When venturing into Southeast Asia, Thailand is the obvious first stop. Bangkok is the gateway to all the wonderful places in that part of the world. Whether you decide to take a slow boat down the Mekong in Laos, go to Angkor Wat in Cambodia or see the petronas towers of Malaysia, it will be very difficult for you to avoid the hustle and bustle of Bangkok!

That said, Thailand has a great many pockets that you absolutely must not miss! You’re there already so why not explore some of the lesser-known destinations. One of the most amazing of which I have found to be Pai! Pai is located in Northwestern Thailand, about an hour and a half drive from the border of Burma (Myanmar). This quaint little mountain town is unlike any I have ever seen. It’s very small, about 3,000 residents, many of whom are expats. The downtown is only 3 streets of bars, clubs and eateries packed with travelers of all ages from around the world. Stay there a week and it will feel like you know everyone! In fact, after 5 days, you will be able to spot the starry-eyed newcomers as if you’d been there for years.

As most small towns go, this one is truly unique! People going there for a day or two, usually end up staying a lot longer. How much can you possibly do in a town that only has 3 streets you ask? Well, that is the magic of this enchanted oasis. Rent yourself a scooter, it should cost no more than 80 bhat ($3 US)  per day and explore the area. Within a 20 minute ride, you will find picturesque waterfalls, rejuvinating hot springs, ancient temples and an elephant park. Most of your nights will be spent drinking ’till the wee hours of the morning (some of the clubs don’t get going until 2 AM).  As small as it may seem at first, the sheer variety of entertainment is mind-boggling! Hip little bars are found in places you never could imagine! From poi-spinning dancers to untra-cool decor to amazing live jazz music to bars that are so hidden you will not find them unless someone special takes you. This is a place that will capture your imagination and surprise you every moment you are lucky enough to spend there.

There is a great little pool just on the outsikirts of town, about a 3 minute ride from the center. It’s a great way to overcome any nasty remnants of a night of drinking excitement. When you arrive, get yourself a mat to lay on or occupy a hammock by the poolside, they’re free. Enjoy a beer or two while letting the hot sun erase the nasty remnants of a night of great party and strong drinks. Get to know some of the other lounging travelers, everyone’s really friendly and you most likely will see them again later on that evening.  Before the sun sets and you retire for a pre-party nap, indulge your senses in some amazing streetside noodles or sit down at a restaurant for a bowl of hearty and spicy soup! The choice of lodging is vast and there is no bad place! So go back home, hopefully you found one with a porch and hammock, get some rest and prepare yourself for a magnicificent night of fun in Pai!

My experience in Pai transformed the entire tip for me! I initially planned on staying for no more than a couple of days. When I finally returned the motorbike I rented, the bill was a shock to me. It was a shock not because of the cost but because of how long I ended up staying there. I lost all track of time spent close to a month in Pai. But you know what? I don’t regret a single minute of it! Happy travels my friends!

Written By: Bert Bogomolny