Thailand

Bangkok is a sensory overload in the best way — ornate temples rise next to gleaming malls, street food sizzles on every corner, and the Chao Phraya River winds through it all. The city rewards both short visits and deep dives, with a mix of must-see landmarks and hidden neighborhoods that feel worlds apart from the tourist trail.

Thailand's largest island is a tropical playground of palm-fringed beaches, turquoise Andaman Sea waters, and lively nightlife. From the bustling Patong strip to the serene coves of Kata and Rawai, Phuket offers everything from luxury resorts to budget beach bungalows. The jumping-off point for Phi Phi Islands and Phang Nga Bay.

Chiang Mai is northern Thailand's cultural capital — a laid-back city ringed by mountains and packed with over 300 Buddhist temples. The Old City's moat-enclosed streets, legendary night markets, and world-class cooking schools make it a favorite for long-stay travelers. The gateway to hill tribe treks and elephant sanctuaries.

Southern Thailand's Andaman coast is limestone-karst country — Railay's boat-only beach cliffs, Phra Nang Cave, Ao Nang's mainland base, and ferries to Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. The Tiger Cave Temple's 1,260-step climb rewards with the panorama. Rock climbing mecca, kayaking through mangroves at Ao Thalane, and roughly half the price of Phuket.

Northern Thailand's backpacker mountain town, 762 curves from Chiang Mai (bring motion-sickness pills). Dawn hot-air balloons over karst ridges, the Pai Canyon, Mo Paeng Waterfall, Shan Chinese villages, and fire shows at the walking-street market. Cool year-round, but the burning season February to April turns the air hazardous — plan around it.