Staying at Rachamankha in northern Thailand’s historic Chiang Mai is like being a house guest at a rather grand private home. A tranquil oasis located within the city’s old walls tucked away from the bustling action of Chiang Mai’s temples, walking markets and shops, the 24-room hotel’s design pays homage to local Lanna architecture with its high, pitched roofs and cloistered timber walkways.
Rich Heritage and Low-key Luxe
In the gallery restaurant, the owner’s collection of cherished objets d’art and family heirlooms include rare scriptures, swords, lacquer ware as well as contemporary abstract art works. Support of local community is in Rachamankha’s DNA from employing only local people to sponsoring artists and performers who celebrate the region’s diversity. It’s great for artists and good for guests who have an opportunity to reach into Chiang Mai’s rich heritage.
A loggia separates the hotel’s inner courtyards where enormous arrangements of white orchids soften dark cane furniture upholstered in vanilla cotton, a setting that exudes effortlessly exotic chic. From this focus of inner calm, guest rooms peel off white-walled walkways which are interspersed with quiet conversational nooks and fragrant frangipani trees.
Decor and design, personally chosen by the owner, adds character and individuality to each room which offers latest tech toys among low-key luxe minimalism. Dinner overlooks a courtyard romantically pinpointed with candlelight where white petunias tumble from terracotta pots. Surrounded by cabinets of museum-quality Chinese porcelain, a well-schooled staff deliver finely tuned menu of Thai and Western food – a superb fine dining experience at cafeteria prices! Next morning, the breakfast a la carte menu is discreetly served using fine quality ingredients from a small menu of egg dishes, pancakes and Continental favourites.
Added Bonus: With just 24 rooms, you’re never aware of other guests even in the public areas including the 20m swimming pool.
Charm Factor: 5/5
Rachamankha Hotel, 6 Rachamankha 9, T.Phra Singh, A Muang Chiang Mai www.rachamankha.com
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