Anyone who’s ever been to Bangkok will agree that it’s buzzing, frenetic and an eye opener – but it isn’t a place you go to relax and rejuvenate!

That’s why I booked a holiday to Thailand that included four nights in Bangkok and a week in Northern Thailand, incorporating Chaing Mai, Thailand’s second largest city and a weekend trekking in Pai.

Both Bangkok and Chaing Mai are wonderful cities, in very different ways. I think it’s great to see both if you go to Thailand.

Bangkok is busy, bustling and full of surprises, from the craziness of back packer Mecca the Khao San Road to the unbelievable temples. One activity not to miss is to take a long boat cruise on the Chao Praya River, which runs through the heart of the city– just try not to fall in as the boats are very narrow!

Chaing Mai is a world apart. It’s sunnier, fresher and quieter than Bangkok, with a lovely ambience. There is a massive street market every Thursday evening where the treasures on sale have a strongly traditional feel. There are many tribal and Burmese influences in the handicrafts and textiles on offer and it is definitely worth waiting until you come here before you buy your souvenirs.

It’s easy to find a tour guide in Chaing Mai who will take you into the foothills of Pai and lead you through the jungle, staying at traditional hill villages on the way. This is as basic as it gets, but the experience is magical. The local people are so welcoming and treat you like old friends, and there is so much to see and do, from elephant riding to bamboo rafting.