Special Scoop: Baantawan Pai

 |  October 29, 2012

Baantawan Pai’s Boutique Guesthouse

Bursting with understated character, we are not going over the top here when we say that Baantawan really is a special Pai find.

Baantawan combines tasteful and comfortable living with the natural beauty of Pai, and will make you feel as though you are relaxing in a rainforest. A well established boutique guesthouse, the resort’s wooden structures stand amidst a rainbow of tropical flowers and are adorned with traditional Thai decor.

After walking through the bustling little town of Pai, it’s a pleasure to step back slowly into the serenity of the resort, leaving the backpackers and bars behind, only to melt into the secluded haven of the guesthouse.

The resort sits quietly on the river edge  smack bang in the heart of Pai and houses an array of 24 clean and comfortable rooms; prices start from 600 baht – depending on the duration of stay and room size – and come with fans, aircon, TVs, free wifi, mini bar, hot showers and massive balconies. Contemporary yet cosy, the spacious and airy rooms are decorated with traditional ornaments, paintings and colourful bed spreads; each room has an individual personality. The rooms are raised up on wooden stilts, following a few floods a few years back, giving guests an even better view of the gardens and river beyond. The polished teak balconies are the highlight as they are not only huge, but come with such comfy lounges and recliners that you would be hard pressed to muster the energy to get up once seated.

A hearty Thai and western breakfast is served in the mornings, made up of tea and coffee, cereals, yoghurt, fresh fruit, toast, eggs, sausages, fried veg, rice porridge and more. Delicious authentic northern Thai, Shan and Burmese food are also served in the low-key restaurant and there is nothing more chilled than sitting by the river with a cold drink in hand watching the sunset.

At night the resort is beautifully lit up and remains peaceful after an exhilarating night out in Pai. The classic lanterns make you feel as if you have stepped back in time.

There are plenty of outdoor seating areas in the midst of the greenery and along the river front for guests to chill out and take in the scenery. You could actually spend all day at the resort reading or resting by the river.

The front desk offers tourist information and bike and car rentals for customers. The staff speak English and are friendly and welcoming.

The town’s attractions and a multitude of trendy bars and restaurants are only a two minute walk away, so transport is not necessary.

117 Moo 4 Tambol Viangtai, Amphur Pai

053 698 116, 053 698 117, 081 883 1083

baantawanpai@gmail.com

www.baantawan-pai.com