Away Chiang Mai Thapae Resort — Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Thailand
A vegan, alcohol-free retreat resort in Chiang Mai's Thapae quarter, in Thailand
On Mondays, between six and seven in the morning, Away Chiang Mai Thapae offers a monk offering, the first item on a weekly schedule that otherwise turns to afternoon crafts: Lanna flag making on Thursdays, pandan-leaf flowers on Fridays. Reservations are taken a day ahead. It is a small sign of how the resort sets its terms, with Thai Buddhist practice sitting alongside the yoga mat.
The resort stands on a lane at 9 Thapae Soi 5, a short walk from Thapae Gate. Around a courtyard pool, Lanna-style architecture meets colonial-inspired rooms of dark-stained furniture, rain showers and private balconies. A newer building adds suites with private jacuzzis and views toward the Thapae mountain. The kitchen follows a Thai Buddhist principle of abstinence, so the whole property is alcohol-free. Moreganic, its Veggiehotels-certified restaurant, serves Western and Thai vegan food, and the Seiva Brunchery serves plant-based dishes made with ingredients native to Chiang Mai.
Wellness centres on Nirand Naam Spa & Yoga. Its offerings include a Himalayan salt sauna, hammock yoga, sound healing, Reiki and ice bath therapy. A yoga room with mats and props stays open around the clock. The retreat packages are set out day by day: four days of yoga and sound healing that move from Tibetan bowls and a gong bath to a crystal bowl bath, vinyasa, yin and Reiki; five days of daily yoga, Thai massage and Buddhist meditation; and a seven-day active retreat that adds Thai boxing and trekking.
A three-night longevity program is delivered on site by the medical team of Boston Health Longevity. A vegan cooking class, led by the resort's chef, teaches a four-course menu. Groups can also book the resort for their own retreats, workshops or corporate getaways.
Traditions: Yoga, Sound Healing, Reiki, Thai Buddhist Monk Offering, Buddhist Meditation, Thai Massage
Programs: Yoga and Sound Healing Retreat (4 Days / 3 Nights), All-Inclusive Yoga and Massage Retreat (5 Days / 4 Nights), 7 Days Active Retreat, Vegan Longevity Wellness Package (3 Nights), Ice Bath Experience, Reiki Healing, Vegan Cooking Class, Monday Monk Offering