A return to the North (Thailand)

I hadn’t planned on returning to northern Thailand anytime soon, but being in Vientiane late last year made me miss Chiang Mai. There’s something about Vientiane that feels so much like Chiang Mai—like wandering through its little alleys and unexpectedly stumbling upon a charming café or hotel. And, of course, the weather.

The Yesterday Hotel has a bar outside with large windows framed by overhanging plants. I spent an entire afternoon there.

The local delicacy, Khao Soi. This shop was right across the street from where I was staying. This dish suddenly reminds me of Burma, as they have a similar one there. I also love the relaxed fashion of the people here in the North.

I stayed at the Old City Wall Inn, where waking up meant seeing bougainvillea in full bloom on the balcony. There’s also a charming café downstairs where you can enjoy a meal.

But what we really came back for: