Highlights of Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is chaotic. The traffic is noisy and often at a standstill and the streets bustle and pavements are not always in the best condition, so things can get rather heated here. Yet Thailand’s capital city has a distinct fascination. 

It’s a melange of extremes, the five-star luxury hotels and skyscrapers fuse with poverty. One of its main draws has to be the people whose friendliness and hospitality is laudable.

At the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market we were inundated with Thais who were not trying to sell us anything but were simply enthralled by us because we were foreigners. The market is crammed with boats from which people sell fruits, vegetables and other foods and the majority of the visitors here are from Thailand. But you should give it a try as a floating market is an experience that you will not forget in a hurry.  

Bangkok at night
Courtesy of the Tourism Authority of Thailand

The vast Grand Palace, built in 1782, is the big draw. The star attraction is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, carved from a block of green jade, it will have you gasping in amazement.  

Temples and markets make excellent memories but what really made this a trip of a lifetime was the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. Dining with a view over the Chao Phraya River, was like being on a film set. No wonder, the hotel which was built in 1876, was an inspiration for writers such as Somerset Maugham, Wilbur Smith, and John Le Carré. It is the perfect escape from the frenetic city.

This year, this legendary establishment is celebrating its 140 anniversary. This grande dame revers its heritage and history, its mystique follows you everywhere you go.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Courtesy of the Tourism Authority of Thailand 

The service is beyond reproach and the facilities spectacular. If the feeling of frenzy from the city still drifts after a long day sightseeing, then head to the Oriental Spa and Health Centre, also across the river, for a Thai massage.

Rooms are spacious and comfortable and are decorated beautifully in teak and Thai silks laced with contemporary touches.

Riverside Terrace
Courtesy of the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok

Though out this special year, there will be a programme of literary, music, fashion, art and culinary events to celebrate the restoration of the historic 140-year-old Authors’ Wing and Garden Wing of Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. Even if you are not staying at the hotel, you should have afternoon tea in the fabled Authors’ Lounge which recently has been restored to pay homage to its classic late nineteenth-century design.

The historic 140-year-old Authors’ Wing  Courtesy of the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok 

The Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok epitomises the word luxury. A stay here will spoil you for anywhere else.

By Daralyn Danns

Getting there

Thai Airways. For flights and best rates visit thaiairways.com

Stay at the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. For more information or to make a booking, visit mandarinoriental.com

First published in All About Hair (All About Hair UK), the travel and lifestyle blog with a luxury twist