Expect to be enchanted at this five star residence in downtown Bangkok, says travel writer Sara Darling.
For first time visitors to the Thai capital, it is worth pushing the boat out and staying in one of the luxury hotels that the city has to offer- treating yourself to the hospitality that Thailand is famous for. If you visited Bangkok as a backpacker, the Sukhothai Hotel is the complete opposite of any shady accommodation you may have visited in the past, and is a tranquil sanctuary, full of grown up delights.
Situated downtown in the Embassy district, it is a convenient 40-minutes drive from Bangkok’s International Airport, which makes it an ideal spot for accessing the city’s interesting sights and visual delights; However, the hotel is set back from the hustle and bustle, as the leafy entrance driveway sets the scene for the impressive property which is both modern, and timeless.
Discreetly housed within six acres of leafy grounds, featuring lotus ponds, waterfalls and tropical gardens; It also has an impressive swimming pool, which is a worthwhile distraction during the midday sun. Whatever your reason to visit Bangkok, the elegant contemporary surroundings, provide a serene atmosphere- which is a stark contrast to the buzzy metropolis outside the gates.
The interior of the hotel has been designed with just as much attention to detail. Oozing serenity, the large property feels uncluttered but has a sense of familiarity with marble features, dark wood furnishings and unassuming, yet impressive Thai artefacts, which add to the hotel’s exotic charisma.
Taking advantage of Bangkok’s ancient and modern heritage, the property was masterminded by Adrian Zecha, interior designer Ed Tuttle and Australian architect Kerry Hill (who also designed The Lalu in Taiwan), to create a space that exudes simplicity and sophistication. With the accommodation cleverly designed so that visitors would never know whether the 210 rooms were occupied- with privacy being a key consideration.
Focussing on natural materials- marble, silk, and teak, along with unfussy furniture, Jim Thompson soft furnishings and Oriental artwork, and mirrored walls, the vibe is modern and uncluttered. There is a notable air of calmness- which is reinforced with numerous open courtyards with benches, lush gardens and lotus ponds.
Bedrooms are huge, as are the beds with all come with 100 percent duck down pillows; As standard, each suite has space age Smart TVs, Lavazza espresso machines and surround-sound audio systems, along with the most delightful rainfall showers known to mankind, a huge bathtub, twin sinks and Bottega Veneta toiletries.
You can book a suite in the main wing- the Executive, Deluxe or Garden suites offer a home from home experience with sofas, a dining table, artwork, sculptures and fresh flowers; Whereas a room in the Club Wing comes with a large private balcony overlooking the swimming pool, complete with sun loungers and side table.
The Club Wing is the newest addition to the hotel, and it prides itself with its views of the pool and gardens, as well as having access to the Club Lounge located on the sixth floor. Offering a residential vibe, Club members are welcomed into a more intimate setting, which offers a la carte breakfast, afternoon tea and signature cocktails at the private bar.
When you are ready to chill, the hotel’s Spa Botanica should not be missed. An oasis of calm, time stands still as you enter the discreet, modern spa, which is tucked away in the gardens. Offering all kinds of treatments ranging from Thai massages to facials to an all-day wellness programme. The signature massage is a must to help alleviate jet lag, and sets you up for exploring all Bangkok has to offer.
Not only a place for relaxation and rejuvenation, the Sukhothai has also earned a reputation for its food offerings. With four restaurants on site, the breakfast is a feast that should not be missed. Served as a buffet, guests can pick and mix from a huge range of made to order eggs, pancakes, salads and salmon, along with more exotic noodle soups, dumplings and sushi; Even continental fans will be happy with the array of pastries fresh fruit and yoghurt, and you can drink as much tea, coffee or fizzy wine as you like.
Evening meals are offered on the premises in a range of restaurants, and for a taste of upscale Thailand, book a table at Celadon, which is situated in a stunning pavilion at the front of the hotel. Featuring classic Thai fare, it is worth trying the taster menu for the full experience, which includes a nightly performance by traditional dancers.
Alternatively, Italian restaurant La Scala offers a range of inventive Italian dishes, which are prepared in an open kitchen so guests can see their food being cooked. With a sociable, party vibe, this is a great place for celebrations, and the menu lends itself to sharing and tasting platters, and has an extensive European wine list.
However, if chocolate is your thing, the daily Afternoon Tea Chocolate Buffet in the hotel’s Colonnade lobby is a must. The regal lounge offers an informal dining experience, and the biggest self-service selection of raw chocolate, chocolate cakes, mousse, ice cream, sweets and treats you are every likely to witness- which are complemented by an equally impressive range of crusts off sandwiches, sushi and champagne!
Devised by Chef Laurent Ganguillet, a Swiss Chocolatier with more than 27 years of experience, he is also on hand to share his chocolate knowledge and whip up your choice of choc in a hot drink.
Welcoming families, couples of all ages, solo and business travellers, the Sukhothai will certainly spice up your visit to Bangkok. With the resort like-atmosphere, friendly staff and impeccable facilities, you can experience all the city has to offer from its central location which is a few minutes walk to Lumpini MRT Subway station or a 5-minute taxi to Saladaeng BTS Skytrain station, making the famous shopping street food markets, temples and canals within reach.
For a luxury taste of Thailand which doesn’t scrimp on any details, the Sukhothai Bangkok provides the perfect base from which to enjoy the city.
Address: 13/3 S Sathon Rd, Thung Maha Mek, Sathon, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
Phone: +66 2 344 8888
Website: sukhothai.com/bangkok
