After arriving in Chang Mai thinking it was relatively tame on the hustle bustle I was mistaken in a big way. The city came alive around 7pm. And wow was it buzzing. I’m staying in the downtown area where night markets, bars and restaurants were jammed wall to wall with people. The streets were a constant flow of scooters, tuk tuk’s and others vehicles. I went and checked out the famous night markets and was amazed by some great art and a lot of cheap knock offs as well. Everyone hustling their butts off looking to sell you a deal. By no means are any of the locals rude or forceful, they are just very hard working trying to make a living. I scooped up a couple of cool linen shirts for 3 bucks a piece and a killer pair of shorts for 2. There was music and lights everywhere and people from all over the world had smiles on their faces as the energy was magical.
I found peace by grabbing a coffee and people watching, one of my favorite activities. This is a must see part of Thailand that has a good feel with mountains that surround the city limits. Whatever it is you desire here in Chang Mai is easily found. I myself like to focus on the arts and the beauty and always take the time to talk to locals even though the language barrier can be tough at times. The majority of Thai people are very gentle that come from next to nothing. So they depend in large on the selling of goods and the “hustle” of the night markets filled with clothes, art and every other gadget known to man.
As my journey goes on I find myself getting to know a deep inner peace that I’ve always known was there. Sometimes being in western society I get caught up in the materialism in a sense only because it’s always right bang in front of my eyes. Over here I’m so content and at peace with a 5 dollar meal and a coconut minus the blackberry which back home is like a part of my body. I just love simplicity! Don’t get me wrong there’s enough excitement over here to get your mind spinning like crazy. But the joy of traveling and experiencing Asia, is a whole different feel. It’s not such a stressful life. And the “hustlers” on the street and markets are content and happy making a menial living and spending time with family and loved ones.
You see young kids out late at night asking you if you want this or that, following in the footsteps of their parents. I lose track of time here, but that’s okay because being in the moment and loving life to the fullest is always my dream. I couldn’t ask for a better platform to film this journey and I look forward always to sharing with you another day…
Ryan Phillips