Everyone learns something when they travel, whether it be a new culture, a new vision of life, or a new language. If you dig deep enough into a culture, you will be tempted to expand your horizons. Thailand, especially Chiang Mai, offers plenty of options for the curious traveler interested in Thai culture. Chiang Mai, the largest city in Northern Thailand, is culturally rich so it goes without saying that it has many lessons to be taught. It is also one of the most laid-back cities in the country, making it a great place to stay for awhile…while learning.
The following are the top five courses to be taken in Chiang Mai, but can be found in other locations around the country.
1) Cooking
Thailand has some of the best cuisine in Asia, and with a bit of help, it can be easily prepared at home. For travelers just passing through the city, day courses are available. From appetizers to desserts, a six course meal can be learned in one day, depending on the school. Day courses cost around $30 to $45USD, with package options if studying more. The number of cooking courses in Chiang Mai is uncountable, but the most known are Chiang Mai Thai Cooking School and Thai Farm Cooking School. Most courses include a recipe book to take home, and of course a meal!
2) Muay Thai
To develop inner awareness and positive aspects of human nature, Muay Thai Sangha is a good option. It is basically Thai kickboxing with a spiritual twist, but still involves intense fighting. The Muay Thai Sangha course can be challenging and requires dedication as it encouraging students to study for a reasonable time. If you are completely new to kickboxing, I would recommend you to check out few at home fitness videos.
3) Massage
Learning how to give a Thai Massage may be beneficial to your wallet as it is an easy talent to make money off of. Otherwise, it’s still a fun activity to learn.There are several courses in Chiang Mai that usually last one week, but can also last months. If learning for profit, it’s best to find a certified course. Two recommended schools are Wat Po Thai Traditional School and Old Medicine Hospital Thai Massage School.
4) Meditation
Clearing your mind is something everyone needs to learn how to do. Meditation is not something you have to pay to learn, as courses are donation based, but it is more about the willingness to learn. Almost all courses are intense since they require living the life of a monk. The most challenging of all would probably be at Wat Rampoeng, where you enter a vow a silence for 10 to 26 days, wake up at before the sun rises, and eat only two meals a day. For many, the feeling after the retreat is positively indescribable.
5) Rock Climbing
Thailand is known for having many limestone cliffs that are every rock climber’s dream. Crazy Horse Buttress, only 35 km from Chiang Mai, is Northern Thailand’s best crag offering over 100 unforgettable routes. It’s a great place to learn since there are routes for all levels. Considering that rock climbing is an extreme sport, it’s wise to choose a reputable company, like CMRCA for training. They offer a variety of courses fitted for your level of fitness and comfort with heights.
