In a city where the Michelin guide awards as many stars to a street side food cart as it does a swanky cosmopolitan bistro, you know you’re in for a journey full of the unexpected.
Thailand’s capital is a vibrant city with a little bit of everything: from illustrious temples and royal palaces to old-world floating markets and world-class shopping promenades.
In a fast-paced city changing as rapidly as Bangkok is, it helps to have an insider’s guide. Make sure you don’t miss out on any hidden gems and read on to discover how to experiences Bangkok with Secret Retreats.
Where to stay: Boutique hotels in Bangkok
While Bangkok has more than its fair share of glittering hotels, in true Secret Retreat’s style, our partners in the City of Angels offer something far from ordinary. Whether you’d prefer to stay in a princely riverside villa while exploring the city’s historic district or hide out in a lush boutique hotel in the heart of the city’s premier shopping and nightlife district, we’ve got you covered.
Chakrabongse Villas
Built by His Royal Highness Prince Chakrabongse in 1908, this stately riverside villa is within walking distance of the Royal Palace. His granddaughter now runs this tranquil retreat which offers seven rooms, each designed in its own unique style surrounded by lush tropical gardens. With unbeatable views of Wat Arun glittering across the waters and incomparable hosts, a stay at the Chakrabongse Villas is sure to capture your heart.
The Cabochon Hotel
Enjoy old-world charm and modern creature comforts at the Cabochon Hotel and Residence located just off of Sukhumvit Road in the heart of Bangkok. This French-colonial style hotel offers six rooms and suites ranging from a cosy studio perfect for a shopping weekend away with a friend to a fully-appointed three-bedroom haven for your entire family. Onsite dining at the Thai Lao Yeh Restaurant offers the finest local cuisine.
The Twelve Hotel
The Twelve Hotel is a collection of two brick residences housing eight guestrooms nestled amongst mature trees and stands of bamboo. This intimate retreat can be found in a quiet residential area of Sukhumvit not far from the city’s finest shopping. A modern, minimalist escape, the property is elegantly eclectic in its style, and the perfect retreat for the modern traveller with an artful eye.
Where to dine in Bangkok
In this cosmopolitan city, you’ll find an astonishing variety of Thai and international cuisines served at innumerable eateries, large and small. Even the street food in Bangkok is exceptional, and you will truly be wowed by the fine-dining experiences found in this foodie haven.
Supanniga Eating Room
Sharing secret family recipes from eastern Thailand, this local favourite has three locations in the heart of the city. Whether you are dining in one of their more modern urban eateries, or in the homely shophouse reminiscent of the old Supanniga family home, you will delight in the authentic Thai flavours served here and the stories that come along with these 80-year-old family recipes.
Le Du
Meaning “seasons” in Thai, Le Du celebrates the bounty and variety of Thailand’s seasonal and regional cuisines. In this modern open-kitchen restaurant helmed by Chef Ton, centuries-old culinary techniques bring out the best of Thailand’s flavourful fare. Featuring both a la carte and tasting menus accompanied by an inspired wine-list, your taste buds are sure to fall in love with something new at Le Du.
What to do in Bangkok
Of course, you can’t visit Thailand’s capital city without spending time in the Rattanakosin district visiting the iconic Grand Palace, impressive Wat Pho and Reclining Buddha, and the old quarter’s charming streets along the river. After a day of discovery, make reservations to enjoy a glass of champagne and more while the sun goes down…
Supanniga Cruise
For a truly extraordinary experience, dine aboard a contemporary cruise travelling the magnificent Chao Phraya River. Launched by Supanniga Eating Room, the stylish Supanniga Cruise takes Supanniga’s popular Thai dishes to the waterfront complete with chilled bubbles supplied by Taittinger Champagne. Savour gourmet Thai Isan cuisine while cruising past Bangkok’s historic sites for an evening to remember.
Where to travel from Bangkok
From Bangkok’s two airports, you can also fly onward to a number of regional and global destinations. After exploring Bangkok with Secret Retreats, venture north to Chiang Mai to discover Thailand’s cultural and artsy second city where you can stay at the palatial Rachamankha, or head south to lounge beachside in Koh Samui in your own private villa.
When you book a stay with a Secret Retreats Member, your hosts will make sure your experience is exceptional with insider tips and concierge service. Next time your path brings you to Bangkok, book a stay or dining experience with us, and we’ll show you something really special.
