Travel: The Siam – Bangkok

5089

Talking of cooking, the food at The Siam was authentic and tasty Thai food at its best. Breakfasts at Chon Thai were a delicious mix of buffet options and a few special a la carte dishes. Have a drink in one of the coolest bars in Bangkok at the Deco Bar and Bistro, which is essentially an art installation made out of instruments. Café Cha is the place to go for a coffee and a meander around the most interesting furniture pieces I’ve ever seen. Finally, have a relaxing poolside drink at the Bathers Bar to really get you into holiday mode!

Another must try is the Opium Spa. They have a Moroccan style bathhouse for relaxation, which you can use even if you’re not having a treatment. The most intriguing part of the spa was that they have a tattoo parlour; this is something I have never seen before. Also, you must visit the gym, even if you hate the gym. The Siam has its own Muay Thai Boxing ring, and the decor in the gym is super retro. In keeping with the rest of the hotel, it has a plethora of vintage fitness memorabilia and old school leather boxing bags. You feel like you’re in a gym from the 50s whilst simultaneously having access to all the latest state-of-the-art equipment.

What I loved most about The Siam, in addition to the history and art, was the feeling that you were staying in what felt like your own luxury country home. The pool, which overlooks the Chao Praya River, had such a chilled vibe with the colonial style Bathers Bar and grass underfoot. In the evenings, I relished having a glass of wine on The Siam’s private pier, perched on the river. It was so relaxing and secluded. I’ve never experienced this feeling in a city hotel before.

As The Siam is situated slightly away from the centre of Bangkok, it has its own boat that you can ride into town or simply hop on board to enjoy a complimentary cruise down the river. The location of the hotel makes it feel like a true sanctuary in bustling Bangkok, and yet it is only a short boat ride away from all the action.

Finally, I have to mention the people. The Siam has so many elements that are amazing that it is no surprise that the service is also second to none. During our stay, we felt so often that the staff went above and beyond to do incredibly thoughtful things for us. One night, the chef made one of our favourite Thai dishes, even though it wasn’t on the menu, simply because we had mentioned it when we had our cooking class!

Brought to life through the vision and passion of the Sukosol family and the architectural prowess of Bill Bensley, staying at The Siam was one of the most special experiences I have ever had. Even as I checked out, I was still utterly captivated by its extraordinary design and magnificent collectables. If you are a fan of art and antiques, along with suites that are out of this world and a hotel that takes city luxury to new heights, then there is, hands down, no better place to be a guest in Bangkok than The Siam. 

www.thesiamhotel.com