Viang Thapae Resort

This charming little place is colorful and stylish, and provides an authentic Thai experience. That impression starts right away, in the spacious open lobby, which is cozy and welcoming, with plenty of seating where guests can relax and hang out. Colorful Thai decorative items add character, while tables are stacked with books, magazines, and newspapers. Hallways to guest rooms are nicely decorated with interesting Thai items. A terrace adjacent to reception provides bench seating, and colorful banners and lanterns hang overhead. Lush tropical greenery and flowers are found everywhere throughout the property, and the gardens are tranquil and beautiful. The hotel is most popular with couples, but families, groups, individuals, and even businesspeople are seen here. 

This hotel is situated on a quiet tree-lined lane a five-minute walk from the Tha Phae Gate. Several restaurants, bars, and shops are within walking distance, as are a number of temples and other attractions. The Night Bazaar and the Sunday Night Market can be reached in about 10 minutes on foot, and the buzzier parts of the Old City are about a 15-minute walk from the hotel. Plan on about 20 minutes to reach Chiang Mai International Airport by car.  

Housed in two separate buildings, rooms are offered in Superior, Deluxe, and Executive categories. They're all colorful and attractive, with rugs atop hardwood floors, bright bed runners and accent pillows, and carved wooden furniture. Traditional Thai artwork decorates the walls, adding plenty of local flavor. Amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, kettles for tea and coffee, minibars, safes, and free Wi-Fi. Deluxe Rooms have cushioned benches at the foot of the bed and a leather loveseat. Executive Rooms add a separate sitting and dining area with a second TV. Attractive bathrooms have open tiled showers, separate soaking tubs in upgraded units, ceramic above-counter sinks, and decorative mirrors. Hairdryers, toiletries, robes, and slippers are supplied. Some balconies are furnished with rattan chairs and ottomans, with views of the garden or pool, and some rooms open directly to one of the pools. 

This little hotel offers a few nice features. A free breakfast buffet is served daily in the charming restaurant. Selections include cereals, breads, pastries, cakes, and hot dishes. A desk in the corner provides a computer for guests to use, and the bar serves drinks. Guests also can dine on the terrace overlooking the lush gardens, and room service is available.

The hotel has two lovely outdoor pools, which is unusual here, especially for such a small property. The Superior Pool has two lounge chairs in the water for staying cool while relaxing. Both pools have lounge chairs on the deck plus a nice dose of tropical greenery and flowers. Towels are provided.

The small open-air fitness center has a few cardio machines and some free weights, but is only sufficient for a basic workout. Bicycle and car rentals are available. On-site parking is free, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.