Aydan Stuart

Whether you're looking to dance until the early hours, unwind with a sauna and mountain views, or get stuck into something a little different, there's no shortage of ways to make the most of the city – wellness or otherwise. Here are our picks of the best things to do in Chiang Mai this weekend.

What will Chiang Mai look like 100 years from now? Will flying cars buzz above the moat? Will robots wander the sois? Will the forests have reclaimed the mountains – or will we be living underground in order to escape the smog? A new writing competition launching as part of Chiang Mai Design Week 2026 is asking the city’s youngest storytellers to imagine exactly that – with a little help from some rather unusual characters from Lanna mythology. The Lanna Futurism Story Contest The Lanna Futurism Story Contest, organised by folk futurism collective Agami Folk, invites anyone aged 18 or under to write a sci-fi story imagining Lanna society a century into the future.  Entries should be around 750 words and can be submitted in either Thai or English, meaning both Thai and international youngsters can get involved. There is a twist, though. Rather than leaving the past behind, writers are being asked to bring two ancient Lanna characters along for the ride. Photograph: Agami Folk - Ken HamalaImagine Lanna 100 years from now in this kids’ story contest The main characters First up is Si Hu Ha Ta, the four-eared, five-eyed wanderer. Its four ears are associated with kindness, compassion, joy and calm, while its five eyes offer the ability to see danger and opportunity before anyone else.  Then there's Tua Mom, the mythical guardian often found protecting the entrances of northern Thai temples, whose powers include summoning rain, incredible strength and keeping evil spirits at bay

Rooftop bars can be often overlooked by visitors to Chiang Mai who assume our low-rise cityscape has little to offer above eye level. But look up and there’s a lot of fun to be had atop our taller hotels and Old City townhouses. What’s better than sitting above it all, cocktail in hand, enjoying the purple hues of sunset over Doi Suthep? Answer: not much. So with that in mind, let’s elevate your weekend (or week, we’re not judging) with a cocktail or two at the city’s best and most eclectic rooftop bars. 

Dib Bangkok, if you haven’t heard, is Bangkok’s newest and most talked-about contemporary art museum to emerge in the city – and it’s here to stay. In less than a year, Dib Bangkok has built a huge reputation at home and abroad.  Originally conceived by the late businessman and prolific art collector Petch Osathanugrah, his vision was reinterpreted by his son, Purat ‘Chang’ Osathanugrah, Founding Chairman of Dib Bangkok, with acclaimed Thai architect Kulapat Yantrasast transforming a former 1980s warehouse into the spectacular museum we see today. This month, they launch Giving Life – a new exhibition of more than 160 works by 33 Thai and international artists, running from September 26 this year to May 3, 2027.  Conceptualised around an untitled piece by the late, great Alexander Calder, the exhibition looks towards the ‘life’ and ‘movement’ of art in both tangible and metaphorical ways. Next to Calder, sits works by artists including Kei Imazu, Sutee Kunaichayanot, Vasan Sitthiket, Rirkrit Tiravanija, Rachel Youn, Izumi Kato and Paul Chan.  Read more about the exhibition and how to visit Dib Bangkok here. But exhibition aside, at the centre of Dib Bangkok’s rapidly growing profile is its director, Dr. Miwako Tezuka. An art historian and curator with more than two decades of experience spanning Asia and the United States, Tezuka has been tasked with shaping not just what visitors see inside Dib Bangkok, but what kind of institution it wants to become.  Time Out sat down with

The FIFA World Cup is back, and this year's tournament is bigger than ever. Hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, the 2026 edition is the first to feature 48 teams and a whopping 104 matches. That's more football, more drama and unfortunately for us in Thailand, a lot more late nights. Whether you're planning to watch every game, follow Thailand's favourite teams or simply want somewhere lively to catch the final, here's everything you need to know about watching the World Cup in Bangkok. Who's qualified? A record 104 matches will be played in 16 host cities across this World Cup. The expanded format means 48 nations will compete for football's biggest prize, with debut appearances from teams including Jordan, Uzbekistan, Cape Verde and Curaçao.  Traditional powerhouses such as Argentina, Brazil, England, France, Germany and Spain will all be there, alongside hosts USA, Canada and Mexico. Sadly, Thailand did not qualify this year, dropping out after a very close head-to-head tiebreaker following a 2-1 defeat to China. Photograph: UnsplashThe FIFA World Cup 2026 What time are the world cup matches in Thailand? With matches being played across North America, Bangkok viewers will be dealing with some fairly anti-social kickoff times.   Expect most matches to fall into one of these windows:   Host city time Bangkok time Afternoon games Midnight-3am  Evening games 5am-8am Prime-time games 9am-11am That means some fans will be heading to bed at sunrise, while others

Every year, Time Out publishes the results of its international survey ranking the world’s best cities. Our team then dives deeper into the data to uncover other fascinating insights, like the world’s best cities for culture, the coolest neighborhoods and—the one I look forward to most—our ranking of the world’s best food cities. To get there, we surveyed thousands of city dwellers and asked them to rate their city’s food scene across 18 different criteria, including quality, affordability and diversity. Then we tapped our global network of chefs, editors and food critics to provide local insight into what makes their particular cities such wonderful places to eat—and not just right now. Our global network of food writers shared knowledge about the history of food in their cities, the dishes each place is known for, and the influence of different cultures on the local food scene. We’re serving up all this delicious intel in the tastiest list you’ll read all year, filled with nuggets from folks who frequent the bars, are restaurant regulars and know their city’s food scene inside and out. Ready to dig in? Here are the greatest cities for food on the planet.

Northern Thai cuisine has never enjoyed quite the same spotlight in Bangkok as Isan food, seafood or the country's famous central dishes. But that's exactly what makes finding a great northern restaurant feel so rewarding.  From rich bowls of khao soi and fiery nam phrik dips to herb-packed salads and seasonal delicacies that rarely venture beyond the mountains, the north's culinary traditions are among Thailand's most distinctive – and increasingly, some of its most exciting. Not long ago, tracking down truly authentic northern food in the capital required a fair amount of luck, local knowledge or a plane ticket to Chiang Mai. But how times have changed.  As diners have developed a taste for the region's bold flavours, several of northern Thailand's most respected restaurants have expanded south, opening Bangkok outposts  while keeping their northern counterparts still open and operational. This list celebrates these few, so whether you're craving a steaming bowl of khao soi, a full tweel of spicy sai ua or some of the north's more adventurous specialities, these are the places in Bangkok that bring a legit taste of northern Thailand to the capital.

Bangkok isn’t always known for drab office wear. In fact, it’s one of the more colourful and creative cities I’ve worked in over the years. Yet behind the corporate machine, the suit and tie matchup still stands strong – a demonstration of fitting in.  But one, rather arty fellow, is pushing for the exact opposite. Why settle for a plain silk tie when you could rock up to a meeting wearing a sardine dangling from your neck? Or a lobster? Or a monkey mid-swing?  Tie A Knot founder, Thai designer Kanatach Intarakaow – better known as Tortarn – asked just this. Launching his own necktie brand that breaks the rules with truly ‘bonkers’ designs, he’s now behind one of Thailand’s most delightfully absurd and fastest-growing fashion exports – making it to Selfridges and collabing with Disney in a matter of months.  Photograph: Tie A KnotThe Thai designer making officewear wonderfully weird   It started with a sardine At first glance, the ties look like novelty gags dreamed up after too many office coffees. But with Thailand’s love of the avant garde, there couldn’t be a better time for Tortan to, quite literally ‘tortan’ (resist in Thai) the office fashion rules.  It started when I was going to a party, and needed to dress up as a robot. Tortan explained as he opened a sack of his neckties in the Time Out office for us all to try on. ‘I had no top to go with my robot trousers so I made a robot-themed necktie.’  The tie was a hit with his fashion-forward friends, but was that just

One of the greatest advantages of living in a city is having world-class art and culture right on your doorstep. On any given day, you can spend the morning seeing world-famous works of art, the afternoon browsing bookshops and poking around indie galleries, and the evening at a comedy night (or the theatre, or a gig). Then there’s all the other stuff, like neighbourhood cinemas, street art, traditional festivals and museum lates. The best bit? In many of the world’s best cities, you can experience all that wonderful human creativity for free.  Every year, Time Out sets out to find today’s cultural capitals, where enviable art collections, brilliant theatre, music and cultural celebrations are accessible and affordable to locals and visitors. To create the list this year, we asked 24,000 locals in over 150 cities to rate the quality and affordability of the culture scene where they live, and to tell us exactly what their city does best, from comedy and carnivals to live music and literature. We then combined their responses with the insight of Time Out’s culture panel – editors, writers and local experts – who voted for the cities they think are particularly exciting places to visit for culture and the arts right now. To ensure the list reflects the best cities for culture globally, we included only the highest-scoring cities for each country. In every city on this list, you’ll find legendary arts venues and absolutely jam-packed cultural calendars. Time Out’s local experts a

Stepping off the ferry onto the firm ground of Koh Phangan, I couldn’t help but notice the change. Last time I was there, I was just 18 – sunburnt, eager and chasing the island’s infamous Full Moon Parties with a kind of reckless enthusiasm only young backpackers possess. Back then, the island felt untamed. Dusty roads. Cheap buckets. Half-broken beach bars stitched together from driftwood and optimism. Around me, travellers and foreigners who had made the island home, all with the same wide-eyed stories to tell – all convinced they’d somehow discovered the island in its ‘better days’. Seventeen years later, the island feels a lot different. Wellness cafés sit where old traveller joints once stood. Boutique resorts climb steep hillsides once hidden behind jungle. The parties remain, but they no longer feel like the whole story. And that’s why I came back. With just a few weeks to go before Julian Marley & The Uprising lands on the island’s sandy shores, I arrived, knee deep in water, flip flops in hand, to meet those who are bringing him here: a tight-knit mix of reggae scene veterans with decades of experience in the UK’s reggae events and festival scene, working alongside a family of Thai rastas who have called Koh Phangan home for more than 20 years. This is the story behind the show Reggae Rumble, a massive, reggae event held across Koh Phangan, Phuket and Bangkok. Headlining is Julian Marley, the son of late, great Bob Marley, playing alongside local legends Job 2 Do, Ma

Updated April 2026: We revisit this list to make sure our modern wellness stays, well, modern. A new addition to this year’s content is YingYang Wellness Clinic, a cool spot in Asoke that proves traditional medicine doesn’t need to be old.  Bangkok may be famous for its buzzing streets, late-night energy and constant motion, but beneath all that noise lies a softer, more grounded side – one that’s quietly growing. Beyond its food scene and fitness studios, the city has become a place where wellness isn’t just about what you eat or how hard you sweat, but how you take care of your whole being. Because let’s be honest: balance isn’t only about kale salads and spin classes.  True wellness weaves together body, mind and everything in between – the emotional, the spiritual and even the social. It's both new and data-driven, yet somehow still rooted in traditional practice. Sometimes that means slowing down enough to hear your own thoughts in a sound bath, or testing your limits in an ice-cold plunge. Other times it’s simply choosing not to spend another hour scrolling through TikTok in bed, convincing yourself it counts as ‘rest’ (we’ve all done it, and no, it’s not the reward we think it is). What’s exciting is how holistic wellness is finally stepping into the spotlight here. It’s not about extremes or quick fixes – it’s about reconnecting with yourself in ways that go deeper than the surface. Whether that’s with an acupuncturist's needle or the mystical under-skin warming of an

It’s that time of year once again to dig out your old floral shirt, buy a new water gun and hit the streets of Chiang Mai for another round of water splashing fun. Sure, the diesel shortage may hinder some of the more 'drivable' circuits (the Old City moat is of greatest concern), but word on the street is no crisis will stop the inevitable.  Chiang Mai Municipality has confirmed a whopping 12 days of official Songkran festivities this year, from April 6-17, making it one of the most expansive Songkran celebrations the city has seen.  Often topping lists of best cities to ‘do’ Songkran, you’ll find water fights happening on just about every street in Chiang Mai during the week-long event; there are a few key spots where the fun levels really peak.  Officially, Songkran runs from April 13-15 but with things starting early this year, things really kick off around the 10th or 11th – depending on how eager you are. So take your fun to the absolute next level with our top picks for free places to jump into the action this year, Chiang Mai style. Click here to find the best Songkran parties in Chiang Mai this year.

WellNest – The Cocoon’s offshoot project – is celebrating its new home with a day of wellness, music and good vibes, and everyone’s invited to join the fun. The grand opening brings together brand-new steam and dry saunas, a swimming pool, mountain views and plenty of cosy corners to kick back and relax. There’ll also be yoga, dancing and DJs spinning tunes through an upgraded four-way sound system, while Meal Prep Chiang Mai keeps everyone fed and Markie craft beer provides the refreshments. Whether you're looking to work up a sweat or simply spend the afternoon lounging by the pool, this is one wellness party that doesn't take itself too seriously. Sat Oct 17. B200. WellNest, Hang Dong (new map location here).  2-10pm

Forget sitting cross-legged and chanting – Ganesha House is taking a more energetic approach to meditation with an hour of old-school Goa trance on its rooftop overlooking Chiang Mai’s old city. As the sun dips below the rooftops, MCB will take dancers on a journey through the soaring beats and hypnotic rhythms of the mid-’90s trance scene. No workshops, ceremonies or complicated instructions here, just turn up, let loose and lose yourself in the music. Entry is free, and there’s a smoothie bar downstairs for a little post-dance refreshment. Oct 16 & Oct 30. Free. Ganesha House, 248/14 Manee Nopparat Road. From 6pm onwards

Forget sitting cross-legged and chanting – Ganesha House is taking a more energetic approach to meditation with an hour of old-school Goa trance on its rooftop overlooking Chiang Mai’s old city. As the sun dips below the rooftops, MCB will take dancers on a journey through the soaring beats and hypnotic rhythms of the mid-’90s trance scene. No workshops, ceremonies or complicated instructions here, just turn up, let loose and lose yourself in the music. Entry is free, and there’s a smoothie bar downstairs for a little post-dance refreshment. Oct 16 & Oct 30. Free. Ganesha House, 248/14 Manee Nopparat Road. From 6pm onwards

Chiang Mai’s underground techno collective Tekno.CNX is back for another round of pounding beats and hypnotic grooves at Warmup Café. Taking over the intimate Lounge room, Nimman Rave #12 brings together four international DJs – G4BBY from Taiwan, SWILL'O from France, FØSTER from Thailand and ALISE from Lebanon – for a night of hard-hitting techno and deep, driving rhythms. With just 80 spots available, expect a sweaty, close-knit dancefloor where the music does most of the talking. Tickets include one free drink, so grab yours early and prepare to lose yourself in the beat. Oct 16. B200 early bird online; B300 door. Warmup Café (Lounge Room). 8pm-3am

Who says growing up means growing bored? Retro Recess is celebrating three years of bringing out Chiang Mai’s inner child with a birthday bash at Freebird Cafe, and everyone’s invited to join the fun. Expect an afternoon of dressing up with thrift-shop finds, getting crafty over popcorn and a movie and browsing a community market packed with local makers and creatives. There’s also a show and tell session where anyone can take five minutes to share their latest passion, peculiar hobby or unfinished masterpiece. The party doubles as a fundraiser to help keep Retro Recess running, so donations of cash, art supplies, games and other useful goodies are welcome. Come as you are, bring your curiosity and remember that adulthood is better with a little recess. Oct 17. Free, donations welcome. Freebird Cafe. 3-9pm

An evening of art, music and giving back awaits at 137 Pillars House, which is joining forces with Philanthropy Connections for 137 Pillars of Hope, a charity fundraiser supporting 137 vulnerable children at Baan Unrak. Set within the hotel's beautiful heritage grounds, the evening brings together an art exhibition, live and silent auctions, and performances by Jonas Dept and Lanna Commins. Guests can also enjoy a Thai-Western cocktail buffet with free-flowing wine and soft drinks, while a special display shares the children's stories and the work being done to support them. All proceeds go directly towards the children's care, safety and education, making this a rather lovely excuse to dress up for a good cause. Oct 18. B3,500, RSVP: info@philanthropyconnections.org. 137 Pillars House, Wat Ket, Chiang Mai. 5-10pm

En garde! Chiang Mai is sharpening its competitive edge this weekend as the Chiang Mai Fencing Open 2026 brings fencers together for three days of international competition. Organised by Chiangmai Fencing Academy and the Chiang Mai Provincial Sports Association's fencing division, the tournament takes over Chiang Mai Hall at Central Plaza Airport. Whether you're an experienced fencer looking to check out the scene, or simply curious about the sport, there's plenty of swordplay to get excited about. It may not be the usual sporting weekend you had in mind, but… you get the point.  Oct 9-11. Chiang Mai Hall, CentralPlaza Chiang Mai Airport. Enquiries: 095 326 6699. 8am-5pm

Forget the big stages and settle in for something a little more intimate at Kindred Studio’s monthly LivingRoom Session, a celebration of Chiang Mai’s homegrown music scene. This edition brings together folk-pop singer-songwriter Daisy Howard, who has spent three years working on her debut album exploring love, heartbreak and life in the north, alongside local favourites Madame Blue, whose heartfelt songs draw inspiration from love and dreams. Expect an evening of stripped-back performances, personal storytelling and the sort of atmosphere that feels more like hanging out in a friend’s living room than attending a concert. Oct 9. B200. Kindred Studio. Doors 8pm, music 8.30pm

Nature hikes not your thing? Lucky for you, Retro Recess is doing a double-whammy weekend, with an inner-city park party on Sunday as well. Skate X Create is their almost-monthly playful afternoon at Chiang Mai Railway Station Park where you can strap on your skates, get creative with a sketchbook or have a go at double Dutch jump rope. There’ll be music, shared art supplies and plenty of space to paint, doodle, roll around or simply lounge on the grass with some new friends. All abilities are welcome, and there’s absolutely no pressure to create a masterpiece or show off your skating skills. Bring your skates, art supplies, a blanket and a few snacks, and let the afternoon unfold. Oct 11. Free, donations welcome. Chiang Mai Railway Station Park. 2-6pm

Who says field trips are just for kids? Retro Recess is taking its next adventure into the foothills of Doi Suthep for a morning of forest trails, wildlife spotting and good old-fashioned outdoor fun. The group will explore the beginner-to-moderate Huay U-Mong Nature Trail at Choeng Doi Suthep Nature and Wildlife Center, keeping an eye out for deer, peacocks, buffalo and hidden temple ruins along the way. Afterwards, everyone heads to Lansieow – Freeative Art Space for lunch and a chance to make some new friends. Bring comfortable shoes, plenty of water and a little curiosity. Lunch is at your own expense, and spaces are limited, so RSVP in advance. Oct 10. RSVP here. Choeng Doi Suthep Nature and Wildlife Center, Chiang Mai. 9am-2pm

Deaf Shop is turning four, and the much-loved music hangout is throwing a proper birthday bash before shutting up shop for a two-week break. Expect an all-vinyl soundtrack courtesy of Selecta Roots Muang, Moodyboom and Oomboi Lauw, spinning records well into the night. More than just a party, it's a celebration of the community of music lovers, artists, locals and curious visitors who have made Deaf Shop their home over the past four years. Entry is free, so come raise a glass and give the team a proper send-off before they take a well-deserved break before reopening again on October 30. Oct 10. Free. Deaf Shopi. 7.30pm-late

There’s something refreshingly personal about Jhasper Fashion, a Sukhumvit Soi 11 tailor where owners Dave and Pinky still work directly with every client who walks through the door. The pair have spent 17 years building the business largely through word of mouth and repeat customers, specialising in bespoke suits, wedding outfits and contemporary tailoring for clients who want a little more guidance than simply choosing a fabric. The experience feels closer to a private styling consultation than your typical trip to the tailor. Step inside and you feel the care. They take the time to understand your personality, lifestyle and how you actually want to look and feel before getting into colours, fabrics, cuts and construction. There’s an extensive collection of fabrics from international mills to work through, but if you don’t know your worsted wool from your windowpane, their expert eye will happily steer you towards something that suits you. The tailoring itself leans towards sophisticated modern fits and Italian-inspired styling, backed up by meticulous measurements, multiple fittings and an in-house tailoring team. Better still, the personal service doesn’t disappear once your suit is finished. Dave and Pinky keep track of your preferences – from favourite fabrics and colours to fit and styling details – meaning your next visit can pick up more or less where the last one left off. Jhasper Fashion Custom Tailors, Sukhumvit Soi 11, Watthana. Mon-Sat, 10.30am-8pm (Sundays by p

Over the last week, rain has poured continuously on Bangkok, leaving many parts of Thailand’s capital city flooded. Waterways have overflowed, drainage systems have become overwhelmed and reservoirs in nearby provinces have reached over 100 percent capacity.  For reference, around 320mm of rain fell over two to three days, quickly flooding some of the city's major streets and suburbs as drainage struggled to keep up. Homes, cars and main roads were feet deep in water and schools, workplaces and communities were closed, relocated and left stranded. But does this really mean Bangkok’s a city to avoid as a tourist now? We think not. Photograph: UnsplashBangkok Is it safe to travel to Bangkok as a tourist? For most visitors, yes – but it pays to check conditions before travelling across the city. Even at the height of the flooding, the city centre remained relatively unaffected. While severe flooding did hit communities across the capital, particularly in low-lying areas and neighbourhoods around canals, much of central Bangkok continued operating. Most major attractions and visitor facilities remain open, while the BTS, MRT and Airport Rail Link are running. The Chao Phraya River has yet to burst its banks and is now expected not to, with riverside hotels, malls, restaurants and bars operating normally.  In the inner city, some events, shops and services have paused or reduced their offerings, mostly because staff living in badly affected areas have been unable to get to work.

If there’s one night to leave the colourful shirts at home, it’s this Saturday. One of Phuket’s longest-running and best-known annual beach parties is back, and the dress code is very much in the name. Catch Beach Club’s White Party returns for its 22nd edition on Saturday, September 26, taking over the club’s beachfront home on Bang Tao Beach from 9pm until 2am. This year’s theme is ‘Divine in White’, with guests expected to turn up dressed accordingly – obviously. And if previous editions are anything to go by, you’ll know not to go in subtle.  Plenty of head-to-toe white, extravagant outfits and suitably dressed-up crowds are descending on the sand for one of Catch’s biggest nights of the year, and it’s one of Phuket’s biggest parties of the year. Photograph: Catch Beach ClubPhuket What is The White Party? The White Party has become something of a Phuket institution over the past two decades. Catch Beach Club has been throwing the annual bash since the early days of Phuket’s beach-club scene, with the party growing alongside the island’s reputation as one of Thailand’s major nightlife destinations. For its 22nd outing, the formula remains pleasingly straightforward: a big beachfront party, DJs, dancing and a few hundred people dressed almost entirely in white.  Things kick off at 9pm and continue until 2am, with the action unfolding right beside Bang Tao Beach. And demand is already looking strong. All table packages for Saturday night have already sold out, so anyone ho

There’s a very good chance that if you stay at Hyatt’s Andaz One Bangkok, you’ll end up spending quite a bit of time looking at Lumphini Park. That’s hardly surprising. The newly opened 244-room hotel sits within One Bangkok, opposite one of the largest and loveliest green spaces in the capital’s busiest district. From breakfast at Andaz Terrace to guestrooms and the outdoor infinity pool, those treetops form an almost constant backdrop. Speaking with the Director of Rooms, Nipapan ‘Auk’ Stapol, while taking a stroll through the park (check out our video interview here), she shared the concept behind the hotel’s design and its ‘vertical neighbourhood’ concept – each floor and space taking their cues from the streets, architecture, greenery and history immediately outside. And the story goes pretty deep. Bangkok sois, park trees, the Royal Bangkok Sports Club Polo Club and even the city’s tangling electric cables (specifically in ‘Blockwilt’, a signature mixed-media textile artwork created by celebrated Thai textile artist Ploenchan “Mook” Vinyaratn) have all made their way inside. Then, once you’re settled, they encourage you to go back outside and experience the real thing. Photograph: Andaz One BangkokInspired neighbourhood experiences in Bangkok Andaz One Bangkok’s city-led design Architecturally, the hotel tips their hat to studio A49, with interiors by PIA Interior and the 23rd-floor Piscari restaurant designed by Paradigm Shift – instantly setting the bar with three m

It’s a big deal, The 50 Best Hotels List – or at least, the winners want you to think as much. Taking the show to Paris for the first time this year, the awards have just wrapped up and three of Bangkok’s top hotels have placed inside the world’s top ten. That’s no mean feat for any country.  And while that will no doubt be cause for celebration at Capella Bangkok (No.2), Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River (No.3) and Mandarin Oriental Bangkok (No.10), these days more and more attention is being paid to how rankings like this actually work – and whether any listing business can credibly claim to identify the world’s second, third or tenth-best hotel. Photograph: Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya RiverThe 50 Best Hotels list 2026 The list is collated from more than 800 anonymous voters from the hotel, travel and media industries, each apparently choosing seven of the best hotels they’ve stayed at during the previous three years. But there’s no predetermined checklist defining what ‘best’ actually means (publically, at least) and, importantly, stays taken as part of press trips or provided free of charge are equally eligible for votes.  Last year, the New York Times suggested sister list The 50 Best Restaurants is ‘mind opening’. In an op-ed, Pete Wells suggests: ‘To be media literate these days is to understand that no ranked list, whether it is the ‘100 Greatest Drummers of All Time’ or the ‘35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Ever Exist,’ should be taken too litera

We all know Chiang Mai has been a magnet for digital nomads for many years, and while the volume ebbs and flows with the times, the community is generally on the up.  However, we also know that getting nomads and locals to meet in constructive and community building ways can be difficult. Nobody is to blame, it’s just the nature of working remotely, impermanent stays and language barriers.  Now, a new month-long project spearheaded through the Alt_ Chiang Mai community wants to explore what happens when the people who temporarily call the city home become a little more involved in it. Photograph: Cosmo Local CNXChiang Mai Cosmo Local CNX 2026 Cosmo Local is taking over parts of the city this September, with a month-long series of placements and residencies targeting both nomads and their local equivalents.  The project aims to bring together these two crowds and find ways to improve the city together through food, technology and business – centering its eyes on Sanpakoi and Wat Ket areas; both designated as a new Nomad Friendly District model with backing from the local municipalities.  In simple terms, rather than simply making Chiang Mai a better place to visit or work remotely, the idea is to find ways for international residents and local communities to learn from one another, collaborate and contribute to the neighbourhoods they share. And while Cosmo Local is already well under way, things ramp up during its Main Week from September 23-28, where everyone is invited to

With under 24 hours to go until the Apple iPhone launch keynote livestreams straight out of California, the excitement in Thailand is palpable. With a long list of product launches expected (and perhaps some surprises if we’re lucky) this year things are getting particularly interesting.  What’s most exciting this year is probably the almost certain launch of Apple’s first foldable iPhone. And with much more in store to boot, read on for more about the 2026 launch of the new iPhone in Thailand, including prices, release dates, new features and more.  ApplePhotograph: Apple When is the Apple iPhone launch event livestream?  This year’s keynote, titled ‘Surprise and Shine’, will take place at the Steve Jobs Theater in California from 10am West Coast time, September 9. For us in Thailand, that’s midnight September 10. And while you don’t need a ticket to the US to see it, the live stream on official Apple website and Apple TV platforms (as well as YouTube we’ve been told) will likely be a late one for those who want to know first. For the rest of us, we can ‘Surprise and Shine’ in the morning, with endless streams of updates online for us to imbibe on.  What iPhone models are being released in Thailand?  According to pretty reliable industry sources, it’s likely that Apple will be holding back some of their iPhone releases tomorrow – staggering their launches over the next few months instead of all at once as was usual in years past. From what we can tell, iPhones that will be

Bangkok has long been associated with custom tailoring, attracting local residents, business travellers and international visitors looking for clothing made specifically for them. But having a suit made in Bangkok is not simply about choosing a fabric and taking measurements.  With so many tailors across Bangkok, finding one that really delivers can be a difficult process. Luckily, we’ve put together a list of some of the best, to make that journey a little easier.  And needless to say, the quality of the experience really depends on how well the tailor understands style – as well as all the other important steps like garment construction, how fittings are handled and whether the tailor clearly explains what the customer is buying. For anyone comparing bespoke tailors in Bangkok, the decision should go beyond price or speed. A good tailoring experience also depends on how clearly the tailor explains what is being made, how the garment is constructed, how fittings are handled and whether the final result suits the customer’s body, lifestyle and intended use. For this guide, we take a closer look at the process through Class Bespoke Tailor (on one our list of best Bangkok tailors, actually) and follow their process from stitch to suit. With two showrooms, one in Sukhumvit and the other in Thonglor, you’re never more than a few BTS stops away from a new bespoke suit to add to your wardrobe.  Photograph: Class Bespoke TailorThe best bespoke suit tailored in Bangkok Start by u

Perhaps you’re craving a pan of paella, sizzling at the edges with piles of seafood on the top. Maybe you’re craving something more meaty – plates of jamón, croquetas and other tapas shared between friends. Or the pop of a Spanish wine is all you crave, perchance, after a long hard day at work.  Either way, one thing’s clear: Spanish food travels remarkably well. And in Bangkok, there’s many opportunities to try it when that craving hits. But with Spanish cuisine becoming increasingly international, how can diners know when they’re getting the real thing? That’s where ‘Restaurants from Spain’ comes in – an international certification programme recognising restaurants outside Spain that demonstrate a genuine commitment to Spanish gastronomy. Photograph: El TapeoRestaurants from Spain Authentic food has never been this easy to find Simply guessing the quality or authenticity of Spanish food in Bangkok is now a thing of the past.  Whether it's an easy side of patatas bravas or more exciting plate of bacalao a la riojana (salt cod cooked with red peppers), distinctive seals make for an easy shortcut for diners: spot it at a restaurant and you know the establishment has been recognised for representing the food, produce and hospitality of Spain. Brought to the city by the Spanish Trade Commission, this international certification programme developed by ICEX Spain Trade and Investment looks beyond single dishes. Rather, they recognise restaurants around the world that offer an au

Love a good wine? Love Redbox and need an excuse to go back? Or simply looking for a reason to do something a little fancier next week? Chiang Mai’s Redbox Restaurant is heading to Italy for one night only, teaming up with Orion and historic Italian winemaker Marchesi Antinori for an intimate wine-pairing dinner on Monday, September 7. The evening begins at 6.30pm with canapés and a first glass of wine, followed by a specially curated four-course dinner from 7pm. Across the night, five Italian wines have been selected to complement Redbox’s distinctive take on Thai and Chiang Mai flavours. Photograph: RedboxChiang Mai What’s on the menu? Canapés  A selection of Thai-flavour inspired bites to kick things off.  Wine: Marchesi Antinori, Franciacorta Cuvee Royale DOCG Brut NV  Golden Bloom Southern Thai crab is served in a bowl of rich golden egg jus, delicately placed over a bed of caramelised onions and cut through with chive oil and finished with a crisp curry tuile. Wine: Tormaresca Chardonnay IGT 2024 Royal Heritage Free range roasted chicken is served with compressed papaya and a deliciously fragrant coconut rice ketupat, presented hanging playfully from a branch.Wine: Villa S.Andrea Chianti Classico DOCG 2022 Smoked Duck Breast Perfectly seared smoked breast meets red curry essence, black garlic, carrot, silky egg and northern corn. Wine: Tenuta Guado al Tasso, Il Bruciato Bolgheri DOC 2023   Dessert A sweet finishing best experienced in person. Wine: Prunotto Moscato d’

There are certain things parents learn to appreciate on holiday: an uninterrupted coffee, ten minutes beside the pool without being asked for a snack, or perhaps even the wildly ambitious prospect of finishing a chapter of a book. Enter Le Petit Prince Kids Club. The new space at Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort takes Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's much-loved story and turns it into 175 square metres of climbing, sliding and generally keeping children very busy. Subtle it certainly is not. A large yellow-and-white ball pit anchors one side of the room, while a soft-play route threads past miniature houses and role-play spaces before opening into the wider play area. A central tree structure, low tables, quiet corners and smaller activity zones encourage different kinds of play, from climbing and physical exploration to imaginative role play, independent activities and playing alongside others.  It sets out to feel less like one big playroom and more like a series of small worlds children can move between depending on what takes their interest. Photograph: Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa ResortBangkok The club draws on the planet, desert, rose garden, forest and aviation themes from the original Little Prince story. For anyone who prefers a slightly less energetic form of entertainment, there are reading corners, arts and crafts, digital stations and a separate mini cinema, complete with tiered seating, glowing stars, cloud-covered walls and a popcorn machine that

Update 24 August 2026: Before they could even take off, Ezy Airlines has cancelled their plans for two Northern Thailand routes, dashing hopes for residents of Mae Hong Son and tourists. The airline reportedly faced aircraft parking fees of around B40,000 per stop, making the routes financially unsustainable. Its operations in Southern Thailand will continue.   First published 21st July 2026 If you've ever tackled the 1,864 curves on the Mae Hong Son loop and thought, ‘there has to be an easier way to get to Mae Hong Son,’ good news: there soon will be. Thailand’s small-plane regional carrier, EZY Airlines, is set to launch regular direct flights between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son, making one of northern Thailand's most spectacular provinces far quicker – and a whole lot less twisty – to reach. Until now, getting to Mae Hong Son has usually meant either a very long drive through the mountains or a combination of buses, minivans and carsickness. Now, the airline gives us a new lifeline, with the inaugural commercial flight departing on September 17, before ramping up to full operations by October 1.  EZY AirlinesPhotograph: EZY Airlines The flights will operate using a 12-seat aircraft (a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX for all you nerds out there), leaving you up-close-and-personal with the pilot and the views. According to the airline, large panoramic windows make it ideal for mountain gazing, while comfortable seating and a charter-style departure process that skips the usu

Sure, Thailand may not have made the FIFA World Cup, but who needs it? Tonight – and then all over again next Wednesday – Thailand and Vietnam go head-to-head as two of Southeast Asia’s biggest footballing rivals battle it out in the ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 final. This Saturday, August 22, Thailand host the first leg of the final two games at Bangkok's Rajamangala National Stadium, with kick-off at 8pm, before everyone does the whole thing again in Hanoi on Wednesday, August 26. And yes, you read that correctly: there are two matches in the final (more on that below).   Thailand and Vietnam: the usual ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 finalists This will be the third ASEAN Championship final in a row between Thailand and Vietnam, adding another chapter to what has become one of Southeast Asian football's fiercest rivalries. Thailand beat Vietnam 3-2 on aggregate to win the 2022 tournament, but Vietnam returned the favour in 2024, winning both legs and taking the title 5-3 on aggregate. That makes this year's final something of a decider. Vietnam arrive as defending champions and in particularly intimidating form, brushing Malaysia aside 4-0 on aggregate in the semi-finals without conceding a goal. Thailand's route was rather more dramatic: the War Elephants beat Singapore 3-1 away before losing 2-1 at home, squeezing through 4-3 on aggregate. Thailand are now chasing a record-extending eighth ASEAN Championship title, while Vietnam have the opportunity to successfully defend their crown.