Deep in Northern Thailand

Buzzing, humid and energetic, Bangkok is the city where magnificent temples, historic markets, skyscrapers and rooftop bars create an intoxicating vibe that's hard to resist. The city is a mesmerizing blend of old and new, East and West, and dizzying contradictions. Historical sites next to vibrant nightlife areas, bustling markets near modern shopping malls, and street food vendors close to world-class restaurants. Hence, the city is still fascinating for its traditional culture. Saffron-robed monks weave among the morning rush hour to collect alms; communities dwell in stilt houses by the Chao Phraya River, eking out a living using centuries-old skills. A city tour in Bangkok often begins in Rattanakosin, drawn by the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. It's here the Chao Phraya River separates the city proper from its old capital Thonburi, a spot where quitet, narrow canals and floating markets illustrate why Bangkok was once called 'Venice of the East'. East of the canals is modern Bangkok, a hive of activity with countless businesses, markets and shopping malls handily connect by the BTS Skytrain. As a city that feels alive day and night, Bangkok is the destination for all, from foodies, shopaholics, culture seekers, history lovers, urban explorers, even party animals. That makes the well-known Southeast Asian gateway one of the world's most visited cities.

Fame as 'the rose of the North', Chiang Mai is an alluring city brimming with glittering temples, lush jungle, delicious streetfood and the bustle of lively markets. As the gateway to the mountains in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai has grown far beyond the medieval city walls that once marked it as the ancient capital of Lanna Kingdom. Nevertheless, its temple-lined backstreets still conjure up the glory of the old empire and it is still possible to get a feel for Chiang Mai's Thai culture and traditions. Ancient shrines and traditional wooden houses jostle for space with boutique hotels, stylish restaurants and trendy bars of this northern town as well as its welcoming customs and laidback pace of life leads to a rising footfall of enthusiastic tourists with each year. Home to a vast number of national parks, lush tropical jungles, hidden waterfalls, stunning rivers, and animal sanctuaries, Chiang Mai is an unmissable stop-off point for many outdoor adventure-seeking travellers. From trekking to the villages of Thailand's hill tribes to other adrenaline activities including mountain biking, white-water rafting, rock climbing expeditions and zip-lining through the rainforest canopy that makes Chiang Mai a perfect getaway.

Mae Hong Son has a totally different feel to many other Thai provinces. Tucked away in the mountainous border region of north-west, it is one of the most ethnically diverse areas in the entire kingdom with combining influences from Myanmar (Burma) and China. This fascinating mix is reflected in the colourful dress of the hill-tribe communities, the distinctive architecture and the delicious local food. Surrounded by rolling mountain ranges, pristine forests, lakes, rivers, breezy grasslands, and countless viewpoints, Mae Hong Son is an ideal destination for those seeking adventure or simply looking to connect with nature. Nevertheless, it seems to be untouched by mainstream tourism partly due to its remote position. Hiking through forests and hills, healing in hot springs, visiting waterfalls, exploring the majestic Buddhist temples, taking a boat ride along the scenic river, or interacting with the friendly and hospitable local tribes are all options for visitors who venture into this area. As a melting pot of cultures and traditions, Mae Hong Son is an unmissable destination for vacationers and travellers eagerly looking for an unfiltered and organic adventure. Home to a rich tapestry of diverse hill tribes including the Hmong, Karen, Lisu, Lahu, Lawa, Pa-O and more, Mae Hong Son is still relatively off the beaten track compared to neighbouring Chiang Mai and is the perfect destination to visit traditional local villages and interact with the locals via organized tours. As a fusion of the indigenous tribal communities' culture to the spectacular natural beauty of the countryside, Mae Hong Son is certainly a dream-come-true destination for many visitors.