Sheraton, Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a city that is on the cusp of change. For centuries it was isolated from the rest of Thailand by natural barriers. This seclusion allowed the city to retain many of its cultural traditions and today it is the “it” city to stay in to see traditional Thai handicrafts and society. From elephant parks to night bazaars and even ancient temples and rural hill tribes, you can see everything that you associate with Thailand and the place to stay while you’re there is the Sheraton Chiang Mai Hotel.

Conveniently located on the River Mae Ping, the Sheraton hotel is just minutes from all the shopping and eating venues in Chiang Mai. A drive to the Dui Suthep, the sacred mountain, takes only 30 minutes but the airport is a quick 10.

The bedrooms at the Sheraton are like nothing I’ve ever seen before. They incorporate Thai accents like unique furniture and silk beddings. It’s all very opulent, including the size. The smallest standard room is 45 square meters which makes the Sheraton’s rooms the largest in Chiang Mai. Amenities include: internet connection, a mini bar and a coffee and tea maker. My bathroom had every thing I could ever want from a stand alone shower to a whirlpool tub and fresh flower arrangements. The view from my room was of the tranquil Mae Ping River but other rooms look out upon Dui Suthep. The hotel also offers guests a large pool which you’ll really need because it can get really hot in Thailand.
The hotel also offers guests a large pool which you’ll really need because it can get really hot in Thailand. There’s also a gym, a sauna and a steam room but for the ultimate in luxury stop into the spa. Here they offer traditional massages and Thai foot massages which are a cultural experience you won’t want to miss.

The River Terrace Restaurant is the place that I ate at the most. They offer breakfast and coffee shop fare in the morning and buffet lunches and dinners that incorporate International and Thai food. While you eat your meal, enjoy the restaurant’s view of the Mae Ping River.

If you’re looking for more of a fine dining experience, than you have two choices. You can eat at either Castana or the Chinese Palace. The Palace offers an elegant atmosphere and Chinese cuisine that is prepared by expert Hong Kong Chefs.

After dinner, you can dance the night away in the Vienna Lounge. There they offer nightly live music performances and tempting drinks.

If you’re ever in need of expert advice, then call down to the concierge desk. The Sheraton’s friendly staff will be happy to help you whether it’s in finding a way to the airport or getting a meal up to your room. They did have super fast room service!

In a place that is as exotic and different as Thailand, I found that the Sheraton Chiang Mai felt like my home away from home.