Pai, The pastoral town in Mae Hong Son province nestled in the northern mountains of Thailand, has become a base camp for eco-explorers of all ages, with trekking and staying over at hill-tribe villages, whitewater rafting and mountain biking being some of the most attractive options. Close to this town are waterfalls and rolling green hills. And the town itself offers a wealth of classes in everything from Reiki to traditional massage to various New Age disciplines.

A favourite haunt for young travelers, Pai is slowly moving more up market thanks to its new airport. But its increasing popularity has yet to sully the town’s tranquil charm, art galleriescum-coffee shops in century-old wooden dwellings, and riverside bungalows in every price range.