Chiang Mai Thailand Tries to shed Backpacker Image

Chiang Mai, Thailand has become known as a backpacker’s destination. Developers in Chiang Mai are working to change that by building upscale hotels and resorts in the area.

The Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi was recently upgraded in effort to help change the image of Chiang Mai.

The new upgrade added 54 colonial-style suites and amenities to the property such as a new pool.

The Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi is just one example of the concentrated effort to develop the area to a more upscale crowd. Other possible properties are in the works, such as Shangri-La and Banyan Tree.

Shangri-La is planned for a spring 2008 opening and will have 300 rooms.

The developments could help Chiang Mai compete with Phuket for coveted luxury tourists. Currently, Chiang Mai has about 25,000 hotel rooms. Only 450 of those are in five-star properties.