Away Chiang Mai Thapae Resort - A Vegan Retreat
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Hotel Details
Location
Chiang Mai
Thailand, Asia
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Expert Review: Away Chiang Mai Thapae Resort - A Vegan Retreat
Away Chiang Mai Thapae Resort - A Vegan Retreat, a Michelin Key Selected property, consistently receives high praise for its tranquil atmosphere, exceptional vegan cuisine, and outstanding service, positioning it as a highly recommended destination in Chiang Mai.
1. Overall Rating & Sentiment
The general consensus for Away Chiang Mai Thapae Resort is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently rating it as "Superb" or "Exceptional" across various platforms. It holds a "Superb" rating based on over 500 reviews, with high scores for cleanliness, staff, comfort, and location. The resort has also been awarded a prestigious 5-star rating by the Sustainable Tourism Acceleration Rating (STAR) system, administered by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), recognizing its commitment to sustainability and health safety standards. Its selection as a Michelin Key property further underscores its quality and distinction.
2. Key Highlights
Guests consistently laud the resort for its entirely vegan offering, even those who are not vegan themselves appreciating the quality and variety of the food. The friendly and kind staff receive frequent commendation. Its location in a quiet lane within the old town, yet close to major attractions like Tha Phae Gate, is another significant highlight, offering a peaceful retreat from the city's bustle. The elegant colonial-influenced design and the presence of a lovely pool also contribute to a wonderful guest experience.
3. Room Quality
The resort features 67 air-conditioned rooms and suites, decorated in a contemporary colonial style from the early 1900s. Rooms are noted for being clean, large, and comfortable, with plush linens and modern comforts. Each room includes a private balcony, offering views of the pool or city, and some even provide direct pool access. Bathrooms typically feature rain showers, with some suites offering a separate bathtub. Amenities such as Tempur-Pedic beds with premium bedding, minibars, safes, refrigerators, coffee/tea makers, bathrobes, slippers, and complimentary toiletries are provided.
4. Dining Experience
The dining experience at Away Chiang Mai Thapae is a major draw, being a 100% vegan retreat with its on-site Moreganic Vegan Restaurant and the newer Seiva Brunchery. The breakfast buffet at Moreganic is particularly praised for its extensive selection, allowing vegan guests to enjoy everything without concern. Options range from vegan waffles and fresh fruits to Thai green curries, stir-fried vegetables, baked beans, roasted potatoes, vegan sausages, freshly baked croissants, and various bread. The restaurant emphasizes organic and locally sourced, high-quality ingredients for both Western and Thai dishes. In line with strict Thai Buddhist principles, the resort maintains an alcohol-free environment. Seiva Brunchery offers a delightful brunch experience with plant-based dishes, including sourdough creations, pastas, cakes, smoothies, and coffee, alongside non-alcoholic beers and mocktails.
5. Service & Staff
The staff at Away Chiang Mai Thapae Resort consistently receive exceptional feedback for their friendliness, kindness, and helpfulness. Guests describe them as polite and attentive, contributing significantly to the overall positive atmosphere of the hotel.
6. Location & Accessibility
The resort boasts an excellent location on a quiet lane within the old city walls, near the historic Tha Phae Gate. This central position allows for easy walking access to the Sunday market, various temples, cultural points of interest, and the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. Chiang Mai International Airport is conveniently located within a 15-minute drive.
7. Value & Pricing
While specific pricing can vary, rooms have been booked for as low as $52, with an average weeknight price around $247 and weekend night price around $129. The resort offers various packages, including half-board options, all-inclusive yoga and massage retreats, and long-stay offers, which can provide good value. Given the high level of service, quality of rooms, unique vegan dining, and prime location, guests generally consider it to be worth the cost, with "Value for money" rated at 9.0.
8. Common Complaints
While reviews are overwhelmingly positive, a few minor points have been raised. One guest noted that shower tile joints needed cleaning. Another isolated complaint involved a negative interaction with staff regarding a lost key fee, where the guest felt the staff member was "cold and not helpful". However, these appear to be isolated incidents and not recurring issues in the broader feedback.
