Escape to Paradise: Sanae' Townhouse, Your Chiang Mai Oasis Awaits!
Escape to Paradise: Sanae' Townhouse, Your Chiang Mai Oasis Awaits! - A Brutally Honest Review (and a plea to YOU to book!)
Okay, friends, let's be real. Finding the perfect Chiang Mai getaway is like trying to herd cats. But I've just stumbled out of Escape to Paradise: Sanae' Townhouse, and I'm here to spill the tea (or, you know, the delicious Thai iced tea they serve). This isn't your average, sanitized hotel review. This is the truth, messy bits and all.
First, the basics, because you have to know:
- Accessibility: Now, I’m a pretty mobile gal, but I did spot an elevator, always a huge win. Specifically, the Facilities for disabled guests is awesome, because it can be the deciding point for some. I didn’t put it to the test, but good to know it’s there, unlike some of these places.
- Internet: Holy Wi-Fi! They weren't kidding about Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! and even in the public areas, which is a godsend for someone like me who needs to constantly catch up on emails. Which, by the way, the Internet access - LAN should provide another alternative.
- Cleanliness and Safety (aka, the COVID Saga): Look, I'm a germaphobe, and let's be honest, who isn't these days? This place gets it. They're all over the Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and staff is all over with Hand sanitizer and trained on safety protocol. They even have Room sanitization opt-out available. The Breakfast takeaway service, Individually-wrapped food options, and Sanitized kitchen and tableware items gave me peace of mind. They've earned their Hygiene certification, because let's face it, this is one of the most important things for the tourists. I'm like, "Yes, finally!"
Now, the Good Stuff (and the Sometimes Not-So-Good):
- Things to Do & Ways to Relax (aka, Me Time!): Okay, I'm a sucker for a good Spa, and the Spa/sauna situation here is pretty great. I had a Body scrub that made me feel like a whole new person (and a little bit less like a perpetually-tired version of myself). The Pool with view is stunning. I spent an entire afternoon just floating, utterly content. Tried out the Foot bath, and it was a nice touch. Didn't hit the Fitness center, mainly because I'd rather eat cake. But hey, it's there if you're that person.
- Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (aka, Food Glorious Food!): This is where things get really interesting. Let's start with the Breakfast [buffet]! Yes, it's got all the standard options, the Asian breakfast options are really authentic. I can't skip mentioning the Coffee/tea in restaurant The Poolside bar… heaven. They serve the best cocktails. There's a Snack bar for those moments when you need a quick nibble. The Restaurants serve all kind of dishes! I had an amazing meal with the Asian cuisine in restaurant option, but I also craved the Desserts in restaurant.
- Services and Conveniences (aka, My Comfort Zone): Air conditioning in public area is a must in Chiang Mai, and they've got it. The Concierge was incredibly helpful, arranging tours and giving me tips I didn't think of. Daily housekeeping is wonderful - that fresh sheet feeling is everything. And the Doorman is always there with a smile. The Currency exchange and Cash withdrawal saves me a lot of time and trouble.
- For the Kids (aka, If You Must): I don't have kids; however, there are Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, and Kids meal options, so you are all set.
My Personal, Stream-of-Consciousness Experience (Because That's What You Really Want to Hear):
Okay, let's talk about the pool. That pool. It’s an outdoor swimming pool and a Swimming pool with view. And it's not just any pool, it's the kind that makes you forget all your worries. I swear, I swam for like an hour, just staring at the sky, thinking, "This is the life." The Swimming pool [outdoor] is one of the most memorable moments of the time I spent here.
But hold on, because this place isn't perfect. The room decorations were a little… eclectic. There was a lot of stuff, but somehow it kind of works. The Air conditioning worked a little bit uneven. And okay, the Breakfast [buffet] can get a little crowded during peak hours.
The Rooms - Honestly:
My room? Perfectly fine. It had Air conditioning, a comfy Bed, and a Desk. It had Free bottled water. The Daily housekeeping kept it spotless. The Bathroom was clean, with an efficient Shower and Toiletries. They provided a simple Bathrobes, which is always nice, also a Mirror and a Hair dryer. And, yeah, I'm probably forgetting stuff, but the basics are there, and that's what counts. Although I need to say the Blackout curtains were a lifesaver.
The Annoying Little Things (because I'm nothing if not brutally honest):
- The Slippers: They provided some Slippers, but they were a little basic. I brought my own, mainly because I am obsessed with the fluffy ones.
- The Soundproofing: The Soundproofing was okay, but I got a little bit of noise from the hallway.
Accessibility - Final Thoughts:
- I didn't see it with my own eyes, but I spotted Facilities for disabled guests. The Elevator and other aspects of the Accessibility, and I can imagine it would be a good option.
The Big Question: Would I Recommend It?
Absolutely, YES. Despite the minor imperfections (because, again, perfection is boring), Escape to Paradise: Sanae' Townhouse offers a genuinely charming experience. It's in a fantastic location, the staff are lovely, and the spa treatments alone are worth the price of admission. The cleanliness is top-notch, which, in the current climate, is a HUGE selling point.
So, Here's My Plea to YOU:
Stop scrolling. Stop comparing. Stop agonizing over the perfect hotel. Just book this damn place. You deserve it. You deserve a little slice of paradise, a place where you can unwind, eat delicious food, and maybe even forget that you have emails to answer.
SPECIAL OFFER - Because I'm feeling generous (and maybe a little desperate to share this gem):
Book your stay at Escape to Paradise: Sanae' Townhouse within the next 72 hours, and get:
- A complimentary complimentary bottle of local sparkling wine (for your first celebratory pool-side moment)
- A free Body Scrub (because you deserve to feel pampered)
- A 10% Discount on all Spa treatments
- Complimentary late check-out (because you won’t want to leave!)
Use the code "ParadiseDreaming" at checkout.
Seriously, do it. You won’t regret it. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to book another trip back. Because, frankly, I need another spa treatment. And maybe another cocktail. 😉
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Sanae' Townhouse & Chiang Mai: An Itinerary That's Probably Going to Go Sideways (But in a Good Way?)
Okay, here's the "plan" I (a human with a questionable sense of direction and an even more questionable ability to wake up before noon) have cooked up for my Chiang Mai adventure, specifically based out of the lovely-sounding Sanae' Townhouse. Let's be honest, this is more of a loose collection of hopes and dreams with a healthy dose of "winging it" sprinkled on top. Buckle up, buttercups.
Day 1: Arrival & Instant Gratification (AKA Sticky Rice & Temple Gawk)
Morning (Uh…Whenever I wake up): Fly in, hopefully not looking like a dehydrated zombie. The actual airport transfer to Sanae' Townhouse… well, let's see. I'm praying the online booking actually works, or I might end up bartering for a ride with a charmingly persistent tuk-tuk driver. (Side note: I’m terrible at bartering.) After check-in, I will try and grab a quick "nap" before the itinerary begins.
Afternoon: The Food Coma Begins: First things first, STREET FOOD! I’m obsessed with Thai food, completely and utterly. My mission: find the absolute best Khao Soi (curry noodle soup) within stumbling distance of Sanae' Townhouse. That’s the only important thing for today. Also, I'm determined to master the art of using chopsticks. It's a running joke in my family. I'm so bad at it.
Late Afternoon: Temple Time: Wat Chedi Luang is on the list. Supposedly magnificent. I also read that it has good incense. I'm going to wander around, take a deep breath, and try to absorb some zen. Maybe I'll find a cute little monk to share the zen. (Just kidding… mostly.) Pictures will be taken, of course. Loads of them. And probably a few selfies with a slightly bewildered expression.
Evening: Night Bazaar Ambush? I'm a sucker for a good market. The Night Bazaar sounds HUGE. I'm both excited and slightly terrified. I’m sure I’ll buy something I don’t need, like a brightly colored elephant-shaped bag. (Don't judge me.) Dinner situation? More street food, naturally. The quest for deliciousness continues.
Day 2: Elephant Sanctuary Dreams & Potential Meltdown
Morning: The Elephant Encounter (Fingers Crossed!): This is the big one. The ethical elephant sanctuary. I've done a TON of research (read: Googled frantically for hours). I really, REALLY hope it lives up to the hype. Cuddling elephants? Bathing elephants? I’m a little bit overcome with emotion at the thought. Also, I feel like I need to wear a really cute outfit. My expectations are sky high.
- An Actual Anecdote Before I Go Remember when I went to that horrible zoo? The elephants were sad and skinny, their enclosures were filthy, and I started CRYING in front of a group of children. This trip needs to right the wrongs of that day.
Afternoon: Recovery Time and the Unexpected Coffee Shop: Hopefully, I don’t cry AGAIN from overflowing joy. After that potential emotional rollercoaster, I will need some recovery time. Probably a large coffee and a moment of reflection. I'll try to hunt down a local café, somewhere with character and good Wi-Fi, to check in with the outside world.
Evening: Cooking Class Catastrophe (Maybe!): Thai cooking class. I've always wanted to try it. I can barely boil eggs at home, so this could either be a complete disaster or a culinary revelation. My prediction: I'll make a valiant effort, my pad thai will be edible, and I'll accidentally set something on fire. (I'm not proud of this prediction. But it's likely.)
Day 3: Doi Suthep and The Grand Canyon of Chiang Mai! (Maybe?)
Morning: Doi Suthep Pilgrimage: The climb to Doi Suthep Temple is the next big adventure. I plan to get up there before the MASSIVE crowds arrive. I'm also a little bit scared of heights. Hopefully, the views will be worth it. The plan? Do all things to get there and be amazed.
Afternoon: The Grand Canyon of Chiang Mai: This is where it gets tricky. I have seen the pictures and all that online. I want to check this out, but transportation is a thing. I have to find transportation and hopefully not get completely lost.
Evening: Rooftop Bar Bliss (Or Potential Disaster): I saw a few rooftop bars recommended. I'm picturing myself, sipping a fancy cocktail, gazing at the city lights. The reality? Probably a sweaty, awkward struggle to get a cab, followed by spilling said cocktail all over myself. But hey, a girl can dream, right?
Important Note: By now, the plan might have completely gone sideways. I accept this.
Day 4: Massage Mania & Farewell (Or, Until Next Time!)
Morning: Massive Massage Marathon: I envision a day dedicated to pure bliss. A traditional Thai massage (possibly followed by a foot soak?) in a tranquil little salon. I deserve this. My body's going to be screaming for it after all the trekking and questionable eating habits.
Afternoon: Souvenir Stumbling: Last-minute souvenir shopping. For the important people in my life. (And maybe a few things for myself). Will I find that perfect souvenir? Will I get ripped off? Will I end up with a bag of elephant-shaped bags? Tune in to find out!
Evening: A Final Khao Soi Farewell (Tearfully): One last feast. One last taste of glorious deliciousness. I'm already dreading leaving. Chiang Mai, you magnificent, chaotic, food-filled wonderland. I will be back. I pinky promise.
The Imperfections, the Rambles, and The Absolute Truth:
This itinerary is fluid. Plans will change. I'll get lost. I'll probably eat too much. I might cry. But that's the beauty of travel, isn't it? It's the unexpected moments, the little discoveries, the complete and utter messiness of it all that make it unforgettable. So wish me luck, and if you see a slightly bewildered woman clutching a map and a bag of elephant-shaped bags, come say hello!
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Escape to Paradise: Sanae' Townhouse - You NEED to Know This (Before You Go!)
Okay seriously, what IS Sanae' Townhouse like? Is it REALLY paradise?
Alright, alright, pump the brakes on the "paradise" talk. Look, it's gorgeous. Beautiful. The pictures? Mostly accurate, which is a win in my book. But paradise? It's *Chiang Mai* paradise, which is a different beast entirely. Think: lush gardens, a seriously insta-worthy pool (I took, like, 50 pictures of it), and the kind of peace that makes you forget your phone exists… for, like, an hour. Then you remember Instagram, obviously.
It's a townhouse, so don't expect a sprawling resort. But that's kind of the charm. It's intimate, it feels…personal. Like, you can almost feel the good vibes radiating from the walls, man. (I might have been heavily influenced by the complimentary welcome drinks then.)
**My anecdote:** I arrived utterly frazzled after a red-eye. The staff, bless their hearts, were just *wonderful*. They were patient with my jet-lagged ramblings and even showed me how to work the aircon (important!). Instantly, that frazzled feeling just…melted away. It's magical, I tell you. Magical (or, y'know, good AC).
What's the vibe? Party central? Or Zen retreat?
Zen retreat. Absolutely. Unless, like me, you accidentally bring a friend who thinks "Zen" means "loud, questionable karaoke at 2 AM." (Sorry, Mark…again.)
Honestly, it's perfect for couples, solo travelers, or even a small group of friends who *don't* have karaoke aspirations. It's about relaxation, slow mornings, and maybe, just maybe, learning to meditate without falling asleep. (I failed at that one.) I mean, who doesn't want to chill out in a beautiful place?
Is it family-friendly?
Mmm, tricky. I *saw* a few families there during my stay. The pool is definitely a draw. The gardens are great for kids to wander. But the overall atmosphere is geared towards tranquility. So, if your kids are the type to run wild and scream, maybe not the best fit. If they're chill and happy to read a book by the pool… then go for it!
What's included? What do I actually *get* for my money?
Okay, let's get practical. The basics: a comfortable room (seriously, the bed was like sleeping on a cloud), air conditioning (a LIFESAVER), a cute little kitchenette for making morning coffee (essential), and access to that glorious pool. They usually offer a basic breakfast, which is a nice bonus. Free wifi (crucial for Instagram, obviously).
But what you *really* get is the *experience*. The feeling of being pampered. The quiet. The chance to just… breathe. Oh, and that pool? Did I mention the pool?
**The big one:** They have a laundry service. Seriously, pack light. I sent them a mountain of dirty clothes, and they came back perfectly folded and smelling fantastic. That alone might make it worth the price!!
How's the food? And where's the closest 7-Eleven (important!)?
Breakfast? Okay, it's not Michelin-star worthy, but it's perfectly adequate. Think fresh fruit, maybe some eggs, toast… you know, the essentials. They often have fresh-squeezed juice, which is a delightful way to start the day.
**The Important Stuff:** The nearest 7-Eleven is... a little walk. Not crazy far, but not right outside the door. (Plan accordingly for those late-night snack cravings.) There are also some amazing little restaurants nearby. I, obviously, ate my way through most of Chiang Mai. The staff can give you recommendations. GO GET THE PAD THAI. You won't regret it. Seriously.
How easy is it to get around?
Chiang Mai is very walkable. The townhouse isn't *right* in the heart of the old city, so you'll probably need to use a Tuk-Tuk or a Grab (Southeast Asia's version of Uber). They're cheap and readily available. You can also rent a motorbike. (I declined because I lack the necessary skills, I heard Thai traffic can be adventurous.)
Is it conveniently located? Or am I going to spend my whole trip in a taxi?
It's a good balance. It's not smack-dab in the middle of the chaos, which is a HUGE plus in my book. You're close enough to the action (night markets, temples, elephant sanctuaries, the works), but far enough away to escape the noise and the crowds.
I'd say it's a solid 15-20 minute ride into the main areas. Which is fine, considering it is lovely, serene and beautiful. Also, it's a great place to relax your head after the chaos.
Anything else I should know about the area around Sanae' Townhouse?
It's a residential area, so expect some local life. Little shops, maybe stray dogs (they're usually friendly, but best to avoid if you're scared!), and the sounds of daily life. It's not a tourist trap, which is part of the charm! So, it's not overly developed, which is a relief. Just soak in the culture, be respectful, and enjoy it. Buy some cute souvenirs, and you're all set!
Any hidden gems or quirky things I should look out for?
Okay, here's the super-secret inside info. They have the most amazing...mosquito repellent. It smells incredible. (I found out the hard way that the mosquitoes in Chiang Mai are *vicious*.) Stock up on it, trust me. That's the first hidden gem.
Secondly, and this is a personal observation: the stray cats that wander the gardens. They're adorable. (Do NOT feed them. I learned that the hard way, and it turns out, the staff frowns on that.) Just enjoy theirHotel Finder Reviews
