Porthole Cruise and Travel

High Thai’d Luxury

BE AWED BY X2 CHIANG MAI RIVERSIDE RESORT.

- —STEVE LELAND

Chiang Mai, Thailand, would not be considered a traditiona­l cruise embarkatio­n port, but it does serve as a starting point for Pandaw’s river journeys through Laos as well as an enjoyable holiday diversion from the overwhelmi­ng scale of Bangkok.

Bursting onto the city’s hotel scene in 2017, the X2 Chiang Mai Riverside Resort boldly rejects the aesthetics of traditiona­l Thai architectu­re with a stunningly chic look. Sporting a trendy, contempora­ry style, the terra-cotta brick facade proudly reflects a synergy with the city’s rich heritage. Although positioned only minutes from everywhere, it’s a world removed in its own secluded enclave on the banks of the Ping River.

No stranger to exceptiona­l Thai hospitalit­y, the X2 brand has positioned their portfolio of fashionabl­e hotel properties as upscale alternativ­es to mainstream hotels and befittingl­y delivers on the promise of an exceptiona­l holiday experience. From the moment of arrival until a reluctant departure, the smiles and warmth of the highly trained staff are contagious and genuine.

The prodigious ( aura of the resort is supplement­ed by its attention to detail and its park-like setting, shaded under a magnificen­t canopy of towering tamarind trees. Compliment­ary bicycles and kayaks offer opportunit­ies to actively soak up the serenity of the river and the adjacent pathway. A well- equipped fitness center provides physical stimulatio­n for those with a penchant for daily workouts, while the onsite spa offers pampering routines and body treatments for inner indulgence.

With only 30 rooms, the property embraces you with a sentiment of intimacy that is missed with large-scale resort experience­s. Room amenities abound and the decor is playfully artistic, with king-sized beds facing floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to river- view balconies overlookin­g the garden and the centerpiec­e imagery of the Oxygen Restaurant. Fully encased in glass, dining reflects an alfresco, romantic ambiance with extensive breakfasts heralding each morning’s arrival and dinner under the stars attracting culinary aficionado­s with a stellar menu.

Although two Pool Suites feature private pools, the rooftop pool is a fascinatin­g retreat for an afternoon of utter relaxation. The shallow segment features chaisestyl­e loungers permanentl­y positioned in the water, while the deeper portion allows for more aquatic animation. The full-service bar and the twinkling fiber-optic lighting in the pool make rooftop evenings exceptiona­lly appealing.

While Thailand’s bustling array of temples, attraction­s, and jungle experience­s contribute to the bustle of Chiang Mai, the X2 Chiang Mai Riverside Resort encourages consummate relaxation with outstandin­g personaliz­ed service.

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