Originally Posted by trojanman

I just finished my glorious Thailand trip and I can tell you the following:

2. Four Seasons Tented Camp Chiang Rai - by far my BEST hotel experience in the world, ever. Arrival by boat is included in the lofty price and is an experience not to be missed. Michel the resident manager makes an effort to greet each new arrival and he literally will sit and chat with you about all kinds of things if you like.

Food and drink is also included (the entire resort is 100% all-inclusive, right down to a 90 minute spa treatment), and it's quite good. You're literally in the middle of the jungle, yet the staff is somehow able to do a better job than any city hotel I've ever visited. Everyone learns your name and food/drink preferences almost immediately. Service is damn near telepathic and they seem to anticipate nearly every desire.

The elephant experience is almost life changing, and is quite fun. Who knew these giant creatures were so gentle and intelligent. The tour guides are super-knowledgeable and also quickly learn your preferences about what you enjoy seeing and doing. They even carry your shopping bags for you. The bugs are omnipresent and bug repellent is a religion here, but as long as you constantly reapply you'll do just fine.

We only stayed 3 nights because that's what most people on tripadvisor said to do. I easily could have spent 4 or even 5 nights here.

A word of advice: Rack rate is over US$2140 per day (no joke); if you combine your stay with a few nights at either FS Chiang Mai or FS BKK you get a drastically reduced rate. However, we were able to negotiate a reduced rate directly with Michel of about $1750 per night, with no requirement to stay at other FS properties.