Chiang Mai

Nestled in the mountainous north of Thailand and surrounded by lush countryside, the former seat of the Lanna Kingdom is perhaps best known for its 14th to 17th-century temples, including the former royal temple Wat Chedi Luang and mountaintop Wat Doi Suthep. Although its wonderfully preserved historic centre is now surrounded by a sprawling modern city — in Thai the name Chiang Mai literally translates as “new city” — visitors will find plenty of time to relax in this peaceful northern metropolis, whether it is visiting one of its many temples at dawn, hiking to a nearby waterfall or enjoying a rejuvenating Thai massage.