Relaxation at the Chayo Praya River
By feature reporter Jens Hoffmann
Bangkok can be as bewildering as it is bewitching. There are few things to do to make the most of Thailand’s exuberant capital, filling your days with (joyful, luxury) feelings, massages, street food, impressive temples and lively bars.
“The City of Angels” began as a trading centre and port community on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River over 200 years ago.
Today, while the city is up to speed with modern times, the grandeur and glory of its illustrious past still prevails. Be it dazzling temples, spectacular palaces, a world-famous floating market or colourful Chinatown, each of these famous places has an intriguing story to tell.
If you’re not keen on cold weather, follow me to this summery holiday destination.
Bangkok is always my funky hot and humid choice.
Arrival at BKK International Airport.
Colourful Bangkok enchants with its impressive temples and luxury hotels.
Place to stay: Hilton at Chayo Playa
The traditional location looks back on a colourful new history. The asian style comfortably furnished rooms and suites have all a touch of Western and Asian luxury, most of them offer great views over the Chao Praya and Bangkok.
The bathrooms are elegant and functional, always placed the bathroom outside of the wet cell.
The executive area on the 31th. floor is amazing.
A must do.
It offers magnificent views and Asian cuisine with international elements, I would say an artistic and modern cuisine, perfect to enjoy especially during the (complimentary) happy hour between 6 nd 8 pm.
Culinary experiences of highest standard are revealed in the hotel restaurants.
In the mornings there was a pretty full breakfast buffet including asian soups, omelettes, sushi, pastries, dim sum, all kind of fruits and more. They serve lots of choice at the buffet and a menu to order from as well.
Traditionally asian style with perfect service.
On the 4th floor you will find an amazing outdoor swimming pool, spa, gym and sauna.
The attentive service offer the perfect balance after an eventful day in the hot and humid city.
Ten years ago I used to live and work for three years in Bangkok and I loved the atmosphere on the river, floating through the klongs, the canal network.
Once a fine tracery of waterways, many klongs have now been filled in.
Stilt houses rise out of the water, beyond them golden temples and magnificent palaces. Every front yard has a spirit house, a shrine to the home’s protective spirit. On the banks, lizards enjoy in the sunshine.
The Chao Phraya river with its lovely hotels on the river like Mandarin Oriental, The Peninsula, Anantara, Sheraton and the Millennium Hilton are some kind of a quiet zone.
King Bhumibol Adulyadej passed away 7 years ago, but is still alive.
The country’s monarch for 70 long years, was a constant during all the turbulent times.
Rama X father is still in my mind.
Rama X – Rest in peace.
Total: Perfect to enjoy and relax if you look for an escape.
New thai regulations coming soon.
Information and check-in:
With extra special thanks:
Flying with THAI Airways is always a pleasure, the flights are smooth and relaxing.
They offer great service and a good choice of onboard entertainment.
The press trip was supported by TAT (Tourism Authoriry of Thailand)
