Shangri-La Hotel, Chiang Mai

The massive free-form swimming pool here is the centerpiece of the hotel, and is part of what makes this property well-suited to families (the nearby kids' club is a major factor as well). Yet the grounds are spacious enough to handle crowds, so couples seeking privacy and a more intimate environment will also be happy here. The elegant Chinese restaurant, swank lobby lounge, and chic poolside bar attract a fashionable, well-heeled set, yet the vibe is decidedly relaxed, so shorts will be just as appropriate here as trousers. With all the fancy features, you'd think the hotel might be stuffy, but it's the exact opposite. The large property footprint allows it to offer a resort-like experience despite the downtown address, and the location -- slightly removed from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist area -- also lends to a more tranquil atmosphere.

The Shangri-La sits just outside the heart of downtown Chiang Mai. It's only a 10-minute walk to the popular Night Bazaar and to plenty of dining and drinking options, yet far enough away from all the noisy bars, tourist hustlers, and dense crowds that guests can enjoy plenty of peace and quiet. The historic old city's main gate is a 20-minute stroll from the hotel, which may be a bit inconvenient for those hoping to spend a lot of time visiting this section, but the tradeoff is less congestion right outside the door. It's about a 20-minute drive to the airport.

The rooms and suites in the Shangri-La all have great views of Chiang Mai and its mountain surroundings, as well as of the spacious grounds and immense swimming pool below. Rooms feature large bathtubs and separate showers; those in the Deluxe Category have a sliding window panel separating the room and bathroom. Rooms are decorated with plenty of teak wood and silk furnishings, in line with Lanna northern Thai style, and they're huge, starting at 43 square meters (474 square feet). The look is elegant and traditional rather than modern; those who prefer a more contemporary style should consider Le Meridien. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, Shangri-La toiletries, coffee/tea facilities, large writing desks, and feather duvets.

The freeform outdoor swimming pool is the centerpiece of the resort, and feels more suited to a fancy beach property than a city center hotel. Adjacent to it is a state-of-the-art fitness center complete with fancy whirlpools, sauna, and steam rooms. The Shangri-La signature CHI Spa has won awards for its pampering spa treatments, which range from Swedish to Shiatsu techniques as well as the novel "hot stones" treatments -- though note prices are very steep for the area.

While the Kad Cafe offers buffet breakfasts and an eclectic lunch and dinner menu featuring Mediterranean, Indian, Thai, and even Japanese food, the top draw here is the Shang Garden, an elegant Cantonese restaurant that boasts the only private chef's table in Chiang Mai, where one's private dining table looks through a large plate glass window into the kitchen.