In contrast to the capital Bangkok, Thailand’s second largest city, with its over 700 years of heritage, does not include any skyscrapers on the skyline. And sticking to that could prove a strong advantage onwards – as the city of leisure it is increasingly becoming.

Except from a few new high-rise hotels that have been developed recently, Chiang Mai consists mainly in low-slung buildings. To paint a picture, the city architecture mostly exudes low-key style though the city landscape in its central parts is balanced by a large number of temples.

There is a contradiction here, in the strong architectural traditions Thailand’s north is famous for while the vast majority of city buildings are unfortunately modern concrete ones.

But an interesting noticeable change is going on where Thailand’s famous northern city is increasingly adopting to a distinct hybrid of tradition and modernity that is upgrading the city for the better.

This is a welcome trend where Chiang Mai thanks to hotel developers is improving in class; growing in reputation for its many boutique hotels springing up and all that comes with it in terms of dining venues etc.

The light is on the city as the laidback holiday destination where many investors are putting their money at stake on this Northern getaway apparently expecting strong growth in tourism, including holiday makers as well as conference groups.

A new era of up-market tourism is clearly seeing the light of day where Chiang Mai is evolving as a lifestyle destination.

On this vibrant scene De Naga Chiang Mai (opened in 2008) is a hotel that really stands out as a symbol for what Thai culture stands for.

Here is a more personalized venue that contributes to preserving the authentic as a distinct Lanna (Northern Thailand and Chiang Mai’s traditional art and culture) style boutique hotel perfectly hidden in the old city area near one of the historic gates and minutes away from the famous night bazaar area.

Somehow squeezed in (but tucked away in a nice way) between downtown Chiang Mai’s ordinary townhouse buildings, De Naga stands out like a proud beacon of what traditional Thai architecture stands for.

At the same time it beckons to those in search of sophistication as it has adapted to today’s hotel guests’ needs and by including contemporary amenities.

Part of The Unique Collection of Hotels & Resorts in Thailand it is therefore likely to command attention as a resort honouring the area’s heritage.

In its concept this boutique hotel has adopted a northern legend, the mythological creature Phaya Naga; a formidable serpentine creature believed to have helped the kings in building the city of Chiang Mai.

By the entrance is a special fountain with a Naga symbol surrounds the hotel’s own spirit house. And throughout the interior in the hotel there are Naga statues, ornaments and various decorative details.

The design is modern but with the use of distinct Lanna architecture including warm teakwood interiors and Thai silk details. Following the tradition the building is elevated from the ground.

Stairs lead up to the warm-lit lobby which is part of the Lanna centrepiece building also containing the Naga Suite on the second floor. This lobby is majestic also displaying works of art on the walls and with décor painted wooden beams in the ceiling.

It is enclosed by horseshoe-formed building featuring altogether 22 Deluxe, 17 Premier Deluxe and 15 Grand Deluxe rooms. In addition guests can bask by a little plunge pool and pool bar.

The rooms exude true warmth, looking like one’s dream living room. Above the superbly comfortable bed is a De Naga art on the red wine-coloured wall which also comes with a suitable pattern. The floor is bright teakwood and the rooms also come with lamps and furniture suitable to the traditional Thai style.

On De Naga your mini bar is for free and you are supplied with a DVD player, and in-room 26 inch widescreen television.

Finally the hotel’s dining options are the Naga restaurant with an array of international dishes, including Mediterranean Cuisine served for lunch and dinner, and also Café De Naga serving Thai food, international favourites, coffee, baked items, juices and ice cream throughout the day. Both offer al fresco dining with the Naga offering a nice view next to the lobby building. There a fair selection of wine or other refreshments can be enjoy along with delicious dishes such as Grilled salmon fillet with peppery mushroom cream and steamed Royal project vegetable (280 baht) or Roasted snow fish with semi dried cherry tomato-chili relish and garlic spinach (300 baht).

For those seeking to enjoy all that Northern Thailand has to offer when it comes to art and excursions but still wishing to enjoy the unique laidback atmosphere of the city of Chiang Mai, De Naga simply offers a welcome respite that can take you back to serenity.

Text and images: Joakim Persson

Go to image gallery De Naga Chiang Mai, Thailand

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