Behind architect Kerry Hill’s four-story bamboo-clad wall lies one of Thailand’s most striking modern buildings - the only riverside five-star hotel in Chiang Mai. The Chedi Chiang Mai located along the scenic Mae PingRiver is designed to integrate into its environment with carefully planned landscaping. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors feature in all eighty-four of the sleek guestrooms, looking out on the traditional fishing boats floating past.Lingering on a river facing balcony or by the pool in this oasis of calm, it’s hard to believe that you’re right in the heart of Chiang Mai. The Spa at The Chedi is widely regarded as one of the best in the world and it’s easy to see why with its heavenly setting, REN product treatments, and sophisticated amenities. While away the afternoon with a delicious signature mojito, or take Afternoon Tea(something of an institution) in the colonial house with the local residents. This remarkable building used to house the British Consulate and is now an exclusive restaurant serving the finest Thai, Indian and Western cuisine.

If you can drag yourself away, do take the time to step outside and discover what this country has to offer. Top of your must-see list should include Northern Thailand’s wonderful elephants; easily the region’s most famous attraction. Take a day trek through the lush countryside and see them in their natural habitat. There are fabulous Buddhist temples to explore and the famed night bazaar ,near Chiang Mai’s old town is shopping heaven just a short walk from the hotel.