Aruntara Riverside Boutique Hotel -SHA Extra Plus

This charming boutique hotel, an oasis of calm nestled by the Ping River, is celebrated for its serene ambiance and exceptional service. Its signature feature is its tranquil riverside setting, offering a peaceful retreat from the city's bustle, which guests find truly magical. Guests consistently highlight the attentive staff who treat visitors like family, the immaculate cleanliness of the rooms, and the beautifully maintained grounds that reflect the local culture. It is an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic and quiet getaway, families appreciating spacious accommodations and a welcoming atmosphere, and solo travelers looking for a relaxing escape. For those planning a stay, consider requesting a room with a river view or balcony to enjoy the stunning sunrises, and be prepared to utilize ride-sharing services or taxis for convenient access to the city center. Don't miss the delightful complimentary afternoon tea.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities designed for relaxation and convenience. The saltwater pool is a notable feature, providing a tranquil setting with wonderful outdoor scenery, though some guests noted a lack of sun exposure and occasional maintenance needs like missing tiles or loose planks. While there is a gym, it is described as small and equipped with limited machines, primarily a treadmill and a crosstrainer, along with a few dumbbells. Guests appreciate the reliable free Wi-Fi throughout the property. The beautifully kept gardens and grounds contribute significantly to the hotel's zen-like and peaceful atmosphere. Additionally, the hotel provides complimentary snacks and fresh fruits in the afternoons, along with a well-stocked mini-bar in rooms with prices comparable to local establishments. An elevator is available, adding to guest convenience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently praise the hotel's commitment to cleanliness, describing rooms as immaculate, super clean, and well-maintained with fresh-smelling sheets and towels. The spacious rooms are a significant highlight, offering ample living space for comfort. Most guests found the beds comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though a few noted the mattress was quite firm. The bathrooms are often described as large, featuring luxurious elements like jacuzzi tubs or separate showers, with some rooms even offering a bath overlooking the bedroom. However, a few guests reported issues with moldy fittings or inconsistent water temperature. While the hotel generally provides a quiet environment, some minor inconveniences include a lack of wall plugs near the bed, the absence of a tall mirror, and occasional oversights in restocking toiletries. The unique layout of some rooms, with the toilet and shower in separate areas from the sink and tub, was also mentioned.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience receives mixed but generally positive feedback. The breakfast offers a good selection, with some items cooked fresh to order, and is served over a generous 4.5-hour period. While many guests found the breakfast good and varied, some felt the variety was limited or that items were not always restocked promptly, with one guest finding it basic. The brewed coffee is consistently praised as excellent, though the single, slow, employee-operated coffee machine can lead to delays. The main restaurant is highly regarded for its delicious and high-quality food, offering both Thai and Western options, making it a convenient choice for staying in. The chef is particularly commended for accommodating dietary needs, such as gluten and dairy allergies. Additionally, the complimentary afternoon tea is a standout feature, described as a top-quality offering of treats. The bar also receives positive mentions for its well-prepared cocktails.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's primary appeal lies in its peaceful riverside location by the Ping River, offering a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. While it provides a quiet and serene environment, it is situated just outside the old town, meaning it's not within walking distance of the main city center attractions. Guests typically rely on taxis or ride-sharing services like Grab, which offer cheap and quick rides (around 5-15 minutes) to reach the city's markets and sights. The hotel is conveniently located approximately 10-15 minutes from Chiang Mai airport. Despite being slightly removed from the central area, there are still plenty of restaurants, massage places, and convenience stores like 7-Elevens within walking distance. Parking at the hotel is limited, which could be a consideration for guests arriving with their own vehicles.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff and service are consistently highlighted as exceptional, often described as the true strength of the establishment. Guests frequently use words like "magic," "incredible," and "impeccable" to describe the level of care received. The staff are praised for being overwhelmingly friendly, helpful, attentive, and welcoming, often going above and beyond their job requirements. Specific examples include assisting guests with mobility challenges by finding suitable rooms and navigating the property, arranging transportation, and making special accommodations for extended stays. The reception staff are noted for their efficiency, such as having room keys ready upon return and arranging spa appointments. Housekeeping is also commended for its meticulous attention to detail. While most staff demonstrate good English proficiency, ensuring clear communication, their overall professionalism and genuine desire to assist create a memorable and personalized guest experience.

Additional Information
Beyond the standard amenities, the hotel offers several unique aspects that enhance the guest experience. It possesses a distinct old-world charm in its design and ambiance. Guests should be aware of the property's architectural layout, which includes various steps throughout, potentially posing a challenge for those with mobility issues, though staff are noted for their assistance. A thoughtful touch is the provision of mosquito repellent cream in rooms, acknowledging the local environment. The hotel also offers a delightful complimentary afternoon tea, a recurring highlight for many visitors. For those visiting during local festivals, the hotel provides special experiences, such as participating in Loy Krathong festivities directly from its riverside pontoon. Some guests noted minor room layout quirks, such as the placement of the mini-fridge on an upper shelf or beds on raised platforms, which can be a slight inconvenience.