Elevator pitch
Bangkok has always been at the top of the list for a quick getaway from Singapore, and it would seem that recent years have only seen the city’s appeal grow. First came the art galleries, cocktail bars and cafes of Charoen Krung Road, which has since then expanded to seamlessly blend with the cultural heritage of Song Wat Road. Then came EmSphere, the newest in a trio of malls that has come to be known as the Em District. Now, the city’s buzziest new enclave takes the form of the all-encompassing retail and lifestyle haven that is One Bangkok—and the newest opening in its midst is none other than The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok.
Situated along Wireless Road—which was once the domain of Thai nobility, before it became the gateway to a new era that envisioned a global future in the 1800s—the hotel is inspired by the concept of a ‘Meeting of Two Civilisations’. Here, the rich and storied traditions of Bangkok’s past come together with the dynamic culture of the city’s present, seamlessly honouring the old while elevating the new.
The stay
Infused with a timeless elegance, the spacious rooms here offer a tranquil sanctuary to retreat into amidst the bustling cosmopolis of the Thai capital. The details in the room—from the local art that hangs on the walls to the marble touches around the space—are beautifully realised, but what steals the show are the gorgeous vistas of the city skyline and the lush Lumpini Park, framed through the room’s vast floor-to-ceiling windows. In the bathroom, a roomy tub comes perfect for an indulgent soak, as luxurious amenities such as hair tools from Dyson, bath products from Diptyque and extraordinarily plush robes from Frette outfit the space.
Amenities check
The Ritz-Carlton is known for redefining the luxury hotel stay with its Club experience, and the Bangkok property certainly lives up to this. Perched on the 23rd floor, the exclusive Club Lounge serves complimentary breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and desserts daily for Club guests—and the food definitely doesn’t disappoint. In addition to this, the Club experience also provides guests with a dedicated Club Concierge, bespoke in-room amenities and unique curated experiences for an unparalleled level of personalised service.
Take some time to check out The Ritz-Carlton Spa too, a sanctuary of rejuvenation where the skilful massage therapists will whisk you away into a state of bliss. Located right next to it are the hotel’s two sparkling pools, nestled amidst lush greenery on the terrace. Visit at dusk, and you might just get a view of the orange sun dipping beyond the skyscrapers in the distance.
The food
Whilst it may be tempting to have all your meals at the Club Lounge, it’s worth carving out some time for the hotel’s stellar dining offerings. There’s international restaurant Lily’s, which reimagines familiar dishes with a contemporary twist. Look out, in particular, for the restaurant’s creative takes on local Thai cuisine, from an Egg Siam at breakfast, a rendition of Eggs Benedict using pork belly and a southern Thai curry hollandaise, to a juicy slice of Gulf of Thailand Grouper at lunch cooked to crisp perfection and served with Thai green curry sauce and julienned vegetables.
Then there’s fine-dining restaurant Duet by David Toutain, led by the eponymous two-Michelin-starred chef. Located in a stunning glasshouse on the hotel’s terrace, the restaurant serves modern French cuisine that highlights the harmony between food and nature. Story cards guide the way through an intimate eight course dinner, highlighting the star ingredient that each dish centres—as well as where they are from and how they are used. From XO sauce to épicéa, each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen, and creatively showcased.
The neighbourhood
One of the best parts of The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok is no doubt its location. One Bangkok—with its multiple malls, art galleries and event spaces—is right next door, and you could easily spend multiple days here. From local Thai labels like Matter Makers to a Club21 flagship and a two-storey duty-free boutique, the mall is a veritable playground for fashion enthusiasts. Not to mention the extensive list of food options available, and the arts and cultural events that populate its halls. If you’re willing to venture a little further, Centralworld and Siam Paragon are also about a 30 minute walk, or a short tuk-tuk ride, away.
And if you find yourself wanting to take a pause from the bustle of the city, Lumpini Park is just across the road. It’s a lovely spot to people-watch, with locals from all walks of life gathering together. Rent one of the paddle boats in the pond, settle in a gazebo to read a book, or simply take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful spot of serenity in the middle of the city.
Book a stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok here.
