Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort, Thailand

Le Meridien Chiang Rai, like many of the hotels in this area, features northern Thai architecture and design, though there are plenty of contemporary, artsy twists that gives this hotel its sleek aesthetic and personality. The open-air lobby is a high-ceilinged space full of dark wood -- a large, eye-catching metal chandelier is suspended from above, adding a dash of modern pizzazz. Colorful elephant statues flank a bouquet of flowers at the center of the space, while contemporary armchairs and gray sofas accented by crimson pillows provide seating. A decorative art installation on the wall features bright green spirals that add a pop of electric color to the mostly dark, neutral shades. It's a fitting entry into a locally inspired luxury stay, and the resort draws a mix of clientele, from families attracted by the child-friendly features, to business travelers and Starwood Preferred members who go with the trusted name brand, to those seeking a romantic, high-end city escape.

Le Meridien Chiang Rai is located just a 10-minute drive from the airport, and sits along the banks of the Kok River in a quiet and picturesque location. It's a great choice for scenery and serenity, and the river road out front is quiet, with minimal traffic. For those hoping to experience some of Chiang Rai's local charms, though, there's not much to see or do within an easy walk, aside from a few authentic, local eateries. Lab Sanam Keela is one of the best places to experience true northern cuisine, and it's a seven-minute walk from the hotel. It's a 10-minute drive into the city, and the resort runs an hourly shuttle into the city center and back, though it's not free. Good mountain bicycles are also available. Other nearby attractions include Wat Phra Kaew, which is a 10-minute drive from the hotel, while Wat Rong Khun -- the iconic "White Temple" on so many Chiang Rai tourist leaflets -- can be reached in 20 minutes by car. Phu Chi Fa Forest Park is about two hours away.

Rooms here are spacious and contemporary, with chic decor that includes blonde wood floors paired with a neutral color palette of beige, black, and gray shades. It's all kicked up a notch by small details, like subtle starburst patterns in the pillow, carpets, and accent panels. Bold pendant light fixtures with black lampshades provide an almost vintage twist. All rooms have large, furnished balconies that overlook either the gardens or the river. Sleek furniture includes glass-top writing desks and sitting areas with sofas, while suites have large, separate living rooms with sofas, state-of-the-art media hubs, and dining areas. Standard amenities have flat-screen televisions, minibars, tea- and coffee-making facilities, electronic safes, and irons and ironing boards. Grand Deluxe Rooms and Suites add DVD players, walk-in closets. Wi-Fi is free in Grand Deluxe Rooms and for Starwood Preferred Guests members, but there is a fee for it in Deluxe Rooms. Bathrooms feature large bathtubs and separate walk-in showers, while the Grand Deluxe Rooms and Suites have rainfall showers along with fine toiletries including signature soaps, shampoo, moisturizers, and bath salts. 

The resort features a vast outdoor swimming pool that sits overlooking the picturesque Kok River. There are plenty of umbrella-shaded sun loungers lining the surrounding sundeck, and the pool features a large kids' section. The poolside Chill Bar serves cold drinks and snacks by day, and transforms into an atmospheric, lit up riverside hangout at night. One side of the bar shares some riverside tables with Favola, the upscale Italian restaurant that offers wood-fired pizzas, homemade pastas, immense portions of tiramisu, and a selection of fine wines. In addition to Favola, the resort's main restaurant, Latest Recipe, serves elegant buffet breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, offering a vast selection of Thai and international dishes. A la carte items are also available, but most folks come here for the superb selection of buffet items. There's also a lobby bar, Latitude 19, which serves coffee, cocktails, and other beverages, as well as Asian-inspired tapas. The breakfast selection is epic, but it's not included in most room rates.

The hotel has a fully equipped 24-hour gym with weight machines, free weights, kettlebells, yoga apparatus, cardio machines, and even a Pilates machine. There's also a large spa that's situated by the river. It's chic and serene, with contemporary Asian-inspired decor, and the biggest treatment room features an outdoor bath surrounded by picturesque wooden shuttered windows overlooking the water. Various massages, holistic therapies, and other spa treatments are on offer.

The hotel has a large ballroom that's popular for weddings, business and group events, and other large functions. Other amenities include a kids' club and a library with computers and a printer. Ample car parking is available, and the hotel offers a shuttle service into town and surrounding areas (for a fee). Guests can book various excursions through the hotel, such as a Golden Triangle trip, elephant trekking, and a Mae Kok river cruise. Mountain bikes are available to rent for exploring the surroundings. Wi-Fi is free in all public areas, but incurs a fee in some of the rooms -- though SPG Members receive free Wi-Fi throughout.