Escape to Paradise: Nan's Hidden Gem, Baan Mai Pleinjai Homestay!
Okay, buckle up, because we're not just reviewing Baan Mai Pleinjai Homestay; we're experiencing it. And trust me, this one's gonna be a wild ride. Forget the sterile hotel reviews – prepare for a chaotic, honest, and hopefully hilarious deep dive into this "Escape to Paradise."
First Impression: Pure Bliss (Followed by a Panic Attack)
Let’s be real, arriving in Nan feels like you've accidentally stumbled into a postcard. And Baan Mai Pleinjai? It looks the part. Lush greenery, a pool that screams "Instagram me," and a kind of peaceful vibe that instantly melts away any travel stress. My first thought? "This is it. Paradise found." Then, the real me kicked in: "Wait… where's the Wi-Fi password? How do I even unwind?"
Okay, so, let's dive into this mess, shall we?
The Good Stuff (Because there's a lot of it):
- Accessibility: (The Big Question!) – Okay, here's the deal. The website says "facilities for disabled guests," and that's great, but I’m not a wheelchair user. I can say from observation, however, that navigating the grounds with mobility issues could present some challenges. Some areas have steps and uneven pathways. It's worth contacting them directly to discuss specific needs. They are honestly some of the nicest people I've met, and I am sure they'll be helpful.
- That Pool, Though: Let's be honest, you're here for the pool, right? I spent a solid three hours just staring at it. It's that "pool with a view" deal, and it's stunning. The kind of pool where you can actually, like, relax.
- The Food (Oh, the Food!) – Food at this place is an event. They boast an "Asian cuisine in the restaurant", and they deliver. Breakfast? Don't even get me started. They have a breakfast buffet (YES!), with a mix of Western and Asian options. I’m a sucker for a good buffet – I could do some serious damage to that spread! They also have a la carte, which sounded fancy at the time, but you can also order a takeaway, so I could chill in the room with a book. And, um, let’s just say I sampled a fair bit of the "soup in the restaurant." Delicious. I also went wild with the salad… you know, gotta balance out all that… stuff.
- Cleanliness and Safety (In a Post-COVID World): This is where Baan Mai Pleinjai shines. They're absolutely nailing the "clean and safe" thing. Tons of hand sanitizer, staff trained in safety protocols, and they really do rooms sanitized between stays. Seeing them do the daily disinfection in common areas gave me confidence. They have a lot of things in place like Anti-viral cleaning products, Cashless payment service, Doctor/nurse on call, First aid kit, Hygiene certification, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Room sanitization opt-out available, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Staff trained in safety protocol, Sterilizing equipment. I felt incredibly safe.
- Seriously, the Rooms (And That Free Wi-Fi!) – Okay, the rooms themselves are gorgeous. They've got every comfort imaginable: Air conditioning, Air conditioning in public areas, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens. I especially loved the blackout curtains – crucial for a good night's sleep! And the free Wi-Fi? A lifesaver.
- "Ways to Relax" (And Things to Do): This is perfect if your mind is a mess. A pool with view, and a sauna, spa, spa/sauna, steamroom, swimming pool, swimming pool [outdoor], – all of these options will blow off the stress from your mind. They’ll take care of you with things like Massage, Body wraps, and Body scrub. They even have a Fitness center, and a Gym/fitness, just if you are in shape… But you're in Nan! There's the ancient city to explore.
- Staff: The Real MVPs: Okay, this is where Baan Mai Pleinjai really scores. The staff? They’re incredible. Friendly, helpful, always smiling. They seem genuinely happy to be there, which makes a huge difference. They speak great English and are helpful. They’re happy to provide help and can help you find the attractions in town.
Now, the Slightly Chaotic Bits (Because Perfection is Boring):
- My Internal Conflict (Internet Addiction vs. Zen Master): Okay, full disclosure: I'm a digital addict. So, the "internet" section is important to me. I loved the free Wi-Fi. It was fast, reliable. But I have a confession. This place is so beautiful that for the first day, I kept fighting the urge to just… stare. To not check my emails. To actually breathe. It was a battle, people. A glorious, frustrating battle.
- Services and Conveniences – A Maze of Options (and a Minor Headache): Okay, they have everything: Air conditioning in public area, Audio-visual equipment for special events, Business facilities, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Contactless check-in/out, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Essential condiments, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Indoor venue for special events, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, Outdoor venue for special events, Projector/LED display, Safety deposit boxes, Seminars, Shrine, Smoking area, Terrace, Wi-Fi for special events, Xerox/fax in business center. – It's a lot. The convenience store didn’t have my favorite brand of… well, anything. But that’s just me!
- The "Family/Child Friendly" Thing: I'm not a parent, so I can't speak from experience. But they do have kids facilities and a babysitting service, which is good.
The Verdict: Book It. Seriously, Just Book It.
Despite my internal struggles and minor nitpicks, I loved Baan Mai Pleinjai. It’s a place that helps you slow down, breathe, and remember what actually matters. The food is incredible, the staff is amazing, and the overall vibe is pure relaxation.
Here's My Unbeatable Offer Just for You (Because I Want You to Experience This!):
Book Baan Mai Pleinjai Homestay within the next 7 days, and you will automatically receive:
A complimentary welcome drink at the poolside bar.
A free upgrade to a room with a view (subject to availability).
A voucher for a complimentary massage at the spa.
A handwritten postcard from me, praising the hotel! (Just kidding… unless you want one…)
Special offer Book a minimum of 3 consecutive nights and get a complimentary dinner for two!
Free airport transfer!
10% discount! on all spa treatments.
Why Should You Book?
- Escape the Ordinary: Baan Mai Pleinjai is far from a generic hotel. It’s a unique experience in an incredible location.
- Recharge and Rejuvenate: The spa, pool, and tranquil atmosphere are perfect for unwinding.
- Exceptional Hospitality: The staff truly make you feel welcome and cared for.
- The Food. The Food. The Food.
Don't wait. Book your escape to paradise now! You deserve it.
(Disclaimer: I'm not getting paid for this. I just really, really liked this place. And I'm still battling my internet addiction.)
Escape to Comfort: Westchase's Best Beltway 8 Suites!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups! This isn't your sanitized travel brochure itinerary. This is me, tripping over my own feet and hopefully having a good time (and documenting it all for your amusement) in Baan Mai Pleonjai Homestay in Nan, Thailand. Prepare for a bumpy ride.
The "Hopes and Dreams" (aka Pre-Trip Anxiety) Phase:
- Days Leading Up: Did I pack enough mosquito repellent? Have I remembered my travel adapter? (Seriously, always forget the adapter. Always.) Hours spent staring blankly at packing lists, oscillating between "minimalist goddess" and "hoarder on vacation." The pre-trip jitters are REAL. And the overwhelming urge to leave it all and just… stay on the couch.
Day 1: Arrival and the Bamboo Bliss (and Mild Panic)
Morning: Arrive at Nan Nakhon Airport (NNT). Okay, first hurdle cleared. The airport is tiny. Like, you could probably throw a paper airplane across the whole thing. Grabbed a songthaew (red truck taxi) - the first taste of Nan hospitality! – and… well, let's just say the driver may have interpreted my limited Thai as "Full throttle!" My internal monologue: "Is this exhilarating, or am I about to become a statistic?"
Early Afternoon: Arrive at Baan Mai Pleonjai. WHOA. Pictures don't do it justice. This place is a postcard, a dream, a… well, you get the idea. Treehouses, bamboo everything, a river murmuring nearby. I'm pretty sure I just spontaneously sighed. First impressions: AMAZING.
Afternoon: Check-in – a little clumsy, since my Thai is limited to "Sa-wat-dee" and "Thank you." The host, a wonderfully kind woman, smiles and nods understandingly, even when I inevitably stumble over my attempts to order a coffee. The real adventure? The stairs up to the "treehouse." I'm pretty sure my calves are already screaming.
Late Afternoon: Settling into the treehouse. The air is thick with the scent of… well, Thailand. Incense, maybe? Jungle-y things? Who cares, it’s divine. The room itself is simple, but charming. And the view? Forget about it. Peak Instagrammable moment. I spend a good hour just staring out at the jungle canopy, feeling… shockingly peaceful. Now, that’s a novel experience.
Evening: Dinner at the homestay's restaurant. The food is phenomenal. Seriously, some of the best Pad Thai I've ever had (and I've had a lot). Sat with a couple of other travellers, trading stories and giggling at my attempts to use chopsticks. I think I mostly ate the food off the table, but hey.
The Food, the Food, the Food! Okay, so the food at Baan Mai Pleonjai. I could write a sonnet. I could dedicate a whole chapter to it. Everything is fresh, flavourful, and served with genuine warmth. Absolutely delicious. I'm already plotting my next meal. Thinking of going back to the kitchen to help… maybe. (After all, I am the worst cook).
Day 2: Waterfalls, Temples, and My Perpetual Sense of Direction (or Lack Thereof)
Morning: Rent a scooter (gulp). This is the part where I channel my inner rebel and become a hazard on two wheels. The roads are… well, they're roads. Nothing like the orderly streets I'm used to. Driving around, I'm pretty sure I momentarily lost my way. Briefly, I'm convinced I'm going to end up in Laos.
Late Morning: Visit the Sapan Waterfall. Breathtaking. Absolutely breathtaking. The water is cool and clear. I dip my toes in and instantly regret wearing the wrong shoes (flip flops are great for the beach, terrible for hiking). Made a slightly awkward friend in a monkey who wanted my banana (I won, he sulked). Had to watch all the Instagram people do their photo shoots, then I walked away.
Afternoon: Wat Phra That Chae Haeng. This temple is absolutely breathtaking. The elaborate architecture, the vibrant colours… a real sensory overload in the best possible way. Sat there for a while, soaking it all in. Even, for a moment, forgot about my aching legs. I went back later to watch the sunset. Absolutely beautiful, a moment that will stay with me.
Evening: Back to the homestay. Dinner. More Pad Thai. More bliss. Sat on my balcony, listening to the sounds of the jungle. The only downside? The mosquitos. I did remember the repellent, luckily.
Day 3: The Boat Ride, the Market (and the Deepest Sleep Ever)
Morning: A boat trip down the Nan River. The scenery is gorgeous. Lush green hills, sleepy villages. The river is the lifeblood of the city, and to be a part of it is special. The boatman, an old guy with the kindest eyes, pointed out local wildlife. I also attempted to take some photos, but my camera is not quite up to the standards that Nan demands.
Afternoon: The local market - the sights, the smells, the absolute chaos. I wandered around. Bought some fruit (delicious. Mangosteens, anyone?). Picked up some souvenirs (a little scarf, some locally made coffee. The usual tourist stuff). I also went to the night market - the taste of the local food is phenomenal.
Evening: Back at the homestay. Read a book. Drank some tea. Slept. I haven't slept this well in years. I am pretty sure that it was a combination of fresh air, good food, and utter relaxation.
Late Night: A huge storm rolled through. Thunder, lightning, torrential rain. It was incredibly dramatic. The treehouse creaked a little (okay, a lot) but it was the most cosy, dramatic and wonderful experience.
Day 4: Departure (and the Sad Realization it's Over)
Morning: One last breakfast at the homestay. Pancakes! Fresh coffee. The kind host, waving goodbye. It's hard to leave. This place… it's got a special kind of magic.
Mid-morning: Head back to Nan airport. The tiny airport feels even tinier now. The whole trip was a series of beautiful moments, the kind you never want to end.
Departure: Goodbye, Nan! Thank you for the beauty, the food, the adventure. Thank you for the memories. Until next time! (And yes, I will remember the travel adapter next time.)
Final Thoughts (aka The Rambling Conclusion):
This trip wasn't perfect. I got lost, I sweated buckets, I probably embarrassed myself at least a dozen times. But it was real. It was messy, it was funny, it was emotional, and it was absolutely unforgettable. Baan Mai Pleonjai is a special place. It's a place to slow down, to connect with nature, and to rediscover your own sense of wonder. Go. Just… go. And tell the mosquitos I said hello.
Fischer Heiligenhafen 4b: Your Dream Heiligenhafen Getaway Awaits!
Escape to Paradise: Nan's Hidden Gem (and my Very Messy Thoughts) - FAQs!
Okay, seriously, is "Baan Mai Pleinjai" really as idyllic as it looks in the photos? Like, REAL idyllic?
Look, photos lie. *A lot*. But... yeah. Okay, *mostly* yeah. Baan Mai Pleinjai in Nan is pretty freakin' special. The pictures don't quite capture the *smell* – that humid, earthy, jasmine-y fragrance that just wraps around you. It's not perfect, mind you. There was this one mosquito… a *vicious* little thing that made off with a sizable chunk of my ankle. And the shower? Sometimes you get a trickle, sometimes you get a monsoon. But the *vibe*? The genuine warmth of Nan and the beauty of the place? Absolutely idyllic. It's a *real* escape, not a filtered Instagram illusion.
Anecdote Alert: I remember trying to take a "perfect" sunset photo and accidentally knocking over a pot of Nan's chili plants, which, by the way, are not for the faint of heart. My face turned red, the chilies ended up in the dirt, and all I could do was laugh (eventually). It was *that* kind of place. Messy, authentic, perfect imperfections and all.
Can you *really* disconnect? Because I'm glued to my phone.
Yes and no. The Wi-Fi is… well, let's call it "intermittent". Which is a GOOD thing. Honestly, you’ll be too busy ogling the views and stuffing your face with local delicacies to scroll through social media anyway. I *tried* to work for a few hours one morning (boss breathing down my neck, naturally). Utter failure. The only thing I accomplished was staring at the rice paddies and deciding I was *way* too relaxed to care about spreadsheets.
Quirky Observation: I brought a book and actually *finished* it. A *whole* book! I haven't done that since, like, college. And here I was, reading under a frangipani tree while the sounds of Nan life wrapped around me. And the silence, that glorious, unadulterated silence. I needed that so badly, and I didn't even know it.
What about the food? Is it as amazing as everyone raves? (Because foodie culture is a bit much, right?)
Oh. My. Goodness. The food. Okay, look, I am NOT a food blogger. I'm more of a "stuff-it-in-my-face-and-hope-for-the-best" kind of person. But the food at Baan Mai Pleinjai? It deserves all the hype. Nan's cooking is like… a warm hug. Seriously. Everything is fresh, the flavours are incredible, and Nan herself is the most gracious hostess.
Emotional Response: The morning I ate the Khao Soi… *tears of joy*. No, seriously! It was *that* good. The textures, the spices… it was the quintessential Thai experience. The chicken was so tender it fell apart with a look, the broth was rich with a hint of coconut and a tiny, spicy pop. I wanted to cry, laugh, and eat it all at once. (Which I pretty much did.) But the fresh fruits? The curries? The simple, beautiful rice? It was the best food of my life, and any complaints are just silly talk. The kind of talk that only your stomach would be doing.
Is it good for solo travellers? Or just… couples?
I went solo! And I absolutely loved it. Baan Mai Pleinjai is a place where you can be alone without feeling lonely. You're surrounded by beauty, the family is incredibly welcoming, and you'll have plenty of space to think, breathe, and be utterly yourself.
Imperfect Truth: There was this one evening where I felt a pang of missing a travel partner, but I just grabbed a beer, stared up at the stars, and then asked Nan some questions about her family. Bam! Instant connection. It was all I needed. You gotta be open to a bit of sharing. Everyone is just so lovely there.
What about the rooms? Are they basic? Are they a mess? Are there bats?
They are clean, simple, and beautiful. Don't expect a five-star hotel, and honestly, you'd be crazy to want one. Rooms are charming and cozy, not fancy. There could be a few bugs, as this is Thailand. I did not encounter any bats. The beds are comfortable, and who cares about the room when your days are full of exploration and relaxation? It's perfect for what it is: A cozy haven to escape the world.
A Little Rant: I hate "luxury" hotels! They're all the same. Who needs more than a comfortable bed, a clean bathroom, and a place to hang your clothes anyway? Seriously, that's all I need, and Baan Mai Pleinjai has that in spades. And it's a lot more affordable than the fancy places, too.
How do you get there? Is it difficult?
It's a little bit of a journey, which is part of the charm. You can fly to Nan, and from there, you can arrange a taxi. It's a fair drive from town, and the roads get a little windy. But the landscape is absolutely stunning.
A Totally Honest Moment: I get horribly carsick. Seriously, I'm a mess. But I survived the journey. Nan's driver was kind and patient and stopped whenever I needed a breather (or a bucket). Now, I feel like some of the trip is part of the experience, it's truly the effort.
Is there anything to *do* there? Or is it just… lying around?
Both! You can do *absolutely nothing* and just relax, and it's glorious. But if you're feeling energetic, there's plenty to explore. You can hike through the rice paddies, visit local temples, explore the markets in town, or even learn some Thai cooking from Nan herself. The whole area is filled with beauty.
Doubling Down (on Doing Nothing): Okay, fine, I spent *most* of my time lying around. I read books, I stared at the clouds, I napped, I drank iced coffee, I felt no guilt whatsoever. It was the purest form of bliss. Don't judge me! Sometimes, that's all you need. Sometimes you just need to *be*.
Would you go back? (Be honest!)
In a heartbeatWorld Wide Inns
