Tamarind Village, Chiang Mai, northern Thailand - Explore & Book
"Chiang Mai is a mighty urban sprawl around a seductive square mile of charm. Right in the heart of this charm, in a prime old town location where you’d expect it to be noisiest and hottest, is a true oasis of cool and calm. Built around a 200-year old tamarind tree, and approached through a long bamboo tunnel, this collection of buildings with verdant courtyards - inspired by rural temple cloisters - is a gem of a hotel. Designed by the same people as the nearby Rachamankha, but with simpler materials and more humility, it feels comfortable and chic without being luxurious or upmarket. Newly refreshed bedrooms in boutique Lanna style make the best use of the limited space. There's a large swimming pool, an unbeatable breakfast buffet, and friendly staff who welcome you with cold drinks and city maps. It's owned by people who understand the hotel business (cynics might say a little too well), so everything runs smoothly, and there's the usual array of good (if slightly overpriced) spa treatments and tours. But the vibe remains relaxed, and the hotel's enduring popularity tells you that they have got the formula just right. Highs After a day of sightseeing, we loved plunging into the pool, designed like a lotus pond and set in dappled shade It's within walking distance of all the main temples and markets, including a Sunday market right outside Despite the central position, the hotel feels leafy and almost rural; and is surprisingly quiet at night (bar the occasional rooster) Service, for a largish hotel, remains sincere and personal Excellent value, especially considering the prime location and the pool Lows Renovations on guest rooms are taking place May-July 2025, so some daytime noise is expected. The pool will be closed September 2025 for maintenance; guests can use the pools at nearby hotels for free The pool water can get warm, and at busy times deckchairs and towel space can be at a premium The restaurant, spilling out attractively on the rim of the pool, is quite steeply priced The spa seems a little expensive: more affordable options are available nearby" - Michael Cullen
