Bangkok is a giant of a city on many levels. It was the most visited city in the world in 2024 with around 32.4 million international visitors. It’s buzzing and vast, hot and sticky and there’s the tantalising aroma of exotic street food in the air.
There’s a vibrant mix of cultural and modern attractions, from the majestic Grand Palace and serene Wat Arun to bustling street markets, lively nightlife, and world- class shopping malls, all infused with the city’s rich Thai heritage and dynamic energy.
I love that frenetic energy that’s unique to the big cities in Asia. It’s invigorating and exhausting at the same time. So it’s vital to have somewhere calm and peaceful to get away from it all. And that’s exactly what the Shangri-La is. A haven in the heart of the city.
The majestic five-star hotel is set on the banks of the Chao Praya River, also known as the River of Kings. Which seems appropriate as there’s no doubt that a stay at the Shangri-La makes you feel like royalty. Starting with that very first step into the shiny marble lobby which is bursting with blooming orchids in every colour. It’s cool and colourful and the smiles are warm and welcoming.
We let that Shangri-La peace wash over us and after a quick and cheery check-in ascend to our city home-from-home. Our room is spacious, luxurious and decorated in traditional Thai style, with a huge picture window overlooking the Bangkok skyline, with views across the pool and down the winding river.
The river is a constantly changing hub of activity and a fabulous way to explore the city which we do as evening falls. A sunset and dinner cruise to take in the sites at night is a fabulous way to get our bearings while tucking into a sumptuous buffet.
Before a deep, jet-lag reducing sleep in the most comfortable of beds. Days start with breakfast at NEXT2 Cafe, the hotel’s riverside all-day dining restaurant. The lavish international buffet serves Thai, Asian and Western options, it’s peaceful and the views are fabulous. Believe me a Bangkok Shangri-La breakfast is an event in itself and the best way to set yourself up for a day of exploration.
We take a tuk-tuk (an absolute must-do in Bangkok) to visit the Sleeping Buddha and an array of temples and wander the colourful streets of Chinatown. We shop and snack before heading home for some pool time (with pool-side massage, naturally) in the shade of the beautiful trees. The hotel also has a state-of-the-art fitness centre and CHI, the Spa – a sanctuary within a sanctuary offering a range of soothing treatments.
There are three other restaurants on site – Salathip for authentic Thai cuisine, Shang Palace for tasty Chinese and Volti Tuscan Grill & Bar Italian delights. There are also plenty of others within easy walking distance. Including Jack’s Bar, a quirkily rustic bar and restaurant on the river serving a great selection of excellent-value Thai dishes. Everything is right on our doorstep.
Staying at the Shangri-La in Bangkok is an unforgettable luxury experience in the heart of one of Asia’s most vibrant cities. The views are stunning, the amenities world-class and the service is exceptional. It’s an ideal blend of modern sophistication and traditional Thai charm and the prime location from which to
explore the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Find out more at https://www.shangri-la.com/bangkok/shangrila/