POR Arak

The free bicycles were great for getting around Chiang Mai. They could use some maintenance, but were still perfectly usable. Our room was functional, well equipped, very clean, and comfortable, and there was free water and fresh fruit available around the clock. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, so we felt welcome the whole time. Breakfast was excellent, with lots of choice and good quality. We had a wonderful stay at Por Arak and would definitely return.

I loved being able to get water, fruit, tea, and coffee from the breakfast area fridges at any hour. Breakfast was simple, but fresh, tasty, and filling enough to set you up for exploring. The rooms were modern, clean, and comfortable, and the pool looked clean, though it was too cool for us to swim. The staff were courteous, friendly, and helpful. Laundry was reasonably priced and done efficiently. A lovely place to stay.

You can use the coffee machine and help yourself to fruit day or night, and there are a couple of friendly resident cats around. The breakfast was the best I’ve had at a hotel in Thailand. Staff kept the food stocked and the area clean, and they were really attentive. The service was excellent, with English-speaking staff who gave us a list of local things to see and do. The room was modern, spacious, clean, and very nice. The location inside the old town boundary was ideal, but still quiet, with shops, temples, and restaurants all within walking distance. Best hotel in Chiang Mai!

The Old City has so much to do, from temples and markets to parks, and staying at POR Arak put me right in the middle of it. Ann, the tour operator just around the corner, was one of the kindest people I met and had a wealth of local knowledge. She was a fantastic help with planning activities around the city. I was in Chiang Mai for Muay Thai training at Kru Dang and Kru Dam, and the hotel made it easy to walk to and from both sessions. The lobby opens straight onto the pool area, giving the place a relaxed, breezy feel throughout the day. I still think fondly of my stay, even a few weeks later. It has a boutique feel, very clean rooms, excellent staff, and a surprisingly charming breakfast setup. I especially appreciated the fresh fruit, glass-bottled water, coffee, and light snacks available to guests all day. My room was on the small side, tucked into a corner with little view, but the comfort, cleanliness, and atmosphere more than made up for that. When I’m back in Chiang Mai, POR Arak will be high on my list.