Hello we were planning on going to chiang mai in february 2005 and wanted to know if anyone has stayed there recently. we are on a modest budget ($20-$50) a night. We would like to try and stay at a larger hotel that is clean and semi-westerized, but with an eastern feel. Any suggestions? Thank you!

You might see other posts about Tamarind Village. It appears to be available through websites at aou US$40 and quite nice in a nice area. Enjoy your trip!

Thank you laurie ann, we will. We are actually going to study Thai Massage, any suggestions on where to receive massages once we get into town, other than the schools.

Downtown Inn is a great Bargain, should be about $22, close to Night Market etc, the Empress is about $30 or the Suriwongse about $25 also. These are all a/con ok places, I use the Empress often but when full 2 of my staff stayed at Downtown Inn and it was fine if you just want a clean ok hotel that is convenient etc. These guys have around 50+ places in CM from Budget upwards
www.chiang-mai-hotels.itgo.com

You might want to consider the Duangtawan. I have just posted some information on it in this part of the Board. The promotional rate is very attractive and it is in a good location and seems to meet your criteria.

The Suriwongse Hotel is great...about as good as a Hilton hotel...and right next to the night market. Happy Travels!