The Best Destinations for Solo Travel
With books and films like Wild, Down the Nile, and Eat, Pray, Love inspiring us to travel on our own more, solo travel has been on the rise in recent years—and rightfully so! Solo travel can be so invigorating, freeing, and healing for the soul. If you need a little inspiration, take a look at the list below for some of the best destinations for solo travel.
The Best Destinations for Solo Travel
With books and films like Wild, Down the Nile, and Eat, Pray, Love inspiring us to travel on our own more, solo travel has been on the rise in recent years—and rightfully so! Who wouldn’t want to go at their own pace, see whatever they want to see, and eliminate any distraction pulling them away from the present moment. Solo travel can be so invigorating, freeing, and healing for the soul. There are plenty of factors to consider when taking a solo trip—safety, cost, duration of travel, etc.—but I personally think you should just go with your heart. Go wherever it is that your soul is pulling you towards and lose yourself in it. If you need a little inspiration, take a look at the list below for some of the best destinations for solo travel.
Puerto Rico
I know I might be biased here since I am of Puerto Rican heritage, but Puerto Rico really is an incredible destination for any kind of traveler. Additionally, because of the recent natural disasters the country has been victim to, they need the tourism now more than ever. Whether you’re looking for adventure, food, LGBTQ+, luxury, or cultural travel, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Puerto Rico! The best part for US-citizens is that it doesn’t require a passport so you can freely enter and exit with no problem.
Ireland
Ireland is typically amongst the list of happiest countries in the world (along with Denmark, which I also recommend traveling to), which makes it a great reason to visit as a solo traveler. You can experience the lively music and pub culture in major cities like Dublin, or visit the abundantly lush, rolling hills throughout Irelands countryside. There’s a great combination of nature and city life for any type of solo travel here.
Japan
There are a number of countries in Asia that are excellent for solo travel, but Japan could be a great place for you to start. You can find history, culture, cuisine, and beautiful locations all over this gorgeous country. There’s outdoor adventures, urban adventures, and everything in between. The public transportation is impeccable throughout Japan, and it’s commonly amongst one of the safest places to travel in the world. The only downside is that it can be a little on the higher end of the budget scale (depending what your budget is); so if you’re looking to spend less, perhaps consider other destinations such as Thailand or Vietnam.
Costa Rica
Pura Vida! Of course Costa Rica needs to be on this list because it is such a gorgeous destination for any solo travel who is into the outdoors and getting in touch with nature. There are endless opportunities for adventures like zip lining in the rainforests, white water rafting, hiking, surfing, or just relaxing on the beach. It’s hard not to love Costa Rica and all its beauty!
South Africa
Although it may be a bit of a longer journey for some, South Africa is absolutely worth visiting as a solo traveler. Experience the urban life in Cape Town, head to Stellenbosch for wine tasting, or do safari in Kruger National Park. Visiting South Africa will give you a little taste of the magical experience that comes with traveling through Africa. I highly recommend it!
Spain
Where else can you go and get a whole meal + drinks for under 10€? Spain is an incredible destination for solo travelers because of its relatively low cost and beautiful surroundings. You can kick it on the beach, sightsee around many historic cities, celebrate one of the thousands of annual festivals, or indulge in the cultural ambience that often goes late into the night. Spain is one of those destinations that makes you want to return again and again and again.
New Zealand
New Zealand has been notoriously touted as a great destination for solo travelers—and particularly female solo travelers. There are plenty of outdoor and urban adventures to enjoy for all types of travelers. Wine lovers will rejoice because New Zealand is known for having a great selection of new world wines and vineyards to experience.
Portugal
If you’re planning on taking a trip to Europe, consider stopping over in Portugal for a little excursion. Portugal is a great place for solo travelers to visit and have an extended layover. TAP Airlines even has a layover program designed for this! I guarantee you will want to come back and visit again once you experience the culture, see the idyllic beaches, explore some historic architecture, and get your first taste of a Pasteis de Nata (my mouth is watering just thinking about them right now). Visit cities like Lisbon, Porto, or Sintra to get your first taste of this incredible country.
United States
The list is endless for how many cities that you can take a solo trip to in the United States. While traveling within the states isn’t necessarily as cheap as other international destinations, it is still extremely accessible and easy to navigate. There are larger destinations like New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, or Miami that you can explore, or you can scale down and explore other spots like Savannah, Austin, Santa Barbara, Portland (either Maine or Oregon). There’s truly something for everyone!
Italy
Like other European countries, Italy is excellent for the solo traveler because of how easy it is to get around everywhere. With trains connecting basically every major and small city, you can easily just grab a train pass and create your own experience. Visit the famous beach towns around the coast, indulge in the food and drink around the country, or check out the historic sights. For a real adventure, consider renting a car for a couple days and exploring the countryside.
Peru
Peru is a solo backpackers dream. Most famous for its ruins and mountains, the country has made traveling to famous sights and destinations extremely easy for travelers. There are also frequent tours and public transportation to/from places like Machu Picchu if you want to do your exploring in a group setting with other solo travelers.
Switzerland
While Switzerland is on the pricier end of the European destinations to visit, it is surely one you cannot miss. To put it simply, Switzerland is gorgeous, clean, and safe. Getting around Switzerland is also incredibly easy. You can rent a car to explore the vast countryside, or hop on the train to visit just about any town you want to explore. This is another wonderful destination for outdoor and urban adventures alike. Make sure to include cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Basel on your list!
Norway
If you want to spend your entire trip exploring nature, head to Norway. Fjords, Northern Lights, glaciers, mountains, waterfalls… What more could you possibly want in your outdoor oasis adventure?! High season is typically around June-August, so consider visiting on a shoulder season (just before or after high season) to get better prices and less crowds.
Canada
If you’re not able to jump the pond from the United States, consider taking a visit to our next-door neighbor up north. Canada is an incredibly beautiful country with so much to explore. Visit cities like Québec, Montreal, Toronto, or Vancouver; or go off the beaten path and visit places like Lake Louise, Whistler, or Jasper. Prices are relatively less expensive than a lot of destinations in the United States, making it a great alternative that is close to home.
France
While Paris is always a good idea, there are also so many other places to visit around France that you simply cannot miss. Consider heading to the Eastern region to drive through the Alsace wine region and stop in cities like Strasbourg, Colmar, or Kaysersberg. Or visit the beaches down south in Nice, St. Tropez, or Cannes. Like other countries in Europe, you can have just about any type of traveling experience you desire—cultural, urban, outdoor, etc. It’s simple getting around France with either a car or the train.
What are some of your favorite solo travel destinations? Comment below with more ideas or tips to inspire others!
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Where to Play, Interact, and Spend Time with Elephants in Thailand
If you're planning a trip to Thailand, interacting with elephants might be at the top of your bucket list. If it is, make sure to read this post with information on the best place to ethically play, interact, and spend time with elephants in Thailand and why you should avoid others! Read on to get an inside look at the Elephant Nature Park of Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Where to Play, Interact, and Spend Time with Elephants in Thailand
You know that feeling you got when you were a kid and about to go to Disney World the next day? That feeling when you're not able to sleep because you're just so damn excited for the endless magical fun you're about to have the next day. That was me at 4:00AM on a Thursday morning in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I was wide awake, I couldn't stay asleep, and my mind was racing with anticipation of the day ahead of me. The seconds on the clock couldn't move faster towards 8:00AM. Only a few more hours until the best day of my life would commence and I'd get to be face-to-face with an elephant in Thailand...
Choosing Where to Go
Like any other person visiting Thailand for the first time, I knew I had a "list of things I must do" before returning home. I knew wanted to visit the temples, see the gorgeous beaches, try some street food, and--saving the best for last--play with elephants. I mean...after seeing tons of pictures online of other people interacting with elephants in Thailand, how could I not get in on that adventure?
RELATED: A Weekend Guide to Chiang Mai
The next step was figuring out the best place to have said elephant experience. I had seen pictures of other people riding elephants, playing with them in the rivers, and feeding them, so I thought, "Of course, that sounds great!" After doing some research, my naïve fantasies of what I assumed to be a harmless excursion with elephants quickly came to a much needed reality check.
I was down the Google rabbit hole when I happened to stumble upon an article about the dangers and effects of unethical animal practices in tourism and logging around Thailand. Thankfully (and to my surprise), I came to understand that riding elephants and engaging in any unnatural behaviors with them (i.e. trekking or seeing them in circus-type shows) is actually part of an ongoing problem in the region where companies will abuse, exploit, and mistreat these beautiful animals in order to make money from unknowing tourists whose sole desire is to play with an elephant on their vacation in Thailand. Sound familiar? That was almost me... But how could I have known if I wasn't educated on it first?
This beautiful elephant was rescued from the logging industry, where she was forced to work in the jungles and suffered an accident where she lost her back right hoof by stepping on an explosive.
I can't express how thankful I was to come across this information before my trip! I immediately knew I definitely could not support any type of organization that would do this sort of thing, so I started researching places that were ethically conscious and safe to visit and interact with elephants in Thailand. That's how I found Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai. After extensive research, I knew this was the one and only place I wanted to go for my elephant experience in Thailand.
About Elephant Nature Park
Located in the northern region of Thailand, Elephant Nature Park is a rescue and rehabilitation center where individuals can visit or volunteer to help not only elephants, but a number of other species that are also under their care. This organization was established in the 1990s with an aim to provide a true sanctuary and rescue center for elephants and other animals that are distressed, in need, or abandoned around the country.
Beyond acting as a sanctuary and rehab for endangered species, ENP also prides itself on being a leading example for Rainforest Restoration, Cultural Preservation, and Visitor Education. They operate independently from any political or pressure groups that often work to intimidate or motivate companies to use unethical practices for financial gain.
As we learned on site, one of ENP's biggest goals is to educate the public and the tourism industry that providing ethical and safe options for tourists to interact with these animals is not only the morally just thing to do, it's also the best long term solution for the environment and longevity of the species. They are also trying to expand their ways of practice to other sanctuaries and centers across Thailand with an emphasis on getting organizations to stop promoting elephant riding and trekking to tourists.
Planning Your Visit to Elephant Nature Park
Elephant Nature Park offers visitors a ton of great options for how to visit or volunteer on site. You can choose something as short as a single day visit, or something as long as a 7-day volunteer program. For our visit, we chose the Care for Elephants Single Day Visit and really felt like we had an excellent overall experience. I left practically in tears that I couldn't stay longer, but it was the perfect choice for our time in Chiang Mai and I highly recommend this one for adult travelers who want a more intimate experience with the elephants.
What to Prepare and Expect for Your Visit
If you're considering visiting Elephant Nature Park, here are a couple tips to keep in mind so you're aware of how to prepare and what to expect:
PLAN AS FAR AHEAD AS POSSIBLE! The reservations for these visits book up very quickly, so I recommend booking as far ahead as you can in order to get the experience you want.
Transportation to/from your hotel is included in the packages, which was such a time saver and relief. We were picked up early at our hotel by a luxury van and were able to get some information about the organization on the way to the park. We also learned about the sad reality of elephant abuse in Thailand and why ENP does what they do.
Dress for comfort and prepare to get dirty. If you're doing the Care for Elephants visit like we did, you're going to get very dirty and muddy throughout the day. Wear clothes and shoes that you won't care about if they get a little muddy or wet. We opted for t-shirts, shorts, and sandals. I wore sandals that had straps around the ankles so they would be more secure on my feet with all the walking we were doing.
Pack a small day bag if you'd like. I packed a towel, my camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug spray, and a change of clothes just in case. I don't think I even used the change of clothes, but the towel was nice to have after we jumped in the river to bathe the elephants!
Food and water bottles are provided. No need to bring your own food as you will be enjoying a lovely vegetarian picnic with your new elephant friends during the day!
My Experience with the "Care for Elephants" Visit
As I'm sitting here writing this, there's no other words coming to my head besides, "This was one of the best days of my life."
From the moment we were picked up by the ENP team, I was excited and ready to take in all the knowledge I could. Like I said earlier, on our way to the park, we were able to get a better understanding for what ENP is all about and the history of why they do what they do. We watched a video in the van about the sad reality of animal exploitation and abuse that runs rampant throughout the region, and it broke me apart. I'll admit, I cried like a baby watching the video. It's a hard pill to swallow... But I'm so thankful that I was able to learn that and understand how important it is to be aware and conscious of what types of organizations you're supporting when you travel.
As soon as we got to the park, we were introduced to the three elephants we were going to be caring for and spending the day with. Each of these elephants had been rescued from places that were abusing them for some sort of financial gain (usually through tourism or logging/hard labor). The elephants were so sweet and gentle that it hurts me to imagine that there were actually humans who were harming them at one point in their lives.
The goal of interacting with these elephants is to rehabilitate them through positive human interactions to demonstrate a different pattern than they have learned in the past. It's basically a big love fest all day between you and the elephants. You get to feed them out of the palm of your hand, walk side-by-side with them, watch them roam around, and even bathe them in the river! It was pure magic to be interacting with the elephants in such an intimate way.
By the end of the day, my heart was so full and overjoyed from the experience of giving care and love to these beautiful creatures. I was so thankful for finding Elephant Nature Park and learning about the work they do in order to rescue and protect as many animals that they can. I simply cannot give enough praise to this organization for what they do and the positive mission that they spread. I highly recommend Elephant Nature Park to everyone who is looking for where to ethically and safely interact with elephants in Thailand!
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A Weekend Guide to Chiang Mai
Nestled in the northern region of Thailand is the magical, historic city of Chiang Mai. Known for being Thailand's culture capital, Chiang Mai offers a wide variety of experiences, activities, cuisines, and sights. If you're planning your trip or looking for some inspiration, use this weekend guide to plan where to eat, sleep, and play on any budget in Chiang Mai!
A Weekend Guide to Chiang Mai
Nestled in the northern region of Thailand is the magical, historic city of Chiang Mai. Known for being Thailand's culture capital, Chiang Mai offers a wide variety of experiences, activities, cuisines, and sights. In one day, you can feed and care for rescued elephants, get a 60-minute Thai massage for less than the cost of lunch in New York, see the entire city from a temple on a mountain, and wrap up the day with dinner at a street vendor at the Night Bazaar. There is something that sparkles in the vibe of Chiang Mai, and this city guide will help you uncover that!
If you're traveling to Thailand, I highly recommend spending time in Chiang Mai during your trip. I was thrilled to visit this cultural hub for 4 days, but found that I could have easily spent 4 weeks and still felt like I wanted to see more! If you're planning your trip or looking for some inspiration, use this weekend guide to plan where to eat, sleep, and play on any budget in Chiang Mai!
GOOD TO KNOW INFORMATION BEFORE TRAVELING TO CHIANG MAI:
Currency: Thai Baht
Language: Thai, but English is widely spoken
Getting Around: Uber (extremely affordable from Western perspective), TukTuks (so fun and can be negotiable), Taxis, and Songthaews (the red bus shared taxis). You can also rent a motorbike to easily get around.
DO NOT--UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES--PURCHASE A BUDDHA OR IVORY SOUVENIR. Buying Buddha souvenirs in Thailand is considered extremely offensive. There will be plenty of vendors trying to sell these trinkets knowing that Western tourists want to have a little Buddha statue to go home with. Don't be that asshole. Also be cautious of the material that your souvenirs are made with and never buy products made from ivory. Ivory poaching is a serious problem in Asia and Africa and we need to spread the word so that more travelers gain awareness that purchasing these things is wrong and unethical.
Don't forget to pack: BUG SPRAY, some type of garment to cover your shoulders and knees in the wats (temples), comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen.
Chiang Mai is perfect for: Solo travelers, couples, families, groups, foodies, and adventure travelers
If you're like me, you're probably thinking to yourself, "I loveeee Thai food! Can't wait to try the authentic dishes when I visit!" While this still held true during my visit (and the food absolutely exceeded my expectations), I was in no way prepared for the flavor and spice factor that was about to hit me when I tried food in Chiang Mai.
If you know anything about the history of the city, you'll know that Chiang Mai actually used to be its own kingdom and thus have its own cuisine and culture. That cuisine, from Western standards, is EXTREMELY spicy. I'm talking SERIOUS spice. Just be cautious of that when you go to a restaurant and think that just because you get extra jalapeños in your burrito at Chipotle that you can handle the spice in Northern Thai food.
That being said, the food in Chiang Mai did not disappoint. You really can't go wrong with anything you eat here. It's also pretty affordable to eat well here. For example, a high-end, luxury dinner in Chiang Mai can cost about the same as a regular mid-range restaurant in NYC.
Budget:
Chang Puak Gate, Chang Puak Gate -- So many delicious vendors all in one area. Make sure to try Khano Ko Moo from Khao Kha Moo Chang Phueak (the Chiang Mai cowgirl who serves up a delicious, slow roasted pig leg), Mango Sticky Rice (my personal favorite thing from Thailand), Tom Sab, Khanom Bua Loi, Sticky Rice, and Nam Tok Moo
The Hideout, 95/10 Sithiwongse Road -- Cafe, Vegetarian/Vegan options
Lemongrass, Loi Kroh Road 200 meters pass Royal Lanna Hotel towards the river -- Asian, Thai, Vegetarian options
Tikky Cafe, 2/2 Arak Soi 3, Sriphum -- Asian, Thai, Vegetarian/Vegan, Gluten Free options
The Night Bazaar, Chang Klan Road -- Bustling market where you can find some good, cheap eats and lots of shopping (don't be afraid to haggle with prices)
South Gate Market, Chiang Mai Gate -- Another market with delicious food to try like Sai Ua (sausage), Curry Noodles, Pad Thai, Khanom Krok, Hor Mok, and Grilled Eggs. You'll find one side of the market has more finger foods and easy bites, where the other side has larger bowls and plates that you can sit and enjoy.
It's Good Kitchen, 175/6 Ratchadamnoen Road, PhraSingh Subdistrict -- Asian, Thai, Vegetarian options
AUM Vegetarian Restaurant, 1/4 Suriyawong Alley, small alley opposite Chiang Mai Gate Hotel (20 M. from main alley) -- Vegetarian/Vegan, Gluten Free options
Khao Soi Khun Yai, Sri Poom Road, Just After Sri Poom 8 Alley -- Asian, Thai options
Reform Kafe, 1/4 Sripoom Rd. Lane 7 -- Asian, Thai, Healthy options
Rosy-Cheeks, 52/2 Village No.8 Soi 4, Soi Wat Umong -- Thai, Fusion, Healthy options
Cat House Restaurant, 8/5 Chaiyapoom, Soi 1 -- Cafe, Fusion, Vegetarian options
Pho Anh, 48 Charoenprathet Road, Muaeng -- Asian, Vietnamese, Vegetarian options
SP Chicken, 9/1 Sam Larn Soi 1, Phra Singh, Muang -- Asian, Thai options
Snooze Chiang Mai, 11/1 Chang-Moi Kao Rd -- Cafe, Healthy, Vegetarian options
Also try: Warorot Market (great place to immerse yourself like a local), Weekend Market at Soi Wua Lai (go on Saturday) and Soi Ratchadamnoen (go on Sunday), Siri Wattana & Thanin Markets (another very local experience), Kad Suan Kaew, Maya Shopping Mall, Pun Pun Vegetarian Restaurant
Moderate:
Woo Cafe & Art Gallery, 80 Charoen Rat Road, Wat Ket Subdistrict -- SUCH a cute coffee shop and cafe (might be one of my favorites I've ever seen). Even if you don't eat here, I highly recommend at least walking through to check out the space. It's adorable and incredibly tempting to go home with everything from their shop!
Sababa Israeli Restaurant, 183/1 Chang Klang Road -- Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Healthy options
Ginger & Kafe, 199 The House, Munmueang Road, Siphum Subdistrict -- International, Thai, Vegetarian options
Eat Is Life, Nimmanahaeminda Road, Soi 12, Kantary Hills Terrace -- Japanese, Mediterranean, Thai options
Anchan Vegetarian Restaurant, Nimmanahaeminda Road, soi Hillside 2 condo, Opposite Soi 13 -- Asian, Thai, International options
SS1254372 Cafe, 22/1 Nimmanhemin Road, Soi 17, Suthep -- Cafe, Vegetarian, Vegan options
My Secret Café in Town, 175/12 Rachadamnoen Road, Phra Sing subdistrict -- Cafe, Thai, International options
Angel's Secrets, 27 Moon Mueang Road Soi 5 -- Cafe, Asian, Thai options
Dash Restaurant and Bar, 38/2 Moon Maung Road, Soi 2 -- Asian, Thai, International options
Ugo Restaurant, 47 Moon Muang Road (Next door Thapae Boxing Stadium -- Italian, Thai options
Paak Dang, 46/1 Wang Sing Kham Road -- Seafood and Barbeque options
La Fourchette, 162/2 Phra Pokklao Road, Phrasing Subdistrict -- Swiss, French, European options
Norden Restaurant, 11 Thasala Subdistrict -- European, Swedish, Scandinavian
Fern Forest Cafe, 54/1 Singharat Road, Sriphum, Mueang -- Cafe, Asian, Thai
DaDa Kafe, 20/1 Ratmakka Road, Phra Singh -- Cafe, Asian, Thai
Also try: Kalapela, Amrita Garden, The Vorra Bistro, Tanita Coffee House, Nakara Jardin Bistro, Rustic & Blue, Flight 52, El Patio, Free Bird Cafe, Beast Burger, Why Not?, and The Flying Pig
Luxury:
David's Kitchen, 113 Bumrungrad Road, Wat Kate Subdistrict
Le Grand Lanna, 5 1/4 Moo 1, Chiang Mai, Sankampaeng Road, The Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai -- You can also see authentic Thai dances performed here every week! Highly recommend!
Farang Ses, 5 1/4 Moo 1, Chiang Mai, Sankampaeng Road, The Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai
The Service 1921 Restaurant & Bar, 123- 123/1 Charoen Prathet Road Changklan Muang Chang Wat
L'elephant, 7 Sirimangkalajarn Soi 11, Suthep, Muang Chiang Mai
Also try: Le Coq d'Or Restaurant, Pakorn's Kitchen, Terraces, B Samcook Home 16, Fujian, Little Pork, Deba Osaka Style, Palette Restaurant, Akaligo (great breakfast buffet!), or Piccola Roma Palace
Finding fabulous accommodations in Chiang Mai is not a difficult task; however, narrowing down your choice of where you'll want to stay is. In this city, you'll find a wide range of options such as luxury escapes, wellness retreats, and budget friendly hostels. Each one has its own unique charm and personality. Browse some of my favorite choices at every budget below!
The historic luxury escape
The Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai, $$$$, 5 1/4 Moo 1, Chiang Mai - Sankampaeng Road | Tha Sala, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
If you've ever wanted to know what it feels like to travel back in time and become royalty of the Lanna Kingdom, check into the Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai. This luxury escape will give you the chance to visually experience what the city of Chiang Mai looked like once upon a time. For more information and pictures, read about my stay at Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai right here!
Also try: Rachamankha ($$$$) or Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel & Spa ($$$)
The trendy boutique oasis
137 Pillars House Chiang Mai, $$$$, 2 Soi 1, Na Wat Gate Road | Wat Gate, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
137 Pillars House Chiang Mai has grasped one of the coveted positions on T&L's Top 100 Hotels in the World multiple years in a row and it's easy to see why. This gorgeous hotel seamlessly integrates the old and new worlds of Chiang Mai and offers visitors a cozy oasis to rest their heads just outside the city gates. For more information and pictures, read about my stay at 137 Pillars House right here!
Also try: Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort ($$$), Akyra Manor Chiang Mai ($$) or Anantara Chiang Mai Resort ($$$)
The Mid-range hideaway
Tamarind Village, $$, 50/1 Rajdamnoen Road | Si Phum, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Images via Tamarind Village
This quiet boutique hotel is nestled right in the heart of the old city. Great option to choose if you want to be right in the middle of the action!
Also try: Thai Akara - Lanna Boutique Hotel ($), De Naga Hotel ($), or Puripunn Baby Grand Boutique Hotel ($$)
The Budget Friendly artsy Hotel
Hotel des Artists Ping Silhouette, $$, 181 Chareonraj Rd. | T.Wat Ket , A.Muang, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
Images via Hotel des Artists
Not only is this hotel highly Instagrammable, it's also conveniently located in one of the trendy neighborhoods of Chiang Mai. Walking to and from the city center will be no problem staying here.
Also try: The Chiang Mai Riverside ($$), Art Mai Gallery Nimman Hotel Chiang Mai By Compass Hospitality ($$), or BED Phrasingh ($)
10 Things to Do in Chiang Mai:
1. visit the elephant nature park.
If seeing or interacting with elephants is on your to-do list for Thailand, look no further than the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai. Elephant Nature Park is an elephant rescue and rehabilitation center in Northern Thailand where you can visit or volunteer. This place is the best option for tourists, travelers, and locals to ethically and safely interact with these beautiful creatures in a protected environment. Make sure to read the disclaimer I wrote below when choosing animal excursions in Thailand!
Visiting the Elephant Nature Park was literally one of the best days of my life. I got to live my dreams of cuddling with and taking care of elephants for a day! This organization does so much to rescue and protect these animals from the horrible conditions of animal exploitation in tourism throughout the region. They also do a great job educating the public about the harms of supporting companies who do not practice ethical behaviors.
RELATED: Where to Play, Interact, and Spend Time With Elephants in Chiang Mai
In my opinion, there is no other company that compares to Elephant Nature Park. We did the "Care for Elephants" Single Day Excursion and it was worth every single penny. I can't wait to go back to Chiang Mai and do it again!
IMPORTANT: Do Your Research Before Booking Any Tour Or Excursion! Since the tourism industry is a huge source of revenue, some companies and tour groups have resorted to selling or promoting services that are unethical, abusive, or exploitative in order to make a quick buck from unknowing tourists. Some examples of these services and excursions include the tiger parks, elephant trekking and elephant riding.
Long story short, there are companies that exploit and/or abuse animals in order to make money from naïve tourists who want to ride an elephant in Thailand or pet a tiger at a "sanctuary." You NEED to do your research before blindly signing up for these activities in order to avoid supporting companies who are putting these animals through this abuse and exploitation.
2. walk, shop, eat, and drink through the nimmanhaemin neighborhood.
Everyone loves a good trendy neighborhood that's full of fun little shops, quirky cafes and boutiques. In Chiang Mai, the Nimmanhaemin area is it. Take some time to stroll around this area and hop in any of the local spots that look appealing. There are so many small side streets and areas to explore that you could easily spend a whole day wandering around.
3. try the local cuisine and sign up for a cooking class.
You can't leave Chiang Mai without tasting some of the local Northern Thai cuisine. Make sure to add Khao Soi, Som Tum, and Mango Sticky Rice to your list! If you're feeling really adventurous, sign up for a Thai cooking class to get an authentic taste and learn how to make your own dishes at home. There are plenty of great options on TripAdvisor or through your hotel's concierge.
4. spend time at the local cafes.
Chiang Mai is very much a "cafe city," meaning there are tonssss of hip and trendy cafes to stop in and hang out. There are too many good ones to name, but I really love the recommendations from this post via Paper Planes and this post via A Blonde and Her Passport.
5. browse the local boutiques and galleries.
Besides the Nimmanhaemin neighborhood, there are plenty of other pockets around the city that have great little boutiques and places to shop. We actually stumbled upon some great stores and galleries just outside of the city walls. One of our favorites was a gallery/store named John Gallery along Tha Phae Road, which is owned by the artist John Monoon. His shop is full of beautiful pieces that he has hand drawn that often combine inspirational quotes drawn with landscapes, animals, and other things of his creation. We were so in love with his work we brought one home to New York with us!
6. get a thai massage.
You cannot leave Thailand without getting a Thai massage! You can find plenty of places throughout the city to stop in for a treatment as shops are basically as abundant as Starbucks in the states. Most places are extremely affordable too (usually costing under $5 USD per hour for some treatments), so it's hard to pass that up! If you want to opt for a little more luxury, my personal favorites were at the spas of 137 Pillars House and Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai.
7. shop and walk through the local markets.
You can't leave Chiang Mai without visiting one of the local markets. The most popular amongst tourists is the Night Market (aka Night Bazaar) along Chang Khlan Road. You can find tons of little chachkies and souvenirs here, as well as local street food from different vendors. If you're interested in a more authentic feel, then head to the Saturday market along Wua Lai Road and the Sunday market along Tha Pae Gate. This is where most of the locals and expats usually head for handcrafted goods, unique pieces of art, or street food.
IMPORTANT: As previously mentioned, do not under any circumstances purchase anything with the Buddha or anything that is made of ivory!
8. see the temples (especially wat PHRA THAT doi suthep).
The temples (aka wats) are a sacred place for Buddhist cultures, so you must treat visiting them with the utmost respect. These temples are a beautiful example of the Thailand's culture and history that shouldn't be missed. My personal favorite was Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which is just a little bit outside of the city center (we took an Uber there). My recommendation is to go very early in the morning to beat the crowds and see the spectacular view of Chiang Mai from above. You'll have to climb some 300+ steps to get to the top, but it's surely worth it!
Be Prepared: Women always need to have something covering their shoulders and legs above the knees before entering the wats. I brought a long, lightweight scarf that I was basically able to make into a body wrap any time we visited a wat. You also need to take your shoes off before entering the temple, so having comfortable walking shoes that are easy to slip on and off are good to pack. Just follow the rules set outside the temple and you'll be fine!
9. take a day trip or Go on an adventure excursion.
Chiang Mai has so much to offer, but if you find yourself wanting to explore a little further, consider a day trip to one of these places: Chiang Rai, Chiang Dao, Pai, Doi Pui, or Doi Inthanon. If the adrenaline junkie inside of you is screaming to come out, look into an adventure excursion like ziplining through the jungle, kayaking through the Ping River, or hiking the mountains.
10. visit during one of the festive months.
If you have the flexibility of choosing when to visit Thailand, try to plan your trip around some of the country's more festive events like Songkran (Thai New Years) or Loi Krathong (the famous festival of lights in the fall with the glowing lanterns). We weren't able to visit at this time, but definitely hope to go back to experience it!
HAVE YOU EVER BEEN TO CHIANG MAI? WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE THINGS TO EAT, PLACES TO STAY, OR THINGS TO DO? COMMENT BELOW WITH MORE RECOMMENDATIONS!
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Where to Stay in Bangkok: The Siam Hotel
There are so many hotel options in the sprawling city of Bangkok that it can be hard to choose where to stay. Tucked away along the Chao Praya River in the Dusit district of Bangkok is an exclusive, stylish escape: The Siam. This Bangkok hotel is nothing short of a remarkably intriguing, one-of-a-kind work of art. There are touches of modern elegance and Art Deco design juxtaposed with eye-catching colors and rare antiques. If you're looking for where to stay in Bangkok, look no further than this artistic, urban sanctuary in the heart of bustling Bangkok.
The Siam Hotel: An Artistic, Urban Sanctuary in the Heart of Bustling Bangkok
“Sorry for the commotion—We’re in the middle of a photo shoot with the Prime Minister in the library and the Princess is arriving to check-in shortly!”
Did my ears hear correctly? The Prime Minister? The Princess? Did I somehow get passed the royal guards of a private palace in Bangkok?
Courtesy of The Siam
Not exactly... This was just another busy day for the staff members of The Siam in Bangkok, Thailand. And the busy days haven’t seemed to slow down (nor does it seem like they will) at all since this magical boutique hotel opened its doors in 2012.
For our first trip to Thailand, Jay and I knew we would need somewhere peaceful to rest our heads after 24 hours of traveling from New York City. We figured, "Why not splurge a little and go for the best to get our bodies acclimated?" I had seen photos of The Siam here and there, but I wasn’t at all prepared for the enchanting luxury experience that was awaiting us on the other side of the world in Bangkok.
ARRIVING TO THE RESORT
The Siam is an exclusive, stylish escape that is tucked away along the Chao Praya River in the historical Dusit district of Bangkok. If you’re lucky with Bangkok traffic, it’s a 45-minute drive from the Suvarnabhumi International Airport. If you need, the hotel is able to assist with private transportation—which I recommend doing ahead of time—to make sure you arrive safe and sound to your serene getaway.
The warm and friendly evening staff greeted us as our car pulled into the driveway just before midnight. “Sawasdee Krab, Ms. Dominguez and Mr. Schoen! We hope you enjoy your time with us at The Siam.” Even through the groggy haze of our intercontinental travel, we knew this was about to be a memorable place.
In all honesty, it’s almost impossible to find just one word that encompasses all that The Siam is. Maybe a phrase will do: The Siam is a remarkably intriguing, one-of-a-kind work of art. This creative oasis is no stranger to the occasional celebrity guest, dignitary, or royal family member. And they treat every single one of their guests like VIP.
Once you step inside The Siam, you definitely get a sense that this resort was built for the uber-chic and sophisticated world traveler. When the hotel lobby has the ability to take your breath away, you know you’re in for a real treat to explore the rest of the property!
An Elegant Dichotomy of Eccentric, Antique Treasures and Art Deco Luxury
As we walked through the bright and spacious atrium, we were greeted by an elegant, calming collection of plants that stood so high they seemed as if they could graze the glass ceiling right above them. The pop of green color in the plants really stood out in contrast to the stark white, black, and neutral colors that surrounded them. We quickly noticed this interesting color pattern was a common feature of the interior decor throughout the hotel.
To say that the design and decor of The Siam is spectacular is really selling it short. Krissada Sukosol Clapp, Bill Bensley, and Khemvadee Paopanlerd, the creative brains behind this property, really outdid themselves when crafting the unique guest experience of the hotel.
Each of the 39 rooms of The Siam (which include expansive suites, secluded pool villas, and a private cottage) is open and airy with just enough style and grandeur that it will make you reconsider your entire decor selection at home. There are touches of modern elegance and Art Deco design juxtaposed with eye-catching colors and rare antiques. The overall ambiance is meant to reflect the period of time when Bangkok was under the rule of King Rama V, around 1853-1910.
For our stay, we opted for The Siam Suite, which didn’t spare any luxury. Our two favorite aspects of this suite were the large soaking tub in the bathroom and the colorful sitting room we had towards the front of the suite. The massive king size bed—which would probably take up all the space inside our New York City bedroom—was sooo comfortable, which made acclimating to the 12-hour time difference pretty easy. As a matter of fact, give me that bed whenever I travel and I’ll never have any issues with adjusting to time zones again!
In addition to this gorgeous suite, we also had free WiFi throughout the property and our own personal Butler, who was SO helpful! The Butler staff here really goes above and beyond to make sure you’re all taken care of throughout your stay.
We were also able to enjoy complimentary boat service along the river between the hotel and the Saphan Taksin pier, as well as complimentary breakfast each morning in the restaurant. Breakfast came with a ton of different selections and was very tasty. I loved the unique juice combinations that you could order!
Courtesy of The Siam
Spend a Night at the Museum...Literally
I never thought it was possible for a building or hotel to have “personality,” but damn does this hotel have personality, character, and soul! I’m not kidding when I say that you can walk into every room and instantly feel like it has a story to tell. It’s incredible that a place that was only opened in 2012 can give off that kind of vibe!
A lot of this vibe is thanks to the marvelous antique collection housed around the hotel, which makes it so distinct and Instagram worthy. Every corner you turn, there is something different and captivating that you could stare at for hours. The history and stories behind each artifact and collectible makes you curious about where they came from and what they mean.
We were actually shocked to find out that Krissada Sukosol Clapp, whose brainchild was The Siam, was the main owner and collector of the art and antiques throughout the hotel. When he was developing the idea of The Siam, it was actually intended as a place to house all of his unique treasures from around the world. I’m so thankful that he decided to incorporate an experience like this into the hotel because each little detail makes The Siam feel like you’re actually living in a museum. It’s so incredible!
A stroll through the hotel’s library will give you a tiny hint of the attention to detail paid here at The Siam. Kriss is so meticulous about each and every little aspect of the collection, which really makes the experience so much richer. We were told that he still comes in throughout the month to add new pieces and treasures as he sees fit. I personally love when an owner is this involved in the experience because it helps you feel that soul, personality, and character behind the project. It’s the secret sauce that makes a hotel stand out like this one does.
HOW TO SPEND YOUR TIME HERE
Being that you’re practically in a museum when you stay at The Siam, it’s easy to wander the halls and get lost marveling at all the hidden gems around the hotel. I kind of felt like Alice in Wonderland when she was walking around saying “Curiouser and curiouser...”
BUT—there are so many other things you can do around the hotel in addition to wondering at the artwork! Here are my favorites:
Explore the Artwork Room by Room
The first thing we did after catching up on sleep from our insane jet lag was explore every inch of this hotel. We actually ended up spending most of our first day just admiring all of the artwork! Take a look through the library, the movie room, the restaurants, the spa, and more. Seriously, every nook and cranny is worth taking a look at.
Take the Complimentary River Cruise at Sunset
Every guest should take advantage of the complimentary river cruise, but it’s particularly special at sunset. You can even take cocktails on board with you to enjoy while you’re taking in the sights on the River of Kings. Schedules are available at the hotel and online.
Get a Sak Yant Tattoo from a Specialized Ajarn
I never would've thought that getting a tattoo would be on my list of things to do at a hotel, but The Siam proved me wrong! The sacred tradition of Sak Yant dates back over two millennia. Tribes around the Asian continent would use the intricate patterns of the tattoos to impart magical powers for protection, luck, fortune, charisma, and other powers to the wearer. If you want to make your trip to Thailand truly memorable, you can make arrangements at The Siam’s private Sak Yant Tattoo Studio, where you’ll be inked by the talented artist, Ajarn Boo.
Use The Siam’s Smartphone to Get Tips
In each guest room, you’ll find a special smartphone that will allow you to access information all around Bangkok without having to worry about your international connection or provider. This smartphone is already pre-programmed with tons of valuable travel tips for Bangkok, sample itineraries, and even immediate access to your Butler. It's the perfect pocket guide to take along when you’re out and about! We used ours to discover some nearby attractions and to learn some of the etiquette customs of Thailand.
Throw Some Punches in the Muay Thai Boxing Ring
Muay Thai Boxing is a popular traditional Thai sport that helps with overall fitness and wellbeing. The Siam has their own state-of-the-art Muay Thai trainers and boxing ring for you to practice your moves during your stay.
Courtesy of The Siam
Eat and Drink at the Restaurants and Bars On Site
Similar to other popular Thai hotels, The Siam offers guests a wide variety of drinking and dining options on site. Enjoy some authentic Thai cuisine in the Chon Thai Restaurant, which is set amongst three, century-old Thai Teakwood houses. Step back into the Jazz Age at the Deco Bar & Bistro for some international cuisines (and to catch a look at the incredible instrument collection). Last, sit down with a coffee and pastry at Café Cha, or sip a cocktail poolside at the Bathers Bar.
Indulge in a Thai Spa Treatment at the Opium Spa
You haven’t really been to Thailand if you haven’t indulged in at least one spa treatment. Step into The Siam's world-renowned Opium Spa and enjoy a full day of pampering. Sadly, we didn’t have time for a treatment during our stay, but we did have a look around the spa—which, at the very least, I highly recommend doing!
Sign Up for a Signature Cultural Experience
The Siam has taken the time to put together a curated selection of cultural experiences for all guests to enjoy during their stay. You can sign up for a hands-on cooking class, have a unique dining experience with The Siam Easy Weekend, or relax on a Private Dinner Cruise upon a fully refurbished teak rice barge. Make sure to book these things in advance, or check with your Butler upon arrival to see if they are available!
OTHER NOTABLE MENTIONS
Relax by the Riverside Infinity Pool.
Explore the nearby Dusit district. Check out local markets, the Grand Palace, the Dusit Zoo, temples, Vimanmek Teak Mansion, and other attractions.
Use the free river cruise to access the BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway to get around quickly in Bangkok.
Indulge in Happy Hour to get buy-one-get-one-free drinks.
Have Afternoon Tea at Café Cha or in the English Garden.
Take some treasures home with you by shopping in The Siam’s unique antique gift shop.
Rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul with their 4-Day, 3-Night Wellness Program, in partnership with Dr. Adrish Brahmadatta, a notable Ayurvedic doctor and yogi.
Workout with your own personal trainer at the gym.
Courtesy of The Siam
GOOD TO KNOW INFORMATION
In good traffic, the airport is about 45 minutes away. I would suggest arranging a car service before you arrive in Bangkok to take care of this. The Siam can assist with this if you need.
The downtown Siam Square is just 20 minutes away. You can get there by car, subway, or boat.
Take advantage of the free river cruise, which will take you to the nearby subway and skytrain stops. The nearest BTS station is the Saphan Taksin stop. The nearest MRT station is the Hua Lampong stop.
If you need to get around the city, Uber is very popular and inexpensive, and a little more reliable than a tuk-tuk. But, the tuk-tuk gives you an authentic experience...so you choose. You can use my Uber code right here to get a discount on your first ride.
There is an ATM in the hotel if you need to get any Thai Baht during your stay.
The hotel is pet friendly, which means you can bring your fur babies along for an additional fee per night.
Looking back, there couldn’t have been any better way to kick off our adventures in Thailand than staying at The Siam. We truly felt like royalty after leaving. This hidden gem in the heart of Bangkok set the bar so high for everything we experienced from there on out. The original architecture, art, hospitality, and overall ambiance of The Siam gave us a first-class, cultural experience that we will never forget. It left us wondering one thing: Is it really fair to have this much beauty under one roof?!
The Siam Hotel
3/2 Thanon Khao, Vachirapayabal, Dusit, Bangkok 10300, Thailand
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS HOTEL, PLEASE CLICK THE LINK BELOW
Thank you to The Siam Hotel in Bangkok for hosting our stay. And a special thank you to all of the incredible staff members who made our visit spectacular. This post may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. All proceeds go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you. All opinions are my own.
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Where to Stay in Chiang Mai: Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai
Have you ever felt like you've time traveled into another destination from the past? This luxury hotel in the heart of Chiang Mai will do just that. The Dhara Dhevi is a truly special experience for people looking for something authentic and unique while visiting Chiang Mai. Step into this world of the 13th century Kingdom of Lanna and get ready to be treated like royalty!
Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai: A Magical Step Back in Time to the Lanna Kingdom
August 1997:
The time I realized I wanted to time travel thanks to Marty McFly, Doc Brown, and a flying DeLorean.
February 2017:
The time I think I *actually* time traveled back into the 13th century kingdom of Lanna at the Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai.
Ok, so I didn’t actually hop inside the DeLorean, throw on the flux capacitor to generate 1.21 gigawatts, and floor it to 88mph to get here; but it sure felt like I did!
From the moment our car pulled up to the front gates of Dhara Dhevi in Chiang Mai, all it took was one look up the long, stone driveway through the tall, wooden gates for my mouth to drop in awe. For a girl who normally can’t stop talking, I found myself absolutely speechless for the first time while staring up at the abundance of beauty that was in front of me. I kept asking Jay to pinch me to see if what was in front of us was actually real.
Had we just stepped back in time to the Lanna Kingdom of the 13th century, or was this just one of the most remarkable architectural properties we’d ever seen?
What exactly is the Lanna Kingdom?
Unless you’re a Thai or Asian history buff, you’re probably wondering, “What the hell is the Lanna Kingdom??” Full disclosure: I had NO idea what it was until I actually came to this property either...
Before Thailand was the country that we know it to be today, it used to be quite different in terms of culture and size. Two main cultures—the Siamese and the Lanna—dominated the region for centuries. The Lanna had hold in the northern region, and the Siamese had hold in the southern. The two kingdoms eventually unified after the kingdom of Lanna was faced with repeated invasions and wars and was forced to turn to the kingdom of Siam for aide. They merged together to form what we now know as Thailand!
Despite this historic merging of cultures, the northern part of Thailand has still managed to maintain its identity in a number of ways—which is probably why you’ll often times hear Chiang Mai being referred to as “Thailand’s Culture Capital.” The food is different (HELLO, DANGEROUSLY SPICY), the architecture is different, and even some of the language can be different. For those of you who live in the US, it’s similar to comparing the culture and lifestyles of a place like Philadelphia to a place like New Orleans.
Bravo to you for finishing that mini history lesson of the day on Thailand!
Arriving at The Palace via Time Travel...Maybe
So now that you know that there was a Lanna Kingdom, let’s get back to the subject of time travel...
I’m not joking when I say that you are literally transported back in time from the minute your car turns onto the property grounds. As you enter the hotel, you cross over a noisy, rickety bridge that makes a sound as if your car might break the wood beams that are holding the bridge together. We learned that this was actually customary in palaces and kingdoms of the time period because the noisy sound of the bridge would essentially work as an alarm system for the guards who were standing watch to let them know that someone was arriving. They even have an actual watchtower near the entrance that is a replica of what would have been used!
See what I mean? You haven’t even stepped foot out of your car and they are already coming at you with the history lessons...
A Place Where No Detail Goes Left Unnoticed
As you drive up the authentic stone driveway that leads to the main building on the exotic 60-acre estate, you’re instantly surrounded by some of the most spectacular architectural designs and features that you might have seen around a traditional 13th century Lanna Kingdom. You have everything from grand marble entrances to intricately decorated doorways and multi-tiered rooftops. You’ll see architectural inspiration from Laos, Myanmar, China, and of course traditional Lanna style, just to name a few.
The only thing that we were able to effectively express after our mouths had been wide open for about 15 minutes was just how incredible every tiny attention to detail was. From the gilded dragons to the carved sculptures, from the exotic horticulture to the traditional rice paddies; every single nook and cranny of this resort seemed to have a purpose and meaning behind it. No detail was left unnoticed. It’s hard to not feel like you’re royalty by staying somewhere that pays this much attention and care to the guest’s experience.
After briefly recovering from our sensory overload (and pinching ourselves saying, “YES, this is real life.”), we sipped down our tasty welcome drinks and cooled down with a refreshing washcloth that the concierge provided. The staff graciously gave us some information about what we can expect to see, eat, and do throughout our stay, and sent us with our butler to our suite via golf cart (BTW I just love when hotels do this!). Needless to say, we were ready to start exploring the property!
Choosing Your Style of Accommodation: Traditional Lanna vs. Colonial Luxury
The designers and engineers of Dhara Dhevi have essentially created a miniature version of a traditional Lanna-style village among the 60 acres of lush, tropical land. When I say that you actually never have to leave the property during your stay, I mean it (we really didn’t...). There are houses, villas, apartment residences, suites, and even penthouses secretly tucked away all around the grand estate. Some rooms come equipped with their own private pools, terraces, or even additional living spaces and kitchens. Keeping similar to the rest of the hotel aesthetic, not one single detail was missed.
Among the 123 spacious accommodations throughout the property, you have two distinct styles of rooms, villas, and suites. There are the more traditional Lanna-style buildings that are built from teak wood and follow a common Northern Thai design aesthetic, and then there are the colonial style residences that adhere to a more modern style of luxury (which is where we stayed). I can assure you though; you really can’t go wrong with either choice.
Our room was in the Colonial Wing of the hotel, which I thought was a fun experience since it’s the most modern and “urban” style of accommodations that the resort has to offer (perfect for The CITY Sidewalks). Even though it’s not the traditional Lanna-style of the other villas and houses, you still get a really authentic experience that transports you to a different era, which is exactly what we were looking for. The style of the decor, architecture of the buildings, and even the intricate carvings of the wood details all pulled together to create this truly unique feeling of being lost in a colonial village of another time in Asia.
In addition to the traditional bedroom/bathroom setup you typically see in luxury hotels, our suite also came with an airy living room (with very high ceilings!), a powder room, and an outdoor terrace that overlooked a charming pond and the grounds of the Colonial Wing. It was a dreamy place to kick back and watch the sunset! PS—I highly recommend taking a dip in the bathtub in these suites. It was such a relaxing way to unwind after a busy day of exploring the grounds! Plus, they give you all the bathtub toiletries, so you really don’t have an excuse not to do it...
Although we didn’t stay in the traditional Lanna-style villas or houses, we were lucky enough to get a quick peek inside one of them to see what they offer. These villas, houses, and suites on the other end of the resort are truly magnificent. Each one is incredibly spacious and follows a very unique design aesthetic that is true to the time period and culture of the old Lanna Kingdom. Some of the villas even come with their own swimming pools (sometimes more than just one), outdoor showers, gardens, kitchens, family rooms, dining rooms, and terraces. They are truly fit for royalty!
How to Spend Your Time Here
It’s time for some honest truth here... We budgeted 4 nights total in Chiang Mai, 2 of which were spent here at Dhara Dhevi. We left Chiang Mai feeling like we hadn’t even scratched the surface of things to do and explore in the actual city. Want to know why? We literally never left Dhara Dhevi on the days that we spent here. I’m serious.
This hotel really has SO MANY things that you can do, eat, explore, and experience that you actually never have to leave—which is exactly what I’d recommend doing. Soak in everything that this resort has to offer because it is truly a once in a lifetime experience that will leave you wanting more.
So what exactly are these world-class services and amenities that are available? Here are some of my favorites:
Rent a Bike and Explore
This was by far one of my favorite things to do at Dhara Dhevi! You can rent a bike at the fitness center for the day so you have a quick and easy way to get around the property. Jay and I did this for one day and it was really fun to weave around the winding paths of the grounds to explore everything that the hotel had to offer. It’s hard not to spend all day just riding around on the bikes to admire the architectural beauties of the hotel. I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s truly breathtaking.
Spend Time at the Spa
I say “spend time at the spa” because even if you don’t have an appointment for a treatment, you should still come to see it. The spa at Dhara Dhevi is world renowned for its services and treatments. Not only do they specialize in various forms of holistic healings and relaxation therapies, but they also boast one of the most spectacular buildings on the entire property.
Just one look at the palatial center (which is over 3000 square meters) and its impeccably designed moldings and embellishments will leave you speechless. The entire building took over 3.5 years to complete! So as I was saying... By all means, sign up to get a treatment if you can. But if you can’t, don’t miss stopping by to admire this architectural marvel.
Take a Cooking Class
If you’re interested in learning how to cook some authentic Thai cuisine, make sure to sign up for the cooking lessons that they offer on site! This was something we didn’t have time for, but hope to do upon our return.
Visit the Rice Paddies
Another area of the resort that you must come to have a look. The rice paddies are a graceful nod to the old, traditional rice farming that would have been done in a community or village like the one they’ve recreated. They even offer activities for kids and families so you can come and plant some rice during your stay!
Sign Up for Free Activities – Like Morning Yoga
There are tons of daily activities always happening right on the resort (another excuse to never leave), and one of my favorites was morning yoga just above the fitness center. You can stop at the concierge to see what kinds of things they have planned during your stay!
See the Dance Performance at Le Grand Lanna Restaurant
Even if you don’t eat on site, you absolutely cannot miss the nightly dance performances at Le Grand Lanna. It is a really special part of experiencing Thai culture and I highly recommend going at least once. We went and had a cocktail at the bar while we enjoyed the show!
Relax by the Pool – ALL the Pools
Although some villas and suites come with their own private pools or spas, there are also two marvelous pools for all guests to enjoy right in the heart of the property. I recommend visiting both of them, as they each offer different views and experiences. I can’t even say I have a favorite because they are both so unique...
Watch the Sunrise and Sunset
Something truly magical happens at dawn and dusk here at Dhara Dhevi. It’s almost as if the resort, the sun, and the skies have a prearranged agreement to just make everything look even more stunning than it already is. I’m telling you, this property absolutely GLOWS at sunrise and sunset. The rooftops stand out against the warm sky backdrop, and the lights around the buildings seem to actually sparkle. It’s also the best time for photos in my opinion! So cozy up on your balcony or terrace—or maybe even get reservations at one of the restaurants on site—and enjoy the sunrise and sunset. They do not disappoint!
Other Notable Mentions:
Visit the extensive library below the main building
Have a cocktail at the Horn Bar adjacent to the lobby
Visit the shops at the Kad Dhara (an open-air shopping village)
See the animals around the property like the ponies and water buffalo
Visit the workout facilities or sign up for a class, like Thai Boxing
Have your kids spend the day at the on-site Kid’s Club and/or visit the arts and crafts village with them
Shop antiques at the shops just beneath the lobby and near the library
Hire a car for the day to take you in/out of town
Ask the concierge about any special happenings or tours that they can arrange
Eat, Eat, Eat... And Then Eat Some More
Normally, I’d include the cuisine options of a hotel under the “How to Spend Your Time Here” section above. However, I think that this deserves it’s own section because if Dhara Dhevi did one thing right during our stay, it was the food. (Let’s be real though... They did a lot of things right.)
The cuisine choices at Dhara Dhevi will not disappoint even the pickiest of eaters. There are more than half a dozen food options that you can choose from, and even a few different bars to have a drink or appetizer!
Akaligo (International): This is where they serve the breakfast and brunch menus. We were overwhelmed by how many tasty things were available for us to indulge. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever seen such an incredible brunch spread in my life—and I live in the city that loves to brunch! They have your traditional eggs, meats, cheeses, pastries, etc., but they also have Chinese and Japanese style breakfast, a fresh squeezed juice station, a ramen station, salads, pastas, specialty meats, and so much more! Rest assured, you will not have a problem finding something to eat at breakfast. They even do Sunday Jazz Brunch if you’re into having a little “vibes” on the side of your meal.
Farang Ses (French): AKA the single best French meal I’ve ever had in my life. How is that possible when I’m in Thailand? I don’t know, but I’m not complaining about it. If you pick one place to splurge a little while you’re at Dhara Dhevi, I would 100% recommend coming here. Every dish we had was worthy of licking the plate afterwards. It was that good. PS: The restaurant's building and interior decor is not one to miss either!
Le Grand Lanna (Thai): You’re in Thailand, which means you need to eat authentic Thai food. At Le Grand Lanna, you can try both Classic and Northern Thai dishes. Be aware that Northern Thai dishes are much, much spicier than most westerners are used to. Just a word to the wise! Make sure to go here in the evenings so you can catch the traditional Thai dance performance as well! It's really beautiful!
Fujian (Chinese): If you’re craving some Cantonese or Contemporary Chinese food, this is your place. It’s located within the Kad Dhara Shopping Village, so you can even do a little shopping if you have time!
Allegro (Italian): This place is great for foodies looking to indulge in a hearty meal in a lively atmosphere. Allegro’s traditional Italian cuisine is a perfect option for families or larger parties who want to share classic, rustic dishes without having to travel into the downtown area.
Dhara Dhevi Cake Shop (Victorian-Style Tea Salon): Your dining and culinary experience on site is absolutely incomplete without a stop at the Dhara Dhevi Cake Shop. The sweet treats and decadent dishes at the Cake Shop will make you believe in “second stomachs for dessert.” You can have your treats at the shop, or take them to go if you want to indulge back in the room. If you have a major sweet tooth like I do, make sure to check out when they have the weekend dessert buffet set up.
Other Dining Options: In addition to all these incredible restaurant choices, the resort offers guests the option for private dining services or parties. Obviously, you can have your choice of standard room service, but you can also pack a picnic to eat somewhere around the hotel, have an in-villa barbecue prepared, enjoy a traditional Afternoon Tea, or even arrange a private (candlelit?) dinner in your suite or villa.
Bars and Pool Service: Make sure to check out the trendy Horn Bar, which is located in the lobby adjacent to the reception. I’d also recommend lounging by both of the main pools and ordering poolside service. Like I said before, be aware that Northern Thai food is much spicier than most western cultures are accustomed to. We felt so bad that we tried a dish by the pool and had to request that they make another one with absolutely no spice because it was too rough to handle!
Good to Know Information
When you’re planning your trip to Chiang Mai, I would factor in the time you’ll want to spend on the grounds at Dhara Dhevi separately from the time you’ll want to spend in the downtown area of Chiang Mai. You can totally do both; but I promise, once you experience the world-class services and amenities that Dhara Dhevi has to offer, you’re going to wish you had just experienced the resort on its own and never left.
The resort isn’t really a single’s scene and is best for couples, small groups, or families. It’s an ideal place for a relaxing, secluded getaway in the heart of Chiang Mai.
It’s conveniently located just about a 15-minute drive from the main Chiang Mai airport, which you can reserve pickups to and from.
You can easily hire a car to head into town, use the hotel's shuttle service, or use a ride share app. The city center of Chiang Mai is just about 10 minutes away, but it’s hard to leave Dhara Dhevi with all it has to offer!
You receive a custom magazine with all the hotel happenings when you arrive in your room. You can refer to this for special things going on, or just head to the concierge for more details.
The butler service can arrange for golf carts to take you around the property if needed, but we preferred getting around by bike!
Depending on the time of year you come, it might be a good idea to pack some mosquito repellant. This is a tropical area after all!
As I said earlier, we only scheduled 4 days in our 2-week itinerary to spend in Chiang Mai (which was clearly not enough), and I wish we would have had scheduled a full week just to spend at Dhara Dhevi. This was, without at doubt, one of the most breathtaking, awe-inspiring, and over-the-top hotels I’ve ever seen in my life. You are never short of an abundance of eye candy when coming here!
As sad as we were to leave, we now know that this destination (and hotel) holds a special place in our hearts. We very much look forward to coming back for a quiet, romantic week to spend at Dhara Dhevi sometime in the future. I highly recommend this all-encompassing resort experience when you visit Thailand!
Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai
51/4 Chiang Mai - Sankampaeng Road
Chiang Mai, Thailand
For more information about this hotel, please click the link below
Thank you to Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai for hosting our stay. And a special thank you to all of the incredible staff members who made our visit spectacular. This post may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. All proceeds go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you.All opinions are my own.
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Where to Stay in Chiang Mai: 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai
Nestled right in the heart of Thailand's cultural capital is the urban oasis of 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai. If you're researching where to stay in Chiang Mai, you might want to consider this luxury boutique hotel, which has been named one of Travel and Leisure's Top 100 Hotels in the World. Discover where you can find the best Thai spa treatments, Thai cooking classes, and so much more right here in this luxury getaway!
137 Pillars House: An Urban Oasis in the Heart of Chiang Mai
After years of watching what seemed to be like everyone around me jet off to Thailand and explore the ancient country, I was officially sick of the FOMO this year and decided to travel there to see it for myself. On the (long) list of places I wanted to see was Thailand's cultural capital in the North: Chiang Mai.
The city of Chiang Mai, whose history can be traced back to over 700 years ago, provides a cultural look into the past juxtaposed with a modern look into the future. It's a beautiful city where travelers can see these two elements cohabitate harmoniously. To give a visual example that you can imagine, there are areas where you basically have the ancient ruins of the old walled city right next to an incredibly chic row of trendy coffee shops and restaurants. It is the perfect mix of old and new!
During our 4-day stay in Chiang Mai (which proved to not even be nearly enough time as we had wished to have), we wanted to get a taste of both "the old" and "the new." I love a really well-designed boutique hotel just as much as the next traveler, so when I came across 137 Pillars House in the heart of Chiang Mai, I knew this would be the perfect home for a few nights. It just exuded the utmost elegance, modern luxury, and this unique feeling of comfort that you can only find in a few places around the world.
A Location With a Story as Beautiful as Its Architecture
It's worth noting that the city of Chiang Mai, which was once its own kingdom, is full of its very own unique culture and history (hence why people sometimes refer to it as the cultural capital of Thailand). The property and plot of land in which 137 Pillars House stands is no exception to that either.
The main bungalow-style house (and focal point of the property) was once the Northern Headquarters of the Borneo Trading Company. The Borneo House, which was constructed from teak wood, was built over 125 years ago by the son of Anna Leonowens. Leonowens was the British tutor of the King of Siam who inspired the popular book "Anna and the King." At the time of construction, it was standard in Lanna style Thai houses to show their wealth and status by having as many pillars on your home as possible. The Borneo House had exactly 137 pillars, which clearly showed the high status of the person who built it.
After some time, the Borneo House was purchased by a family in 2002 who fell in love with the location, beauty, and integrity of the architecture of this home. An incredible team of architects and designers worked together to rebuild and restore the old Borneo House into the gorgeous property that we see today. While keeping as true to the Lanna style as possible, they've included some modern touches that are sure to make all guests feel welcome and at home. They kept the name original--137 Pillars House--since that was one of the features that made the home unique in the first place!
Arriving at the Resort: Taking Personal Service to the Next Level
You know how they say you only have one chance to make a first impression? I'm pretty sure that the executive staff at 137 Pillars House kept this in mind when they put together their plan of action for how to welcome and greet their guests. Let me just say that I've never had the kind of first-class service that I experienced here at 137 Pillars House anywhere else in the world. Let me give you the rundown of how it all happened...
1. The Transfer Service
We were greeted at our previous hotel by a member of the 137 Pillars staff, who transferred us to the new hotel in a luxury vehicle that had Wi-Fi, personal TVs, magazines, cool towels, and more. It basically made it impossible for me to enjoy any other transfer service without these amenities from there on out.
Upon arriving at the hotel, which was tucked away in a local neighborhood just outside of the walls of the Old City, we were graciously welcomed by the concierge and reception staff with chilled towels to cool off and a refreshing beverage to sip on the side. We checked in, got a quick tour of the property, and then were escorted to our impeccable Rajah Brooke Suite.
2. The World's Greatest Butler Service
Waiting for us at our suite was our wonderful butler, Pui. As if I thought I wasn't in love with the property already, this woman and her expertise of the city and hotel really took our experience to a whole new level. Where most butlers or concierge members would kindly let you know to ring them if you needed any assistance, Pui actually took the time to stay and speak with us to share bits of information about the neighborhood to really make sure we felt comfortable and at home.
She gave us a small pocket map of the area and highlighted the places that she suggested would help us make the most of our time. It was basically like getting our own personal travel agent on site! She even let us know that we could text her for other tips (or bookings/reservations) at any time, which she was super quick to respond to. I mean, this woman was on top of her game.
3. The Custom Pillows and Fragrances
Just when we thought she had gone above and beyond, she mentioned that all guests at 137 Pillars House receive their own custom choices of pillows and toiletries. This was really my favorite part... She pulled out a mini box of tiny pillows that you could feel and touch to see which ones were best for your sleep style. OH MY GOODNESS--WHY ISN'T EVERY LUXURY HOTEL DOING THIS?! Gone are the days of sleeping with pillows that are too thick or too thin! You can basically be like Goldilocks here and choose the one that is juuuustt right for you. She also had a set of fragrances for the toiletries, which you could choose from as well! We loved the Thai Jasmine & Mint :) Definitely recommend it.
When History Meets Modern Luxury
Something beautiful tends to happen when you flawlessly combine antique architecture and design with modern, luxurious details and finishings. The designers and architects of 137 Pillars House have really gone above and beyond with the decor and ambiance of this property to make you feel like you are right at home--or at least in a home that you wish was yours.
If there is a such thing in design and decor as "eclectic style-meets-modern luxury-meets-contemporary elegance," then that is this property. Seriously, every nook and cranny of this place is so picturesque, it will make you never want to leave! The attention to detail is just remarkable! I want whoever designed it to come to my house next...
The hotel's 30 suites are all bright, colorful, and spacious; some are even eqipped with their own private pools or outdoor showers! The clawfoot bathtub (just adjacent to the changing room) was a beautiful centerpiece of the bathroom, and the balcony made for a great place to kick back and relax. We particularly loved how plush and comfortable the bed was--especially with our personalized pillows that we chose!
How to Spend Your Time Here
I felt so conflicted when I arrived at 137 Pillars House because I obviously wanted to explore the city of Chiang Mai since I had never been before (and it was just steps outside the front door), but the hotel had so many amenities and services that it is so easy to just stay home in this urban oasis and spend your entire vacation on the property! What's a girl to do?!
However, if you find yourself at 137 Pillars House, I definitely recommend these things:
Sign Up for a Spa Treatment
If you're gearing up for your first trip to Thailand (or you've already been and you're returning), you've probably heard from all your friends that you "absolutely must get a Thai massage when you're there." I can't even count how many times I had heard that...
After the 24-hour trip from New York to Thailand, Jay and I figured we deserved a little pampering after that long haul travel. We signed up for the 2-hour couples massage, which had a combination of Thai and Swedish methods if I remember correctly, and included various essential oils and organic products. WOW, did we pick the right place to indulge! I just feel bad because I was so relaxed I fell asleep halfway through it! I guess I'll just have to go back to do it again...
Take a Thai Cooking Class
When in Thailand, learn to cook as the Thai people do! This is actually one activity that I'm so sad we didn't have time to do, but will definitely be doing when we return. The 137 Pillars House Thai Cooking Class comes with a few different menu options that you can choose from when you sign up. Guests can opt to also take a trip to the local market with the chef to see where locals actually get their ingredients! Once you have your ingredients, you head back to the hotel where you learn how to cook these authentic Thai meals. I'm very much looking forward to doing this when we return.
Relax by the Pool and Garden
It gets pretty hot in Thailand, so having a great pool you can dip in to cool off is a necessity at any Thai hotel. The live wall near the infinity pool of 137 Pillars House is certainly a jaw dropping focal point that will entice you to slide into one of the canopied chaise lounges or private cabanas for a little R&R. The pool side food and drink service is not one to miss either!
Drink and Dine On Site
If there's one thing I can promise you about staying at 137 Pillars House it's that you will not leave hungry. The food here is to die for; it's nearly impossible not to indulge. And even though I always like to go out to eat when I'm in a new city, the food was so good here that we kept coming back for more.
There are 2 main restaurants on site: The Dining Room and Palette. The Dining Room offers more traditional Thai and Lanna dishes, while Palette offers a more western-style menu of farm to kitchen dishes. Since we can get western food just about any time we want to back home in New York, we opted for the The Dining Room for our meals.
Once you're done with dinner, hop over to the hotel's uber chic cocktail lounge Jack Bain's Bar. It's another one of those jaw dropping type of rooms in the hotel that just makes you never want to leave. Plus the cocktails are awesome.
PS: YOU CANNOT LEAVE WITHOUT TRYING THE MANGO STICKY RICE DESSERT. Thank me later... It was literally the best we had in Thailand.
Other Notable Mentions:
Take advantage of the breakfast buffet in the morning! It is exquisite and offers plenty of options for all dietary styles. There are even tons of freshly squeezed juices and fruits if having a big breakfast isn't your thing.
Visit the on site museum that tells more about the history and story of the property.
Walk through the property and garden areas -- lots of tropical and exotic horticulture right outside your room!
Have Afternoon Tea in the gardens or the Parlor of the Borneo House.
Hit the gym in the morning to get your day started with a little exercise.
Sign up for a private tour/excursion in Chiang Mai, which can be organized with your butler or the concierge.
Explore the shops, cafes, and galleries nearby the hotel. My personal favorite is Woo Cafe!
Take a walk into the Old City, which is just about 10 minutes from the hotel. The Night Bazaar is another popular stop for travelers, which I definitely recommend at least once just for the experience.
Good to Know Information
If you want to do any of the activities on site, like cooking class or a spa treatment, I would recommend booking as far in advance as you can so the spots don't fill up. The resort only has 30 suites afterall, and they like to keep experiences cozy and intimate.
Book your transfer to/from the hotel with your concierge. You'll want to experience that 5-star greeting, so make sure to arrange that as soon as you can!
Utilize your butler and concierge to make the most of your time! The staff at 137 Pillars House was so excellent and helpful. We wouldn't have had as good of a time if it weren't for them!
The hotel is perfectly located and walking distance to the Old City, but it can definitely get hot and sweaty on some days, so I recommend taking a water bottle with you when you head out.
If you're traveling outside of Chiang Mai, check out their new property 137 Pillars Suites & Residences in Bangkok, which just opened in Spring 2017!
Our stay at 137 Pillars House really made our entire experience in the downtown area of Chiang Mai unforgettable. Like I said earlier, I don't think that 4 days was even close to enough time in Chiang Mai as we had wanted to have! This city really has something special to it and I'm itching to get back and explore more.
I'm definitely looking forward to returning here when we come back to Chiang Mai--and also seeing their new 137 Pillars property in Bangkok! If it's anything like our experience in the cultural capital, I know it will be one for the books!
137 Pillars House Chiang Mai
2 Soi 1, Nawatgate Road,
Tambon Watgate,
Muang Chiang Mai
50000 Thailand
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS HOTEL, PLEASE CLICK THE LINK BELOW
Thank you to 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai for hosting our stay. And a special thank you to all of the incredible staff members who made our visit spectacular. This post may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. All proceeds go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you. All opinions are my own.
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Hi, I'm Ana Rebeca! Welcome to The City Sidewalks. Here you’ll find tips on Travel, Lifestyle, and Wellness.
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