Best hotels in Thailand

Sitting beneath the dangling boughs of a 100-year-old rain tree beside the serene Ping River, Na Nirand Retreat captures the charm and whimsy of Chiang Mai. The entire hotel was constructed with Chiang Mai's heritage in mind and aims to preserve the authentic knowledge of its people, evidence of which you'll see throughout the hotel. Built in a Colonial-Lanna style, the rooms feature beautiful textiles, teak pieces and original art, all the handy work of local artisans. Bicycles are always ready and waiting whenever you feel like exploring more of the city, its historic sites, and ornate temples.

Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is a nirvana for picky travellers and if ever the phrase, "there's really something for everyone" suited somewhere, it's here. Animal-lovers (in case the name didn't give it away), will be in heaven, interacting with local elephant and wildlife, budding gourmets can learn to cook northern Thai cuisine, fitness fanatics can work up a sweat with a muay thai boxing lesson or two, and seasoned loungers can, well, lounge amid the opulent surroundings. With restaurants to suit every taste, newly-renovated and beautifully-decorated bedrooms, a wine cellar, and a multitude of magical experiences, it would be impossible not to fall in love with this jungle spot.

Sitting on the banks of Chao Phraya, aka the River of Kings, the Riva Surya Hotel couldn't be in a better location for exploring Bangkok. Just a few minutes walk away is the pier where you can catch a ferry that will take you from one dazzling highlight to the next. The famous Khao San Road is also just next door. And whilst the hotel may be surrounded by the historic icons of Bangkok, it's a modern and trendy spot, ready to provide any comforts you seek in between busy days. And there's nothing like sipping on a cocktail as the sun sets over the river...

The Surin's placement in Phuket couldn't really get much better. Sitting snugly alongside some of the area's best beaches but still within easy distance of the local nightlife scene, you really do get the best of both worlds here. Whilst not quite a private beach (none in Thailand are), Pansea Beach gets pretty damn close with it's quiet shores only reachable from the hotel or by boat. The hotel itself certainly makes the most of its location, offering spectacular seaside views from almost every spot, and convincing you that might finally have find paradise.

Surrounded by the towering structures of the Langsuan neighbourhood, the Hotel Muse has a top-notch location for exploring the art, history and culture of the area. You'll be lured out in a flash to see what Bangkok has to offer, from delicious cuisine to dazzling temples. The designers were certainly inspired when curating the interiors of the hotel; they have a distinct vintage elegance and rooms are filled with cherry-tinted wood, plush leather and velvet furnishings, and high-end amenities. Elsewhere, there is ample space to recline in between excursions including the Speakeasy Rooftop Bar, which enjoys vibrant views of the city skyline.

Sitting beside one of the ancient canals that once earned Bangkok the nickname, 'Venice of the East', the Casa Vimaya embodies bygone Thailand. The interiors have an authentic sense of heritage to them and a distinctly homely feel thanks to the cosy colour scheme and welcoming staff. Located in the city's Old Town, not far from the iconic Khao San Road, the hotel is well-situated for exploring Bangkok's most famous sights including the Grand Palace and Golden Mount. From the rooftop bar, enjoy views of the city skyline and passing boats, before embarking on a tour of your own. Casa Vimaya maintains a dialogue between the area's vintage architectural charm and practical modern aesthetics. It's a luxurious oasis amid the wonderful surroundings of historic Rattanakosin Island.

Without a doubt, Avani is one of the most fabulous places to stay in Bangkok. Sitting storeys above the city and its shimmering water highway, the River of Kings, Avani checks every box. From the incredible variety of dining choices, including an underground enclave where Bangkok's elite once feasted, to an never-ending menu of elixirs and massages at the spa, it's difficult to pick a favourite element! When you've been pampered enough (well, for a few hours anyway), the city's grand, historic sights await, beginning with a longtail boat ride down the Chao Phraya River, ready to stop and explore at any moment.

In a city that combines gleaming sky scrapers with gold-spired palaces, The Siam is regal to its core. A butler takes care of every detail, the design is sumptuous and sleek, and with a home next to the River of Kings, you'd be forgiven for thinking you're royalty. Set in Dusit, the historic heart of Bangkok, the quiet lanes make for an interesting walkabout. That is, if you can pull yourself from the comfort of your plush suite or the pool with a view of longboats idling by. Venture into Bangkok's Old Town to see its honored and eye-catching temples or visit one of the city's famous night markets.

Tucked into the vibrant cultural centre of Bangkok, the Banglamphu district, Nouvo City Hotel puts you within strolling distance of the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and the wonderfully chaotic energy of Khao San Road.

Named after the great royal periods in Thai history, the luxurious suite choices are in the heart of Bangkok’s upscale Emquartier and Emporium shopping area and the fashionable Sukhumvit Thonglor district of Bangkok. You are well located for business or pleasure.