Chiang Mai is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Thailand. A delicious blend of history (the Buddhist temples) and modernity, Chiang Mai manages to retain an air of friendliness and relaxation, and has a well-deserved reputation for being affordable and fun. It is also a mecca for people who love Thai food.
Here are some of the best resorts and spas in the Chiang Mai area, where guests enjoy the finest in courtesy, luxury and fine treatment. No reason not to take in all the city has to offer, from culture to extreme indulgence.
Four Seasons Hotel
Four Seasons: It almost goes without saying that the Four Seasons should make it onto a list of best hotels and spas. In addition to the world class accommodations, the Four Seasons spa offers an extensive list of services. These include massages, facials, chakra treatments and yoga. Guests can opt for individual or couples’ packages, and enjoy extras such as outdoor baths and herbal steam rooms. The hotel resort is located outside Chiang Mai, close to two golf courses. You need a car or taxi to get into the center of the city. However, it is very quiet and peaceful, and the setting — amidst the rice fields and gardens — is absolutely relaxing.
The Chedi Hotel
The Chedi: This luxurious five-star hotel on the banks of the Mae Ping River is a striking modern hotel and resort in the center of Chiang Mai. Designed by architect Kerry Hill, it has a minimalist style that blends well with the surroundings. Rooms have floor to-ceiling windows to take advantage of the river views. There is a wonderful bar on the top patio where you can have drinks at sunset. Chiang Mai’s night bazaar is only five minutes away.
Mandarin Oriental Chiang Mai
Mandarin Oriental: The Mandarin Oriental is the place to go for rejuvenation, as you can enjoy customized spa and wellness treatments designed to give each customer an optimal experience. Fitness options include yoga classes, hiking or jogging and a series of fitness classes. The resort also offers a range of spa packages and Ayurvedic treatments. The hotel resort is located outside Chiang Mai, so you need a car or taxi to go to the center of the city. Advantage: it is very quiet because the hotel is set in acres of lush green gardens and rice fields.
Siripanna Resort
Siripanna Resort: This beautiful luxury resort offers contemporary comfort in an immersive cultural setting, with the decor strongly influenced by traditional Lanna, or northern Thai, art, symbolism and design. The elegant villas and suites include all the necessary amenities for a pleasant stay, and the spa offers a number of desirable treatments that are also in keeping with traditional Lanna practices.
Kandara Spa: While not an all-inclusive resort, Kandara Spa comes highly recommended as a place where couples can immerse themselves in healthy and rejuvenating treatments in a sublime setting. Kandara offers package deals as well as individual treatments, and have both male and female staff members available to perform the services.
The Oasis Spa: The Chiang Mai branch of this spa chain is renowned not only for its excellent services, but also for its highly convenient location near trendy Nimmanhaiman Rd., an area popular among expats for nightlife and dining. There are two other Chiang Mai locations as well, making an Oasis experience even more accessible. The services include a variety of special herbal and natural body scrubs, Ayurvedic massages and hydrotherapy.
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