Spas and Resorts in Chiang Mai

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Day Spas and Massage Parlors

With its lush landscape, scenic mountain views, and international appeal, Chiang Mai has all the makings of a world class spa destination.  The city is considered the “spa capital of Thailand” and rightly so.  Visitors can experience a wide range of pampering rituals in an equally varied array of settings – from village style resorts on the outskirts nestled amidst paddy fields and tropical jungles to more modest facilities in the city that offer basic rubdowns.  Like in other Thai cities, massage parlors are everywhere.  A word of caution for the boys: a parlor with street facing windows advertising traditional Thai massage is exactly that, while those promising oil massages in the back rooms include “special” services that come with extra charges.   

The day spas, on the other hand, offer a more expansive range of features that include body wraps, aromatherapy treatments, herbal detox treatments, and indigenous organ massages. Rates are surprisingly affordable even at some of the fancier spas, and there are even massage schools where you can learn many of these invigorating techniques.  

Spas and Resorts

Chiang Mai’s mild and pleasant climate makes it a perfect getaway for Thais who swarm to this mountainside region during the hotter months.  The mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop to some of the most comprehensive spa and resort facilities in Thailand.  Amenities at many of these beautiful resorts include walking trails, jogging tracks, horse back riding, hill tribe trekking, and golf courses.  Besides the usual pools, tennis courts, and gym facilities in upscale establishments, you might also find private hot tubs, award winning spas, and lavishly decorated all teak interiors.  You don’t necessarily have to break the bank to wallow in all this decadent luxury – some of the newer boutique resorts in Chiang Mai offer king style amenities at modest rates.