HONG’s Sky Bar

HONG's Sky Bar sits on the 17th floor of the InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping on Sridonchai Road, close to the Night Bazaar. Its main selling point is the view: a 360-degree panorama that takes in the Old City and, on clear evenings, the mountain of Doi Suthep to the west.

The drinks list leans towards signature cocktails with a Chinese theme to match the name. Gracefulness like Hong is a ruby-red, sweet and sour cocktail, and the Ginger Qipao is a warming, ginger-infused drink. The kitchen sends up Chinese-inspired tapas to go with them, such as fried spring rolls with duck, sweet and sour pork ribs, and avocado crab topped with caviar. It is easy to turn a pre-dinner drink into a light meal.

Live DJ sets and soft lighting set the tone after dark. The bar is especially popular around sunset, when people come to watch the light change over the mountains, and for dates and celebrations. It is an upscale setting, so dress smartly rather than in beachwear, and expect hotel bar prices.

To be sure of a table, particularly for sunset or at weekends, reserve in advance. You can book through the hotel's website or by calling the reservations line, and the hotel also lists a reservations email address.

The bar suits couples, friends celebrating a special occasion and anyone who wants a view of the city from above. Because the hotel is a short walk from the Night Bazaar on Chang Khlan Road, it is easy to combine a drink here with an evening of shopping or dinner in the area.

Arrive half an hour before sunset to settle in and watch the light change over the mountain. If you are planning a special occasion, mention it when you reserve so that the team can suggest a good table. Combine a drink here with dinner at HONG's Chinese restaurant in the same hotel, or head down to the Night Bazaar for street food. Prices reflect the setting, so think of it as a treat rather than an everyday bar, and check the dress code with the hotel if you are unsure.