I’ve been to Chiang Mai a few times, and there, hotels, mostly local ones, are everywhere—many come at an affordable price too. On my last trip, I could’ve gone for a boutique hotel, but I was with my sister, so I opted not to leave it to chance—thus potentially ruining our trip—and go for a reliable yet affordable choice. Fitting the bill was Holiday Inn Chiangmai, where I had been meaning to stay at since my first visit to the city.
Unlike its international name-brand competitors that sit on landlocked locations, Holiday Inn Chiangmai is situated along the Ping River, giving the hotel a riverside view and a fantastic sunset to match.
In terms of accessibility, the city center is maybe a 15-minute drive, and the hotel provides a complimentary shuttle going there. Thankfully, however, with the proliferation of ride-hailing app Grab in the city, it’s easy and affordable to navigate the city.
Admittedly, the hotel had been around for years, but I was able to tell upon stepping into the lobby, which was unusually grand and ostentatious for a Holiday Inn, that it had been kept well. And adding to the warmth of the place were the smiles of the staff who welcomed me and handed my keys quickly upon check-in.
The room we stayed in was a Deluxe Room with a view of the river. With its classic design, it was unlike the newer Holiday Inn properties I’ve stayed at, but what made me like it was how it had been maintained to be in tiptop shape. And well, I liked the riverside view.
It had the amenities expected from a reputable hotel, including two double beds with a choice of soft and firm pillows. The marbled bathroom was likewise spotless, and it had a powerful shower, as well as the necessary amenities.
We had our breakfast at the all-day dining restaurant called River Terrace, named such because of the view it offers. The spread was fairly large and varied, with Western, Asian, and Thai fare. As with most Holiday Inn properties, kids eat for free at the restaurant.
In terms of facilities, the hotel boasts of a fitness center and a swimming pool.
WHY STAY THERE
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It’s a reliable choice, given it’s a hotel that follows international standards.
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Nightly rates of rooms are incredibly affordable and comparable to other hotels in Chiang Mai.
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Although near the city center, it still provides a free shuttle going there.
HOLIDAY INN CHIANGMAI
Chiang Mai-Lamphun Road, Tumbol Wat Kate, Amphur Muang, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Telephone: +66 53 275 300
Email: reservations.chiangmai@ihg.com
Website: www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/chiangmai/cnxcm/hoteldetail
Social Media: Facebook and Instagram
