Bangkok is on top of the "Top 10 Cities Overall" list in the magazine's World Best 2008 reader survey, ahead of other famous capitals like Buenos Aires, Sydney and Florence, which won last year.

Plus Chiang Mai has won the third place in the "Top 10 Cities Asia" list, after Bangkok and Kyoto in Japan.

Travel + Leisure, with 4.8 million readers, is a monthly magazine based in New York City.

A break with THAI

Fly Thai Airways International on Business class to Auckland, New Zealand, and enjoy one-night complimentary hotel accommodation with breakfast.

The promotion covers two passengers flying together, and can be redeemed at either Mercure Hotel Auckland or Mercure Windsor Auckland.

The promotion is available until October 30, and is offered to Thais and foreign residents with a minimum of six-months on their work permit.

Ride into a green Thailand

Put your car in the garage and jump on your bicycle to explore the greenery in Thawi Wattana - Bangkok's western suburb. Organised by Thailand Green Ride, the trips vary from one to three days cycling through the rice paddies, charming temples, scenic canals, floating market and more. Thailand Green Ride is organised by two programmers, who find bicycles sexier than computers. Their one-day trip starts at Bt2,700 per person, includes bike, refreshments, entrance fee and English-speaking guide. Hotel transfers can be arranged.

Call (02) 888 9637 or visit www.ThailandGreenRide.com.

Five-star charity

Marriott Resort and Spas are continuing with their "Spirit to Serve our Communities" campaign. Recently, Atila Erda, brand director of sales and marketing, right, together with sales teams from Marriott Resorts and Spas Thailand and Anantara Resorts and Spa, hosted a special lunch and presented Bt20,000 in cash, plus groceries and stationary to Phetchaburi Panyanukul School. The donations will cover the school's project for autistic students.