Overview: Sat on the bank of the Ping River to the north of the old town, with nothing but lush green lawns and trees on both sides, Zensala is that rare new opening we feel the need to really rave about. Blessed with 120 meters of riverfront, the 11 minimal-themed rooms and suites occupy three floors of the type of modern architecture you normally see in Wallpaper* or Art4D: nods to cubism, plenty of black metal and clean lines, raw cement surfaces, huge floor-to-ceiling windows, a rectangular swimming pool and natural wood furnishings. Two additional cottages make you feel as if you’re by the sea, with their bamboo furnishings.

Food & Drink: The Terrace serves up breakfast while Flow Wine & Tapas Bar prepares Italian cuisine that goes well with the wide selections of wine.

Spa & Facilities: The owner also owns Zensala Spa in Bangkok, so you can expect a range of professional spa treatments carried out by staff who’ve trained at the headquarters here.

Rave: Contemporary architecture aficionados, this is the getaway for you. The three-story resort right on the river is unlike anything else found in Chiang Mai. The teak wood furniture and finely detailed décor combined with the substantial lawn space by the river help create a relaxing ambiance amid the minimalist design. Like other boutique hotels, the service is not five-star perfect but is warm and welcoming. There will be a shuttle service to the city center soon, too.

Rant: Due to the minimalist theme, the 72-sq-meter suite feels a little too empty. The food wasn’t quite as hoped for, either. But the hotel isn’t 100% complete yet and we reported those observations to the management team, so things could well be improved in time for the coming high season.

Rates: Introductory rates are from B2,000 for a deluxe, B2,400 for a pool access, B4,500 for a suite until Oct 31. Top Koaysomboon