Romantic hotels in Bangkok and Chiang Mai
Oct 1, 2005, 5:02 am
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Aug 2005
Posts: 12
Romantic hotels in Bangkok and Chiang Mai
Dear fellow travelers,
In an attempt to keep to the spirit of this forum, I have started compiling a list of what I deem to be the best small/romantic hotels in Bangkok & Chiang Mai - I will repost the list every so often, especially when I receive new recommendations. These destinations are less known, off the beaten track and therefore an absolute must for those of us who prefer personal service and charming settings to 5 star grandeur. I welcome any addition to the list, once I receive your recommendations I will post them and hopefully bring more attention to these lesser known gems. (will follow with a phuket and samui list soon)
BANGKOK
1. Old Bangkok Inn
number of rooms: 8
http://www.oldbangkokinn.com
2. Ibrik Resort
number of rooms: 3
http://www.ibrikresort.com
3. chakrabongse villas
number of rooms: 3
http://www.thaivillas.com/indexflash.html
CHIANG MAI
1. Tri yaan na ros
number of rooms: 8
http://www.triyaannaros.com
2. baan orapin
number of rooms: 6
http://www.baanorapin.com
3. lisu lodge
number of rooms: na
number of rooms: 8
http://www.lisulodge.com
In an attempt to keep to the spirit of this forum, I have started compiling a list of what I deem to be the best small/romantic hotels in Bangkok & Chiang Mai - I will repost the list every so often, especially when I receive new recommendations. These destinations are less known, off the beaten track and therefore an absolute must for those of us who prefer personal service and charming settings to 5 star grandeur. I welcome any addition to the list, once I receive your recommendations I will post them and hopefully bring more attention to these lesser known gems. (will follow with a phuket and samui list soon)
BANGKOK
1. Old Bangkok Inn
number of rooms: 8
http://www.oldbangkokinn.com
2. Ibrik Resort
number of rooms: 3
http://www.ibrikresort.com
3. chakrabongse villas
number of rooms: 3
http://www.thaivillas.com/indexflash.html
CHIANG MAI
1. Tri yaan na ros
number of rooms: 8
http://www.triyaannaros.com
2. baan orapin
number of rooms: 6
http://www.baanorapin.com
3. lisu lodge
number of rooms: na
number of rooms: 8
http://www.lisulodge.com
Oct 1, 2005, 2:44 pm
#2
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: Italy
Posts: 218
Chang Mai hotel
Ciao thaiexpat!
I just posted to your other post (re: bkk hotels). I'm planning a short five days in Chang Mai in November and have looked at your suggestions. I'm leaning towards Tri Yaan Na Ros vs Baan Orapin. What do you think?
ringrazie
I just posted to your other post (re: bkk hotels). I'm planning a short five days in Chang Mai in November and have looked at your suggestions. I'm leaning towards Tri Yaan Na Ros vs Baan Orapin. What do you think?
ringrazie
Oct 1, 2005, 9:46 pm
#3
Original Poster
Join Date: Aug 2005
Posts: 12
Tri Yaan na Ros is definitely alot classier more like a boutique hotel feel - elegant is probably the word Im looking for, whereas Baan Orapin feels more like a B & B - more homey and relaxed. But both have great hosts - I'm sure you can't go wrong with either! Be sure to book ASAP, as they are filling up fast (I'm going there myself in late November)
Cheers!
Cheers!
Oct 11, 2005, 10:33 am
#4
Join Date: Dec 2004
Programs: FB Plat for life
Posts: 730
We staid in Tri yaan na ros more than a year ago an we were delighted by the atmotphere of this small hotel. It is very small, swiming pool is as small as you can think of but the ambiance is great .
One recommendation is to ask for a room not next to the school that is nearby as it might be a little noisy in the morning other wise.
One recommendation is to ask for a room not next to the school that is nearby as it might be a little noisy in the morning other wise.
Oct 30, 2005, 8:30 pm
#5
Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: Chiang mai, Thailand
Posts: 239
A wonderful place to stay in Chiang Mai Thailand
Accommodation Name: Tri Yaan Na Ros Colonial House
Description:
Tucked away in the old Chiang Mai’s silver-making district off Waulai Road is a Thai Colonial House named Tri Yaan Na Ros. Here guests can stay in one of only 8 rooms available in beautiful Thai style with excellent Thai hospitality.
Once you enter the reception area you feel you are stepping back in time to the once Lanna Kingdom before it was part of Siam. The first thing you notice is the wonderful decorative antiques placed in just the right areas. The warm smile from the receptionist in her traditional Lanna dress lets you feel at ease. Soft local traditional music smoothes out the checking in process while you sip a delicious drink made from lynches.
As you are escorted out of the reception area into the courtyard the beautiful garden with swimming pool invites you for a relaxing dip. Wicker cloth covered tables and chairs with Lanna Style umbrellas are smartly tucked away amongst the flowers and plants.
After removing your shoes the thick antique teakwood door is opened to your room, which is awash in stunning colors of red and gold. The large canopy covered bed is draped in silk. The bed sheets and pillows are also made of silk. Each pillow has a sweet smelling Jasmine necklace laying on it for you to place around your neck. Although the bathroom is not large it is finely decorated and more than adequate. Fresh fragrant, colorful flowers are in an antique bowl on the bathroom sink counter.
Once you have inspected your room you are taken to the restaurant, which is made with rich teakwood. Again Lanna antiques are everywhere and the walls have photos of Chiang Mai one hundred or so years ago. The food here is very famous with the local people and reservations for dinner should be made in advance. Most guests in the evening like to eat in the courtyard where reservations are not needed.
Unique Qualities:
On staff are professional massage therapists for the relaxing massage by the pool or in your room. Many herbs and spices are available for your massage and your therapist will recommend which one is best for whatever ails you.
Tri Yaan Na Ros is only a year old so not yet well known by visitors to Chiang Mai. Because they have only 8 rooms you should make reservations well in advance. The rack price is 3500 Thai baht and should rise, as it gets more popular.
Chiang Mai is starting to build more Inns like this as they are becoming ever more popular for the independent traveler rather than the standard high rise hotel.
This is the way people in Lanna used to live before it became part of Siam. They would build a courtyard surrounded by a high wall. Inside the courtyard would be several homes for family members and a communal kitchen. This provides peace and quiet along with security.
There is nothing not to like about this place, excellent. When friends come to visit us they stay here.
Address: 156 Wualai Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Phone: 66-53-273174
Prices: US$80-120
I will be taking video of this place soon but for now there is another place where my wife and I love to stay when it is nice and cold in Dec. and Jan.
It has private bungalows with Jacuzzi and fireplace in a beautiful garden setting.
See http://www.all-thailand-exp.com/images/HS.wmv
Enjoy,
Randy and Ning
Description:
Tucked away in the old Chiang Mai’s silver-making district off Waulai Road is a Thai Colonial House named Tri Yaan Na Ros. Here guests can stay in one of only 8 rooms available in beautiful Thai style with excellent Thai hospitality.
Once you enter the reception area you feel you are stepping back in time to the once Lanna Kingdom before it was part of Siam. The first thing you notice is the wonderful decorative antiques placed in just the right areas. The warm smile from the receptionist in her traditional Lanna dress lets you feel at ease. Soft local traditional music smoothes out the checking in process while you sip a delicious drink made from lynches.
As you are escorted out of the reception area into the courtyard the beautiful garden with swimming pool invites you for a relaxing dip. Wicker cloth covered tables and chairs with Lanna Style umbrellas are smartly tucked away amongst the flowers and plants.
After removing your shoes the thick antique teakwood door is opened to your room, which is awash in stunning colors of red and gold. The large canopy covered bed is draped in silk. The bed sheets and pillows are also made of silk. Each pillow has a sweet smelling Jasmine necklace laying on it for you to place around your neck. Although the bathroom is not large it is finely decorated and more than adequate. Fresh fragrant, colorful flowers are in an antique bowl on the bathroom sink counter.
Once you have inspected your room you are taken to the restaurant, which is made with rich teakwood. Again Lanna antiques are everywhere and the walls have photos of Chiang Mai one hundred or so years ago. The food here is very famous with the local people and reservations for dinner should be made in advance. Most guests in the evening like to eat in the courtyard where reservations are not needed.
Unique Qualities:
On staff are professional massage therapists for the relaxing massage by the pool or in your room. Many herbs and spices are available for your massage and your therapist will recommend which one is best for whatever ails you.
Tri Yaan Na Ros is only a year old so not yet well known by visitors to Chiang Mai. Because they have only 8 rooms you should make reservations well in advance. The rack price is 3500 Thai baht and should rise, as it gets more popular.
Chiang Mai is starting to build more Inns like this as they are becoming ever more popular for the independent traveler rather than the standard high rise hotel.
This is the way people in Lanna used to live before it became part of Siam. They would build a courtyard surrounded by a high wall. Inside the courtyard would be several homes for family members and a communal kitchen. This provides peace and quiet along with security.
There is nothing not to like about this place, excellent. When friends come to visit us they stay here.
Address: 156 Wualai Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Phone: 66-53-273174
Prices: US$80-120
I will be taking video of this place soon but for now there is another place where my wife and I love to stay when it is nice and cold in Dec. and Jan.
It has private bungalows with Jacuzzi and fireplace in a beautiful garden setting.
See http://www.all-thailand-exp.com/images/HS.wmv
Enjoy,
Randy and Ning
Dec 20, 2006, 7:00 pm
#6
Community Director Emerita
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Anywhere warm
Posts: 33,747
Dec 21, 2006, 4:21 pm
#7
Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: Chiang mai, Thailand
Posts: 239
Rachamankha is more upscale, much larger and costs more. For us Tri yaan na ros has a much warmer feel and because of it's small size with only 8 rooms the swimming pool is almost always empty and better personal attention from the staff.
Randy and Ning
Dec 27, 2006, 6:47 am
#8
formerly known as 2lovelife
Join Date: Dec 2000
Location: ORF : UA_Premier_Gold4Life, Bonvoy_titanium, Accor_Plat
Posts: 6,952
I was able to take a look at these hotels. I had a loose schedule, so each day I looked at another place.
1)Tri yaan na ros
The map was accurate and the place easy to find. Centrally located, in a
triangle of busy streets between the old city and the airport, it is in a
non tourist area.
As I walked in I was genuinely impressed by the décor, and ambience. 2nd
thing I noticed was how small everything was. It’s a very charming place. 8
rooms and a courtyard type area mostly taken up by its’ small swimming pool
and wooden deck, with lounge chairs, that surrounds it. I was shown a room,
still vacant for the day. Well appointed and tasteful, bed and linned looked
of 4 star quality. Washroom had a large homemade soaker tub. Staff friendly
and well groomed.
At about $100 a night, it‘s sure good value for what they provide. I’d stay
there myself, but would be hesitant to recommend it without a few caveats.
If you have transportation, don’t mind paying tuk-tuks or are comfortable
staying in the place, it would be perfect. Walking the neighbourhood is
safe, but very Thai. Local Fresh Market at Chiang Mai Gate is a good 10
minute walk. Tapae Gate that seems to attract more tourists is another 10-15
minute walk.
2ndly, It really is small. Did I say small. I mean SMALL. Not the rooms (although the rooms are small, they come off as cozy and well appointed) as much as the whole place. What they did with the small space is to be commended. If it was located within the moat/4 walls of the old city, it’d be better.
2) Rachamankha
Wow. This place is the real thing. Unfortunately, they charge accordingly.
Nights were about $200ish, but I hear you can get it cheaper through online
booking agents.
Within the old city (moated area), but on the far side from the tourists, I
really like the location. In my opinion, the old city is the charm that is
Chiang Mai. It has the same style and ambience of the above location, but on
a scale about 8 times larger. Even before I entered, I noticed the small
things. Cloth of the staffs’ uniforms were of good quality and pressed.
Uncluttered and very tidy throughout, I had the sense that it was not only
well appointed, but professionally done. Staff really gracious,
professional, and well trained, I was shown a room that guests had not yet
checked into. Lovely, classic Thai style, definitely 4 star +. If I remember
correctly, rooms had shower only. I was told that they have 3 styles of
rooms. The room I was shown, although the lowest of the 3, would surely be
an upgraded style in any other large hotel. They have 24 rooms and were sold
out for the night I looked.
I looked at the Imperial Mae Ping, located by the Night Bazzar, in the
downtown area. I’ve also stayed in the Amora Ridges Hotel on the Moat near
Tapae Gate. Many other hotels of varying styles are downtown. If I was to
pick one, I may pick the Ridges based on location, as they are all the
standard type hotel rooms. Remember with my recommendations, I’m partial to
the old city. I will usually chose a place in or close to that part of town.
1)Tri yaan na ros
The map was accurate and the place easy to find. Centrally located, in a
triangle of busy streets between the old city and the airport, it is in a
non tourist area.
As I walked in I was genuinely impressed by the décor, and ambience. 2nd
thing I noticed was how small everything was. It’s a very charming place. 8
rooms and a courtyard type area mostly taken up by its’ small swimming pool
and wooden deck, with lounge chairs, that surrounds it. I was shown a room,
still vacant for the day. Well appointed and tasteful, bed and linned looked
of 4 star quality. Washroom had a large homemade soaker tub. Staff friendly
and well groomed.
At about $100 a night, it‘s sure good value for what they provide. I’d stay
there myself, but would be hesitant to recommend it without a few caveats.
If you have transportation, don’t mind paying tuk-tuks or are comfortable
staying in the place, it would be perfect. Walking the neighbourhood is
safe, but very Thai. Local Fresh Market at Chiang Mai Gate is a good 10
minute walk. Tapae Gate that seems to attract more tourists is another 10-15
minute walk.
2ndly, It really is small. Did I say small. I mean SMALL. Not the rooms (although the rooms are small, they come off as cozy and well appointed) as much as the whole place. What they did with the small space is to be commended. If it was located within the moat/4 walls of the old city, it’d be better.
2) Rachamankha
Wow. This place is the real thing. Unfortunately, they charge accordingly.
Nights were about $200ish, but I hear you can get it cheaper through online
booking agents.
Within the old city (moated area), but on the far side from the tourists, I
really like the location. In my opinion, the old city is the charm that is
Chiang Mai. It has the same style and ambience of the above location, but on
a scale about 8 times larger. Even before I entered, I noticed the small
things. Cloth of the staffs’ uniforms were of good quality and pressed.
Uncluttered and very tidy throughout, I had the sense that it was not only
well appointed, but professionally done. Staff really gracious,
professional, and well trained, I was shown a room that guests had not yet
checked into. Lovely, classic Thai style, definitely 4 star +. If I remember
correctly, rooms had shower only. I was told that they have 3 styles of
rooms. The room I was shown, although the lowest of the 3, would surely be
an upgraded style in any other large hotel. They have 24 rooms and were sold
out for the night I looked.
I looked at the Imperial Mae Ping, located by the Night Bazzar, in the
downtown area. I’ve also stayed in the Amora Ridges Hotel on the Moat near
Tapae Gate. Many other hotels of varying styles are downtown. If I was to
pick one, I may pick the Ridges based on location, as they are all the
standard type hotel rooms. Remember with my recommendations, I’m partial to
the old city. I will usually chose a place in or close to that part of town.
Jan 18, 2007, 1:12 pm
#9
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: SAN
Programs: UA 1MM/1K, HH Diamond
Posts: 6,832
Dear fellow travelers,
In an attempt to keep to the spirit of this forum, I have started compiling a list of what I deem to be the best small/romantic hotels in Bangkok & Chiang Mai - I will repost the list every so often, especially when I receive new recommendations. These destinations are less known, off the beaten track and therefore an absolute must for those of us who prefer personal service and charming settings to 5 star grandeur. I welcome any addition to the list, once I receive your recommendations I will post them and hopefully bring more attention to these lesser known gems. (will follow with a phuket and samui list soon)
BANGKOK
1. Old Bangkok Inn
number of rooms: 8
http://www.oldbangkokinn.com
2. Ibrik Resort
number of rooms: 3
http://www.ibrikresort.com
3. chakrabongse villas
number of rooms: 3
http://www.thaivillas.com/indexflash.html
In an attempt to keep to the spirit of this forum, I have started compiling a list of what I deem to be the best small/romantic hotels in Bangkok & Chiang Mai - I will repost the list every so often, especially when I receive new recommendations. These destinations are less known, off the beaten track and therefore an absolute must for those of us who prefer personal service and charming settings to 5 star grandeur. I welcome any addition to the list, once I receive your recommendations I will post them and hopefully bring more attention to these lesser known gems. (will follow with a phuket and samui list soon)
BANGKOK
1. Old Bangkok Inn
number of rooms: 8
http://www.oldbangkokinn.com
2. Ibrik Resort
number of rooms: 3
http://www.ibrikresort.com
3. chakrabongse villas
number of rooms: 3
http://www.thaivillas.com/indexflash.html
Jan 18, 2007, 9:45 pm
#10
Join Date: Nov 2006
Posts: 1,048
Shanghai Inn Bangkok
Jan 19, 2007, 8:59 am
#11
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: SAN/TIJ or under water.
Programs: Club interjet; Airbnb
Posts: 1,882
Arun Residence
We had booked the Arun Residence in November, but cancelled when the Conrad Bangkok deal happened.
It certainly looks nice on the website, and is right on the river, as we saw from passing by on the water taxi.
Reasonably priced, too.
It certainly looks nice on the website, and is right on the river, as we saw from passing by on the water taxi.
Reasonably priced, too.
Jan 22, 2007, 7:58 pm
#12
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: Texas
Posts: 2,554
I always enjoy your informative posts!!! Thanks again for another great one.
I was able to take a look at these hotels. I had a loose schedule, so each day I looked at another place.
1)Tri yaan na ros
The map was accurate and the place easy to find. Centrally located, in a
triangle of busy streets between the old city and the airport, it is in a
non tourist area.
As I walked in I was genuinely impressed by the décor, and ambience. 2nd
thing I noticed was how small everything was. It’s a very charming place. 8
rooms and a courtyard type area mostly taken up by its’ small swimming pool
and wooden deck, with lounge chairs, that surrounds it. I was shown a room,
still vacant for the day. Well appointed and tasteful, bed and linned looked
of 4 star quality. Washroom had a large homemade soaker tub. Staff friendly
and well groomed.
At about $100 a night, it‘s sure good value for what they provide. I’d stay
there myself, but would be hesitant to recommend it without a few caveats.
If you have transportation, don’t mind paying tuk-tuks or are comfortable
staying in the place, it would be perfect. Walking the neighbourhood is
safe, but very Thai. Local Fresh Market at Chiang Mai Gate is a good 10
minute walk. Tapae Gate that seems to attract more tourists is another 10-15
minute walk.
2ndly, It really is small. Did I say small. I mean SMALL. Not the rooms (although the rooms are small, they come off as cozy and well appointed) as much as the whole place. What they did with the small space is to be commended. If it was located within the moat/4 walls of the old city, it’d be better.
2) Rachamankha
Wow. This place is the real thing. Unfortunately, they charge accordingly.
Nights were about $200ish, but I hear you can get it cheaper through online
booking agents.
Within the old city (moated area), but on the far side from the tourists, I
really like the location. In my opinion, the old city is the charm that is
Chiang Mai. It has the same style and ambience of the above location, but on
a scale about 8 times larger. Even before I entered, I noticed the small
things. Cloth of the staffs’ uniforms were of good quality and pressed.
Uncluttered and very tidy throughout, I had the sense that it was not only
well appointed, but professionally done. Staff really gracious,
professional, and well trained, I was shown a room that guests had not yet
checked into. Lovely, classic Thai style, definitely 4 star +. If I remember
correctly, rooms had shower only. I was told that they have 3 styles of
rooms. The room I was shown, although the lowest of the 3, would surely be
an upgraded style in any other large hotel. They have 24 rooms and were sold
out for the night I looked.
I looked at the Imperial Mae Ping, located by the Night Bazzar, in the
downtown area. I’ve also stayed in the Amora Ridges Hotel on the Moat near
Tapae Gate. Many other hotels of varying styles are downtown. If I was to
pick one, I may pick the Ridges based on location, as they are all the
standard type hotel rooms. Remember with my recommendations, I’m partial to
the old city. I will usually chose a place in or close to that part of town.
1)Tri yaan na ros
The map was accurate and the place easy to find. Centrally located, in a
triangle of busy streets between the old city and the airport, it is in a
non tourist area.
As I walked in I was genuinely impressed by the décor, and ambience. 2nd
thing I noticed was how small everything was. It’s a very charming place. 8
rooms and a courtyard type area mostly taken up by its’ small swimming pool
and wooden deck, with lounge chairs, that surrounds it. I was shown a room,
still vacant for the day. Well appointed and tasteful, bed and linned looked
of 4 star quality. Washroom had a large homemade soaker tub. Staff friendly
and well groomed.
At about $100 a night, it‘s sure good value for what they provide. I’d stay
there myself, but would be hesitant to recommend it without a few caveats.
If you have transportation, don’t mind paying tuk-tuks or are comfortable
staying in the place, it would be perfect. Walking the neighbourhood is
safe, but very Thai. Local Fresh Market at Chiang Mai Gate is a good 10
minute walk. Tapae Gate that seems to attract more tourists is another 10-15
minute walk.
2ndly, It really is small. Did I say small. I mean SMALL. Not the rooms (although the rooms are small, they come off as cozy and well appointed) as much as the whole place. What they did with the small space is to be commended. If it was located within the moat/4 walls of the old city, it’d be better.
2) Rachamankha
Wow. This place is the real thing. Unfortunately, they charge accordingly.
Nights were about $200ish, but I hear you can get it cheaper through online
booking agents.
Within the old city (moated area), but on the far side from the tourists, I
really like the location. In my opinion, the old city is the charm that is
Chiang Mai. It has the same style and ambience of the above location, but on
a scale about 8 times larger. Even before I entered, I noticed the small
things. Cloth of the staffs’ uniforms were of good quality and pressed.
Uncluttered and very tidy throughout, I had the sense that it was not only
well appointed, but professionally done. Staff really gracious,
professional, and well trained, I was shown a room that guests had not yet
checked into. Lovely, classic Thai style, definitely 4 star +. If I remember
correctly, rooms had shower only. I was told that they have 3 styles of
rooms. The room I was shown, although the lowest of the 3, would surely be
an upgraded style in any other large hotel. They have 24 rooms and were sold
out for the night I looked.
I looked at the Imperial Mae Ping, located by the Night Bazzar, in the
downtown area. I’ve also stayed in the Amora Ridges Hotel on the Moat near
Tapae Gate. Many other hotels of varying styles are downtown. If I was to
pick one, I may pick the Ridges based on location, as they are all the
standard type hotel rooms. Remember with my recommendations, I’m partial to
the old city. I will usually chose a place in or close to that part of town.
Jan 25, 2007, 8:09 pm
#14
formerly known as 2lovelife
Join Date: Dec 2000
Location: ORF : UA_Premier_Gold4Life, Bonvoy_titanium, Accor_Plat
Posts: 6,952
Not on the Romantic List, but a good summary for comparison