Tucked away on a side street just a few minutes walk from the south gate of Chiang Mai’s Old Town is the Thannatee Boutique Hotel. Step out of the heat and away from the rattling motors of the motorbikes, tuk tuks, and songathew that characterize the city and walk straight into a little slice of paradise.
Pass the reception desk, and through the front room (where a most impressive breakfast is served every morning …fresh fruits, yogurt, cereal, little pastries, as well as eggs and breakfast meats cooked to order- all included in the booking price…) you will find yourself in a tranquil ‘rainforest’ of sorts. A flagstone path will take you past lush greens, and over a busy koi pond straight to your oasis of a room.
Open the door, and the cool dim light will reveal a bed bedecked with richly hued Thai silk accents, dark wood furniture, and a polished cement floor with a hand painted flower motif. It is simultaneously simple, natural and luxurious- a wonderful combination in my opinion, and perfect for escaping Chiang Mai’s mid-day heat. At the end of the stone path is a small pool surrounded by lounge chairs, red umbrellas and palm trees. I would highly recommend a refreshing splash followed by a refreshing cocktail. Try the featured drink! While I was there, it was a strawberry mojito: freshly muddled berries with mint and rum- necessary fortitude for getting back onto the streets of Chiang Mai to make more travel memories.
At around $50 USD per night, Thannatee Boutique Hotel is an unbelievable deal. The staff is polite and helpful, and will gladly assist you in making any special tourist arrangements during your stay. They also offer a free shuttle bus to the famous night market. Minutes away from a handful of Wats, food stalls and a local market, its location is both pleasantly isolated from the hubbub of the town center, and conveniently located. Complimentary airport transfers and breakfasts are just icing on the cake.