I had the pleasure of being invited to stay at the intimate and exclusive five star luxury hotel, the Akyra Manor Chiang Mai. Apart from being positioned in one of the most beautiful areas of Thailand, the specially designed suites feature a courtyard-within-a-room style concept, and are therefore very spacious and a delight to experience.
LOCATION
The hotel is situated in Northern Thailand, in the heart of this city, yet just a stone throws away from un-touched nature. The landscape is mountainous and filled with incredible ancient temples that are a must see for every kind of visitor.
FOOD
There is nothing better than finding somewhere wonderful to eat during my travels, with fresh ingredients, and just a quick stroll from my hotel suite. Their new restaurant, Italics, hit a home run in creating an ideal setting for a relaxing, fine quality meal. I was grateful to have been treated to a special 5-course spread of delicious menu items, including an array of incredible traditional Thai meals, but unlike I’ve ever experienced before.
I’ve eaten a lot of Thai food, but this felt like a unique culinary experience. Not only did every mouthful taste superb and full of exotic flavours, but the presentation was extra special too. The menu has something for everyone, and they can cater to special diets. A big well done to Executive Chef, Phubase. I will also fondly remember my delicious breakfast spread, fit for a king, which included quinoa chicken, coconut waffles, the ‘pancake mania’, french toast, as well as fresh watermelon and mango juice. Everything was superb.
FACILITIES
The best thing about travel is the unexpected experiences. After an adventurous day of exploring the history and taking in the un-touched nature, you can do some shopping in the surrounding boutiques, check out a gallery, grab a coffee and then spend the rest of the day until sunset and beyond, at their super cool Rise Rooftop Bar.
If you want a stand out experience, try the Elephant Experience (Chiang Mai is home to a number of ethical elephant sanctuaries), or take a memorable local market tour with Executive Chef Phubase. If that’s not impressive enough, you can also take an art class, do some yoga or take part in a meditation retreat for some ultra zen vibes.
I am so glad to also have added to my list, a chilled out bike ride through the streets of beautiful Chiang Mai in Thailand. I borrowed one of their super cool bikes to get myself around and do some exploring. Heaps of fun and highly recommended to see as much as possible in during your stay.
If lying by the pool is your thing, the hotel also features what is known to be the most sought after designer pool in the Chiang Mai region. The infinity pool is perfectly situated on the top floor and features glass sides which overlook the beautiful local landscape.
EXPERIENCE
I’m not one to slow down easily, but I must say that I thoroughly took advantage of the luxurious day beds, relaxing out of the invigorating but nevertheless hot sunshine, and even treated myself to a refreshing cocktail at bar.
STAFF
Each staff member I dealt with was professional, very friendly and wonderfully mannered. I’d like to extend a special thank you to Executive Assistant Manager, Benchaporn C, and the lovely Eye and the rest of the team who made sure I had everything I needed during my stay.
SUMMARY
The Akyra Manor Chiang Mai is basically perfect for the luxury lovers, who also appreciate being amongst nature, who want to learn about the history of the city they’re in, and to get away from the main tourist hubs for some quiet time and relaxation. A beautiful stay and experience