Bliss in Bangkok

What took me so long! I consider myself quite the well-traveled gal, with more places on my bucket list falling into the “have visited” category than “must go.” For some reason, Thailand was never one of the top five destinations I hoped to visit, but that has changed, and now it has been moved to the “must go again” column.

For any country I travel to, my goal is to always start in a big city and then venture to the outlying areas, precisely what I did in Thailand. Bangkok was the first stop. A place of tall buildings and luxurious hotels–right up my alley. My goal here was more relaxing than sightseeing and chilling I did. When deciding where to stay, I usually have a few serious requirements, and the Oriental Residence Bangkok had precisely what I was looking for. A centrally-located hotel in the heart of Bangkok, near all the shopping I could wish for and amidst all the action.

Since jet lag dominated my first 24 hours, I had made a wise decision by booking a one-bedroom suite, as I knew room service (and champagne) were the only items on my agenda as my body adjusted to the five-hour time difference. Smart move on my part, as my residence was a palatial pad I didn’t want to leave, fully-equipped with a kitchen and all the comforts of home. Unparalleled views from both rooms made me feel like I wasn’t being too lazy not venturing out to the wonders of Bangkok.

I spent the morning tucked away in the comfort of my suite—time to get some exercise and fresh air. A fitness center is a priority for any extensive traveler. The Residence had all the state-of-the-art equipment one could need. Then make sure to relax, lounge at the pool, or enjoy a cabana with a bar nearby. One piña colada, please!

After enjoying my time by the pool, I headed to one of Bangkok’s most prominent attractions–the opulent Grand Palace. Thailand is known for its beautiful temples and palaces, but the Grand Palace takes the cake. It’s home to the Emerald Buddha, arguably the most important image of Buddha in Thailand. Even though it was crowded, I enjoyed walking through the complex and admiring all the lavish gold decorations on this breathtaking structure.

I spent the day enjoying the sights in Bangkok and navigating the tourist crowds; I was ready for a break. I found myself craving the afternoon rituals I am accustomed to in Paris, but luckily, Café Claire offers a unique tea ritual which, of course, I had to partake in!

Time to burn off those delicacies. Central Embassy is a great shopping mall just down the road from the Residence. I had a relaxed evening strolling around this shopping center’s unique stores and restaurants with an authentic Thai flair.

If you know me, you know that a luxury lounge is one of my priorities when booking a hotel, and the Oriental Residence did not disappoint. The Oriental Bar is my type of place, and every evening either began or ended in this cozy yet upscale cocktail lounge. I am always on the hunt for new wines or spirits, and it was a joy to try a new gin called Iron Balls, made in the heart of Bangkok. Quality ingredients consisting of 15 well-guarded secret botanicals make for a sensory delight if you are a gin lover.

While my stay in Bangkok was short, the highlight was the enjoyment and comfort I experienced at the Oriental Residence. Besides my luxurious hotel, I truly enjoyed Bangkok’s vibrant nightlife and bustling cultural sites; it’s undoubtedly a destination that will see me back again and again.