Need to know
Airlines: Bangkok makes the ideal starting point for explorations of northern Thailand, with excellent flights and overland connections within the country. British Airways and Thai Airways fly direct from London.
Where to stay: Bodhi Serene Hotel (from £51 a night); Kirimaya (from £78 a night).
Travel agents: Audley; Selective Asia
Photographs courtesy of: Leon Rice-Whetton; echiner1; ZenoWai09; Christian Haugen; Sarawut Korsoongsak; Stephane L; Dennis Jarvis; Mark Fischer
