It’s been a big year of growth for Thailand-based hospitality group Boutique Hotel Management Asia. Following the opening of the X2 Sydney rental apartment we reported a few weeks back, they have just launched X2 Chiang Mai Villa (Maneenopparat Rd., Muang, Chiang Mai, 02-168-7533 ext. 305, book.cm@X2villas.com, www.x2lobby.com). Located 400 meters from Chang Phuak Gate, it’s a five-bedroom contemporary-Lanna villa with everything you need in a good vacation home, from swimming pool and outdoor BBQ area to a fully-equipped kitchen and 24-hour maid service. Rates are B17,500 per night but the villa can accommodate up to 12 people—pretty reasonable to us.