Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai, commonly known as Chiengmai, is the largest city in northern Thailand and the country's third-largest metropolis after Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima. It is the religious, economic, cultural, educational, and transportation heart for northern Thailand.

Chiang Mai has the look of a huge village—orderly, clean, traditional, and nearly sprawling—in contrast to the generally densely packed Asian city. This city is well-known for its Thai handicrafts. Small villages surrounding specialize in silversmithing, woodcarving, and the production of ceramics, umbrellas, and lacquerware.

Nation: Thailand

No. Tourists: more than 2 million annually

Best time to visit: October to April