QUINTESSENTIALLY ESTATES

The original "City of Angels", Bangkok is often held up as the quintessential Asian capital – part urban sprawl, part exotic milieu of ancient temples and colonial villas. With a surge in economic growth, Bangkok is also home to a wealth of luxury brands, from some of the top rated hotels in the world, glitzy shopping malls, fine dining and ultra-hip bars and clubs. Often seen as just a stopping point on the way to the pretty resorts to the north and south of the country, Bangkok offers a rich and endlessly varied experience in itself, both for the tourist and the longer term visitor.


GO THERE FOR

The Food – Food, glorious food! The Thais love to eat and it’s no wonder with the sheer variety and assortment of flavours to dazzle your taste buds. Whether in the most upmarket dining destinations, or the lowliest street stall, there’s a vast choice for the devoted epicurean - some argue the latter is where the tastiest meals are to be had and at THB 20 a pop for a bowl of noodles, it won’t hurt your wallet to consider their point. As a true international city, fine dining from China, Japan and Europe has also found its way to Bangkok – you’ll be cursing the limits of your time and stomach.

The Temples – Although it’s a throbbing modern metropolis replete with skyscrapers, shopping malls and atrocious traffic, Bangkok remains a Buddhist city dotted with hundreds of working temples. The most spectacular of these are the popular Temple of the Emerald Buddha and Wat Pho, which houses the impressive reclining Buddha (and is the reputed birthplace of Thai Massage).

The Spas – It’s not just Thai massage that garners Thailand’s reputation for top notch spas. Most hotels boast exquisite in-house spas, but the favourites are The Oriental Spa, the I.Sawan, Baan Thai and the Banyan Tree. Independent establishments like S Medical Spa and DVN are also making a name for themselves. Travellers on a budget won’t have a hard time finding fantastic places for body wraps and facials – one way to spot an above board establishment is seeing rows of happy customers having foot rubs by the windows. One of our budget favourites is Health Land, which offers two hours of Thai massage in a clean, pleasant private room for just THB 450.

Shopping – Locals go crazy for their shopping malls: three of the best include the hyper luxurious Siam Paragon, the Emporium and the teen friendly MBK. But visitors will no doubt prefer trawling the length and breadth of the epic Chatuchak Weekend Market, The Night Bazaar by Lumpini Park and the world famous floating markets. Popular souvenirs include Thai silk and handicrafts, as well as silver and clothing – just don’t pass up the chance to sample the variety of food served hot off vendors’ griddles.

The Day Trips – Bangkok’s buzzing lifestyle is its main charm, but for those wanting to get out of the urban jungle for a while, it also offers a wide variety of destinations just a few hours out of the city. Visit the ruins of the ancient capital city Ayutthaya and the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace; wander the rustic Ko Kret; head to the beach on Ko Samet; relive history at the bridge over the River Kwai and stroke the tigers at Tiger Temple.


DON’T MISS

Grand Palace and Wat Pho – Formerly the official royal residence and the seat of the government administration, the Grand Palace is a sprawling complex containing magnificent halls, chedis, statues and more. Less than half are open to the public today, but that’s still more than enough to feast your eyes on. The highlight is the Emerald Buddha (actually made of jade), housed in Wat Phra Kaew, which is dressed in gold costumes to match the Thai seasons. The Buddha’s dresser is no less exalted than the King himself. Nearby is Wat Pho, the oldest temple in Bangkok, which houses the 46-metre-long reclining Buddha, the largest collection of Buddha images in Thailand, and the country’s original Thai massage school.

Muay Thai – The Thai national sport is often touted as the most effective martial art in the world, and as anyone who’s seen Ong Bak can attest, it’s a visual extravaganza of flying fists, bone crushing kicks (one of the “eight limbs” being used for contact being the shin), and gravity defying leaps. The best places to watch Muay Thai are Lumpini Stadium and Rajadamnern Stadium, where the country’s leading champions fight for a place at the top.

Drinks at Sky Bar – Okay, the drinks are extortionate and it’s recently overrun by gawping tourists and ladies of the night, but nothing will dampen the wow-factor when you first step out on the terrace and take in that view. Try to get there in time for sunset.  

Afternoon Tea at The Veranda – Located in the original building of The Oriental, the Veranda is all cream rattan furnishings and colonial elegance. Book early.

Thai Massage – The birthplace of this popular therapy, Bangkok offers the best Thai massage to be had. Clients don a pair of loose pyjamas and lie down on a low bed, where the therapist kneads, stretches and twists them into blissful relaxation.

For first-person insider knowledge on cities around the world, check out www.quintessentially.com/insider


BASICS

Quintessentially Thailand
Siripinyo Building, 11/F, 475 Sri Ayutthaya Rd., Phayathai, Rajthevi, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
Telephone: +66 2 201 3434
Email: qthailand@quintessentially.com

Telephone - Country Code: + 66
Telephone - City Code: 2
Emergency Services: English Speaking Emergency (Tourist Police) 1155,Thai Police: 191, Thai Medical: 1669, Thai Fire: 199
Electricity: 220V/50Hz; 2-blade plug
Language: Thai
Currency: Baht (THB)
Exchange Rate: GBP 1 = THB 49.56, 1 THB = .02 GBP (Subject to change)
Time: Thai (UTC +7)
Suvarnabhumi Airport:
General Enquiries: +66 (0) 2132-1888
Suvarnabhumi International Airport, Nong Prue, Bang Phli, Samut Prakan 10540, Thailand
http://www.suvarnabhumiairport.com/


GETTING AROUND

From the Airport…
Bangkok’s new airport, Suvarnabhumi, is located about 25km from downtown Bangkok.  

Taxis - Taxis are available outside the first floor of the airport and it should cost between THB 300-400 to get to the city (40-60 minutes depending on traffic).  

Limousines - Limousines are available through AOT Limousine or by contacting the Limousine Service Counter on the second floor of the airport. Most cost around THB 800-1000 to get to the city.

Around Town…
BTS Skytrain - The Skytrain runs from 6am - 12am every day with two main lines: Sukhumvit and Silom lines. The interchange between the two lines is at Siam Centre. Fares range from THB 15-45 depending on the distance travelled. Day passes and monthly passes are also available. The Skytrain is typically the fastest mode of transportation within the infamously traffic saturated city – and it’s air-conditioned.

Bangkok Metro (MRT) - The MRT is a one-line subway that connects with the Skytrain at Silom, Sukhumvit, and Chatuchak stations. Fares range from THB 15-39 depending on the distance travelled.  

Taxis - The minimum fare is THB 35 which covers up to 2km. The rates are then THB 4.50/km for the next 10km, THB 5/km for 13-20km, and THB 5.50/km for anything over 20km. There is also a charge of THB 1.25/minute for traffic congestion when the taxi moves slower than 6km/hour. A THB 40 expressway toll must be paid by the passenger if they choose to take the highway. All stated rates apply to trips within the city limits of Bangkok. Always insist on the meter.

Samlo (Tuk-Tuk) - These are the famous three-wheeled open-air taxis. Fares must be negotiated beforehand as there are no meters, but are normally less expensive than taxis. These are great for that SE Asia feeling – but can get pretty dirty in the open streets.

Car Rental - Quintessentially Members receive priority treatment on automobile rentals through Bavaria Autonet.


WHEN TO GO

There are three seasons in Bangkok: the cool season lasts from November to February, the hot season lasts from March to May, and the rainy season lasts from June to October. The temperature ranges from 35°C in April to 26°C in December. The best times to visit are in April-May for the summer and Thai New Year Festival, and December-January for the cooler temperatures.

Public Holidays and Dates of Interests:
1st January – New Year’s Day
Variable (February) – Magha Puja
6th April – Chakri Memorial Day
13 – 15th April – Songkran Festival
5th May – Coronation Day
Variable (May) – Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day
Variable (May) – Vesak
Variable (July) – Asalha Puja
Variable (July) – Beginning of Vassa
12th August – HM the Queen’s Birthday
23rd October – Chulalongkom Day
5th December – HM the King’s Birthday
10th December – Constitution Day
31st December - New Year’s Eve


WHERE TO STAY

The Oriental
48 Oriental Avenue
The legendary Oriental Bangkok has often been voted the best hotel in the world and continues to cement its reputation for excellence with standard setting service. The lobby area may be slightly dated, but much effort has gone into refurbishing the rooms – all room types ooze colonial charm and luxury, and all feature a view of the Chao Phraya River. If you can book them, try to arrange for one of the four Author Suites, each individually designed to pay homage to a writer that once graced the “City of Angels” (Joseph Conrad, Somerset Maugham, Noel Coward and James Michener). The original building (in which the Authors Suites are housed) dates back over 100 years and is also THE spot in town to enjoy an elegant afternoon tea. The Oriental Spa is housed in a specially built complex directly over the river, also incorporating a cooking school, fitness centre and Thai restaurant with cultural shows.  

Peninsula (Q Member’s Benefits)
333 Charoennakorn Road, Klongsan
Although it’s a relatively new arrival, the Peninsula has fast become a contender for best hotel in town. Located across the river from The Oriental, the Peninsula offers a different kind of luxury to its grande dame neighbour – its style is contemporary and hi-tech, as opposed to cosy colonial; though, like The Oriental, all rooms boast spectacular river views. There’s also the Peninsula Spa by ESPA. A complimentary ferry shuttles guests across to the nearby Skytrain station, making it a surprisingly convenient location despite being on the “wrong” side of the Chao Phraya.

The Metropolitan (Q Member’s Benefits)
27 South Sathorn Road, Sathorn
An achingly hip property from the Como group, The Metropolitan spares no expense on high-concept design or its philosophy of balance and well-being. The staff uniforms are designed by Yoji Yamamoto and all rooms have a specially made meditation chair and yoga mat (guests are invited to partake in three daily yoga classes). Each room also features a different painting of lotus flowers at different times of the day by an up-and-coming local artist. The Penthouse Suites may be grabbing all the attention, with their duplex-style loft living, but our favourites are the rooms with outdoor patios and showers. An airy, natural feel pervades, especially in the organic Glow restaurant and spa, where guests can enjoy all the benefits of a traditional Thai health retreat without compromising on cutting-edge modernity.    

Banyan Tree
21/100 South Sathron Road, Sathorn
While the Banyan Tree is best known for its all-villa resorts, this all-suite property manages to capture the urbanity of the location while keeping true to the natural sensibilities of the brand. Soaring higher than almost any other building in town, the Banyan Tree has some of the most spectacular views over Bangkok – it’s definitely worth the Club Lounge access for the privilege of breakfasting at Saffron on the 59th floor. Spa fans will love the welcome assortment of scrubs, lotions and potions, with a daily change of incense and aromas to stimulate the olfactory senses. The pool is on the small side, but the in-house spa is the main attraction for most guests.     

The Sukhothai (Q Member’s Benefits)
13/3 South Sathorn Road, Sathorn
Named after the 13th-century capital of Thailand, The Sukhothai was designed as a monument to understated elegance and harmonious luxury, set over six acres of landscaped gardens. Today, the lobby area is in need of a facelift, but the suites are certainly some of the most spacious in town. The Garden Suite is not the top room type, but has been the choice of jetsetters like David Tang, Kate Moss and Nicholas Cage, who found nothing to fault in the high ceilings, Jim Thompson upholstered furnishings (including canopied four-poster bed) and koi filled ponds just outside the windows.

The Four Seasons (Q Member’s Benefits)
155 Rajadamri Road
Comfort, convenience and solid service make this a favourite with business travellers. The signature Four Seasons touches are all present, including their beloved bed linen and pillows, while Thai touches give a sense of location, such as carved teak furnishings and individually painted murals in each room (the highlight of the lobby area is the spectacular mural on the ceiling, rendered by a local artist). Built around a green atrium, the residential wing offers a peaceful respite in the midst of the metropolis, with breakfast served by a pond beneath a canopy of palms and ferns. Their pool area is one the biggest in town, while the Moroccan themed spa is certainly unique in a city filled with Thai-style establishments. Some of the spacious suites look over the Royal Bangkok Sport Club and savvy guests make this their base for watching the races in season. Leisure travellers may find this hotel a bit stuffy, but like all Four Seasons properties, they are child friendly, and are happy to prepare child amenities and bathrobes for younger guests.

Boutique Hotels

I.Sawan
Grand Hyatt Erawan, 494 Rajdamri Road
A hotel within a hotel, the I.Sawan is the Grand Hyatt’s multi-award winning spa that also has six snug spa cottages for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation in the hustle and bustle of the city. Many of the regular guests are long-stay business travellers who appreciate the chance to unwind after a long day’s hard work. As befitting a spa residence, all of the Tony Chi designed cottages have in-room steam showers, a marble slab for water therapy, and an adjustable therapy bed for different treatments. While all rooms are appointed in harmonious, neutral tones to balance mind and body, there are the occasional Thai accents to remind guests of their exotic location. Just outside the doors is the hotel pool, surrounded by a grove of bamboo and fragrant frangipani trees. Diving back into reality, the Grand Hyatt is located just across from the Ratchadamri BTS station.

The Eugenia
267, Soi Sukhumvit 31, North Klongtan, Wattana
A reproduction 19th Century colonial pile secluded in a residential neighbourhood, The Eugenia will satisfy the nostalgic longings of those who don’t want to stretch to The Oriental. It’s a tiny property, no more than 3 storeys high, with each room furnished like a museum showcase, complete with four-poster bed and Victorian style bathtub. Be warned – unless you’re a hardcore history buff, the dim lighting and sparse décor might be a bit off-putting once you’re over the “ye olde” factor. But non-guests can still enjoy the leather sofas in the lounge, the cosy international dining room and – the coup de grace – the hotel’s collection of gorgeous vintage cars. There is also a small pool in the back.

The Baan Thai Wellness Retreat
7 Sukhumvit 32
A traditional teak house – originally built as the private family residence for a branch of the royal family – the Baan Thai Wellness Retreat is a unique architectural gem. Over the years, skilled craftsmen embellished the wood panels and furnishings with intricate visual histories. Although fully refurbished with modern conveniences – including spa therapy rooms and private and shared pools – the Baan Thai has lost none of its ambience; indeed, some of the additions are century-old teak houses transported from Ayutthaya.  

Dream Hotel Bangkok
10 Sukhumvit Soi 15 Klongtoey Nua, Wattana
Edgy, high-concept and playful, Dream Hotel may be a bit too in-your-face for some travellers, but for those looking for the next hot thing in boutique establishments, this is the place to try out.

Shanghai Inn
479-481 Yaowaraj Road, Samphantawong
A den of lavish Chinoiserie right in the heart of the Thai capital, Shanghai Inn may sound like an odd choice for a Bangkok stay, but the antique style beds, romantic lanterns and eye-catching prints make their own argument. Located in Chinatown, the Shanghai Inn is well placed for exploring what is, for some, the best dining neighbourhood in town.

Old Bangkok Inn
607 Pra Sumen Road, Pra Nakhon
Once a royal palace, The Old Bangkok Inn was refurbished in 2004 and now enjoys a new incarnation as a top-notch boutique hotel. Each room is individually decorated with designs inspired by native plants. Antiques, Thai silk and floral accents helped place this charming property on Conde Nast’s Hot List for 2006. Well located for tourist attractions like the Grand Palace.

Praya Palazzo (Q Member’s Benefits)
757/1 Somdej, Prapinklao Soi 7, Bangplad, Bangkok 10700
Praya Palazzo is a stylish 17-room mansion with a rich history that offers a unique experience for discerning travelers. Dating back to the ancient kingdom of Siam, the mansion is situated in the heart of Bangkok on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and is a unique historical residence - ideal for travelers who want to relax while experiencing city life in the oldest part of Bangkok. It’s within walking distance of The Grand Palace, The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Aroon (The Temple of Dawn), China Town and The National Discovery Museum Institute and so it’s extremely convenient if you want to get out and about and see the amazing sights and sounds of the city!


WHERE TO EAT

Harvey’s
Sukhumvit 55, Thonglor Soi 9, Sukhumvit Road, Klongton-Nua
The atmosphere here is that of an ultra-modern gentleman’s club. Located in a purpose-built building in a leafy Bangkok neighbourhood, the cuisine is California inspired fusion – light, healthy and varied.

Breeze
51-52/F, Lebua State Tower, 1055/111 Silom Road, Bangrak
The harvest of the oceans is taken to new heights at this seafood restaurant located on the 51st floor of the Lebua State Tower. Cross over the glass walkway from the Ocean 52 bar, before descending the stairs on the edge of the building down to the dramatic terrace. The food is no anticlimax, with cooking techniques imported from all over Asia. A more chilled out destination than the collection on the State Tower’s top stories, the views from Breeze are just as awe-inspiring.  

Le Normandie
The Oriental Hotel, 48 Oriental Avenue
The oldest French restaurant in Bangkok, Le Normandie, like the Mandarin Oriental in which it is located, sets the standard for quality and flawless service. Floor-to-ceiling glass panels provide remarkable views of the Chao Phraya River; meanwhile the sheer grandeur makes for undisputed panache in the interior. Le Normandie is famous for its seafood and meat dishes, but that’s not to say the alternatives are any less marvellous.

Le Vendome
267/2 Sukhumvit Soi 31 (Sawasdee) Klongton, Klongtoey
Parisian sophistication meets colonial grace and Thai relaxation at this Gallic favourite. The restaurant was hugely successful in its old digs at the M-Thai Tower, though its new location in a quaint two-storey home has given it a character as compelling as the cuisine is delicious.  

D’Sen
22/F, The Dusit Thani, Rama IV Road
Modelled after Le Jardin des Sens in Montpellier, this fine dining restaurant in the Dusit Thani has been painstakingly renovated to its original design and opened to wide acclaim. D’Sen serves spectacular, authentic cuisine, inspired from the Languedoc region of France.

Lord Jim’s
The Oriental Hotel, 48 Oriental Avenue
Like so much of the Oriental, Lord Jim’s draws inspiration from the colonial era, specifically from the seafaring protagonist sketched by Joseph Conrad (one of the featured greats in the Author Suites). The cuisine is seafood, with cooking styles ranging from American to Japanese, Indian and Thai.

Sirocco
63/F, Lebua State Tower, 1055/111 Silom Road, Bangrak
Breathtaking views and remarkable dishes are exemplified at Sirocco, an al fresco restaurant daringly situated on the 63rd floor deck of the State Tower.

Vertigo
Banyan Tree Bangkok, 21/100 South Sathon Road Sathon
It’s not a misnomer – located 61 floors above ground level, this open-air venue features jaw-dropping views at dizzying heights. Feast your eyes and your palate as you tuck into the innovative menu of barbequed items.

Bed Supper Club
Sukhumvit Soi 11
The Mediterranean menu is changed every two weeks; on weekends, the chef serves a surprise menu and there is only one seating, at 9pm (guests are required to arrive by 8:30pm).

Glow
The Metropolitan Hotel, 27 South Sathorn Road
Wholefoods and organic ingredients combine in a menu that’s as healthy and balanced as it is delicious.

Cy’an
The Metropolitan Hotel, 27 Sathorn Road
The Metropolitan’s headline restaurant features Mediterranean cuisine with a Moorish accent. Diners can choose to sit either indoors in the Italian glass-decorated dining room, or outside by the pool.

Zanotti
21/2 Soi Saladaeng, off Silom Road
Arguably the best Italian in town, the chef hails from Northern Italy, where all of Zanotti’s cooking ingredients are freshly imported.  

La Piola
31 - 4 Sukhumvit Road, Soi Sukhuvit 11
Italian home-style cooking in a charmingly homey atmosphere, this cosy family-run nook is presided over by the restaurant’s very own “mama”, Angela Sciacovelli, who changes the menu daily. Come with a large appetite.

Celadon
Sukhothai Hotel, 13/3 South Sathorn Road
Designed like a classic Thai sala by the legendary Ed Tuttle, this restaurant has won numerous awards for its fantastic Thai cuisine and the simple luxury of its ambience.

Sala Rim Naam
The Oriental Hotel (on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River)
Sala Rim Naam offers the full experience of local dining and culture with nightly performances of Thai classical and folk dances in a specially constructed teak pavilion. While part of the Oriental Hotel, the restaurant is a short boat journey across the river – a free shuttle runs between the main hotel wing and the Saphan Taksin pier (near the BTS station).

Mahanaga
2 Sukhumvit 29, Klongtoey Nue, Wattana
Thai meets pan-Asia fusion design in this gorgeous restaurant. An outdoor courtyard is surrounded by dining rooms that are colourful, exotic and totally charming.

Blue Elephant
233 South Sathorn Road, Kwaeng Yannawa, Khet Sathorn
Housed in a century-old building, richly decorated in antiques and orchids, the Blue Elephant is one of the most famous cooking schools in the country. Finely honed techniques are put to the authentic Royal Thai dishes, giving a true sense of an authentic Thai restaurant.

Manohra Dining Cruise
Board at the Manohra Cruises Pier, Riverfront of Bangkok Marriott Resort and Spa, 257 Charoennakorn Road, Samrae Thonburi
Dine on a classic Thai set menu while enjoying a leisurely cruise along the Chao Phraya on a restored rice barge. The changing views include the world famous Wat Arun and Grand Palace by night.   

Spring & Summer
199 Soi Promsi 2, Sukhumvit 39
Located in a renovated 1950s house, complete with enormous lawn, Spring Dining Room has all the charm of its unique location, plus panache of ownership by a Thai movie star. But that’s not to say the food is lacking. Tasty contemporary Thai is served inside the sleek modern lines of the main house, while those with a sweet tooth get a taste of Summer, the chocolate bar located on the grounds.

Thompson Bar & Restaurant
Jim Thompson House, 6/1 Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama 1 Road
The American who revitalised the Thai silk industry, Jim Thompson’s house remains as a legacy to his vision and love for his adopted country. Visitors to the property are invited to enjoy a simple, light meal on the grounds – the ideal break from intensive touring.


BARS, PUBS AND NIGHTLIFE

Sky Bar and Distil
63 & 64/F, Lebua State Tower, 1055 Silon Road
Located on the 63rd floor of the Lebua State Tower, Distil and the outdoor Sky Bar are not venues for anyone with even a hint of vertigo. The management have been experiencing problems with working girls of late, but it would take a lot worse to dampen the thrill of the spectacular views here.

Bed Supper Club
Sukhumvit Soi 55
The achingly hip design concept covers both the architecture (a futuristic pod) and the all-white interiors, with beds slung from the ceilings. International DJs are a regular feature, with Tuesday Hip Hop nights and Wednesday model nights being regular fixtures on the weekly calendar. Too cool for school. (Open daily from 7:30pm -1am.)  

Koi
26 Sukhumvit 20, Sukhumvit Road, Klong Toey
An import from the States, this chic Cali-accented Japanese venue attracts the crowds as much for after hours partying as it does for dining.

The Bamboo Bar
The Oriental, 48 Oriental Avenue
The oldest jazz bar in town, the Bamboo Bar’s laid-back sophistication has kept the punters coming back for more since its conception in 1946. Today’s playful safari theme pays homage to its colonial past while keeping the bar fresh and groovy.  

Bacchus
Ruam Rudee Village, 20/6-7 Ruam Rudee Phloenchit Pathumwan
A tapas bar tucked away near the Phloen Chit BTS station, Bacchus is modern without any overbearing flashiness. An extensive selection of wines and spirits makes this a top spot for intimate chats.

Face Bar
29 Sukhumvit Soi 38
First opened in Indonesia, Face Bar’s popularity was such that Bangkok soon clamoured for one. Located in a traditional teak “klong”, Face Bar is filled with accents from throughout Asia, including artefacts from China and India. A warm, welcoming ambience is augmented by the modern beats turned out by the skilful DJs.

Diplomat Bar
Conrad Hotel, All Seasons Place, 87 Wireless Road, Phatumwan
A long-standing favourite for drinks and shop-talk, Diplomat Bar is a timeless classic, as well as a hot-spot for cool jazz.

Aqua
Four Seasons Hotel, 155 Rajadamri Road
Nestled under a canopy of foliage at the Four Seasons, Aqua is relaxed, elegant and known for serving the best martinis in town.

Met Bar
The Metropolitan, 27 South Sathorn Road, Sathorn
From the best of London comes the best of Bangkok – the Met Bar appropriately finds its Thai home at the trendy COMO owned Metropolitan Hotel. This compact, ultra-exclusive club exemplifies the adage about “good things” and “small packages”.

Hu’u Bar
1 & 2/F, The Ascott, 187 South Sathorn Road, Yannawa
Fine dining below and killer mixologist concoctions above has Hu’u drawing in the crowds like flies to its ultra-hip, industrial-chic interiors.

Londoner
591 UBC II Building, Basement B 104, Sukhumvit 33, Klongton Nua, Wattana
Though Londoner is the quintessentially cheesy British-themed pub, it would be churlish to look down one’s nose when there’s so much fun to be had, especially by means of Thailand’s only house-brewed, English-style bitter and Pilsner. Head here to make the most of a sports night.

Flava Lounge
Dream Hotel, 10 Sukhumvit, Soi 15, Klongtoey Nua, Wattana
Located in the high-design Dream Hotel, Flava Lounge is as funky and fabulous as you might expect. A wide variety of cocktails are served up behind the bar, while cigar aficionados are catered for at the Perdomo cigar bar.

Three Sixty
32/F, Bangkok Millennium Hilton, 123 Charoennakorn Road, Klongsan
Step into the rooftop bar of the Bangkok Millennium Hilton and discover the eponymous views from this slick new bar on the Chao Phraya. Sip cocktails and be soothed by the silky jazz tunes while taking in the panorama.


WHERE TO SHOP

Pratunam Market
Ratchaprarop and Phetchaburi Rd.
Open 24 hours, there is no better place in Bangkok to buy fabrics and textiles. Wholesalers and exporters buy here, as well as individual consumers, making this a must-visit market if you are looking for cheap and incredibly cheerful clothes.

Chatuchak Weekend Market
Chatuchak Park
An absolute giant of a market, Chatuchak has almost everything you could ever need (which is not so surprising when you learn that there are over 15,000 stalls within the market grounds); electrical appliances, art, antiques, music, food and all manner of authentic Thai handicrafts, artefacts and other knick-knacks.

Dunhill (Q Member’s Benefits)
Erawan Bangkok, 494 Ploenchit Road, Bangkok
Emporium Shopping Mall, Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok
A British-based company that specialises in men's luxury goods - including leather items, writing implements, lighters, timepieces, fragrances and clothing - Dunhill has become one of the most popular men’s brands across the globe, known for personalisation, luxury and exclusivity.

La Perla
Gaysorn Plaza, Ground floor, 999 Ploenchit Rd, Lumpini Pathunwan, 10330
Offering the finest lingerie for women, La Perla has the expertise, the innovation and the traditional, artisanal craftsmanship to create pieces that not only highlight femininity in its purest form, but show a creative sensibility at the highest level of elegance and style.


HEALTH AND BEAUTY

S Medical Spa
2/2 Pakdee bulding Wireless Road
A luxurious medical spa that offer clients a holistic approach to health and beauty. Doctors, including certified family doctors, dermatologists and gynaecologists are on-hand to advise the most appropriate treatments for each individual client as well as tailor-made courses to ensure optimum results. Facilities include a hot Jacuzzi and ice cold plunge pool (to tackle cellulite), "detoxification" rooms, a pool for aqua therapies and numerous rooms especially dedicated for various facials and massage styles.     

Banyan Tree Spa Bangkok
21/F Thai Wah Tower II, Sathorn Road
Pure high-end indulgence meets natural sanctuary in the sky. In a city full of superlative spas, the Banyan Tree’s in-house facility has carved out an outstanding reputation for world-class pampering, with its extensive treatment menu and range of gorgeous products.   

I.Sawan Residential Spa & Club
494 Rajdamri Road
It’s little wonder I.Sawan was voted Best Urban Spa by the Baccarrat AsiaSpa Awards 2006: this Tony Chi facility is a Zen garden of bamboo and frangipani trees built around the free-form Grand Hyatt pool. Treatment bungalows are based in secluded Thai-style huts, featuring contemporary, natural and blissfully serene interiors.

Divana Spa
7 Sukhumvit 25, North Klongtoey, Wattana
A boutique spa set in an acre of tropical gardens, Divana offers a true respite from the hectic modern city outside. Having eschewed ostentation in favour of understated luxury and simplicity, Divana offers relaxation via a wide range of packages at very reasonable rates.


WHAT TO SEE

Wat Arun – Sitting on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun is an impressive sight. Begun in 1809, it was named "Temple of the Dawn" because the first light of morning reflects off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence; the temple is a beautiful place to visit.

The National Museum - located in the former palace of the vice king the National Museum Bangkok features exhibits of Thai history and art dating back to Neolithic times. This collection has some very impressive pieces.

Cabaret Shows - Cabaret is a form of entertainment that enjoys vast popularity in Thailand. These are entirely hosted by kathoeys (people of the “third gender”). Dressed in glamorous costumes, they mime to classic show tunes, Chinese ballads, Jazz hits and more – all with lively choreography and comic interludes.  

Calyso Cabaret
Asia Hotel, Payathai Road
The most famous cabaret show in Bangkok at THB 600 including 1 drink. Show times: 8.15pm and 945pm.  

Golden Dome Cabaret
252/5 Soi 18, Ratchadapisek Road, Huay Kwang
A little more elaborate than Calypso, Golden Dome costs THB 800 with a drink. Show times: 5pm, 7pm and 9pm.