137 Pillars House Chiang Mai

Built in 1889 and formerly owned by brother to the King of Siam, 137 Pillars House is an oasis of calm, not far from buzzing downtown Chiang Mai. Its Bangkok family owners teamed up with European management to perfect a blend of authentic Thai heritage with state-of-the-art Western luxury. Its mostly romancing couples clientele are here for the serenity of hideaway spaces, pampering spa treatments, and fine dining. Mimosa and palm trees grace outdoor spaces where drape-enclosed sofa alcoves and lily-pad ponds are among Burmese-style wooden villas. The tall cascading ivy "green wall" provides a gorgeous backdrop for a long pool. Serving exotic afternoon teas, The Parlor Lounge has intricate ceilings and rug-covered parquet floors cocooning oversized coffee tables with ceramic turquoise tables. Old World elegance fills the Jack Bain's Bar with backgammon-decked tables and pops of cyan on cushioned wicker chairs. This is easily one of the most luxurious and stunning properties in Chiang Mai, though guests should still prepare for mosquitos and occasional noise issues.

Situated in the Wat Gate area of Chiang Mai, the hotel isn't downtown but the Old City is still reachable on foot in about 15 minutes. A walk across the footbridge takes travelers to the Night Bazaar with its hand-crafted goods and knick-knacks. Ton Lamyai flower and fruit market is equally close and and Nakorn Ping Bridge is an eight-minute walk. Tuk-tuk rides reach farther sights and the hotel even organizes elephant tours and trips to nearby golf courses. There are several restaurants, cafes, and shops in the immediate area, particularly along the Ping River. Chiang Mai International Airport is a 15-minute drive from the hotel, and Bangkok is a one-hour flight away. On-site parking is free.

Luxury suites are divided into lower and upper level, the latter of which are more exclusive. Carved ceilings and wood paneling surround colonial-style furniture, while decorative carved elephants above polished dressers honor the country's heritage. The mostly neutral-tone furnishings are accented by vibrant colors such as red or blue. Framed black-and-white photos, wooden rocking chairs, or suitcase-like bedside tables add interest to the spaces. Two- or four-poster beds have Sealy Posturepedic mattresses and premium linens, and all rooms have comfy sofas. 

At 70 square meters (753 square feet), the entry-level Rajah Brooke Suites have wood-paneled sliding doors leading to private terraces with rocking chairs and wicker seating. East Borneo Suites are a bit larger, and for ultimate luxury, the William Bain Terrace and Louis Leonowens Suites come with private plunge pools, separate living areas, and extra freebies.

Bathrooms are exquisite, featuring marble and pretty patterned tile, in addition to stand-alone clawfoot bathtubs, walk-in closets, dual sinks, and high-end Puripunn toiletries. Also impressive are the two showers -- one indoor and another outdoors. Bathrobes, slippers, sandals, and hairdryers are provided. All rooms are air-conditioned and come with kettles, Nespresso machines, iPads, minibars, safes, flat-screen TVs and DVD players, and iPod docks. Private butlers are also designated for each room. 

Features here are extensive and unsurprisingly high-end, though there's little to occupy kids. The long outdoor pool is a pretty spot against a tall ivy-filled wall, but it's a bit small. The adjacent wooden deck has a limited number of cushioned loungers under umbrellas, which may mean guests can't always snag a chair. Other leisure facilities include a spa offering a range of treatments, The Lawn where yoga classes take place, and a small but modern and light-filled gym with cardio and weight-training equipment. 

The Dining Room serves Thai dishes and and a free buffet breakfast of house muesli, fresh fruits, and sticky mango rice, plus separate egg and noodle stations. More Western dishes are served in The Palette Restaurant. Open until late, cocktails and light bites are served in the bar and lounge. Guests can whip up dishes with homegrown produce at the cooking school. CDs and DVDs are available for borrow, and Wi-Fi is free throughout.