From Tiffany Schauer, July 4, 2008
After visiting the park, I returned to Chiang Mai. I stayed at the architecturally significant Rachamankha Hotel. This hotel is literally an oasis in the middle Chiang Mai. It is owned by a Thai family and an anthropological study in itself. The building, designed by one of Thailand’s most celebrated architects, and the interior, designed by an equally celebrated designer, was the culmination of a desire to beautify Chiang Mai’s cityscape and explore the design vocabulary of the city’s golden age. The architecture is inspired by one of Thailand’s best preserved Lanna period temples,
If you can, reserve Suite 26. This suite is located above the library. It has a large private balcony with views of the pool and gardens: a very private space, occupying as it does the entirety of the second floor of the library building. Suite 24 is also nice. It is located through a rather unassuming doorway to the right of the entrance courtyard. The art in the space for the most part, are cherished pieces from the owner’s private collection.
The restaurant is also an artful respite. Chinese antiques from the owner’s collections with Ming Dynasty (14th to 17th centuries), and Qing Dynasty (17th to 20th centuries), porcelain are on display; as well as Qing Dynasty furniture. On the second floor above the restaurant, the hotel gallery is a showcase of the regions culture and history. A permanent but ever changing display of antiques and objects that reflect the regions fast disappearing cultures and traditions.
The hotel employs local people and, as much is as possible, buys produce from the local markets and uses the services of local businesses. They also promote local artists and artisans by featuring their work in the hotel’s boutique. Again, this hotel exemplifies an awareness and sensitivity necessary for culture to be preserved so we can evolve. It’s a delight.
Read dispatches from Tiffany’s visits to aid projects in Thailand, including a refugee camp, an orphanage, an elephant sanctuary and a special surfer teaching tsunami survivors in Phuket.
