cam it’s a chance to admire the architecture and for Kat it’s all about connecting with her roots. There are over 40,000 temples in Thailand with history that stretches back many centuries, and in some cases, over a thousand years. Whether it be the artistic masterpieces of Chiang Rai or the ancient ruins of Sukhothai, you’ll never get bored of temple-hopping in Thailand.

Chanthaburi is like a second home to us: if we had to live anywhere in Thailand it would be here! We love how the city revolves around the daily lives of its people, rather than mass tourism, whether it be the farmers tending to their durian, traders buying and selling gems, or fishermen bringing back bounties from the coast. Kat grew up in Chanthaburi, and her sister (Pare) is based here now, so we visit every chance we get.

Ko Panyi is a floating fishing village in the Phang Nga province, surrounded by some seriously impressive limestone karsts and mangrove forests. Although the village can get busy with tour groups visiting at lunchtime, if you go earlier in the morning you’ll get to see fishermen unloading their nets, children going to school, and locals hanging out in stilted wooden houses - all without the crowds.