Waldorf Astoria Debuts In Bangkok

The stunning hotel boasts the best bars, restaurants and views in the city

Luxury hotel
Waldorf Astoria Bangkok is the newest addition to Bangkok’s string of luxury hotels. The hotel is housed within the 60-storey Magnolias Ratchadmri Boulevard building and is managed by Hilton as the latest addition to its Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts portfolio. The hotel was designed by architect André Fu and his team of creatives at AFSO. The result is an experience that aims to unite Thai artisanal tradition with the contemporary architecture that the Magnolias Ratchadmri Boulevard building represents.

Bustling Bangkok 
The luxury hotel holds prime location right next to the bustling Ratchaprasong intersection and is within short walking distance to the best shopping precincts in Bangkok. A pleasant stroll can take guests swiftly to the Erwan Shrine, Gaysorn Village mall and to Bangkok’s Skytrain.

In the heart of the action
A small drive from the hotel leads to highlights like the Charoenkrung Creative District, the iconic Grand Palace and the city’s vibrant flower market. Encapsulating Thai spirit, the 171 residential-style guest rooms feature spa-inspired and marble bathrooms that boast both luxury and space.

Luxurious restaurants
Waldorf Astoria Bangkok will uphold the culinary legacy of the Waldorf Astoria brand with three luxurious restaurants, a lounge and two bars. Front Room, Waldorf Astoria Bangkok’s signature restaurant, will see renowned chef Fae Rungthiwa Chummongkhon at the helm blending the flavours of Scandinavia and Thailand for an exotic fusion.

Sweeping views
The Brasserie promises to be a hub of local produce and French-inspired flavours with sweeping views of the city while neighbouring Peacock Alley offers up New York inspired afternoon tea and light meals. Bull & Bear specialises in grilled meats and seafood with a live raw bar that allows for smoking, slow roasting, baking and grilling.

Lofty ambitions
Guests have a choice of two enticing bars: The Loft, which will serve up artisanal spirits and cocktails utilising the fresh flavours of Thailand; and the Champagne bar, located right at the top of the prestigious hotel. The temperature controlled swimming pool also plays host to some of Bangkok’s most stunning views with a pool bar making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. waldorfastoria3.hilton.com

Source: https://www.vacationsmag.com

YTL Hotels Introduces The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui In Thailand #TreasuredPlaces, #TreasuredMoments

YTL Hotels is delighted to announce the opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui in Thailand. The resort’s opening has been highly anticipated and its debut on the eastern coast of Thailand marks the beginning of the discovery of inspiring and quintessential experiences. Koh Samui has long been renowned for its breathtaking tropical charms and pristine natural beauty on the Gulf of Thailand, and is a much sought-after destination by luxury travelers from around the world. The distinguished and personalized Ritz-Carlton service and legendary Thai hospitality are interwoven to create unique treasured moments.   “The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui marks another milestone of our strong partnership with Marriott International. With the opening of this resort, our portfolio together with Marriott International now encompasses nine properties across Asia-Pacific and Europe,” said Dato’ Mark Yeoh, Executive Director of YTL Hotels. The opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui affirms the long-standing relationship between Marriott International and YTL Hotels. The resort adds to YTL Hotels’ current footprint in Thailand which includes The Surin Phuket, a member of Design Hotels™, and the luxurious Eastern & Oriental Express which travels from Singapore to Thailand. With 175 suites and pool villas, nestled amid 58 acres, the resort overlooks the turquoise waters with an extensive oceanfront. Built on the site of a former coconut plantation, the stunning resort with its contemporary architecture pays homage to its past with the extensive use of coconut and other natural materials such as ceramics that imbue a sense of place. Relaxation and rejuvenation come easily at Spa Village Koh Samui, a 3,800 square meter sanctuary anchored in the healing culture of the region. The spa features eight treatment suites, three massage pavilions, a yoga pavilion, health bar, and a lap pool with intimate cabanas. Guests will be able to experience the Songkran Shower, the signature pre-spa ritual inspired by the annual Songkran festival involving the joyful throwing of water, as a prelude to selected spa treatments.

The resort’s culinary offerings reflect the destination’s bold flavors synonymous with southern Thai soul food at some of the seven dining experiences available.  Shook! is a stylish interactive dining space, serving innovative Asian and Western dishes complemented by a superb selection of fine wines. Sea Salt offers international classics and Thai favourites in a relaxing atmosphere, while Tides is the perfect spot for sun-lovers to unwind with a refreshing cocktail from the poolside bar, paired with a citrus-cured specialty from the cevicheria. One Rai, a circular bar and lounge, offers cocktails and Asian-inspired small bites.  Pak Tai is the resort’s signature culinary experience featuring a fine dining interpretation of traditional southern Thai cuisine with views over the swim reef from its secluded individual dining terraces. The Peak, on an elevated point with a sweeping ocean vista, provides the ultimate private dining experience for special occasions. On selected days, guests can enjoy Baan Talat, an outdoor food market experience with street food stalls, cultural dances and crafts. The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui has curated some of the finest authentic southern Thai experiences to immerse in. These include the Muay Thai Gym with its indoor kickboxing ring where guests can learn the martial art of Muay Thai with trained instructors; journey to a local market to source seasonal produce, followed by a class to unlock the secrets of southern Thai cooking.  The resort has also introduced a one-of-a-kind temperate Swim Reef within the resort that teems with over 50 species of fish. It is the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia, and offers unique snorkeling and fish-feeding experiences. Expansive facilities include two white sand beaches, a beachside resort pool, a water sports center and two floodlit tennis courts. The Ritz Kids program, with its own check-in and amenities for children, offers indoor and outdoor activities to keep the young guests entertained. At The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui each customized wedding is a signature event, in a Thai or Western setting, as lifetime vows are exchanged at Sala Thai, an elevated pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Thailand.  The resort now welcomes guests to embrace the Samui way of life - the heartbeat at The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui.

About YTL Hotels YTL Hotels owns and manages a prestigious collection of award-winning resorts, hotels, boutique experiences and Spa Villages with a hospitality footprint across Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, China, Japan, Australia, France and the United Kingdom, including Pangkor Laut Resort, voted the world’s best resort in 2003 by Condé Nast Traveller UK. The group also co-owns the Eastern & Oriental Express luxury train. The Gainsborough Bath Spa, the only hotel in Bath to be part of the Leading Hotels of the World’s collection of legendary hotels, was named one of the Top 10 Hotel Spas in Europe. Set in the heart of Bath, a World Heritage Site, this unique heritage gem exclusively offers the only natural thermal spa within a hotel in the United Kingdom. YTL Hotels’ global expansion celebrates its decades long relationship with Marriott International through the ownership management of Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel, Brisbane Marriott Hotel, Melbourne Marriott Hotel, The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur and JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur and recently includes The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur, The Glasshouse Hotel - Edinburgh and Threadneedles Hotel – London in affiliation with the brand’s Autograph Collection. The partnership also encompasses the future development of the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve that will complement YTL Hotels’ overall master plan for Niseko Village in Japan. With each new experience that it presents, the company strives to embrace and highlight the natural essence of culture, character and tradition of its surroundings. YTL Hotels is the hospitality arm of YTL Corporation Berhad. Visit www.ytlhotels.com for more information and follow us on our social media platforms for #TreasuredPlaces #TreasuredMoments About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Chevy Chase, MD., part of Marriott International, Inc., currently operates more than 90 hotels and 40 residential properties in more than 30 countries and territories. The Ritz-Carlton is proud to participate in the industry’s award-winning loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards®. Members can now link accounts with Starwood Preferred Guest® at members.marriott.com for instant elite status matching and unlimited points transfer. For more information or reservations, visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com, for the latest company updates, visit news.ritzcarlton.com and to join the live conversation, use #RCMemories and follow along on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR).

Top Beach Retreats Around The World

Summer is here and it's time to hit the beach. Here is our selection of exquisite beach retreats for you to enjoy this summer…

TURKS AND CAICOS, CARIBBEAN

Why: Embrace the relaxed lifestyle as you enjoy your time in this peaceful desert-island paradise.

Sleep: Beach House at Hawksbill, Grace Bay

This fabulous two bedroom property is spacious and ideal for a couple’s retreat, getaway with friends or a small family. Relax in your private pool just footsteps from the white sands and stunning Caribbean sea. It is possible for the Beach House to be rented out alongside the neighbouring villa, transforming into “Hawksbill Estate”.

QT Tip: If golf is your passion, the Provo Golf Club is right on your doorstep…

Beach Antigua

ANTIGUA, CARIBBEAN

Why: Friendly islanders, beautiful boats and alluring white beaches with crystal clear waters are just a few of the things that makes Antigua so enticing.

Sleep: Mariposa, Jumby Bay

Located in the wonderfully secluded Buckley Bay, this eight-bedroom property boasts superb views. Your stay at Mariposa includes the services of a chef, butler and housekeeper, leaving you free to simply enjoy your own private beach resort.

QT Tip: Enjoy a private sunset cruise and sail past the beautiful Nelson’s dockyard whilst sipping on rum punch.

Beach Phuket

PHUKET, THAILAND

Why: Nai Thon is known for its peaceful and breathtakingly beautiful beach; a real contrast from the hustle and bustle of other tourist-filled beaches on the island.

Sleep: Villa Bianca, Nai Thon

This truly unique three-bedroom retreat is ideal for a trip with friends or family. Alternatively, use the whole villa as the setting for a decadent Thailand honeymoon. Your holiday at Villa Bianca includes a chef, butler, driver and sessions with a spa therapist in the villa’s spa and massage room.

QT Tip: From Samet Nangshe Viewpoint, you’ll experience one of the most incredible panoramas in Phang Nga. Being far away from civilization and avoiding light pollution, you might be lucky enough to see the Milky Way.

Beach Croatia

NOVIGRAD, CROATIA

Why: This charming town not only has a rich cultural heritage and preserved natural beauty, but is also an architectural jewel home to astonishing historical sites.

Sleep: Villa Sunset Paradise

Surrounded by the ancient city walls, this four-bedroom villa is an exquisite find. Minutes away from restaurants, shops and bars but in a secluded beachfront location, Sunset Paradise has an impressive rooftop terrace with 360 panoramic views over the town and sea.

QT Tip: Don’t miss the extremely popular tennis tournament ATP Croatia Open Umag held in Novigrad every July.

Beach Bahamas

BAHAMAS, CARIBBEAN

Why: Natural beauty, warm weather, pristine beaches and friendly people; it’s hard to resist this Caribbean wonder.

Sleep: Nandana

During your stay, you’ll be treated to an estate manager, concierge, chauffeur, night butler and chef; additionally a masseuse is available on request. Two ATVs, two jet-skis, paddleboards, water-skis and kayaks are readily at hand for adventuring around the pristine shoreline.

QT Tip: Go off the beaten track and explore the caves in Lucayan National Park.

Beach St Barts

ST BARTHELEMY, CARIBBEAN

Why: Experience laidback luxury on this sophisticated French island as you indulge in the warm weather, chic boutiques, outstanding restaurants and impressive mega yachts that visit every year.

Sleep: La Magnifica

Take in panoramic views of the bay of Petit Cul de Sac and the sea beyond, from the privacy of the villa’s large deck. Enjoy a cool drink and soak in the island’s sun before firing up the BBQ for dinner under the covered terrace.

QT Tip: Only fifteen minutes from the bustling capital, Gustavia, home to the best boutique shopping, restaurants and spas the island has to offer.

Beach Cap Martin

CAP MARTIN, MONACO

Why: Beautiful and luxurious; paradise on the French Riviera.

Sleep: Villa Lola

This twelve-bedroom villa boasts the most stunning views over the bay of Cap Martin. The entrance table crafted from over 4000 year old Kaori wood, the Italian library with ceramic columns, the original chameleon chair and even a crystal welded chandelier are just some examples of the unique arty feel that comes with this amazing property.

QT Tip: Take a private luxury yacht and witness the beauty of the shore from Monaco’s waters.

Beach Santa Barbara

SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA

Why: Spend long, blissful days gazing across golden sand to the Pacific Ocean or simply enjoying the home’s many luxurious amenities.

Sleep: Santa Barbara Beach Club

This five-bedroom beach house sits on the shore and boasts a screening room, wine cellar, wet bar and games room. Head for the roof terrace to catch some rays and cool off in the long plunge pool.

QT Tip: Head to ‘The Funk Zone’ for Santa Barbara’s unique bars, galleries and night time hotspots.


For more information please contact: info@quintessentiallytravel.com or please call: +44 (0)20 7022 6560

Source: www.luxurytravelmagazine.com

Chiang Mai, Thailand, Guide: What To Do, Plus The Best Hotels And Restaurants

Wat Phra Singh, Chiang Mai, Thailand. Photograph: Ashit Desai/Getty Images

Northern Thailand’s largest city has struck a fine balance between the traditional and the contemporary, and offers unique cuisine, affordable stays and must-do treks
• Chiang Mai food paradise: ‘the best I’ve ever eaten’

With long, leafy boulevards, Chiang Mai presents an alluring alternative to the Thai capital, Bangkok. Instead of traffic-choked urban sprawl, travellers find a picturesque downtown easily navigated on foot, where the air is clean and the climate mercifully cool. A short bike or scooter ride out of the town leads to a densely rainforested countryside interspersed with waterfalls. Since the local airport received an upgrade in 2014, more regional flights have been heading to this serene city, making it cheaper and easier to reach.

The old town, inside its moat, is an extraordinary vision. Here amid the 30-odd temple spires, barefoot monks in flame-coloured robes collect alms in the morning and street vendors sell their wares by night.

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 Modern and old co-exist in Chiang Mai’s old town. Photograph: Alamy

Contrary to what all the English-language signs offering yoga courses and trekking tours might have you believe, the ancient capital city harbours a vibrant contemporary scene. A spate of new galleries, co-working spaces and artsy cafes are giving creative people space to showcase their work.

Unlike many modern Asian cities, where such harbingers of gentrification have pushed traditional shops and street food hawkers out of the picture, Chiang Mai’s younger generation continues to embrace its older establishments. Bare-bones eateries serving fiery, northern dishes like laab (minced meat salad) brimming with mint, dried spices and fresh blood, or sua ue, an herbaceous grilled sausage perfumed with lemongrass and served with fingerfuls of sticky rice, still stand proudly next to modern cafes and bars.

To visit the city’s modern side, head just beyond the centre to studenty Nimmanhaemin Road, with its boutiques, galleries, coffee shops and myriad restaurants. The pace of life may have speeded up in recent years as the city’s grown, but Chiang Mai is still a city of quiet charms, best absorbed at a leisurely pace.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

Learn traditional skills

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 Fields of plenty … visitors to the Chiang Mai Thai Farm Cooking School select herbs.

Although Thai massage can be a shock to first-timers, the after-effects of being forcibly contorted into pretzel shapes can be wondrous. Pick up a few tricks from the pros by registering at one of the training centres in town. Thai Massage SchoolShivagakomarpaj (courses from £36) in the Old Medicine Hospital stands out for its comprehensive courses in history, concept and technique. More than 20,000 students, half of them foreigners, have studied there since it opened in 1962. A full introductory course lasts five days, but there’s a two-day foot massage course or a one-day herbal hot compress course, using healing herbs gathered in a cloth bundle and applied to pressure points.

If you’d rather improve your culinary prowess, there are dozens of cooking schools in the city. A lesson at boutique hotel 137 Pillars House (£46pp) includes a trip to Thanin market and instruction by a top chef. For a more budget option, theChiang Mai Thai Farm Cooking School (£24, including food and transfers) offers hands-on, small-group classes with individual cooking stations. Participants stop at the nearby Ruam Chok market before visiting an organic farm to stroll in the fields and take a crash course in ingredients such as jackfruit, holy basil and bitter eggplant, then get to work pounding curry paste with a mortar and pestle.

Heed the call of the wild

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 The Elephant nature park serves as a sanctuary

Selfie-snapping tourists have come under fire in recent years for posting pictures of themselves cuddling tiger cubs or riding elephants. But there are still plenty of ways to get up close and personal with nature ethically. Elephant Nature Park, some 40 miles from Chiang Mai, has been rescuing and rehabilitating pachyderms since the 1990s. Visitors can spend the day feeding, swimming with and walking alongside the contented herd in their 200-acre habitat. Got a little extra time and cash? Consider a week-long homestay in a Karen village helping with reforestation, animal vaccinations and farming. A one-day package costs £46; the full week, with Journey to Freedom, costs £275, with full-board.

Support the arts

Chiang Mai fosters a small but steadily growing community of artists and designers. Join the city’s creative crowd any evening at Thapae East, a hip space decked out in exposed brick that hosts everything from poetry readings to indie concerts. Or check out exhibitions spotlighting local talent at the new Gallery Kang Wat in Baan Kang Wat, an artists’ village and craft showcase near Wat Ram Poeng. Hern Gallery (1/3 Padat Road) is a recently opened offshoot of the Gallery Seescape, on a bend of the Ping river south of the old town.

Hit the markets

 The city’s outdoor bazaars are a ‘riot of sounds and smells’. Photograph: Alamy

Chiang Mai’s outdoor bazaars are a riot of sounds, and smells. When dusk falls, prowl for gai yang (grilled chicken), khao kha moo (pork shank braised with star anise) and kanom jin (rice noodles with curry) on Chang Khlan Road every evening. Pick up silver jewellery and other handicrafts on Wualai Road on a Saturday and save a few hours on Sunday to browse on Ratchadamnoen Avenue. For a market with more locals and fewer bootleg DVDs, rise early and go to the smaller Somphet Market on Moon Muang Road.

See the best of the temples

One glance at the regal Wat Phra Singh (the temple of the lion Buddha) explains the crowds it attracts. But don’t miss Wat Chedi Luang, also in the old centre, where visitors can chat casually with monks about Buddhism, life, the universe and everything. Established in the late 13th century, Wat Chiang Man is not only impressive as the city’s oldest temple, but also for its two immense Buddha statues. One of the most revered shrines is across the Ping river: Wat Chedi Liam, part of Wiang Kum Kam, the ruins of the Lanna empire’s original capital. At the temples, remember to dress modestly.

Take a trek

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 Gorgeous gorge … the surrounding rainforest is a magnet for walkers. Photograph: Getty Images

After a few days in the city, the lure of the jungle beyond is hard to resist. Virtually every guesthouse will try to convince you to go on a trek, and with so many similar itineraries – rafting, elephants, hill tribe encounters – picking the right one can be a challenge. Tiger Trail Outdoor Adventures (two-day treks from £67) is a socially responsible tour operator that has been organising treks in south-east Asia since 2000. Private treks are available, but group tours never exceed 10. Or try Pooh Eco-Trekking (two-day trek from £62), which has been leading tours for two decades.

WHERE TO EAT

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 Blackitch Artisan Kitchen serves up some choice seafood dishes

Blackitch Artisan Kitchen

By day, this swish spot serves mild-mannered staples like spaghetti and salads, but by night, chef Panupol “Black” Bulsawan offers a high-end chef’s table, starting at 6pm. The rotating seafood-heavy menu might feature seared scallops with a wasabi-spiked mango sauce or other faintly Japanese-tinged surprises.
• Four courses £28, Nimmanhaemin Rd Soi 7, +66 84 323 1952, on Facebook

Farm Story House

Shoebox-sized it may be, but this converted teak house is worth seeking out for its thoughtful comfort food made with local, mostly organic produce. Curl up with a mug of dark, toasty khao niew leum pua (sticky rice) tea for about £1, and a bowl of Karen-style nam prik (chilli paste, £2), with sticky rice and vegetables for dipping.
• 7 Rachadamnoen Rd Soi 5, +66 81 629 1662, on Facebook

Rustic & Blue

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Farm-to-table produce is front and centre at this neighbourhood joint, which throws occasional pop-up dinners in the grounds where its food is grown. Much of the charcuterie and cheeses are made in-house and the selection of aromatic teas is not to be missed. The best part is the day-long breakfast, which might consist of powder sugar-kissed “Dutch baby” pancakes (£4) or French toast with maple bacon and sausage (£3).
• Nimmanhaemin Rd Soi 7, +66 53 216 420, on Facebook

David’s Kitchen at 909

With a former head chef of the ultra-luxe Dhara Dhevi (previously a Mandarin Oriental) at the helm, it’s little wonder that the menu here is on the ambitious (and pricey) side. Arthit Dissunont or “Chef O” shows finesse with western classics such as veal osso buco with saffron risotto (£15), but shines most with inventive Thai fusion such as lamb shank braised in Penang curry (£6) or seared tuna loin on a bed of lemongrass and green mango (£8).
• 113 Bamrungrad Rd, +66 91 068 1744, on Facebook

WHERE TO DRINK

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 An original concoction at the Mixology Chiangmai Burger

Mixology Chiangmai Burger

Kaffir lime caipi anyone? Ostentatious as the name might sound, this watering hole keeps it mellow. Thai fruits including passion and wood apple make regular appearances in the bartender’s original concoctions and complement a menu of fusion pub grub. Order a High Five, a subtly sweet blend of tequila, pineapple, lemon and honey fluffed up with egg white.
• 61/6 Arak Road, on Facebook

We Didn’t Land on the Moon Since 1987

Drinks are dirt cheap but delicious at this dive bar par excellence, thanks to the use of fresh fruits and herbs from the nearby markets. Small art exhibitions and movie nights draw a mellow crowd during the week, while Fridays and Saturdays tend to be rowdier. Music mostly ranges from disco to oldies to local bands.
• Sirimangkalajarn Soi 3, on Facebook

Akha Ama

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 Photograph: Diana Hubbell

This cafe sells only sustainably grown arabica beans harvested by the Akha hill tribe. The coffee not only provides a substantial source of income to the tribe, but has won nods from the Specialty Coffee Association of Europe.
• 9/1 Soi 3 Hussadhisewee, on Facebook

The Service 1921 Restaurant & Bar

Housed in the grandly refurbished former British Consulate, this slick number is the place to indulge in single malts, Cuban cigars and all manner of martinis. At £5-£6 each, cocktails like the Pomelo Julep, a zingy concoction spiked with tangerine, pomegranate syrup and dehydrated limes, or Tea Time, with Earl Grey-infused vodka, are pricier than at the local bucket bars, but worth the comparative splurge. Keep an eye out for the not-so-secret private room accessed via a hidden door in one of the bookshelves.
• Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, 123-123/1 Charoen Prathet Rd, chiang-mai.anantara.com

FABB Coffee Roasters

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In case the 60 types of single-origin beans decorating the walls and the powerhouse of a roaster didn’t tip you off, this Bangkok import takes its coffee seriously. In fact, its so committed to caffeine that aspiring baristas can sign up for intensive courses.
• 91/11 Moo 5, Nandakwang Garden Mall, Sutep, on Facebook

Beer Republic 

Gone are the days when Singha and Chang were the only brews in this increasingly cosmopolitan town. This popular pub offers 50 international beers, 15 of which are on tap on any given evening, as well as the occasional draught cider. Burgers, fries and other greasy fare help soak up all the suds.
• Nimmanhaemin Rd Soi 11, beerrepublicchiangmai.com, open Tue-Sun 5pm-midnight

WHERE TO STAY

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 Veranda for a gander … Ping Nakara

Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel & Spa

Sumptuous teak furnishings, rain showers, Persian carpets, natural bath products, and a pillow menu give each of the 19 rooms a plush feel. Even if you stay elsewhere, stop by for high tea (£16 for two) and French confections under fragrant frangipani trees in the Nakara Jardin restaurant.
• Doubles from £98 room only, pingnakara.com

Sala Lanna Chiang Mai

With just 15 elegant guest rooms, many with river views, Sala Lanna provides a relaxed atmosphere within minutes of the old town. The clean, simple design makes this an instantly appealing option, but what gives it a real edge is the rooftop pool with a panorama of the lush surroundings.
• Doubles from £57 B&B, salaresorts.com

Rachamankha

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Situated near the great, gilded Wat Phra Singh temple, this 25-room boutique hotel designed by Thai architect Ong-ard Satrabhandhu exudes sophistication with its antique-adorned halls, tranquil courtyards, and library housing at least 2,000 handsomely bound volumes. Burmese Shan and rare northern Thai dishes are on the menu at its excellent restaurant.
• Doubles from £147 B&B, rachamankha.com

Non@Chiang Mai hostel

Industrial furnishings and flouncy duvets dress up the dorms at this centrally located budget choice near Wat Phra Singh. A terrace for mingling only sweetens the deal.
• Dorm beds from £6 B&B, nonatchiangmai.com

Zensala Riverpark Resort

Offering a change from the ubiquitous Lanna style, with its teak carvings and pointy roofs, Zensala sports a raw cement exterior and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Ping river. The 14 rooms and suites with modern furnishings and spa belie the price tag.
• Doubles from £30 room only, zensalaresort.com,

There are no direct flights from the UK to Chiang Mai. Thai Airways flies daily from Bangkok from £50 return

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By Diana Hubbell