Villa Sirilanna Hotel

Peaked roofs and a wood exterior echo the traditional northern Thai (Lanna) style found at this hotel, with large statues at the entrance and a relaxed atmosphere throughout. The teak-lined lobby feels grand, and vintage accents like a luxe chandelier, red damask print chairs, and gilded pillars add a stylish touch. The massive gilded image of Buddha at the back of the lobby gives it an even more authentic vibe. Terra cotta tile and a lovely fountain in the Sirilanna Restaurant create a tropical atmosphere, while colored glass adds some visual flair. There's a small outdoor pool that's a fine place to relax after a day walking around in the heat. It's a laid-back spot, free of the backpacker party vibe at many hotels in the Old City. However, this hotel lacks elevators. Most guests are couples, with the occasional family passing through as well.

The Sirilanna is in the eastern part of Chiang Mai's Old City, surrounded by shops, bars, and restaurants. The Old City is almost bursting with temples -- it can feel like there is one on every block -- including Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Pan Tao, five minutes from the hotel. All of the temples are still active and house communities of monks, some of which are open for monk conversations with tourists at scheduled times of the day. Sunday Walking Street Market takes place a three-minute walk north of the hotel and photogenic Phae Gate is six minutes away on foot. The popular Chiang Mai Night Bazaar is a 15-minute walk from the hotel, while the Chiang Mai International Airport is a 15-minute drive.

Charmingly ornate rooms are delightfully perfumed and filled with antique Lanna touches like intricately carved wood furniture. All air-conditioned rooms feel spacious, and start at 41 square meters (441 square feet), while lamps, tapestries, warm hardwood floors, and recessed ceilings create a handsome, colorful space. Beds have white duvets with jewel-toned silk bed runners and throw pillows as well as ornate headboards and princess canopy draping (or full canopies with ornately carved frames in some rooms). Traditional artwork includes embroidered panels of royal elephants and gilded lotuses. All rooms include flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, and minibars plus bathrobes and slippers. Luxury Rooms have additional wicker seating and some rooms also have furnished terraces, though street noise can be heard. The Honeymoon Suite has it's own private pool. Traditionally designed bathrooms are large, with multicolored tile or wood floors, and big carved vanities. Tile walk-in showers feature rainfall showerheads and all bathrooms have separate jetted tubs plus toiletries, though some tub jets aren't always reliable. 

Blue tile lines the freeform outdoor pool, which has a small jetted area and is surrounded by trees and a few padded lounge chairs. There is a vibrantly decorated covered lounge area as well that feels distinctly Thai, with hanging lanterns and bright textiles. Local cuisine in addition to cocktails and beer are served at Sirilanna Restaurant, and there is a decent free breakfast with Western and Asian dishes. Computers and books are provided and room service is offered on request. Wi-Fi and airport transportation are both free. Babysitting services can be arranged, as can car services and tours.