Day 3 in Pai – One More Day for the Quiet Moments
We had planned to leave Pai today, but like many places that quietly work their way under your skin, Pai had us rethinking. Maybe it was the early morning mist over the hills, or the slow rhythm of the days, or just the fact that we weren’t ready to jump back into transit mode just yet (we were starting to like the slow travelling approach). Either way, we decided to stay one more night — a full extra day to explore, breathe, and be here properly.
Us with the owner ❤️
Starting the Day with Stillness
While the rest of the family asleep, I started the day with 30 minutes of meditation — something I’ve been trying to bring into my daily life since leaving the retreat and receiving my Sak Yant tattoo. Travelling with a family that likes to live in the fast lane doesn’t always leave a lot of space for quiet, but I’ve learned how much even a short practice helps me stay grounded, present, and a little more patient (a real bonus when navigating snacks, scooters, and sudden emotional meltdowns before 9am).
It’s a simple way to reconnect, especially when the days are so full, and I highly recommend it! Oh and if you haven’t watched my experience with the monks at the meditation retreat, the sad yank tattooing process or me interviewing a monk one to one head over to our YouTube channel they are episodes not to be missed!
Scooters, Spontaneity, and a Map
After breakfast, we extended our scooter rentals (no way we were giving those up just yet), packed light, and picked a spot on the map — no fixed plan, just a general idea and a sense of adventure.
That’s something we’ve learned to embrace while travelling as a family: structure is helpful, but the magic often happens when we leave a little space for the unexpected.
A Slow Morning at Santichon Village
Our first stop was Santichon Village, a small Chinese-style village just outside of Pai, set up for visitors but still surrounded by peaceful countryside and space to roam.
Entry was free — a huge win when you’re travelling with kids and never quite know how long they’ll last in one spot. Inside, there’s a small (very small) version of the Great Wall of China, a few local shops selling tea sets and lucky charms, and simple activities like archery, pony rides, or spinning on a traditional swing wheel.
It’s not a must-see, but it was a relaxed place for the kids to wander, play, and explore, and for us to slow down for a bit.
Hilltop Viewpoints and Mountain Roads
After a short stop at the village, we were ready for something a bit more adventurous. We followed a winding road north, leading us higher into the hills with promise of viewpoints along the way. The ride itself became part of the experience.
Now, I’ll be honest — I’ve only been riding a scooter for a day. So taking on sharp bends and steep climbs with confidence was a stretch. But there’s something about being on the road, with the wind in your face and endless green around you, that makes the nerves worth it.
At the top, we stopped for a coffee, fed some friendly dogs, and took in the views. We didn’t rush. It was the kind of place where you’re happy to just sit for a while.
A Not-So-Graceful Moment (AKA the Crash)
On the way back down, Tilly wanted to ride with me. So we took it slow, with her holding on tight. Everything was going smoothly — until we tried to turn into another viewpoint further down the road. I misjudged the weight on the bike, panicked, and accidentally hit the throttle while trying to turn. We ended up crashing into the wall of a local garden.
Not my finest moment.
Thankfully, we were both wearing helmets. I had a few scrapes, Tilly was more shocked than hurt, and within a few minutes she was laughing again. What really stood out was how quickly the locals came to help us — no judgement, no fuss, just genuine kindness. They checked we were okay, and helped us feel safe- another reason we absolutely love Thailand (the people are compassionate, kind and beautiful).
After I ran into a wall (whisky throttle)
Ending the Day with Gratitude (and No More Scooters)
We returned the scooters that evening — a quiet “thank you and goodbye” to our short-lived motorbike life. I was more than ready to be off the road for a bit.
It had been a full day. Not everything went smoothly, but that’s often how the best days unfold. We explored, connected, made mistakes, and found beauty in unexpected places. It’s the kind of day that sticks with you—not because it was perfect, but because it was real.
For families travelling through northern Thailand, Pai offers more than just postcard views. It invites you to slow down, breathe a little deeper, and find meaning in the small moments—whether it’s a shared laugh after a fall, a quiet cup of coffee on a hilltop, or just the decision to stay one more day.
