drgough

Hi Fodorites.

Any recommendations on where to stay in Chang Mai? Looking for a little more of a "Thai" experience than a big hotel (where we will be staying in Bangkok) that is located close to the excitement.

Also, is it safe for us to rent a car and drive to Krabi from Bangkok or should we hire a driver? If we need to hire a driver, any suggestions?

Thanks in advance!

Debbie

drgough

Oops! I meant driving from Phuket to Krabi!

Kathie

I like Yaang Come Village in CM. Nice Thai atmosphere.

Yes, you certainly can rent a car and drive from Phuket to Krabi or you can simply take a taxi. A lot depends on whether you want to have a car while you are in Krabi. SOme people like having a car. Personally, I like to have someone else take care of all the car issues - parking, finding the way, getting gas, etc, and I find taxis or cars and drivers very reasonably priced in Thailand.

joannay

I enjoyed staying at Baan Orapin, tradional buildings and just across the river, close but not in the center. Very nice location: http://www.baanorapin.com/index.php

irecommend

We stayed at 3 Sis. The location, service and food was excellent.

http://www.3sisbedandbreakfast.com/

Hanuman

If you want a hotel with Thai architecture then try the following, from most expensive downward:

Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
Rachamankha
Tamarind Village
Yaang Come Village.

Phuket to Krabi is a safe drive and plan on 2 - 3 hours driving time.

JohnH

For more "Thai" style hotels, in order of preference:
Yaang Come Village
De Naga
Puripunn Baby Grand
Rachamankha

Although both are beautiful, I wouldn't recommend either Four Seasons or Mandarin unless you specifically want to stay outside the city.

gailmo

One vote from me for the DeNaga. It was very nice. Small and walkable to many places.

ileness

a vote for rachmankha... i stayed last December... beautiful, well-located, quiet, delicious food..worth the splurge. fantastic service.. definitely consider.

drgough

You all are awesome! Thanks so much.