The streets of Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai means the new city and was the capitol of the Lanna Kingdom, founded in the 13th century. Chiang Mai is just beautiful among the temples and tiny streets in the old town and many restaurants and cafés have made the best they can to create environments where you would sit down and never leave.

The temperature hits 40 degrees during midday when the sun is out. And the best places have understood that a glass of lemonade or watermelon juice wouldn't be enough. Drinks are served in jars and we are grateful.

This tuktuk-driver was the man of the day, when a phone was forgotten in the vehicle. We sent a text message to the lost phone on where we were staying, or maybe he remembered where he picked us up the same morning. Anyways, it makes me believe in humankind, when people are honest and makes an effort for other's sake. Phone returned and tuktuk-driver rewarded. 

And everywhere small, pretty details. Decorations reminding us that we all have to contribute to create a beautiful environment, not only in our own homes, but also in the streets and on the facades. Mobiles with birds, bright parasolls or red wooden doors.

 And nothing is like the thai food in Thailand. As always. 

Spices, currys, salads. And mango sticky rice. 

I could stay here forever. Taking photos, eating food, talking, bargaining the tuktuk-rides, go for thai massage and negotiating the price on ceramics. I have never been here before, but it feels like I have always known this place. Maybe that is what the old streets and temples do to us? Creating a sense of familiarity with a history that in some ways connects us all.