Thailand for Honeymooners

Take note: The Akyra Manor Hotel Chiang Mai, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, opens August 1 in the northern city of Chiang Mai. The city provides a cool ambiance for honeymooners with ancient sanctuaries and temples dotted among traditional residences, and we say the scenic Doi Suthep Mountains outside the city just might create the ultimate backdrop for post-wedding photos. Akyra Manor also sets the honeymoon tone with its “Manor Suites”: There are only seven of them, and they each come with 1,050 square feet of space and sport an “outside living” theme.

Case in point: The private balcony in each Manor Suite has a hot tub; there’s also another private terrace with an outdoor bathtub (it pairs well with the naturally sourced bath products). When guests roam inside the suite, they will find touches like a fully stocked minibar, Espresso machine, and a walk-in changing area. Tip: A three-day, two-night honeymoon package comes with free sparkling wine and a flower bouquet, roundtrip transportation to Mae Sa Waterfall with lunch, a body scrub for two, daily breakfast and dinner at the rooftop bar.

We suggest travelers explore Nimmanhaemin Soi 9, locally known as “Coffee Street,” which is within walking distance of the hotel. The street is the perfect place to shop with its collection of boutiques and galleries, and a cup of coffee at one of the cafes is a must. Upon returning to Akyra Manor, dinner at the hotel rooftop RISE Bar completes any perfect day. This is the place to be seen and includes crafted cocktails, a pool surrounded by transparent walls and memorable views of the city skyline. For an exciting dining experience, guests should order the private barbeque to their rooftop table. Dishes include chicken satay skewers, garlic parsley prawn and a homemade marshmallow skewer. Reservations for VIPs should be made with Jon Makhmaltchi (jon@jmak.com).

(Source: Luxury Travel Advisor)