When I first pulled into the large compound in Thailand, I thought I was arriving at a cooking school. My local host, Chen, had mentioned we were going to do an “inspection” of a cooking class, something I’d done many times before. I didn’t expect much, at least, not at first.

What I found, however, was far more than a cooking class.

First Impressions

The property was impressive. There was a large inground swimming pool, a housing complex, and even a coffee shop. As we walked toward the main building, a small Thai woman stepped out to greet us with a warm “Sawadee ka.” Her name was Khun Pea. What I know now, that I didn’t know then, was that Khun Pea was the visionary behind everything I was seeing and about to experience. 

Khun Pea led me through a large, manicured garden, complete with all the essentials for Thai cooking: chilies, garlic, a papaya tree, and numerous kinds of basil. 

As we chatted and toured the property, I slowly realized that this wasn’t just a school. This was her home, her creation, her kingdom. My thought to myself in that moment was: I’m standing in the presence of a Thai queen. 

The Story Behind the School

Inside a building crafted specifically for her cooking classes, Khun Pea began to share her story. She had spent her career working in the travel industry in Bangkok, which allowed her to visit the United States and many parts of Asia.

After retirement, she returned to the countryside and built her teakwood compound, envisioning a peaceful home for her later years. But retirement didn’t suit her. Driven by her love of food and people, she launched a cooking school where she could welcome travelers, teach them authentic Thai recipes, and inspire them to recreate the dishes back home.

A Meal to Remember

About halfway through our conversation, Khun Pea asked if I had lunch plans. Luckily, I didn’t. Soon, I was seated at her table with a spread of dishes she prepared just for me. We enjoyed an incredible meal of Thai green curry, scrambled eggs with fish sauce, and savory ground beef and pickled vegetables. All of this was complemented by perfectly prepared rice.

As we ate, we talked about Thai food, culture, and the travel industry. What struck me most was not just the flavor of the food but the richness of our conversation. She was sharing the kind of wisdom you can only gain from sitting across the table from someone who embodies the culture you’re there to learn about.

Lessons Beyond the Kitchen

My time with Khun Pea taught me many things. I left her home with a full belly and a fuller appreciation for Thailand and its people.  She shared wisdom that would help me with further travels, my career, and in the kitchen.

The greatest lessons she left me with were reminders that the essence of travel is spending quality time with local people. 

My experience with Khun Pea is proof that no article, book, or downloadable travel guide can replicate the experience of sharing a meal, exchanging stories, and learning directly from those who live the culture every day.