The akyra Manor Chiang Mai (theakyra.com/Chiang-Mai) has announced a new 'Behind the Lens' photographic break to discover the cosmopolitan scene of Thailand's northern capital. Reflecting the hotel's setting in the Nimmanhaemin art district, guests will embark on an urban photographic tour to learn unique ways in which to capture and interpret the energy and soul of Chiang Mai on camera.

With Chiang Mai's reputation as a culturally diverse and visually rich destination, the akyra Manor has from the outset been an active patron of the arts and a hub for creative minds, embracing the plethora of galleries, boutiques and artist's workshops which surround it.

The 'Behind the Lens' tour for guests will be led by Kevin Landwer-Johan, a highly experienced editorial and commercial photographer whose work has featured in TIME Magazine amongst others and whom has called Chiang Mai home since 2002.

Kevin's instruction will enable guests with all models of cameras and of all abilities to develop their skills and knowledge. A maximum of four people per workshop will allow quality time to learn from Kevin as guests explore a variety of locations in the city, from the artistic haven of Nimmanhaemin and bustling local markets, to peaceful river-side spots and beautifully detailed temples.

The day will cover an understanding of the mechanics of a camera - the aperture, shutter speed and ISO - to appreciating how to best compose a shot and to sensitively photograph people. Kevin's guidance will enable participants to ultimately tell a story within a photograph and leave with a new appreciation of what is seen through the viewfinder of a camera.

Guests will be able to reflect on the lessons learnt at akyra Manor. The five star, all-suite hotel provides an urban sanctuary with a 'courtyard-within-a-room' design offering covered outdoor bath as the focal point. The distinctive exterior is inspired by the crumbling brickwork that forms the city's ancient wall, hiding the rooftop pool and cocktail bar, Rise. The hotel's flagship dining experience, ITALICS, offers a clever interpretation of contemporary Italian and Northern Thai cuisine, created interactively in a state-of-the-art show kitchen using locally sourced ingredients.

Anchalika Kijkanakorn, visionary managing director and founder of AKARYN Hotel Group said: “Chiang Mai is a fantastically photogenic city: around every corner is a new visual treat which is just waiting to be captured on camera. akyra Manor was designed to be a home for creativity, to inspire and educate. We are thrilled to be working with Kevin to help guests discover a new side to the city and to develop skills they will enjoy for years to come.”

The 'Behind the Lens' photography stay at the akyra Manor Chiang Mai starts from THB23,307 (approximately AUD885) per couple. This includes two nights' accommodation in an akyra Deluxe Suite, daily gourmet breakfast for two people, a full day photographic tour in Chiang Mai, a signature afternoon tea for two people, and a Thai set dinner for two people at Italics Restaurant. Valid until 31st October 2016.

To book and for more information please visit www.theakyra.com/chiang-mai