My unexpected Chiang Mai Flood Story
My unexpected Chiang Mai Flood Story
Chiang Mai, the “Rose of the North,” is usually synonymous with ancient temples, bustling night markets, and serene mountain landscapes. What it’s less known for, at least in my experience, is being submerged in unexpected flood. But that’s exactly what happened during my trip to Chiang Mai, turning my relaxing getaway into a slightly soggy, yet ultimately memorable, adventure.
I arrived in Chiang Mai during what I thought was the tail end of the rainy season late last year in 2024. The flood has subsided in the city, I called the hotel to make sure it is safe to go. The sun is expected to shine on weather forecast so nothing that would disrupt my plans. I spent the first few days exploring the Old City, indulging in delicious Khao Soi, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Little did I know, Mother Nature had a surprise in store on the last few days of my trip.
It started subtly. A persistent drizzle that lasted through the night. By morning, the streets were slick, and the drains were struggling in the city. But it wasn’t until the last day, my friend messaged me and ask me to check out the front of the hotel. I was stunned, the water level as reached the front of the hotel.
The small soi (alleyway) outside my hotel, usually bustling with scooters, had transformed into a shallow, murky river. Water lapped at the doorsteps of shops, and the usual cheerful greetings were replaced with concerned murmurs.
Panic Setting In (Slightly)
My initial reaction was a mix of disbelief and mild panic. I had to fly back to Malaysia later that day, and the thought of being stranded in my hotel wasn’t part of the plan. I started to figure out plans to get out of the hotel early to reach the airport fast.
The flood water is rising slowly and I started to pack so we can leave the hotel early and stay in airport to be safe.
The Kindness of Hotel Manager
Fortunately, the people of Chiang Mai are incredibly resilient and helpful. My hotel manager was a beacon of calm amidst the rising waters. He provided us with updates and shit happened.
He had arranged a 4×4 truck to bring us out of the hotel but the police has sealed all the roads to the hotel. Hence, we had to carry our luggage out of the area by ourselves going through the murky flood water. I checked and the water is rising slowly even though the rain has stopped so we had no choice but to move out fast.
I asked for the garbage bags so I can double sealed my luggage to prevent water going into the luggage just in case we accidentally drop it into flood water. I changed to my sandals so I don’t wet my shoes.
The hotel staffs offered to carry our luggage and they were heavy. We had to walk around 500m to the main road as the hotel as arrange 4×4 truck waiting for us. I tipped to the hotel staffs as well as the driver who drove us to the airport. Watch the video for the entire episode.
Lessons Learned from the Chiang Mai Floods
My unexpected encounter with the Chiang Mai floods taught me a few valuable lessons:
- Nature is Unpredictable: No matter how well you plan, unforeseen circumstances can always arise. It’s important to be flexible and adaptable.
- Slow Down and Appreciate the Moment: Being forced to stay put allowed me to appreciate the simple things and connect with the people around me in a way I wouldn’t have if I were rushing from one activity to the next.
- Bring your sandals Sandals can be useful during unexpected moments like this.
- Travel insurance No matter how, you must purchase your travel insurance. I bought mine annually.
While my trip didn’t go exactly as planned, the unexpected flood in Chiang Mai provided a unique and memorable experience. It reminded me of the the importance of embracing the unexpected twists and turns that life throws our way. I revisited Chiang Mai again and had the best time of my life with great weather and awesome people.
Have you ever been caught in an unexpected weather event during your travels? Share your story in the comments below!
For advertisements, please contact us at placesandfoods@gmail.com
