CHIANG MAI, THAILAND
Culinary Explorations: Northern Thai Cuisine
with Mandy Lee of Lady and Pups
November 16 - 23, 2025
Embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure where you'll experience the vibrant flavors and rich cultural heritage of Northern Thai cuisine in Chiang Mai, alongside Mandy Lee of Lady and Pups. This immersive culinary exploration, takes you beyond the typical Thai food we see in our home countries and instead focuses on the diverse ingredients and flavors stemming from the regional climate, topography, and multicultural influences of the Lanna Kingdom. Throughout the trip, Mandy will share her lens on how we can infuse our own ideas into the traditional practices we observe from the locals.
We’ll partner with two-time James Beard Award winner and Michelin star recipient, Chef Andy Ricker for an unforgettable day experiencing Northern Thai cuisine through his eyes. We’ll explore rice fields, visit local markets and makers, and savor Lanna cuisine at Andy's favorite eateries, all while soaking in his vast knowledge and insights into Thai culture and culinary traditions.
We’ll also spend a day with Chef Yaowadee Chookong of Maadae Slow Fish Kitchen, food activist and a champion for Indigenous people and cuisine. Chef Yao will lead us on a journey to delve into the diverse ingredients and flavors of the Indigenous cultures where we’ll learn not only cooking techniques, but also about the intersection of Indigenous culture, food, and community through our time with this group.
In this feast for the senses, we’ll deepen our appreciation for food and culture while infusing our own, personal blend of influence and style to our delicious exploration of Northern Thai flavors and tradition. Mandy will teach you to ignite your culinary creativity during hands-on cooking workshops where she shares her unique philosophy on cooking and recipe evolution, empowering you to explore the art of blending ingredients, techniques, and flavors to create your own unique culinary masterpieces.
This Ace Camps Travel trip is open to all cooking skill levels. Trip Itinerary, Details + Important Trip Notes below.
DATES
November 16 - 23, 2025 ∙ 8 Days, 7 Nights
PRICE
Standard Private Room $6,495 USD
Deluxe Private Room $6,895 USD
Full Rooming + Pricing Details Below
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE
Multi-day workshops with Mandy Lee focusing on her approach to recipe evolution and hands-on cooking time to practice several recipes, cooking techniques, and flavor combinations
Guided tour of Old Town Chiang Mai focusing on Lanna architecture and temples hundreds of years old
Full-day excursion with Chef Andy Ricker, visiting local farmers, food producers and tasting a variety of Northern Thai dishes along the way
Indigenous food-focused day with Chef Yao, including lunch featuring Indigenous dishes and hands-on cooking class taught by a local Indigenous group.
Special, customized meals centered around traditional Northern Thai cuisine and the multicultural influences of region
Dedicated Ace Camps Travel Host, with you throughout your trip
Trip Prep call to meet fellow travelers and talk through schedules, recommendations, and questions
Travel + Learn with Mandy Lee
Mandy Lee, the creative force behind the award-winning food blog Lady and Pups, is a celebrated cookbook author, photographer, and stylist known for her bold, unapologetic approach to cuisine. Her stunning photography and fiercely honest storytelling, has garnered a devoted following for its innovative recipes and captivating narrative. Mandy's culinary style is a unique blend of traditional techniques and modern sensibilities, resulting in dishes that are both deeply rooted in heritage and refreshingly contemporary.
Her debut cookbook, The Art of Escapism Cooking: A Survival Story with Intensely Good Flavors, further solidified her reputation as a culinary innovator, earning critical acclaim for its accessible, yet authentic, approach to home cooking. Through her writing, photography, and recipe development, Mandy inspires home cooks to embrace the complexities and joys of cooking, while encouraging them to experiment with bold flavors and create dishes that are both delicious and deeply personal.
Mandy’s Perspective
The most dangerous thing a cook can fixate on, if you ask me, is this question—is this authentic?
We've all heard it way too often, and perhaps, on some level or another, all bought into the doctrine. Is it really pizza? Is it real ramen? Is this the way your grandmother mumbled into your ears on her last dying breath hung from her death bed?
But who sets the rules?
Tomatoes were a foreign crop that didn't used to exist in Italy. Just as chili peppers weren't a thing in Sichuan a few hundred years ago. Without baguette and paté being introduced to Vietnam during the French colonization, bahn-mi would have never happened. As a Taiwanese, I certainly know that "authentic Taiwanese foods" nowadays would be drastically different without the infusion of Japanese cuisine right before WWII.
Yes, the "F" word.
Because all the "authentic" foods people pledge their allegiance to today, were all, in one form or another, in history, fusion.
So forget about rules. Let's trust our taste buds and play with our imaginations. When it comes to cooking, if you ask me, there is only one rule—does it taste good? Let's get together and learn about orchestrating an idea, breaking out of the box, mapping our way to get there, and chasing that high.
We Will Explore With
Andy Ricker
Chef Andy Ricker is a celebrated chef, restaurateur, and author deeply committed to Northern Thai cuisine. His culinary journey began with a backpacking trip to Thailand in 1989, sparking a fascination with the country's vibrant flavors and rich cultural heritage.
He is the visionary behind the acclaimed Pok Pok restaurants, and his dedication to preserving the integrity of Northern Thai cuisine has earned him numerous accolades, including a Michelin star and two James Beard awards.
He continues to shares his expertise through his critically acclaimed cookbooks and various educational endeavors. His work has introduced a wider audience to the complexities and delights of Northern Thai food and fostered a deeper appreciation for the cultural context in which it is created.
Yaowadee Chookong
Chef Yao, a culinary artist hailing from Phatthalung, Southern Thailand, is driven by a deep commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, Chef Yao champions food that is organically produced, thoughtfully prepared, and shared with good intentions.
Her culinary philosophy centers on creating positive change for all involved and she strives to promote fair and clean food systems. She is dedicated to highlighting and preserving Indigenous foods and culinary wisdom.
In addition to her restaurant Maadae, Slow Fish Kitchen, she also serves as an organizer for Slow Food in Chiang Mai. Chef Yao is the author of The Yao of Cooking and is eagerly anticipating the release of her upcoming cookbook, Bring Me Curry When I’m Gone.
Day by Day Itinerary
Nota Bene: this is a prospective itinerary. It is subject to modest modifications, dependent on local weather, new opportunities, and the desires of the group.
Day 1
Sunday, November 16
Welcome to Chiang Mai!
Today you’ll arrive in Chiang Mai and make your own way to our hotel. Have a rest, walk the city, head for a beverage, or explore the neighborhood. Please plan to arrive at our Chiang Mai hotel no later that 5pm so you have time to settle in before dinner.
This evening we’ll gather together, then head out for our welcome dinner where we’ll kick off our exploration of Northern Thai cuisine while getting to know Mandy and our fellow travelers.
Meals included: Dinner
Day 2
Monday, November 17
After breakfast, Mandy will host a session where you’ll learn about her approach to cooking and recipe evolution. We’ll ground ourselves with some strategies on how to think about blending our favorite flavors with what we’ll be tasting in Chiang Mai.
Then, we’re off to explore the city. On a guided tour, you’ll visit some of the most famous and beautiful sites around Chiang Mai. You’ll visit ancient temples, wander through the historic Old City, and admire the Lanna architecture, intricate carvings and gilded chedis (pagodas). You’ll see unique Buddhas, colorful prayer flags, and experience the tranquility of hidden courtyards juxtaposed with the vibrant, bustling life in the city. Of course, we’ll be stopping to sample the cuisine along the way, taking in the flavors, textures, and aromas of quintessential Northern Thai cuisine.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3
Tuesday, November 18
Today, we’ll focus on the indigenous food and people of Northern Thailand. We’ll travel outside Chiang Mai to a small, hidden restaurant, where the chef focuses on indigenous food and ingredients. You’ll have a special, home-cooked meal where we can sample the complex and diverse Indigenous cuisine.
After lunch you’ll learn about coffee in Thailand and the growing movement and push for sustainability. We’ll visit a local company who focuses on supporting the people and tribes of the mountains to grow what is becoming the most popular coffee in Northern Thailand.
Next, you’ll have a hands-on workshop creating an meal centered around Indigenous cuisine, while learning from members of the Akha tribe. As you chop, blend, sauté, and simmer, these local women will impart their culinary wisdom, passed down from generations. We’ll feast on what we’ve prepared, enjoying not only the delicious meal we’ve created, but also sharing in the community and camaraderie of cooking together.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4
Wednesday, November 19
Today we have a full day of cooking with Mandy. After spending two days tasting, learning about, and making traditional Northern Thai food, today you’ll start to play with that foundation, layering on different influences and new twists.
We’ll head out to our workshop kitchen where we’ll work through various recipes Mandy has developed just for this trip. You’ll learn more about her process for playing with ingredients, techniques and flavors to create unique dishes. Without the constraints of only one right way to make something, we’ll open up our creativity to blend together the best parts of different cuisines.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Thursday, November 20
We’re back in the kitchen today where we’ll continue with our hands-on cooking workshops.
No trip to Chiang Mai would be complete without the famous Khao Soi—a rich and creamy Thai soup made with noodles, curry broth and braised meat—and this trip is no different. Mandy will share the Khao Soi recipe she’s developed, bringing in new flavors and textures to make the dish her own. You’ll work together to create the meal while thinking through your own ideas to put a twist on the traditional recipe.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
Friday, November 21
Today we wake up early for a full day tour with Andy Ricker, experiencing people, flavors, and Chiang Mai through his eyes.
We’ll visit a rice field, learning about the staple of Thai cuisine, while we take in the beauty of the Chiang Mai landscape. Andy will take us to local makers and markets where we’ll learn about Thai cuisine from the people who are making and growing the food that drives it.
Of course, we’ll visit some of Andy’s favorite eateries, talking through flavors, textures, and preparation styles, as we expand our palettes with more of the Lanna cuisine. Throughout the day, Andy will share his knowledge and insights with a running dialogue on Thai culture and cuisine.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
Saturday, November 22
The morning is yours to relax or explore. Maybe you’ll go for one of the famed Thai massages or perhaps you’ll visit to a local temple or take in the sunrise view after climbing the 300+ stairs to Doi Suthep.
This afternoon, we’ll reconnect as a group for one last workshop with Mandy. Now that you’ve explored various ingredients, flavors and dishes, and you’ve cooked several meals, Mandy will host a session tying together what you’ve learned with your ideas about what you’ll try out at home. Sharing her experience and philosophy, she’ll give you a solid foundation for experimentation and success in your home kitchen.
Tonight, we’ll gather together for one last special meal, taking in new flavors at a chef’s table experience.
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8
Sunday, November 23
This morning we pack our bags, say our farewells, and ready ourselves to depart from Chiang Mai.
Thank you for joining us on this incredible culinary journey!
Meals included: Breakfast
Where We’re Staying
Nestled in the heart of historic Chiang Mai, we’ll stay in a sanctuary of tranquility and cultural charm. With a majestic, 200-year-old tamarind tree at its center, this boutique hotel offers a unique blend of modern comfort and traditional Lanna hospitality. You’ll relax in elegant Lanna-style rooms, adorned with handcrafted furnishings and local textiles. In your down time, you can unwind with a traditional Thai massage at the spa, enjoy a refreshing beverage by the pool or explore the vibrant city just steps away from our location.
ROOMING OPTIONS
Please read the room options and notes below carefully and make your rooming selection on the booking page
Group Size: Minimum 8 guests, Maximum 12 guests. All Prices are in USD.
Note: If you are two guests traveling together and would like to share one bed, please contact us for details about a shared room option.
SOLD OUT OPTION 1 - STANDARD PRIVATE ROOM
The fee for this trip is $6,495 per person, paid in two separate installments.
Initial Payment due immediately: $1,995
Final Payment due May 19, 2025: $4,500
Room Notes: You will have a private room + bathroom for the duration of the trip. The hotel is located on a historic property, and the room sizes may be smaller than typical North American rooms. The style and layout of every room is unique and may not be exactly as pictured.
OPTION 2 - DELUXE PRIVATE ROOM
The fee for this trip is $6,895 per person, paid in two separate installments.
Initial Payment due immediately: $1,995
Final Payment due May 19, 2025: $4,900
Room Notes: You will have a Deluxe private room + bathroom for the duration of the trip. This room is slightly more spacious than the standard room and has a small balcony or terrance to enjoy the courtyard view. The hotel is located on a historic property, and the room sizes may be smaller than typical North American rooms. The style and layout of every room is unique and may not be exactly as pictured.
Important Trip Notes + Details
Culinary Notes
Unfortunately we are unable to handle specific dietary requirements, allergies, or intolerances on this trip.
During this culinary adventure, we will be visiting people and locations where we will encounter many delicious surprises based on what the local makers offer us. We will also try dishes that might be unfamiliar. This trip is best suited for those open and eager to enjoy and experience a variety of regional flavors and textures.
Please contact us in advance of registering if you have any dietary questions.
Accessibility
Please note this tour includes walking tours where the ground may be uneven such as dirt paths, trails, hills, stairs. We will be in workshops where you might be standing for several hours at time while cooking or watching demonstrations. We may also be seated on the ground while learning from local groups. You should be comfortable sitting, standing and walking for several. hours at a time.
Who is this Trip for?
This trip is for the open minded and patient traveler. You should be eager to learn and work hands-on during your workshop session and be curious about regional culture and cuisine.
This is an immersive adventure and best suited for those who enjoy traveling as a part of a small group.
Travel Health
We recommend consulting a doctor, nurse, health care provider, or travel health clinic once we confirm your booking on this Ace Camps Travel trip so you know what may be required based on your individual circumstances and based on the locations you’ll be traveling to. If you have any health concerns, contact your health care provider for advice prior to booking this Ace Camps Travel trip.
Trip Start + End Locations
This trip starts and finishes in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
The Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is about 4 kilometers southwest of Chiang Mai city center, a 10-15 minute drive depending on traffic.
Servicing both international and domestic flights, the airport is an easy hub for travel to other locations in Thailand and has several daily flights to and from Bangkok for even more options if you are traveling farther outside of the region.
Weather
November is an excellent time to visit Chiang Mai, as the temperatures cool and the rains ease up. Daytime temperatures average around 80°F (27°C), while evenings can be refreshingly cool, dipping to around 63°F (17°C). While rainfall is significantly reduced, it is likely to rain at some point during the trip. Be sure to pack layered clothes for your stay and a light jacket and umbrella to prepare for showers.
* Please note that should the weather prove challenging, some activities may be altered from the posted itinerary.
Included in this Trip
Multi-day workshops with Mandy Lee focusing on her approach to recipe evolution and hands-on cooking time to practice several recipes, cooking techniques, and flavor combinations
Guided tour of Old Town Chiang Mai focusing on Lanna architecture and temples hundreds of years old
Full-day excursion with Chef Andy Ricker, visiting local farmers and food producers, as well as and tasting a variety of Northern Thai dishes along the way
Indigenous food-focused day with Chef Yao, including lunch featuring Indigenous dishes and hands-on cooking class taught by local a Indigenous group.
Special, customized meals centered around traditional Northern Thai cuisine and the multicultural influences of region
7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 7 dinners
Dedicated Ace Camps Travel Host, with you throughout your trip
Trip Prep call to meet your fellow travelers and talk through schedules, recommendations, and questions
Ace Camps Travel Host
An Ace Camps Travel Host will be with you through your trip, dedicated to ensuring you have the best possible experience. Your Host is there for any questions or concerns, to look out for the health and safety of the group and to help resolve any issues that might arise. This Host is not a local guide but will work with our local partners to insure the right combination of pace, information, and duration. Our local partners are deeply knowledgable in the culture and customs of the area and will be there to share their knowledge and passion with the group.
Not Included in this Trip
International roundtrip airfare; required Travel Insurance; alcoholic drinks; activities and food and beverages not included in the trip itinerary; hotel incidentals including but not limited to room service, laundry service and hotel bar tabs; and all expenses during free time.
Travel Arrangements
Ace Camps Travel will send you detailed Trip Planning information when it’s time to make your travel arrangements. We usually send this information once we’ve reached the minimum number of guests required to run the trip. We’ll also send you an Ace Camps Travel “Preparing for your Journey” document prior to your trip, which will include arrival and departure information, a suggested packing list, useful country information, and more.
Supplies
Most supplies for your workshop will be provided but you should bring an apron or clothes you don’t mind cooking in.
Questions + FAQ’s
If you have any questions about this Ace Camps travel Trip, please feel free to contact us.
You can also read our FAQ’s here.
Travel Insurance
As stated in our Terms and Conditions, we require all guests to have Travel Insurance that at minimum covers both medical emergencies and trip cancellations. Cancellations 180 days or fewer prior to the trip start date will incur a cancellation fee equal to 100% of the price for the trip. There are no exceptions to this cancellation policy which is one of the many reasons we require all guests to have Travel Insurance.
For full details on our Travel Insurance requirements, visit our FAQ’s and review our Terms and Conditions.
Health + Safety
Our goal is for each of our guests to enjoy the amazing trip we’ve put together. To ensure that happens, we put the health and safety of the group as our top priority. Individual guests are responsible for ensuring they meet all destination and layover country requirements and laws, including any Covid-19 related requirements, providing proof of vaccination, testing before or after entry, masking, etc.
During the trip, if you feel unwell, exhibit signs of, or test positive for an illness, you should be prepared to follow the advice of local health authorities as well as the Ace Camps Travel Host to ensure the health and safety of the entire group. Depending on the severity of your symptoms and/or viral nature of your illness the Ace Camps Travel Host may determine you need to mask, distance, self isolate, or depart the trip early. You are responsible for any expenses incurred from an illness, injury, or early departure including testing, treatment, isolation, accommodation, transportation, etc. and you will not be issued a refund for any unused portion of the trip. This is one of the many reasons we require all guests to have Travel Insurance, as outlined in our Terms and Conditions.
For full details on our Health and Safety Policies, visit our FAQ’s and review our Terms and Conditions.
Cancellation Policy
If you choose to cancel your trip for any reason, you must do so via email to hello@acecampstravel.com. If we receive written notice 181 or more days prior to the Trip start date, we will refund your initial payment, less a $1,000 cancellation fee. If we receive written notice 180 days or fewer prior to the Trip start date you will incur a cancellation fee equal to 100% of the price for the Trip. There are no exceptions to this cancellation policy, including for reasons related to weather, terrorism, civil strife, pandemics, illness, personal, family or medical emergencies, or any other circumstances beyond our control. For this and other reasons, we require you to purchase Travel Insurance.
Be sure to read our Terms and Conditions for full details on Booking and Payment, Cancellation by You and Trip Changes and Cancellations.