Marie D
Google
It takes a long time to get to Chiang Mai from San Diego, California. Before going on our trip, we talked to plenty of friends about where to go, things to do and travel tips. One of the things everyone failed to mention is that the standard Thai bed if not a mat on the floor, is a VERY hard, thin mattress. It was closer to what you might think of as the box spring... no joke. After four days on this typical bed in a hotel in the Old City, we were ready for a change. Chiang Mai is a very smoggy city with more traffic than I have ever seen. The traffic in Chiang Mai was worse than Los Angeles. We stayed in the Old City, which is where the majority of the wats (temples) are and much of the nightlife, markets and other things to see/do. As you can imagine, with traffic and attractions all in one area of town, this means it's also quite noisy. ||||We had very little itinerary so we could change things around if needed so we did. We found Rawisara which is just outside the center of the city in a quiet neighborhood next to a beautiful wat. The boutique hotel compound is a sanctuary of peacefulness.The sound of birds and fountains are all around you. They have small bungalows and a small inn to choose from with a quaint cafe. ||||The service from the staff was gracious and attentive. They were so kind and accommodating. Everyone was willing to help with anything we needed. They have a shuttle that goes to drop off guests in the city twice daily. If you needed a taxi, they could have one for you at your request. ||||BEST OF ALL --- THE BEDS. Soft, Luxurious, Thick mattresses. Oh how grateful we were to be able to have a great night's rest.||||One evening, our AC was not working so the next morning they moved us to a beautiful private bungalow that was the ultimate luxury upgrade. The bathroom was like a personal spa with a giant jacuzzi tub next to a giant single glass pane window that overlooked a water rock wall that was intended specifically for our relaxation. The giant steam and waterfall shower was so relaxing.||||The pool in the center of the compound looks like a serene water feature when in fact it is a lap pool. The plants and butterflies and birds make for a wonderful spot to re-energize your batteries.||||We will be back in the future and will bring our family. This is a perfect place to be outside the city by close enough to visit and travel. The air is less polluted and the noise is minimal unless you don't like the sounds of nature.