The west coast of Thailand is famed for its sparklng clear blue waters, snorkeling and diving. Phuket Island is an international resort connected to the mainland by a causeway and home to some of the most exclusive hotels in Thailand. Almost 80 percent of the island is mountainous, enveloped by dense forests and nature reserves with nothing but the most idyllic beaches.

Thailand's Best Kept Secret: Koh Lipe

This beautiful place has relatively been little known to travelers, but  that is fast changing. Recent years have seen rows of bars, cafés, souvenir shops, water sport operators and chalets mushroom on this tiny green gem of an island in Satun Province.

Chiang Mai: Rose of the North

Often referred to as the ‘Rose of the North’, Chiang Mai is the economic and cultural centre of Northern Thailand and the focus of tourism within the region. Tropical mountain ranges and hills come out from lush, fertile jungle greenery. Numerous national parks display an abundance of flowers and wildlife, particularly elephants. And you can visit tribal peoples and tribal villages.

You can meet and greet Vietnam’s most renowned artisans, and buy their wares, at prominent Vietnamese Handicraft Villages. It's a world-renowned distinction that Vietnam is extraordinarily rich in handicrafts.

Probably the most famous Vietnam handicrafts are bamboo-made, lacquer and ceramic plates and bowls, which are arguably produced at higher quality and cheaper prices than anywhere else in the world. Aside from those, there is also wide range of horn, stone and wicker products, among other clever and beautiful handmade goods.