As slow travel makes waves in the market, holidaymakers are looking for ways to extend their trips and soak up every drop of culture, colour and cuisine.
Bangkok is a stopover destination with soul – the perfect pitstop for those exploring wider South East Asia. Dine in rooftop restaurants, take the skytrain to world-class shopping malls, explore ancient temples and sleep in some of the region’s finest hotels – from the new Capella Bangkok, to SO/ Bangkok, a design hotel created in collaboration with Christian Lacroix.
For Luxury Lovers
Capella Bangkok
Set to open in spring 2020, Capella Bangkok is a new luxury retreat, nestled on the east bank of the legendary “River of Kings”. The 101-key property is the group’s first urban hotel in Thailand and is located within close proximity to the Chao Phraya and Charoenkrung neighbourhoods. The first hotel on the riverbank in two decades, Capella’s opening marks the start of an exciting moment for the rapidly re-emerging riverside neighbourhood.
Capella Bangkok’s unprecedented 350 metre riverside setting means each villa and suite will enjoy unobstructed views of the river. And raising the bar for world-class dining and wellbeing experiences in Bangkok, Capella Bangkok’s signature restaurant will be curated by celebrated Michelin-starred chef Mauro Colagreco whilst in the spa, Auriga Wellness will offer an impressive list of carefully curated Asian therapies that will combine traditional techniques with contemporary solutions. A lifestyle hub in the heart of the hotel will be “The Capella Living Room”. A river-facing lounge filled with natural light, The Capella Living Room will be a cultural magnet hosting a carousel of local artisans, musicians and chefs, reflecting the neighbourhood’s passion for food, wellness and culture.
For Foodies
Vie Hotel Bangkok
Vie Hotel Bangkok, situated in the heart of the city’s famous shopping district – a stone’s throw from the Jim Thompson silk museum – is perfect for culture-vultures and foodies. Take one of the hotel’s luxury tuk tuk’s on a night-time food tour; discover Bangkok’s hidden hotspots, including the Michelin-starred street vendor, before heading back to the hotel for a cocktail in the swish basement bar.
With floor-to-ceiling windows, each of the 154 generously-sized rooms and suites offers panoramic views over the cityscape below. Inspired by the nearby Jim Thompson museum, interiors throughout are richly-appointed, sumptuous and intimate, peppered with Asian-inspired accents and splashes of silk. Gastronomy is at the heart of the hotel. At La Vie, choose from a menu of creative French dishes with a Japanese touch, or feast on fresh fish in the stylish Yellow Tail Sushi Bar (YTSB) honouring the traditions of Japanese culinary art – a stay here is a feast for all of the senses
For Explorers
SO/ Bangkok
Lumpini Park is a green haven in the centre of bustling Bangkok – and SO/ Bangkok, a unique design hotel created in collaboration with Monsieur Christian Lacroix, has prime position on its doorstep. Each and every room has panoramic views over the city skyline through pristine floor-to-ceiling windows, and is walking distance from Bangkok’s hotspots – making it the perfect pitstop to kickstart your Asian adventure.
The knowledgeable SO City Gurus know every nook and cranny of the city, and can help inquisitive guests build a sight-seeing itinerary – head to Wat Saket, the gleaming temple on the 80-metre verdant Golden Mount, and the Baan Bat community nearby, who make and sell monk singing bowls and bright orange fabric to make robes. City explored, venture back to SO/Bangkok for dinner in Park Society, a rooftop restaurant with unmissable views over the city.
