Tamarind Village

Tamarind Village sits in the heart of Chiang Mai in the walled and moated Old Town, 10 minutes from the night bazaar and lively riverside restaurants.

You can imagine contemplative monks pacing around the peaceful courtyard at Tamarind Village, shaded by an ancient tamarind tree and surrounded by beautiful rooms and suites, with views over the green, leafy gardens.

White walls, terracotta tile floors and marble bathrooms continue the sense of calm inside, whilst the wood furniture, handmade lacquered boxes, embroidered cushions, colourful hill tribe fabrics, black and white photographs and tribal artefacts inspire you to hit the colourful markets opposite the hotel. Most luxurious is the two-floored Spa Suite, which has a large marble bath and an invigorating outdoor shower.

You can look forward to all the Thai favourites at the Ruen Tamarind restaurant, including gaeng hung lay (a mild pork curry), but there are also some unique family recipes for you to try. Dine indoors or on the pool terrace, and you can also indulge in a delicious afternoon tea.

There's no excuse for culinary boredom with all the markets, restaurants and bars right outside the front door - sip a Chang beer by the Ring Ping before joining the party at the buzzing waterfront restaurants.

Where better to relax at the end of the day than at Tamarind Village's lovely pool and traditional Thai spa? Cool off with a refreshing dip, relax poolside or pamper yourself with a traditional Thai massage or facial using natural ingredients such as herbs.

The hotel’s location is one of its major perks. The famous Sunday walking market is right in front of Tamarind Village. Here, you can pick up genuinely unique finds, like embroidered pillowcases, jewelled slippers and handmade dolls with postcards telling their story (it’s worth noting that everything is slightly cheaper than the night bazaar, though this is still worth a visit).

Aside from the markets and the Old Town, there is plenty more to see - as far as wonderfully ornate temples are concerned you’ll be spoiled for choice, as you'll be close to two of the main temples, Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Suan Dok. One of Chiang Mai’s most spiritual temples is Wat Chedi Luang, due to the greater space around it, and the incredible detail it reveals at sunset. Those who’d like to dabble in Buddhism should wander to Wat Suan Dok, where you can learn meditation and have informal chats with the monks.

A short drive outside the city offers many more options, such as tiger sanctuaries, jungle ziplining and scenic trekking around Thailand's northern hills.