Hall of Opium (Chiang Rai): The Golden Triangle in northern Thailand is no longer the drug-smuggling hotbed that it once was, but the fascination with the opium-growing days still blooms. Multi-media and sensory exhibits guide visitors through the wild history of kingpins, cartels, and the 5,000-year chronicle of poppy growing and opium trade in Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos.

The Jim Thompson House (Bangkok): A visit to the home of Thailand’s most famous expat and the founding father of the Thai silk trade. Thompson cobbled this teak treasure from old homes around the region and reassembled it in Bangkok before he mysteriously disappeared in the Malaysian jungle in 1967. Wandering the gardens and taking a tour of the house is a charming way to spend an hour and a half.

Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre (Bangkok): The BACC lacks a permanent collection which means there is always something new to see. The nine floors of display space bring a rotating showcase of exciting contemporary exhibits. Private collections and up-and-coming Asian artists are on regular rotation, and the cultural center is a nice place to do some last-minute shopping.

Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles (Bangkok): The crowds at the Grand Palace can get overwhelming, which is why too many tourists, making a quick exit, miss this gem. It displays many of the queen’s formal gowns from over the years, and offers visitors a greater understanding of the Thai silk industry and the craftsmanship that goes into making the exquisite dresses. Plus it’s not nearly as crowded as the rest of the palace!

MAIIAM Contemporary Museum (Chiang Mai): Chaing Mai is an art lovers’ paradise, supporting a vibrant local community of artists and gallery owners. The city’s artsy hub is the MAIIAM Contemporary Museum, which has traditional art galleries to as well as spaces for performance art, film screenings, educational talks, and fashion and design exhibits.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.