Lee Cobaj

There are so many things to do in Chiang Mai. Bundled in a broad valley, ringed by some of the highest mountains in the country and cut by the grand Mae Ping River, the city often feels more like a large village than Thailand's second city. As the seat of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, with cultural treasures on almost every corner, Chiang Mai is infused with a meaningful sense of history, not to mention some of the country's most exciting cuisine. It's also one of Asia's coolest creative hubs, home to stylish boutique hotels, hip cafés, leafy co-working spaces and a large university population.  Done something on this list and loved it? Share it with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere. Find out more about how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world.

Cocooned within the Gulf of Thailand, affording it with calm seas and clear blue skies for the majority of the year, is it any surprise that the best things to do in Koh Samui are bound to ravage your idea of what's wonderful in life. This is the Thai island that can be whatever you want it to be. Looking for beach clubs and full moon parties? You got it. In need of family time? There are plenty of gentle beaches and fun water activities. How about yoga, meditation and massages? You’ll find spas, fitness studios and wellness workshops on almost every corner—as well as picture-perfect rainforests, pretty fishing villages and peaceful beaches; plus plenty of amazing hotels to call home base. Done something on this list and loved it? Share it with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere. Find out more about how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world.