Golden Pine Resort

Upon arrival, we were left breathless by the grandeur of Golden Pine. Just a half-hour cab ride from the wall-to-wall tourists of Chiang Rai, it is a world removed. Located in the middle of rice paddies, without a single hot-spot for dining, drinking or shopping to be seen. But that was the problem – if you don’t have a car, you are totally isolated. It seems almost all who stay here are part of the big-bus tour circuit. They are there for breakfast, then on the bus for the day. Often not even back for dinner, so the huge dining room is often nearly empty. We were the only people we ever saw in the gigantic swimming pool. The only place of interest within walking distance was the “Long-neck” village of displaced mountain tribespeople. But it was well worth the 3-kilometre or so trek. If you happen to be looking for the perfect place to sit by the pool and read, and indulge in 2 all-you-can-eat buffets a day, this is the perfect place for you. Watching the graceful white egrets feed, and sun set behind the rice paddies is a soothing sight.

We had 3 nights out at Golden Pine resort which is surrounded by padi fields ! As we were visiting someone we knew who lived close by it was convienient for us. Otherwise it is a long way out of the center of town but taking meter taxi was only 150 bht. The rooms were lovely in side and beds soft and comfy . Swimming pool enormous and I think we were the only ones using it! Breakfast was ordinary with very little choice if you don't eat eggs. Even the Thai choice was minimal . We ate one night at resturant and decided on buffet which we were told was 350 bht by one person earlier then when we sat down it was 500 bht per person and that was meant to be discounted! Very disappointed in the choice of Thai foods for this rate . Didn't eat there again . But the staff were lovely and very helpful in arranging taxis and a day trip for us.