Chiang Mai is a city located in Northern Thailand, about one hour flying from Bangkok. It means “new city” and is situated between the mountains with the Ping River flowing through it. Chiang Mai is filled with unique temples, some marked with gold, others painted all white. The city is filled with delicious street food and authentic Thai culture. We had the privilege of staying at one of the most iconic hotels in Chiang Mai – 137 Pillars House. It is a boutique hotel, with just 30 suites and defines the concept of “sense of place”.

137 Pillars House Chiang Mai gets its name from the main building, which is held up by 137 pillars. The property was once used by the Borneo Trading Company for the teak wood business. Even today, the hotel still maintains its 19^th century origins. Tiled verandas, cane shades and rattan furniture are all touches of its historical past.

The Rooms

As an all-suite hotel, you can count on the rooms being spacious. All rooms have an outdoor sitting area, while some rooms have a small outdoor pool. The rooms are uniquely and decorated with traditional Thai colors and touches, such as elephant patterned curtains. The bathrooms feature both an indoor and outdoor shower. My personal favorite touch? The claw foot bathtub. Is it me or are claw foot bathtubs rare to find these days?

If you keep up with all things Major Traveler, you’ll know that I am a big advocate of breakfast, especially hotel breakfasts. I even have a breakfast rating scale that weighs heavily on bacon quality. While I do love the food service at 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai, what I love even more is the ambiance of the restaurant. In the mornings it is warm and inviting. It features different seating arrangements, some being booths with large drapes. You feel as if you are transported back in time, dining with Thai royalty. In the evenings, the resident piano player showcases familiar tunes as you sip on a cocktail in Jack Bain’s bar.

When you’re not busy exploring Chiang Mai, the pool is the perfect place to rest. In fact, I have never seen a hotel pool quite as beautifully designed. The pool is long with a large wall draped in greenery. It is without a doubt an insta-grammable setting.  

Interested yet? Reach out and let’s get your trip booked. I am certain that you will also fall in love Chiang Mai.