The little town of Tha-ton in Thailand’s far north has earned a place on the tourist track for being the kick-off point for river cruises to Chiang Rai, but it has remained wonderfully authentic and unassuming. It’s a beguiling spot to spend a few days, exploring the local villages, hiking or biking along the banks of the Mae Kok, or taking in the emerald brilliance of the rice fields and surrounding jungle. For those not wanting to go as far as Chiang Rai, there are also boat trips to various nearby destinations, including several hill tribe settlements and the Burmese border.