Royal Panerai Hotel Chiangmai

This hotel offers exceptional value for money and boasts a prime location just outside the Old City, making it a popular choice for budget travelers and sightseers eager to explore the area. Its proximity to key attractions and local amenities is a significant draw, allowing guests to easily access the city's vibrant culture. While many guests appreciate the spacious rooms and comfortable beds, it is important to note that the hotel has an older aesthetic, with some furnishings and facilities showing their age. This blend of affordability and convenience makes it particularly suitable for long-stay guests or those seeking a practical base for their adventures. To ensure a pleasant stay, guests should be mindful of potential noise from neighboring rooms or the street, and manage expectations regarding the hotel's dated appearance.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides convenient parking options, including a two-story garage, which is a notable advantage for guests traveling by car. Wi-Fi connectivity is generally reliable and stable, though some guests experienced occasional instability. Rooms are equipped with air conditioning units that provide good cooling, though some are older and can be noisy. A fridge and an electric kettle are standard in rooms, adding to guest convenience. While TVs are available, some are older models, and a few guests reported issues with clarity or dusty remotes. The hotel does not offer room service, and the on-site elevator has been noted by some as being slow or having issues with its doors. There is no gym available, as it was reported to be closed. Complimentary coffee and snacks are offered in the lobby during mornings.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests frequently highlight the generous room size, describing them as spacious and comfortable, often featuring a balcony. Feedback on bed comfort is mixed; many find the beds firm and comfortable, while some describe them as hard or uncomfortable. Opinions on cleanliness vary, with many guests finding their rooms clean and free of musty odors, but some reported finding dust, forgotten items, or a lingering cigarette smell. Noise levels can be an issue, with sounds from neighboring rooms, children, or street traffic often audible due to thin walls. Bathrooms are generally clean, though some guests noted issues with old fixtures, difficulty closing doors, or toilets not flushing properly. Some power outlets were reported as damaged, and amenities like hairdryers and face towels are not consistently provided.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently praised, situated just outside the northeast corner of the Old City and within easy walking distance to the Tha Phae Gate. This prime spot allows convenient access to numerous attractions, including temples, and is close to various night markets and dining options. A 7-Eleven convenience store is located nearby, providing easy access to essentials. While the hotel is well-placed for exploring on foot, guests should be aware that crossing the busy ring road to reach the Old City requires using a traffic signal. Parking facilities are ample, making it a practical choice for those with vehicles, and public transportation is also readily accessible.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff generally receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many guests commend the reception staff for their welcoming demeanor and efficiency during check-in, and highlight the valuable assistance provided by the on-site tour desk lady, who is described as exceptionally helpful in arranging excursions. While the majority of interactions are positive, a few guests reported instances of less friendly or impatient service from specific staff members, particularly within housekeeping or at check-in. Despite these isolated incidents, the overall sentiment is that the staff contributes significantly to a positive guest experience, making efforts to accommodate requests and ensure comfort.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that a key deposit is required upon check-in, typically 200 baht, payable in cash. Some guests have reported issues with the hot water supply, noting that it can be excessively hot during certain times of the day, making showering difficult. The hotel frequently accommodates large tour groups, which, while a testament to its popularity, can sometimes lead to increased noise levels in hallways, particularly during early morning hours. Additionally, some guests have noted the presence of pigeons on balconies, suggesting a need for more consistent maintenance in these areas. The hotel's older lock system has also been mentioned as a point of concern for some guests regarding security.