Out of Norm Travels

Here's a combined trip involving 3 farms in 1 day outside of Bangkok that I recently tried out and enjoyed my day out in the countryside: Farm, The Jim Thompson Farm ( http://www.jimthompsonfarm.com/ ) This farm has been in our 'to-do' list for some 2 years as it is only open for a limited time each year. This year, it is only open till 10 Jan 2016 and based on the theme of rice merit making (Mang Moon Boon Khao). Once inside, I was greeted by fields of cosmos blooms as far as the eye can see. A hop onto the bus ride brought me close to the Pumpkin Patch attraction which is surrounded by the  Phayaprab hills  that is filled with Giant pumpkins. An Isan village showcases Isan architectural styles at Jim Thompson Farm including a Korat- styled house that is honored with an Architectural conservation award by the Association of Siamese Architects under Royal Patronage.  The ambiance of this place is enhanced with sounds of Molam, a genre of music quintes...

I found a quaint strawberry farm called " Napahupa " or Nop Phu Pha meaning Sky & Mountain which is  just 1 hour's drive from Chiang Mai city area.  Tip: must remember not to have a full stomach before heading there as the road trip up is full of twists & turns.  It is surrounded by a beautiful mountain range. As my family was there during the winter season in December, strawberries were ripe for the picking.  I sat in a little cafe with lovely strawberry drinks and desserts and seating that was strategically placed facing the farm area. After my little refreshment, I (my kids couldn't resist the machines) took a ride around using the off-road vehicles before ending the excursion at the nearby orange farm . I saw some tents/ huts that can be rented for an overnight rustic stay.  An overall lovely trip outside of usual city life .