As we drifted further from the center of Chiang Mai, we wondered where exactly we had booked our hotel. Sitting in our taxi on the way to Home at Nine after a long 10 hour bus journey, we were convinced this travel day would never come to an end.
“Shouldn’t we be there by now?” I whispered to Matt, growing more anxious with each passing kilometer.
Just then, our driver pulled off the main highway. It must be a good sign! Our feelings of relief soon turned to concern as we weaved deeper into the neighborhood which was enveloped in darkness. Quiet, shut down, and in the middle of nowhere.
CRAP! We made a mistake! We were both thinking it. But before we could go too far down the rabbit hole of self pity, our taxi turned the corner. There she stood, an oasis in the middle of an otherwise deserted web of streets. Our worries quickly dissolved as we pulled into the resort. Even our taxi driver let a small, “wow” escape from his lips.
Relaxing Atmosphere
The moment we arrived, it was clear that the owners of Home at Nine made providing a tranquil environment for their guests a priority. From the soothing sounds of running water, to the perfect placement of plants throughout the property, it is evident much thought went into the design of their space. The layout of the buildings even allows for an ample breeze sure to maximize comfort.
According to Joon, one of the two owners, she understands that travel days can be very stressful. She indicated that is something they always kept in mind during the design process of Home at Nine.
Everything is about ensuring the comfort of their guests and hopefully alleviating some of that travel day stress when they arrive. It worked for us.
The History of Home at Nine
Just a short two years ago, owners Tom and Joon were looking to open a new project together. When they laid eyes on what is currently the location for Home at Nine, history was in the making.
What was once a neglected, run down building situated among the rice fields quickly transformed into the peaceful retreat it is today. With simple yet cozy guest rooms, a communal kitchen where traditional house made breakfasts are served each morning, and plenty of spaces to curl up and relax, this place feels like a hidden gem.
It has been a steady work in progress and continues to evolve. Matt and I stayed at the property while exploring Chiang Mai for nearly 3 weeks and in that time we saw major changes underway.
The Piano in the Rice Field
Probably the most recognized and sought after feature of this hotel is the piano in the rice field. What started off as a bit of a gimmick, quickly became an Instagram hot spot. We have to admit, it does lend itself to some absolutely stunning pictures! If this shot below doesn’t convince you, check out their Instagram page for a bit more eye candy.
Cloud 9 Restaurant
Home to arguably the best fried chicken sandwich this side of Europe. From our orders alone, it wouldn’t surprise me if a Thailand chicken shortage was soon announced.
Cloud 9 is housed on the grounds of Home at Nine which makes it perfect to pop in for a quick bite to eat on those days you don’t feel like venturing too far off the property.
In addition to the chicken sandwich, there are several other burgers on offer as well as more traditional Thai dishes. But what we couldn’t get enough of was their smoothies. Several different flavors all made to order from fresh fruit. Our favorite was a toss up between the mango and the passion fruit. If you’re more interested in a good cup of Joe, they have you covered with freshly ground beans.
By 6pm each evening, the smell of smoke is in the air as the new clay oven is brought to life. We couldn’t help but be enticed to pull up a seat at the outdoor bar most evenings and watch the chef expertly roll the dough for the pizza crusts. It would be safe to order a margherita, but their western fusion pizza recipes make it worth stepping out of your comfort zone. Try the pad krapow pizza for a spicy kick. Even better? Pair with their mouthwatering mango margarita to combat the heat.
Activities Near Home at Nine
Although a bit removed from the city center of Chiang Mai, there are still plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the Thai culture from Home at Nine. Both Tom and Joon, as well as their staff, are excellent resources for recommendations.
During our time at Home at Nine, we explored the nearby night markets, the Saturday morning buffalo market, and even the local neighborhood food stalls (when we weren’t in chicken sandwich food comas).
We spent one morning hanging out with the elephants in Mae Wong National Park at an ethical no ride sanctuary. Joon made the arrangements for us and made sure we arrived on time to our pick-up location.
She also set up our Thai cooking class and even helped us to rent a scooter for the day so we could explore the nearby Grand Canyon and National Park. It turns out we weren’t prepared to ride a scooter. That was an epic fail. But lucky for us, Home at Nine also has plenty of bicycles for those of us needing a motor free form of transportation.
In case you’re having thoughts of renting scooters on your own journey, I will just leave this here – because travelling without insurance is always a bad idea.
Final Thoughts
The things that worried us on our initial ride towards Home at Nine were the very things we were hesitant to leave. Being tucked into the quiet, less traveled neighborhood, made our stay so relaxing.
We started our mornings sipping coffee while lounging in the nets over the rice field. We spent our afternoons dipping in and out of the pool. And as the sun set in the evening, we toasted a Leo on the rooftop deck. The sky filled with varying shades of pink and purple turning the coconut trees into silhouettes as the sun dipped behind the mountain.
The perfect place to escape the noise of the city. Good food, a comfortable place to sleep, and exceptional hospitality. What more could you ask for?
If we’re ever passing through Chiang Mai again, we know where we will be staying.
When it comes to choosing a hotel for your vacation, what are the most important things you look for? Let us know in the comments!
Cheers friends,
Megan & Matt
