Discover why the hotel is the perfect destination for Indian weddings.
By Muskan Shah
From the 20th to the 22nd of November, the Masala team along with wedding planners from Pink Palki, Krish Events, Magnificence Events, Weddings by Keeran, The Wedding Galore, I Do Etc., and Shanaya Celebrations immersed themselves in the unique culture of Chiang Rai at the Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort. One of the region’s leading properties, it offers a stellar setting for a dreamy Indian wedding, complete with attentive staff, excellent food and drink, and superb venues.
After a short and scenic drive from the airport, day one began with a welcome lunch at Favola, the resort’s signature Italian restaurant offering authentic dishes from a rustic wood-fired oven and chargrill. The meal was followed by a site inspection to assess the resort’s many venues, which concluded with a complimentary massage service by the poolside that was undeniably a crowd favourite.
As the evening rolled in, guests were invited to a glamorous cocktail reception at the famed Raintree Deck. As the 120-year-old raintree is considered a symbol of eternal love, it provides an apt frame for a romantic ceremony, whether intimate or large. The day came to an end with an exploration on foot of the many meandering streets that make up Chiang Rai, an experience that transported guests back to halcyon days.
Day two saw an itinerary packed with visits to idyllic locales both in and out of the resort. It began with morning yoga at the Raintree Deck, followed by breakfast at Latest Recipe, which featured abounding dishes inspired by cuisines from all over the world, cooked in front of diners at live stations. The adventure continued with a sightseeing trip around Chiang Rai led by the Le Méridien team. The first stop was the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) a magnificent display of craftsmanship, with intricate carvings and symbols depicting Lord Buddha’s story. Next, the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), coated in a vibrant shade of sapphire, left everyone in awe.
A visit to Singha Park followed. With approximately 1,280 hectares of flora and fauna, there were endless opportunities for people of all ages to relish its beauty and capture stunning photos. After soaking in the sunlight, Le Méridien treated everyone to an indulgent meal at the charming Bhu Bhirom restaurant, which offered breathtaking views of the park. The day then concluded with sundowner cocktails and dinner under the stars on the banks of the majestic Mae Kok River. Traditional Thai performances elevated the starry evening as the team chattered the night away in merriment.
Masala would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Le Méridien Chiang Rai team for hosting and curating a trip to remember. A big thank you to all the planners who joined our team in exploring this Northern paradise.