Bura Resort, Chiang Rai

The rooms are spacious, private, and wonderfully playful, almost like stepping into a film set or fairytale. You hear frogs at night and see butterflies and greenery in the daytime. Breakfast was top-notch, with fresh fruit, eggs made to order, and local homemade treats. Jazz, Noi , Hanna, Krit and the daily housekeeping staff made our stay feel special, and the Wi-Fi worked great. We’ve travelled around the world and had been travelling through Thailand for nearly three weeks, and this was hands-down our favourite place so far. It’s outside the city centre, but the owners offer frequent rides into downtown and back for a small fee or free, so getting around was easy. If you love nature and jungle, want a different kind of stay, and prefer being near Chiang Rai without constant city life, this place is incredible and memorable. We’re tough critics with high standards, and we wouldn’t regret staying here.

The bungalows sit among water, as does the restaurant, and the whole setting feels magical. I really enjoyed the roomy bungalow and its unusual design. The restaurant food was fabulous, and Hannah, the manager, was fluent in English and very helpful, just right for the job. The beds are on the hard side, like many Thai beds, though still comfortable. The place could use some attention, but it was great overall.

Coming back after a day out to the trees and the little stream was so calming. At night and in the morning, we could hear insects, frogs, and flowing water. That peaceful atmosphere at Bura Resort really helped us unwind. We picked a Water Villa from the different room options and were happy with it. The cave-like exterior has earthy colors and natural textures. Inside, there was a big comfortable sofa, plus a spacious bathroom with both a bathtub and shower. The kettle was one small letdown, as the water had floating particles. This isn’t a shiny, modern hotel, but aside from little things like that, I could happily have stayed for months. The owner was warm and welcoming and made our breakfast personally. We were the only guests that day, so breakfast was quiet and private, with a beautiful view. With so few rooms and such a natural setting, I can see how much care this resort must take to maintain. I hope the owner’s passion and a steady flow of guests help keep this lovely place going for years.

At night, we loved listening to the sounds of nature. The gardens are beautiful, and all the details around the resort seem carefully designed. The staff were lovely and available whenever we needed anything. They even picked us up in Chiang Rai city and took us to the resort and to the Hot Spring. The food was absolutely delicious.