It has been 3 years since the last time I was in Bangkok and the two things that have noticeably changed are: it is way more congestion and they have a new King. I love Bangkok but the 3 hour drive in from the airport had me concerned. It was peak hour and raining which I am told significantly slows the traffic but even my taxi driver said that was the longest he had taken for that trip. The good news is they are working on extending their public rail network and this is definitely the best way to get around the city. I strongly recommend that when booking a hotel that you choose one close to a train station. If you are going to rely on taxi’s then make sure you don’t plan too much. Car ownership has increased significantly but the road system is largely designed to cope with motorbikes.
That aside, I still love Bangkok. Life is lived on the streets, which are full of activity, colour, noise and food. People often ask me for recommendations of places to go. I generally don’t need a destination in this city, it is made for wandering, observing and frequent stops for refreshments.
I stayed in two different hotels this visit. The Cabochon Hotel was my first stop and it was wonderful. Located at the end of a quiet lane but very close to transport, shopping, and good restaurants. Although a modern construction its interiors reflect a colonial past and there are lots of little details which add up to a beautiful and comfortable hotel. The lap pool on the roof offers the perfect place to relax and my tip is arrive early to enjoy some early morning laps on your own. The staff here are extremely attentive and you will be well looked after.
Our next stop was at The Sukhothai Hotel, one I have been to a number of times before. For me it is like entering a sanctuary amidst all the chaos. It is much larger that The Cabochon but it is not long before you get to know the staff. The buffet breakfast is definitely an attraction and expansive, both for the eyes and the waistline. The pool, which is always important in a hot climate, is large and their newly expanded lounge area means you can always find a quiet spot.
A few suggestions of things to do: definitely go late at night or pre-dawn to the flowers markets; wander the streets of Chinatown; hire one of the timber long-tail boats and cruise around the back canals (we caught our from the jetty next to the Mandarin Oriental Hotel and went in for a cool drink at the Hotel afterwards); alternatively just catch the public ferry along the Chao Phraya River and enjoy the passing sights and the breeze; at the end of the day make your way to one of the many rooftop bars to watch the sun go down.
