After 14 months of my son living abroad in Australia and Indonesia, we finally reunited in the vibrant, chaotic city of Bangkok. It was the kind of trip that will live in my heart forever—packed with adventure, jaw-dropping sights, and, of course, unforgettable food.

• Thai Holy Basil Stir Fry with Beef (Pad Kra Pao) with Fried Thai Style Eggs and Rice – A bold, spicy, and aromatic dish that perfectly embodies the flavors of Thailand.
• Prik Nam Pla – A classic Thai condiment made with fish sauce, lime, and chilies that adds a punch of umami to any meal.
• Pomelo Herb Salad – A refreshing and vibrant salad packed with citrusy, herby goodness.

Bangkok: A Feast for the Senses

For four days, we immersed ourselves in the energy of Bangkok. We wandered through floating markets, haggled at night markets, and squeezed into the crowd at the famous train market just outside the city. The Grand Palace left us in awe, with its intricate golden details shimmering in the sunlight, while Wat Pho’s reclining Buddha was a sight to behold. But as much as I love history and culture, my true passion is always food—and Thailand did not disappoint.

Everywhere we turned, there was something new to taste. We devoured bowls of rich, creamy Khao Soi topped with crispy noodles, indulged in banana-filled roti dripping with Nutella, and, of course, enjoyed a never-ending supply of green papaya salad, pad Thai, and holy basil stir-fry. Each bite was more flavorful than the last, and it became clear that Thai cuisine is as much about balance and freshness as it is about heat and spice.

Northern Thailand: Temples & Tradition

From Bangkok, we headed north to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, where the pace slowed, and the scenery transformed. The temples were nothing short of breathtaking—the serene Temple of Mercy, a haven of tranquility, and the striking Wat Rong Suea Ten (the Blue Temple), with its electric blue hues and intricate artwork. Between temple visits, we continued our food journey, tasting dishes that highlighted the northern region’s distinct flavors. The warm hospitality of the locals made every meal even more special.

Krabi: Island Bliss & Unforgettable Flavors

After days of exploring, we made our way to Krabi for some much-needed R&R. Our resort was only accessible by boat (or the infamous Monkey Trail!), and the moment we arrived, we were greeted with crystal-clear water, pristine beaches, and a peacefulness that was pure magic. I took full advantage of the slower pace—sipping Thai iced teas, getting Thai massages, and reflecting on the incredible journey so far.

And the food? Still incredible. Whether it was freshly grilled seafood on the beach or a simple yet perfect dish of stir-fried greens with garlic and chili, every meal felt like an experience in itself.

Phuket: Catching Up Over Thai Tea

We wrapped up our trip in Phuket, near Rawai, where I sipped on countless Thai teas and soaked up every second catching up with my youngest, Stowe. Sitting in small cafés, watching the world go by, and simply being present in the moment felt like the perfect ending to an already unforgettable journey.

Bringing Thailand Home: Recipes Inspired by the Trip

Of course, no culinary adventure is complete without bringing a few flavors back home. Inspired by my trip, I’m sharing three incredible Thai recipes that capture the essence of my travels:

• Thai Holy Basil Stir Fry with Beef (Pad Kra Pao) with Fried Thai Style Eggs and Rice – A bold, spicy, and aromatic dish that perfectly embodies the flavors of Thailand.
• Prik Nam Pla – A classic Thai condiment made with fish sauce, lime, and chilies that adds a punch of umami to any meal.
• Pomelo Herb Salad – A refreshing and vibrant salad packed with citrusy, herby goodness.

Each of these dishes transports me back to the bustling streets of Thailand, where the air is filled with the scent of sizzling woks and fresh herbs. I can’t wait for you to try them!

This trip? One for the books. And now, I’m bringing a little piece of Thailand to your kitchen. Enjoy!