When Sam and I announced we were going to Asia for six months, some people looked a little dumbfounded. ‘But what will you… do… for six months?’

Well, I have to admit, I was worried about that too. I am not very good at doing nothing, having chaotically (and happily!) buffeted between school, jobs, university and internships for as long as I can remember. Before you go travelling, it does seem hard to imagine filling six entire months up with… what exactly? Seeing places? Of course, when you get here, it becomes very easy to do nothing! But back then, before we left, my usual reply was, ‘well, I’m going to do lots of courses! One in cookery, one in massage, one in language…’ At long last, I can tick one ‘constructive’ objective off my list!

Chiang Mai is renowned as one of the cultural centres of South East Asia. There are good museums, and tons of arts and crafts. Its surrounding mountains are home to many hill tribes, and trekking is one of the main activities operating out of the city. However, we were feeling pretty trekked out so made alternative arrangements. Chiang Mai has bucket-loads of cookery course options (as well as the aforementioned language and massage courses). Language sounded like a lot of hard work, and massage? Well, after much deliberation, I realised that I’d much rather get one! So we decided to embark on a day’s Thai cookery course. My Nigella fixation is common knowledge (have you tried her BROWNIE recipe, people?! Best thing ever!), and Sam loves to cook too, especially when I’m burnt out from all that brownie-baking. This course had the added bonus of being based on an organic farm. So not only could we make our own Thai food, but we could mosey around the farm and eat our culinary masterpieces in idyllic surroundings.

The day itself proved to be an absolute highlight of our trip. One major advantage of organised activities is meeting people. Our group had a brilliant dynamic – a real mixed bunch of Aussies, Kiwis and Brits. In fact, we all got on so well that our cookery course turned into drinks afterwards.

And what did we make? Well, I was determined to learn the divine secrets behind perfect pad thai. Sam has something of a spring roll fixation. We made these, and more besides; green curry, veggie stir fry with cashew nuts (possibly my fave). Yum yum! Predictably, the farm was totally gorgeous, and it made a lovely break from the hubbub of city life. Chowing down on a small mountain of food outside on a shady pavilion, overlooking green fields and gardens, was absolutely perfect. Hell, seeing all those exotic fruits in their natural habitats even made me consider growing my own food! I love the amazing things people grow out here – chillis, pineapples, bananas, limes… fabulous.

Best of all, we got a recipe book to take home. Thai-themed food parties when we get home? I think so! Just as long as I can find an Asian supermarket somewhere in west Kent…