From the second you walk into the Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok, you’ll have a guest experience that is unique and memorable.
When we first moved to Thailand, the Oriental had just completed the hotel “tower,” which was a spectacular addition to the property. The main restaurant was called the Normandie room featuring fantastic food with a sweeping view.
It was the best place to dine in Bangkok.
Everything is flawless; the staff is beyond accommodating, the decor incredible, and a sense of calm surrounds you. There’s just not another hotel in Thailand like the Oriental.
I have stayed in both the Superior rooms and on one occasion, I was miraculously given the Authors’ suite, which must be seen to be believed. I’ve stayed in many, many hotels around the world and this is the suite I’d like to live in for the rest of my life.
Moments after my arrival, a charming staff member brought in a welcoming fruit arrangement that was so beautiful I didn’t want to disturb one piece. However, I did, and it was delicious. Mind you, this was in the days before Instagram, so I took a photo of the arrangement with my trusty Minolta film camera.
Dining here is still incredible; I love the Riverside Terrace that overlooks the Chao Phraya river and the Terrace Rim Naam. The Bamboo Bar is perfect. It’s been a part of the hotel since the opening and offers a warm, inviting place to sit and enjoy drinks and evening entertainment.
While Bangkok seems to operate on Warp Speed 24/7, the Oriental is calm, gorgeous and so beautiful you’ll never want to leave (I certainly didn’t want to.)
If Anna and The King of Siam were to invite me to lunch, this is where I’d want to be.
Are we there yet? 