Chiang Mai city’s ‘to do’ list is on par with its ‘to see’ list. Whether it’s learning a new skill in the form of jewellery design or getting better acquainted with the secrets behind Thai food preparation – it is quite possible that you will leave with a new skill to your name. A common practice here is to rent a bike and take your own route around the city; there are many pockets of Chiang Mai waiting to be discovered. Not only is this great fun but an economical choice. Of course everyone who comes to Thailand has to indulge themselves with a massage. Thai massage is an ancient art that has its roots in Ayurvedic healing techniques brought from India by Buddhist monks.

These are all the more appealing after a day of strenuous activity up in the mountains or on the Ping River and like Chiang Mai in general, incredibly reasonably priced. The beauty of the place is that there is something to appease both the adventurous and creative appetites of visitors.