Hotel Mercure a Chiang Mai

Though I saw some other reviews noted this is an older hotel, I was very pleasantly surprised walking into the immaculate lobby. Though outside the Old City walls, it's walking distance to the north side, including a famous street food area just outside the north wall, there are convenience stores nearby, the room was larger than others I stayed in within the Old Town walls, the beds were super comfortable, and the shower had great temperature and water pressure. The outdoor pool area is quite nice. The front desk service was friendly, attentive, and made good recommendations. On the whole it's a bargain, though a taxi ride is recommended for getting to locations closer to the south side of the central tourist area.