Festival Trips
Chiang Mai, Thailand
November 23 - Dec 2
Who: 8-14 driven aspiring and seasoned digital nomads from all walks of life
When: November 23 – December 2, 2023
Where: Chiang Mai, Thailand – a city known for its ancient temples, breathtaking architecture, scrumptious food and renowned cultural festivals
Why: We’ll be there for not just one but two festivals: Yi Peng & Loy Krathong. Be dazzled by not only the warm culture, elephants, delicious cuisine and step into something greater.
Imagine standing under a moonlit sky surrounded by thousands of lanterns gently floating into the air. As you hold your own lantern, you feel a sense of liberation and renewal. With each flickering light, you release negative thoughts and emotions that no longer serve you, allowing them to drift away and making space for positivity and new beginnings. This is the magical atmosphere of the Yi Peng lantern festival, an experience that touches your soul and leaves you with a profound sense of peace and clarity.
How: Apply now to secure your spot to this magical celebration
(Subject to change)
Welcome to the captivating Chiang Mai where we will be spending our time at a stunning riverside property. Settle in, unpack, and join us for an evening of getting to know each other through an amazing dinner.
- Morning: Free time to rest and recoup after traveling and maybe even a morning yoga session if you’re feeling the need to unwind
- Afternoon: Discover why meditation is so important to Buddhism, learn the basic principles of meditation, and enjoy an opportunity to practice and have a moment of mindfulness.
- Evening: Hop aboard an electric tuk-tuk to whizz round on a gastronomic journey stopping by the city’s finest street food hawkers.
- Morning: Explore the temples of: Wat Ket Karam, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Sigh, and Wat Suan Dok, all within the walls of the old city wrapping up at the The Lanna Traditional House Museum
- Afternoon: On your own
- Evening: Yoga
- Morning/Afternoon: You’ll feed, observe and interact with the elephants with plenty of wonderful photo opportunities.There’ll also be the opportunity to accompany the elephants on an exercise walk while they enjoy foraging around the grounds. Afterwards, get ready to roll up your sleeves and give the elephants a refreshing bath while learning more about their habits and behavior. Lunch is included.
- Evening: On your own
- Morning: head to a local village in Northern Thailand to learn about its community and culture, learn about local artisans with a workshop sharing the locals’ expertise with fabrics as we get to participate in a DIY Batik dyeing activity. We’ll then head to a Mulberry farm where we will learn all about the community’s organic farming techniques while picking fresh ingredients for lunch.
- Afternoon/Evening: Take the Krathongs (wooden boats) you just created and float them on the river
- Morning: Yoga/On your own to unwind from yesterday’s activities and get ready for the Lantern festival!
- Afternoon/Evening: Transport to the site where you’ll have the chance to illuminate the night with beautiful lanterns! Amid the radiant lights and the whispered hopes, you comprehend your interconnectedness through your dreams and ambitions. Dinner is included.
- Spend the day at an award winning spa: One-hour Traditional Thai Massage: Thai massage involves stretching and deep massage using pressure along the meridian lines of the body to ease muscle and joint tension.
- Skillshares/Masterminds: Participate in workshops, skill-sharing sessions, and masterminds aimed at unlocking your full potential. Elevate your professional prowess and enrich your personal journey through these empowering collaborative experiences.
- Indulge in the flavors and traditions of northern Thailand at the Old Chiang Mai Cultural Center. Savor a delicious meal while being treated to traditional music and dance performances that showcase the rich heritage of the region.
- As your remarkable journey comes to a close, it's time to bid farewell to the places you've explored and the connections you’ve created. Take a moment to reflect on the experiences you've gathered, the new friends you've met, and the moments that have enriched your perspective. Until we meet again on another remarkable journey, safe travels and keep the spirit of celebration alive!
Pricing:
Private $1899
Shared $1399
Included Activities
AC Accommodation
Lake Access
Fire Pit
Traditional Thai Massage
Welcome Dinner
Farewell Dinner & Show
Some meals(as part of tours)
Yoga lessons
Meditation with Thai monks
Thai temple tour
Night market excursion
Ethical Elephant Encounter
Meet local artists
Create a festival float
Skillshares
Mastermind
Workshop
Festival Activities
Accommodation
FAQ
About Chiang Mai
- Chiang Mai is generally considered a safe city for travelers. However, it’s always important to take basic precautions and be aware of your surroundings, just as you would in any unfamiliar place. Here are some factors to consider regarding safety in Chiang Mai:
- Low crime rate: Chiang Mai has a relatively low crime rate compared to other cities. Violent crimes targeting tourists are rare. However, like in any destination, petty theft, such as pickpocketing or bag snatching, can occur, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots. Stay vigilant and take precautions to safeguard your belongings.
- Traffic and road safety: Chiang Mai’s traffic can be congested, and road safety standards may vary compared to what you might be accustomed to. Be cautious when crossing roads, use designated pedestrian crossings, and consider using transportation options like tuk-tuks or Grab taxis for longer distances.
- Scams and tourist traps: While Chiang Mai is generally safe, be cautious of common scams targeting tourists. These can include overcharging for services, fake products, or misleading offers. Research common scams beforehand and be cautious when dealing with unfamiliar vendors or individuals.
- Personal safety: Exercise general safety practices, such as staying in well-lit areas, avoiding isolated places at night, and using reputable transportation services. It’s also advisable to inform someone trustworthy about your whereabouts and travel plans.
- Cultural respect: Chiang Mai is a city deeply rooted in Thai culture and traditions. Respecting local customs, etiquette, and religious sites is important. Familiarize yourself with cultural norms and behave respectfully when visiting temples or participating in local festivities.
- Natural hazards: Chiang Mai is located in an area prone to natural hazards such as flooding and occasional forest fires. Stay informed about weather conditions, follow local authorities’ instructions, and take necessary precautions during such events.
- It’s always recommended to stay updated on travel advisories issued by your country’s embassy or consulate before visiting Chiang Mai or any destination. Additionally, consider obtaining travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances during your trip. Travel insurance is mandatory on all Cloud Connections trips
- Living in Chiang Mai offers a wide range of activities and experiences. Here are some popular things to do while living in Chiang Mai:
- Explore the Old City: Chiang Mai’s Old City is a historic area with ancient temples, narrow lanes, and charming architecture. Take a stroll, visit temples like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, and discover the local markets and street food stalls.
- Attend Thai cooking classes: Chiang Mai is renowned for its vibrant food scene. Joining a Thai cooking class allows you to learn how to prepare traditional Thai dishes and explore the flavors of the region.
- Visit Doi Suthep: Head to Doi Suthep, a mountain located just outside the city, to visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a beautiful Buddhist temple with stunning views of Chiang Mai. You can reach the temple by climbing the 306 steps or taking a cable car.
- Explore the Night Bazaar: The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is a bustling market offering a wide variety of goods, including handicrafts, clothing, and local art. It’s a great place to shop, sample local street food, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city at night.
- Discover the Nimmanhaemin area: Nimmanhaemin is a trendy neighborhood popular among locals and expats. It’s known for its hip cafés, art galleries, boutique shops, and lively nightlife. Spend time exploring the area, relaxing in a café, or attending events and workshops.
- Experience the festivals: Chiang Mai hosts several vibrant festivals throughout the year, such as the Yi Peng lantern festival and the Songkran water festival. Participate in these cultural celebrations to witness traditional customs, enjoy street parades, and embrace the festive atmosphere.
- Trekking and outdoor activities: Chiang Mai is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, waterfalls, and national parks. Engage in activities like trekking, zip-lining, or visiting an elephant sanctuary to experience the region’s natural beauty.
- Volunteer or support local communities: Chiang Mai provides opportunities to get involved with volunteer organizations and support local initiatives. Consider contributing to community development, environmental conservation, or social welfare programs to make a positive impact.
- Join social and networking events: Chiang Mai has a thriving digital nomad and expat community. Attend meetups, co-working events, and networking gatherings to connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and build valuable relationships.
- These suggestions are just a starting point, and Chiang Mai offers even more activities and attractions. Take advantage of the city’s unique blend of culture, nature, and community to create a fulfilling and enriching experience during your time living in Chiang Mai.
- We have an amazing amount of restaurants, cafes, shops next to us.
We’re in an ideal location right off the river Ping and are about a 10-15 minute walk from the Night market
- We’re only about a 10 minute drive away.
Before Departure
- 2 weeks prior, a whatsapp group will be created to introduce all members. 1 week before, a zoom call intro will take place
- Flights are at your own discretion. Cloud Connections is happy to provide recommendations and help.
- Most countries provide visa-free travel to Thailand for a period of 30-90 days. Please check with your local embassy for most accurate information.
Booking and Rooms
- Accommodation, listed activities, some meals and festival entry are all included
- Airfare, airport shuttle, meals not part of activities, alcohol, drinks, insurance
- Head to this Calendly link to schedule a call with the founder and get yourself booked in.
- Should You cancel Your booking more than 4 weeks before the start date of the Program, You will receive a 100% refund (minus Your non-refundable deposit). You may also be entitled to move Your deposit to another Program, subject to availability and at Cloud Connections’ sole discretion. Should You cancel less than 4 weeks before the start date of the Program, You will forfeit the deposit and all additional funds paid by You, and no refunds or credits will be made available to You.
- Aspiring nomads that want to learn about the digital nomad lifestyle. Seasoned nomads that are currently freelancers, entrepreneurs, or work online. People that embrace culture and want to be fully immersed in the festival lifestyle
- 1899 for a private, 1399 for a shared (all prices in USD)
Digital Nomad Festivals Chiang Mai
- There are 3 major festivals in Chiang Mai. Yi Peng & Loy Krathong that take place in November every year and Songkran New Years festival that occurs in April
- The Yi Peng festival, also known as the Lantern Festival, is a traditional Thai festival celebrated in Chiang Mai and other parts of Northern Thailand. It is one of the most visually stunning and culturally significant events in the region.
- Attending the Yi Peng festival can be an incredible way to embrace Thai culture, witness a visually stunning event, and participate in a spiritual tradition. It’s an opportunity to create unforgettable memories and gain a deeper appreciation for the local customs and beliefs.
- Loy Krathong is another significant festival celebrated in Thailand, typically held on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month (usually in November) It involves floating decorative offerings, known as “krathongs,” on water bodies such as rivers, canals, and lakes.
- The Songkran festival is a traditional Thai New Year celebration that takes place annually from April 13th to 15th. It is one of the most important festivals in Thailand and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy. The festival marks the transition from the old year to the new year and is known for its water fights, religious ceremonies, and cultural activities.
- Water plays a significant role in the Songkran festival. It is believed that water symbolizes purification, renewal, and the washing away of misfortunes. During the festival, people engage in friendly water fights on the streets, where water is thrown using buckets, water guns, or hoses. This is a fun and refreshing way to cool off in the hot Thai weather and is enjoyed by both locals and tourists alike.
- There are also parades, traditional dances, and cultural performances that showcase Thai traditions and customs.
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