In a lot of my articles about traveling, I discourage the idea of trying to see too many places at once and advocate the idea of settling down in one locale and really getting your money’s worth. I still stand by that, but I do realize that most people are limited on time when it comes to traveling, and that when you go on your first international mission, it is extremely hard to control the urge.

I did the same thing on my first international trip—a whirlwind tour of Western Europe. So, keeping that in mind, I want to mention a few locations in Thailand that I would make a must-see location if I was coming through—if you’re on a smorgasbord trip, this is what you should see.

1. Bangkok

When I first came to Thailand, the last thing I ever thought I’d do is write a list like this with Bangkok on it. In fact, I had hardly any desire to breathe this city’s air at all. But having been there several times, I have to say that Bangkok is a definite must-see.

The fact of the matter is that Bangkok is deeply imbedded in the heart of Thailand. It is Thailand crammed into one central location—all the chaos and skeletons out there for everyone to see. It’s exciting, fascinating, repulsive at times, and you’ll never forget it. Spend at least a few days to a week in Bangkok—by that time, you’ll probably be ready to leave.

2. Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is known by many as the “cultural center” of Thailand, and to many it is their pride and joy. An interesting city that has embraced the modern world but is riddled with remnants of the old temples and crumbled city walls around a charming moat, it is a mix of old and new Thailand.

I should caution you though, that 3 days in Chiang Mai will leave you wondering just what the big deal is. Make it a week at the minimum and you’ll start to figure it out.

3. Krabi

How could you come to Thailand and not see Krabi? This place boasts one of the most beautiful, unearthly landscapes in the world and is an adventurer’s as well as a romantic backpacker’s vision of heaven on Earth. Try to spend a week or two there, and I guarantee you’ll want to never leave.

4. Pattaya

Look, like it or not, going to Thailand and not at least having a look at the spectacle that is Pattaya is like going to Nevada and skipping Vegas. It’s ugly, it’s perverse, and the things that go on there can and do drive a person mad, but you’ve just got to go once.

5. Anywhere in the Middle of Nowhere

Finally, you need to take a moment when you’re in Thailand and go get lost in the middle of nowhere. I’m not talking about the outskirts of Bangkok—I’m talking about the mountains, Baby. I’m talking about as country bumpkin as it gets.

There’s nothing like a Thai village in the middle of nowhere—not a lick of English, smiles from earlobe to earlobe, some funky dancing to old school Thai tunes, and some of the greatest hospitality on the planet. Try the homemade whiskey—yep, you’ll regret it, but the experience is worth the pain.