SAMUI ISLAND GUIDE

We really enjoyed our stay at this excellent villa which is just on the outskirts of the main city of Chiang Mai, 15 min from the airport. We were welcomed in the main lobby with very friendly staff who showed us to our room without any delays. All the rooms are given names, we stayed in a bedroom call ‘Chiang Chaom’, it was very clean and comfortable, and decorated in the Thai tradition. The air-conditioned room has a living space with a large comfortable sofa, coffee table with a satelliteTV and DVD, friodge and minibar. The bathroom was very clean it has a walk-in wet room withshower and a large scultured bath made from concrete with a varnished finish and a waterfall fill feature. All the rooms have a view of the pool and the river (Mae Ping). All in all I can highly recommend this Villa.

Chiang Mai was our first stop on a 3 week trip taking us to many places from north to south in Thailand. After a fantastic overnight train ride from Bangkok (book 1st class sleeper it is worth it) we were taken by taxi to the resort. Please note that the resort is a good bit outside the city of Chiang Mai, up the winding roads into the mountains but transportation is cheap and as we were visiting the region and not just the city this was perfect. We rented a taxi and driver for the 4 days we were there and he was there ready to take us wherever we wanted whenever we wanted.
The hotel and resort is beautifully landscaped and the views of the surrounding gardens and mountains spectacular. We stayed in a relatively newly built double room that was huge, felt like a suite with separate sitting room, balcony and a good sized bathroom. Spotlessly clean with everything one would need for a great hotel stay. Breakfast was a buffé with chefs preparing eggs to taste. There was a pool that the kids enjoyed but this is not the main feature of the resort. The spa on the other hand was great. I have seldom had such a good Thai massage as there. And the serenity surrounding the place made me relax in a minute.
My neighbor who grew up in Thailand found the hotel for us and it was just great. Didn’t seem that many other westerners had found it though as there were mostly asians staying there. This added to the feeling of being in a truly asian paradise.

We enjoyed eurasia. The garden is a lust for the sences.
it’s a little outside of town but a free shullte bus wich runs every hour brings you right in the center of chiang mai.
We stayed in one of the bungalows and enjoyed it. Only minor pont was that the electricy box was right above the shower. In my opinion unsafe.

Its not toprated luxury. but so aren’t their prices. We stayed low season and there were not many guests. Breakfast buffet was minimal but everything you asked extra was served at your table at no extta cost. Staff was very friendly and although the hotel is not family owned, we felt as it was.

My stay at RarinJinda Wellness Spa was memorable, one I will never forget. Great mixture of modern accommodation and precious spa in a relaxing atmosphere. The hotel situated in an excellent location, with close access to the town centre (within walking distance) and superb view. The room, facilities and service were five-star at an affordable price.

This spa hotel is pretty close to perfect except for the noise surrounding the hotel and the hard beds. Since they only have 35 rooms, it’s a more intimate and quiet type of setting. When we arrived, the front desk greeted me by name without me introducing myself. I was pretty impressed.

It’s one of the nicest hotels I’ve been to. What I love about Kaomai Lanna is that it’s green everywhere. I felt so relaxed and peaceful. It’s not just a nicely decorated boutique hotel or resort that are plenty in Chiangmai. I went there with my family and all of us loved it!

Our stay at Yaang Come Village was exceptional. I am so happy we decided to stay at Yaang Come Village. It was beyond our expecations. The architectural design and landscape is a work of genius, with each detail creating a delicate and free-flowing calming ambience.

We stayed in the deluxe superior room, 2nd floor overlooking the pool—no noise from construction, and no mosquitos– and this was without any kind of repellent (we told management that we had asthma problems). We couldn’t have wanted a more aesthetic and comforting place to stay. The room, just the right size; the bed, extremely comfortable; amenities, luxurious. The staff went out of their way to help us on a number of occasions. Their willingness to please us in a genuinely warm and friendly way was beyond the norm for “good service”. Even when we accidently left one of our bags at the hotel, after checking out, they sent their driver a few hours later to bring it to us, 25 km away from the city, without asking for payment (even when offered).

We would like to make special mention of general manager,Ms. Rung-aroon, who we saw work ’round the clock, personally attending to the guests, (including yours truly!) in all facets of their stay. This personal touch was truly remarkable, and showed us how such involvement could make a difference.

Without hesitation, we would strongly recommend Yaang Come
for a special Chiang Mai experience!

This place was as good as advertised and better. Peaceful, quiet, beautiful. It was a needed change of pace after 5 days in bangkok. My only regret is we didnt stay longer ( only 2 nights). The grounds are simply perfection. Every detail is taken care of with an amount of passion that is rivialed nowhere else.

I travel frequently on business and I would say this is the best place I have ever stayed. I slept better here than at home.

Boutique Resorts (Style with a personal touch)

Baan Gong Kham Boutique Lanna

This restful Northern Lanna style resort merges contemporary materials with native teak wood. Its eight guestrooms are inspired by the charm and simplicity of locals and their lifestyles.

Price from 58 US$* (1,900 Baht)
Fern Paradise

An idyllic nine-room resort where guests delight in the natural diversity of rare ferns, enjoy authentic Lanna architecture and interiors, and relish a peaceful stay away from city crowds.

Price from 76 US$* (2,500 Baht)
Bhodi Serene Hotel

This boutique hotel features 38 spacious rooms decked out in a contemporary Lanna style with a hint of Chinese décor. Thanks to its serene surroundings, a stay here can be likened to a rare enlightening experience…

Price from 82 US$*(2,700 Baht)
Karinthip Village

A beautiful boutique resort conveniently located in the middle of the city near Tapae Gate, Karinthip Village is one of Chiangmai’s most famous entrance gates and opposite Wat Chom Poo. The hotel has 62 guestrooms, including Deluxe, Superior and Suite (Karinthip Suite, Junior Suite and Fantasy Suite). All rooms have mini bar, television with satellite and a Jacuzzi with open-air private garden bathroom.

Price from 70 US$* (2,299 Baht)
The Field Village

These ten luxurious teak stilt cottages on the outskirts of Chiang Mai are flanked by rice fields, gardens and mountains. Neo-classical Lanna architecture and artworks shape the style.

Price from 100 US$* (3,300 Baht)
Veranda Chiang Mai The High Resort

Located outside the city of Chiang Mai, Veranda Chiang Mai The High Resort offers a total Zen experience from the moment of arrival. Divided into two zones, the resort on one side represents the cultural heritage of the north and the other a contemporary style. The resort features 69 rooms on the slopes above a valley, with stunning views over a landscape of mountains and rice fields.

Price from 165 US$* (5,450 Baht)
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City Center Hotels (Close to Shopping & Entertainment)

Amari Rincome Hotel

Amari Rincome Hotel, just ten minutes from Chiang Mai Airport, is perfectly situated for exploring Chiang Mai city or for day-trips into the northern highlands. Situated in a quiet area only 500 meters away from Kad Suan Kaew, the largest hopping centre in Northern Thailand

Price from 50 US$*(1,650 Baht)
Centara Duangtawan Hotel

A modern hotel with 500 rooms in the heart of Chiang Mai City. Just a few steps from the Night Bazaar, one of Asia’s most fascinating markets.

Price from 50 US$* (1,650 Baht)
Novotel Chiang Mai

Offering gracious Thai hospitality and the flair of an International hotel chain, Novotel Chiang Mai features 159 rooms, two restaurants, two bars, a swimming pool and fitness centre. Conference facilities are for up to 600 delegates. The Tantawan Pool on the third floor offers a panoramic view of Doi Suthep. Bask in the sunshine as you sample delightful cocktails and snacks from the poolside café.

Price from 32 US$* (1,067 Baht)
Bossotel Inn Chiang Mai

Situated near the Mae Ping River, the Bossotel Chiang Mai is only a short drive from the busy city centre and the main tourist sites. Its 150 rooms are modern and simple, equipped with all the amenities to ensure a pleasurable stay, and there’s a wide selection of facilities and services on hand.

Price from 27 US$*(900 Baht)
Maninarakorn

Opened in 2006, this chic hotel features 120 rooms in a location where the Night Bazaar, Airport, train station and bus stop are only a few minutes away. Rooms are spacious and tastefully decked out in contemporary Lanna-style, complete with modern amenities like a flat-screen television, DVD player and satellite channels. The hotel’s facilities include a shopping arcade, Jacuzzi, swimming pool, steam, sauna, meeting and massage facilities.

Price from 36 US$* (1,200 Baht)
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Family Resorts (Family Friendly with great facilities)

Sofitel Riverside Chiang Mai Hotel

Sofitel Riverside Chiang Mai is situated in the city centre, by the Ping River in Northern Thailand. It is four kilometres from Chiang Mai Airport, and close to the city’s historic attractions and famous Night Bazaar. Ideal for a holiday or a business trip, each of its 74 Deluxe Rooms and suites has a private balcony with river views and combines ancient Chiang Mai heritage with modern amenities.

Price from 249 US$* (8,212 Baht)
Puripunn Baby Grand

An intimate small luxury property with 30 guestrooms designed in a contemporary Lanna architectural style. Rooms are equipped with flatscreen TV, CD/DVD player and tea- and coffee-making facilities. The hotel is situated in the midst of one of Chiang Mai’s centuries-old communities where ancient Lanna treasures and cultural traditions have been well-preserved.

Price from 180 US$* (5,950 Baht)
Imperial Chiang Mai Resort Spa & Sports Club

A sports club-cum-hotel located in a thick of trees, right on the banks of the Mae Ping River. The refreshing climate and relaxed rhythm of living here have made it a favourite of both nature lovers and city slickers. Breathtaking views of mountains, the swimming pool, garden and trees from most of the 45 rooms and three suites.

Price from 82 US$* (2,700 Baht)
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Five Star Resorts (When you want the Best!)

Dusit D2 Chiang Mai

Voted one of the world’s hottest hotels by Conde Naste, D2 is a striking blend of vibrant colours, natural materials and modern textures. Hip facilities include an exceptional bar, restaurant and spa.

Price from 185 US$* (6,100 Baht)
Rarin Jinda

A no-luxury spared health spa resort overlooking Chiang Mai’s delightful Ping River. Enchanting rooms, therapies, sounds, cuisine and views are just some of this city sanctuary’s charms.

Price from 130 US$* (4,300 Baht)
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

Luxurious accommodations in spacious Lanna-style pavilions overlook terraced rice fields and the mountains in the beautiful Mae Rim Valley.

Price from 509 US$ (16,800 Baht*)
Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi

Set amidst 60 acres of gardens, this Lanna-style resort offers boundless bodily extravagances amid untold oriental opulence. Everything from the suites to the spa is steeped in local culture.

Price from 504 US$ (16,630 Baht*)
Holiday Inn Chiang Mai

This haven of comfort and style is located in the most fascinating city in the north of Thailand. The hotel is only minutes from some of the city’s most famous temples and the renowned Night Bazaar. Its 526 guest rooms are designed for total relaxation. Enjoy great food and live entertainment at the hotel’s restaurants and 24-hour lobby lounge.

Price from 66 US$ (2,166 Baht*)
The Chedi Chiang Mai Hotel and Resort

With a unique atmosphere, Thai hospitality and five-star facilities, this is no doubt one of the Chiang Mai’s finest resorts. Strategically placed on the banks of the Mae Ping River, this elegant sanctuary features 84 exquisite bedrooms and suites with private courtyards and open balconies. The hotel also features several restaurants, meeting rooms, a swimming pool, fitness centre, spa and massage services.

Price from 300 US$* (9,900 Baht)
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Mountainside Resorts (Cool Breezes and great views)

Belle Villa Resort

A superb new boutique resort in the beautiful northern hills of Chiang Mai. Facilities include Spa, golf course, tennis court, camp fire, etc.

Price from 68 US$*(2,240 Baht)
Baan Klang Doi Hotel Resort & Spa

Northern Thai style houses set in a village atmosphere perfectly located on the protected mountains area of National Park. Suitable for couple or large family.

Price from 55 US$*(1,799 Baht)
Panviman Resort

Hemmed in by forests teeming with fruit and vegetables, the Panviman Resort offers a distinctive natural experience for its guests. It features 35 villas, suites and rooms in a superior Lanna style, each coupling wood floorings, soft lights and rich Thai furnishings with hi-tech amenities. Includes The Viman Natural Spa, a forest view restaurant and swimming pool.

Price from 127 US$* (4,200 Baht)
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Around Chiang Mai

Baan Pai Village

Consisting of three different types of accommodation, Ban Pai village offers more than 100 ‘Charming Pai Huts’ to meet the needs of a wide range of guests. Ban Pai Village is an environmentally friendly home away from home. Enjoy spectacular mountain views and see villagers go about their daily chores. The resort’s facilities include Poppies Wine Bar & Café, Jandara Spa and traditional Thai massage services.

Price from 27 US$* (900 Baht)
Anantara Resort and Spa Golden Triangle

Luxury living in beautiful surroundings - perched on a ridge overlooking the hills of Myanmar and Laos. Guestrooms feature Thai artwork and decor.

Price from 292 US$* (9,650 Baht)
Centara Maesot

Nestled in the cool northern mountains amidst the remoteness of pristine jungle, this charming four-storey resort provides modern-day comforts in an enchanting tryst with nature.

Price from 43 US$* (1,360 Baht)
Phupai Art Resort

In Mae Hong Sorn province, this resort is surrounded by beguiling mountains and is exquisitely constructed on a clean riverbank rich with local flora, rice fields and traditional culture. The honeymoon suites overlook rice fields, the deluxe rooms nestle amidst local plants and flowers, and the superior rooms enjoy the company of aromatic local plants.

Price from 91 US$* (3,000 Baht)
The Quarter Hotel

Situated in the centre of Pai, a serene village in the north of Thailand, The Quarter Hotel is well connected to all kinds of facilities and famous attractions. Surrounded by scenic views of mountains and lush scenery, it offers 36 guestrooms, including 24 double rooms and 12 twin rooms. Every room is uniquely named after tropical flowers such as Champa, Leelawadee and Chaba.

Price from 76 US$* (2,500 Baht)
Imperial Tara Mae Hong Son

Escape to the remote beauty of this remote northwestern corner of Thailand. This rustic resort features the joys of traditional Thai hospitality and 104 enchanting guestrooms, and has been designed to blend in seamlessly with its surroundings and the region’s cultural traditions. Includes a fitness centre, sauna and swimming pool.

No doubt about it, Thailand is one of the coolest places on the planet. It’s so cheap and chilled you could spend months here just relaxing, living off a tenner a day, and have an experience of a life time.

Northern Thailand is especially popular with backpackers; it’s not full of saddo package tourists like Phuket is, nor manic like Bangkok and the whole town is geared up for budget, free-spirited travellers. The old town is full of amazing guesthouses tucked away down quiet lanes, and you can almost feel like they’re home. There are some groovy bars and wicked places to party, plus loads of brilliant little restaurants all over the place serving veggie and organic food, or spicy Thai curries and noodles for less than a buck a meal.

Chiang Mai is full of backpackers and has a really laid back atmosphere; everyone here is down to earth and friendly, which is why many stay longer than planned. It’s one of the cheapest tourist places in Thailand and you’re spoilt for choice. Hire yourself a small motorbike and explore the fantastic natural areas that are so close to the city, such as Doi Suithep mountain, the beautiful Mae Sa valley and the small villages near the town. There are plenty of adrenalin pumping activities too, from white-water rafting to rock climbing, bungy jumping and mountain biking.

Many use Chiang Mai as a perfect base to go trekking, for sure this is one the main reasons people come up North and there are plenty of companies about town offering all sorts of options to head into the amazing mountains for a few days and stay in hill tribe villages, ride elephants and skiff down pristine rivers.

You absolutely can’t come north without visiting Pai. This sleepy little town, three hours north over the mountain ranges is hardly a secret anymore, but a top place to chill and hang out with plenty of other free-spirits. Set in gorgeous rural surroundings beside a pretty little river, this small town has a brilliant bohemian atmosphere, and is a budget place that guarantees that the mass of tourists stay away. People stay for weeks; there are yoga and new age pursuits, healthy food, live music in the bars, cheap beer and lots of friendly relaxed people.

The city of Nophaburi Sri Nakorn Ping Chiangmai was auspiciously founded by King Mengrai in the early hours of April 12 1296. Chiangmai was intended to be the great new capital of the thriving Lanna Kingdom and indeed it was to become one of the most important cities in the region.

The moat and corner bastions make Chiangmai unique
The square laid out was 1800m by 2000m, and in time a moat would be added to mark out the boundaries of Chiangmai and safeguard the people within. At each corner a bastion, each with cosmological significance, was built, while the four main gates located on each of the flanks faced towards the four points of the compass. Today these landmarks remain to form an overwhelmingly unique character of Chiangmai for which this historical city is famed for.

In those early days of Chiangmai the Ping river, to the east of the original settlement, was the primary focus of the valley and brought traders from China and beyond as well as providing water for the agriculture that has long been a mainstay of the local economy. Today visitors to Chiangmai come from all over the world, not as traders but tourists who admire the incredible history, relax among the beautiful nature and enjoy the famous Thai hospitality.

Over the centuries the Lanna kingdom grew in strength and Chiangmai became a wealthy centre. The many beautiful temples and chedis that still stand today are a legacy of Chiangmai’s distinguished past, and a distinctive culture developed independently of the great kingdoms of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya that were to arise after the heyday of the Lanna kingdom.

Tapae Square on a sunny Sunday afternoon
Though Chiangmai may have been overrun by the Burmese and almost deserted at one time, the Lanna culture survived intact, passing down ancient traditions and skills. Modern Chiangmai relies heavily on its past, and a thriving handicraft industry based on timeless skills and methods has turned it into one of Thailand’s shopping magnets.

Welcoming visitors is an art perfected in Chiangmai, and recent decades have seen the city emerge as one of Asia’s most popular and best value destinations. People come to experience the beautiful mountainous scenery of Northern Thailand, go trekking, eat, drink, party, delve into history and seek out adventure. The quiet winding lanes of the old town, the rustic old wooden guest houses, lively riverside restaurants, colourful hill tribe folk and bustling night bazaar all contribute to make Chiangmai an unforgettable destination.