Two days in Bangkok.
Join me as part of the first series of “Thank God You’re Not Here” as myself and my partner Stavvy explored Asia in a whirlwind twelve day trip featuring Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. First leg of the tour - Bangkok.
We landed in hot and humid Bangkok on a warm January day some 11 hours after leaving dreary London. After a relatively swift transit to the hotel we expected to check into the Capella Hotel just as swiftly. Unfortunately that wasn’t the case, as we arrived at 12:30, our room wasn’t made available until 3pm. Not a great start, which already puts me in a mood. It’ll take a lot for the start of this trip to turn around… Well it turns out, that mood didn’t last long. From the moment we checked in, everything turned around.
Nestled along the scenic Chao Phraya River, the Capella hotel beautifully marries Bangkok’s rich cultural heritage with unparalleled luxury and modern amenities. The hotel itself is stunning, with elegant interiors that blend Thai-inspired decor with contemporary luxury. Every detail, from the art on the walls to the carefully curated furniture, reflects a refined taste that’s both inviting and inspiring. The river views are mesmerising, whether you’re enjoying them from your private balcony, the pool area, or the stunning restaurant terraces. What really stood out for me though was the service… beyond compare. From the moment we got our keys to the room, we were treated like royalty. The staff were warm, welcoming, and incredibly attentive to every need. They somehow manage to anticipate your desires before you even realised them!
BUT… enough about the hotel, we’re only here for two days so it’s time to explore.
We began by heading to Goldie’s art exhibition. It was being held at The Aurum Gallery. Honestly, that bustling art district was like a little slice of New York in the middle of South East Asia. Worthy of exploration. Soon after we decided to head to the temples. Bangkok is a captivating city that blends tradition, culture, and modern luxury like nowhere else. The Golden Buddha Temple, or Wat Traimit, is an awe-inspiring highlight. The sheer grandeur of the massive, solid gold Buddha statue is breathtaking. This unique piece of history is not only a symbol of Thailand's rich heritage but also a testament to the country's craftsmanship and spirituality. Walking through the temple, you feel a profound sense of peace and reverence and I have a feeling this won’t be the last temple we visit on this trip. Wat Traimit is truly a must-see experience in Bangkok.
On our first night in Asia we didn’t stray from the hotel. Frankly all that walking was tough on someone severely jet lagged. So we had our dinner at Phra Nakhon, the Thai restaurant at Capella; and it was simply spectacular.
The spa at Capella is a sanctuary in itself. After a day exploring the bustling streets of Bangkok, returning to the Auriga Wellness Spa was pure bliss. The treatments are thoughtfully crafted and expertly executed, focusing on traditional Thai healing techniques combined with modern wellness practices. The outdoor pool area, with views of the river and lush greenery, is a perfect spot to unwind.
Between the iconic temples and the top-tier luxury of hotels like The Capella, Bangkok offers an unforgettable mix of cultural depth and modern indulgence. It’s a city that leaves you in awe and is worth every moment spent exploring.
And onto the next. The following day we fly to Cambodia.