ARRYING a classical Northern Thai "Lanna Renaissance" design sensibility with a smart, modern 281-room business and leisure facility providing over 3,500sq m of events space, the Shangri-La Hotel, Chiang Mai, is a place for all seasons – or reasons. It serves admirably as a Chiang Mai family hotel or a conference venue. And it is easily one of the best Chiang Mai spa resorts with its signature CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La.

With nine spa villas set in manicured gardens, a breezy yoga pavilion, and the “Sanctum” for signature treatments, the Shangri-La Hotel, Chiang Mai serves up a dizzying smorgasbord of aromatic oil, wraps, hot stones, masks, hydrotherapy and soothing rubdowns. The spa menu draws inspiration from the Himalayas and China. Set your ch’i free and then, energised, savour a selection of Thai and international cuisine before settling down with a glass of red at the WoW Bar. Later, stroll down to the Night Bazaar.

Positioned among the best Chiang Mai luxury hotels, the hotel’s meticulous – and rich – “Lanna” Thai flourishes are nowhere best in evidence than in the guestrooms. Look forward to silk bed runners, bright textured fabrics, and ample throw cushions to keep you propped up in any position for sleeping, reading, or simply lazing.

The celadon tea sets are a nice touch and Premier rooms offer daybeds. Expect satellite TV, Broadband access, and pillow menus. The monstrously roomy Suites offer opulent living space with a DVD player and, occasionally, a kitchenette. Executives on the go can avail of the brisk Horizon Floors and club lounge.

With the city’s charms all within shouting distance – the airport too just a 10-minute drive away – this Shangri-La is one of the top Chiang Mai conference hotels though it can double just as easily as a romantic wedding venue. Swim, play tennis, head for the fitness centre or just spend a week at the spa.