If you are looking to explore the culture of Thailand, forget about Bangkok and the beach destinations. Instead, come to Chiang Mai, one of the best cities in Asia, where the country's finest food, nature spots, and activities are. The former 19-century headquarters of the British Borneo Company was turned into one of the best resort hotels in Southeast Asia near the Ping river, in the peaceful residential enclave of the Wat Gate area of the city.

137 Pillars House is a gorgeous teak wood building that was thoroughly restored to cherish its 19th-Century past. In Chiang Mai, the wealth and importance of a family were measured by the size of their Lanna-style Thai house, precisely, how many pillars it has. Thus the name of the resort comes from the fact that it has exactly 137 pillars.

This award-winning boutique hotel has 30 suites featuring a nostalgic ambiance of the building's rich colonial past. Their striking high-ceiling interiors are fitted with free-standing Victorian bathtubs, indoor and outdoor showers, four-poster beds with ultra-luxurious 400-thread count bed linen, signature-design rocking chairs, and vintage tiled verandahs for complete authenticity. Of course, Butler service is included too. Out of the five types of suites, the most lavish one is the Louis Leonowens Pool Suite. It comes with a sunken bath overlooking tropical plants, indoor and outdoor garden showers, and a private infinity swimming pool.

The Dining Room has classic Thai dishes using local farmers' harvests that are perfect for sharing with friends and family. Adjacent to the restaurant, there is a courtyard overlooking the tropical gardens. Another option is the Pallete decorated with artworks of local artists and offers western cuisine in the teak homestead. Finally, Nitra Spa & Wellness is where you will find a contemporary treatment menu of traditional Thai therapeutic massages. The star of the property is the swimming pool, though. This large pool is masterfully contrasted with a leafy green wall. You can sip on cocktails here and even have yoga classes.