Anantara Chiang Mai Resort

The resort's elegant, refined style begins in the lobby, which is open to the sunlight and has stylish coves with woven chairs and sofas where guests can relax and peer out at the property. Large vases, suave art pieces, and dramatic shadows lend style to the understated interiors. Old Thai houses inhabit the grounds, which feel tranquil and almost regal, with the Ping River running alongside, as well as a manmade pond filled with gray rocks. The 100-foot swimming pool, tastefully designed to reflect the large umbrellas lining its deck, is bounded by tall plants. The clientele here are certainly well-to-do, as this is one of Chiang Mai's most expensive stays, and a favorite among honeymooners for its rooms with private terraces and romantic spot along the river. Families are welcome here, as the Kasara Suites have room enough for four, but the resort is not a party animal's place, as it is quiet and tranquil, and offers a country-style escape right in the city.

The Anantara Chiang Mai Resort & Spa is tucked back off of a busy road right along the Ping River. While the hotel is only about 10 minutes' walk from downtown and the Night Bazaar, it is quite tranquil due to its riverside setting. The Chiang Mai Airport is 10 to 20 minutes' drive, and the historical Old City is about 10 minutes away by taxi or tuk tuk. It's a centrally located and ultra-convenient property without any of the chaos of the downtown -- except for some occasional street noise at night.

The rooms at the Anantara are some of the most stylish in Chiang Mai. All have wood floors and wall-paneling, and are outfitted with flat-screen TVs, minibars, coffee and tea facilities, safes, and beautiful rattan chairs with wood desks. Each has a private terrace with daybed overlooking the gardens or river; and an open-plan bathroom with freestanding tub and rain shower, as well as high-end soaps and bath gels. The Kasara Suites are especially nice and spacious, with large terraces, huge windows for plenty of light, and private lounge access with evening cocktails and all-day beverages; tech includes 42-flat-screen TVs, Bose sound systems, iPod docks, and Jura Swiss brand coffeemakers. Some suites even have wine refrigerators, perfect for the honeymoon and sophisticated crowd.

The Anantara has a 100-foot riverside swimming pool that's surrounded by sun loungers, and has an upper deck for sunbathing and a few sun beds right by the river. The resort also has a state-of-the-art fitness center, one of the largest and best-equipped in Chiang Mai. The Restaurant occupies a riverside house with both indoor and outdoor seating; sumptuous buffet breakfasts are served here, and in the evening guests can dine on Indian and Thai cuisine and grilled meats. The next-door Colonial House, famed for its high teas, is undergoing renovation and will reopen under a new concept, with both an eatery and bar. There are also an indoor cigar lounge, a lobby lounge with cocktails and light snacks, and private outdoor dining on the lawn. The resort also has a pampering spa with private treatment rooms.