An Oasis of Refinement in the Heart of Bangkok, Far from the Bustle

The official name in Thai is "Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Nopparat Ratchathani Burirom Udom Ratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Phiman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit."

While it's not a loss to remember it, it's nearly impossible to memorize the full official name of Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. Furthermore, the name "Bangkok" itself is not the official one, but rather a common name used by foreigners. In Thailand, it is correct to refer to it by the abbreviation "Krung Thep."

A direct flight of about five hours brings you to Suvarnabhumi Airport, the gateway to Thailand, the "Land of Smiles." Unlike the dry, cold air that pierces the skin in Japan during winter, here you are first greeted by a comfortable, humid warmth. The average temperature year-round is above 20 degrees Celsius, with the average maximum temperature exceeding 30 degrees Celsius, making it comparable to a Japanese summer. While September and October mark the rainy season, characteristic of tropical regions, the rest of the year sees less rainfall than Tokyo. With minimal temperature fluctuations, it might even be more pleasant.

After about a 30-minute drive in the pre-arranged transfer vehicle, the Bangkok cityscape comes into view. Skyscrapers stand tall, reinforcing the image of Bangkok as a rapidly growing international hub. The streets are filled with cars and people. This vibrancy is reminiscent of Hong Kong or Shanghai, but surprisingly, the driving manners are good, a clear contrast to the chaotic roads of Chinese cities, which, despite some improvements, still struggle to escape their disarray.

Looking only at the cityscape in the center, one can easily imagine this as a leading, advanced international city in Southeast Asia. However, step into a side alley away from the main thoroughfares, and you'll find an Asian landscape that evokes a sense of nostalgia for Japanese visitors. With old streets, simple signs, street food stalls, and the people who live there, time seems to flow at a more leisurely pace.

At night, the city transforms with dazzling neon lights, and elegantly dressed young people fill the streets, offering glimpses of the vibrant nightlife characteristic of Asian metropolises. Night markets and ramen stalls that cater to Japanese palates are also popular. The duality of an international business city and an energetic, glamorous Asian face—this contrast between work and leisure is one of the reasons Bangkok attracts repeat visitors, as a photographer friend, an expert on Bangkok, once told me.

Bangkok's Cultural Heritage That Captivates Tourists

Our accommodation for this trip is the Conrad Bangkok, located in the heart of the city. This hotel was recognized as Thailand's finest luxury city hotel at the World Luxury Hotel Awards in 2013. Situated in the central district, surrounded by various embassies, it is part of the All Seasons Place complex, a landmark development that includes offices, luxury condominiums, and a shopping center, playing a pivotal role in the city.

The vehicle arranged by Conrad Bangkok for the transfer from the airport is a BMW 7 Series long-wheelbase model. The demeanor and neat attire of the chauffeur, along with the car itself, hint at the hotel's class. Upon arrival, stepping into the spacious, serene, and elegantly designed lobby, which spans three floors with a soaring atrium, confirms this impression.

All 391 guest rooms are at least 41 square meters. The upper floors, from the 24th level upwards, feature executive rooms, suites with balconies, and deluxe suites spanning 114 square meters. Each room is unified by a calming ambiance, incorporating wood and locally sourced Thai silk. Beyond a bar area, each room includes a substantial wooden desk and a high-speed internet data port. Its location in the center of international Bangkok makes it suitable not only for tourists but also for business travelers.

The bathrooms are spacious, open, and impeccably clean. A bathtub by the window offers the opportunity to relax and unwind while gazing at the city's night view. While equipped with such sophisticated urban amenities, the art adorning the walls subtly evokes a Thai atmosphere, showcasing Conrad's thoughtful hospitality in not imposing a uniform modern design.

Guests staying in executive rooms or above have complimentary access to the Executive Lounge on the 29th floor. Here, guests can check in and out, enjoy breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening cocktails. Drinks are available throughout the lounge's operating hours, making it a welcome respite during brief interludes or after a day of sightseeing and shopping. The concierge service, which assists with tour and restaurant bookings, is an invaluable resource for those unfamiliar with the city.

Bangkok's Cultural Heritage That Captivates Tourists

As this was my first visit to Bangkok, I utilized the concierge service to arrange a tour for my second day, covering the "Grand Palace (Phra Borom Maha Ratcha Wang)" and the "Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaeo)" in the Phra Nakhon district, as well as the "Jim Thompson House," a Thai-style residence of the American who popularized Thai silk, now preserved as a museum.

The Grand Palace, spread over approximately 200,000 square meters, is the most revered structure in Thailand and is still used for important national ceremonies. The fusion of Western Renaissance and Thai architectural styles is awe-inspiring and conveys a sense of majesty. Adjacent to the palace stands the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Phra Kaeo, which enshrines the glittering Emerald Buddha. Its golden stupa houses the Buddha's relics.

Both are fascinating architectural marvels, and their beauty is beyond words. They are absolute must-sees for any visitor to Bangkok. Every angle offers a picturesque scene, a rarity on this planet.

After lunch, we proceeded to the Jim Thompson House. Jim Thompson, known as the "Silk King of Thailand," was also a renowned collector of ancient art. His valuable collection can be viewed in his former residence, now a museum. Guided tours are available in Japanese, providing reassurance for travelers less comfortable with English. The grounds also feature a Thai silk shop, making it a good place to purchase souvenirs.

After a full day of sightseeing, we returned to Conrad Bangkok. The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha were quite extensive, and frankly, I felt like relaxing a bit. The Conrad Bangkok offers an outdoor pool on the 7th floor, providing a sense of spaciousness that belies its central urban location, available for year-round use. Spending the late afternoon here would be a pleasant option.

Unfortunately, I hadn't brought a swimsuit. While I considered purchasing one at the adjacent shopping mall, directly accessible from Conrad Bangkok, I suddenly had an idea and requested a spa reservation from the Executive Lounge concierge.

Thailand is strongly associated with enjoying spas and massages. The Seasons Spa, with its 11 treatment rooms, offers facials and oil massages in private, aromatic rooms. You can opt for focused treatment on specific areas of concern or request a desired pressure to refresh your body. The spa experience is so comfortable that most guests fall asleep during their treatment, making it one of the most recommended activities at Conrad Bangkok. The sheer bliss of relaxation makes it easy to forget that you are in the heart of a bustling city.

For those who prefer physical activity over relaxation, the 24-hour fitness center, the aforementioned pool, or the tennis courts with night lighting are recommended. All these facilities are located on the 7th floor, making it convenient to transition from a workout at the fitness center to a relaxing session by the pool.

World-Class Japanese Cuisine at its Finest

Conrad Bangkok boasts five restaurants and two bars. Among them, we highly recommend the Japanese restaurant "Kisara" and the Chinese restaurant "Liu." Chef Kenji Shindo, who helms Kisara and prepares authentic Japanese cuisine, has extensive international experience, having worked in top hotel restaurants in Japan and honed his skills in Spain and Taiwan. Japanese cuisine is popular in Thailand, and with the global trend towards healthy eating, it is favored not only by international guests from various embassies and business circles but also by local patrons.

Among the many Japanese restaurants in Bangkok, Kisara offers authentic Japanese cuisine that satisfies even the most discerning Japanese palate. Its strengths lie in fresh ingredients, high-quality dishes, and visually stunning presentations, making it understandable why it attracts many repeat customers, including businessmen dining with clients and affluent locals. The Hokkaido Kamui beef and Hida beef steaks, featured as main courses in the course menus, were, dare I say, as captivatingly delicious as those enjoyed in Japan.

Meanwhile, the Chinese restaurant Liu features Chinese dishes made with fresh seasonal seafood, familiar and appealing to Japanese tastes. With comfortable sofa-style seating, it is recommended for those who wish to enjoy a leisurely meal. The course menu offers appropriately portioned dishes, allowing guests to savor each course until the end. The steamed abalone in milk sauce and the sesame balls for dessert are particularly exquisite, offering a comforting flavor after spicy Thai cuisine.

While savoring local cuisine is often considered the essence of travel, dining at Conrad Bangkok's restaurants each night offers a high level of satisfaction. To put it plainly, without the need to venture out into unfamiliar territory, world-class flavors are readily available. Both of these establishments offer tastes and services that can be wholeheartedly recommended even to the most discerning gourmands.

After a satisfying meal, you can enjoy wine and live music at The Diplomat Bar, a premier jazz bar on the lobby floor, or savor a cocktail under the night breeze at City Terrace by the pool on the 7th floor. City Terrace is open until 9 PM and welcomes casual attire, making it a convenient spot for a relaxed drink or a light refreshment, not just after dinner.

Conrad Bangkok, situated in the heart of Bangkok, a leading international city in Southeast Asia, is not only convenient for business, sightseeing, and shopping but also possesses the potential and refined atmosphere to be enjoyed as a city resort, offering everything from dining to activities within its premises. It is a sophisticated luxury hotel, perfect for adult travelers seeking to refresh their mind and body while drawing energy from the vibrant city of Bangkok.

CONRAD BANGKOK
All Seasons Place 87 Wireless Road Bangkok 10330 Thailand

Tel. +[66] 2-690-9999

Fax. +[66] 2-690-9000

http://conrad.hiltonhotels.jp/hotel/bangkok/conrad-bangkok