Few hotels in the world are synonymous of great guest’s experience and prestigious history, and when it comes to Thailand there is one name that immediately pops in my head: the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, aka La Grande Dame with its prestigious history.
Because of its location – on Chao Praya river side – and because of its exceptional history, Mandarin Oriental Bangkok is one of those hotels you have to stay in at least once in a lifetime. All world celebrities and royalties paid a visit there since its opening in 1876, whatever to enjoy an amazing suite overlooking the river or simply have a drink at The Verandah’s terrace; Queen Elizabeth, Prince of Wales, Audrey Hepburn and Jim Thompson are a few of the individuals who called the – former – Oriental Bangkok their “home away from home”, contributing to its nickname “La Grande Dame”.
Living
Due to its history, Mandarin Oriental Bangkok past through several renovation and refurbishment phases. The result today is an homogeneous combination of two contemporary buildings and the original 2-storey Oriental Bangkok mansion on East riverside, and a stunning Spa – I had my best Swedish massage ever – on West riverside together with the Thai restaurant Sala Rim Naam.
Lobby
The hotel’s experience would not be complete without the charming private shuttle boat that allows to cross the river easily; this is so romantic! It’s also very convenient to go directly from the pier to Bangkok’s skytrain in less than five minutes.
Outdoor pool with cabanas
Outdoor pools are really amazing, especially the shallow infinity pool with its cabanas on the side, perfect for lunch, dinner or simply to relax after a day of shopping.
Accommodation
We stayed in a Deluxe Room on 11th floor overlooking Chao Praya river and the North of Bangkok. These rooms have a nice average size with a pretty classical design and a very comfortable king size bed.
Deluxe Room
It’s important to notice that all rooms in the two main buildings – the most recent ones – offer a pleasant river view, while the original Oriental Bangkok building proposes some high-end historical suites with garden or river views. If you can afford one of those Author’s Suites, I recommend to go for it as they are really exceptional.
Dining
We had the chance to experiment casual dining at Verandah, where international dishes are served – I ate a DE-LI-CIOUS Club Sandwich there – and we also had lunch at Sala Rim Naam, where we enjoyed a gorgeous Thai buffet in a traditional house. Quite an experience!
Thai restaurant Sala Rim Naam – Buffet lunch
In the morning, guests have the choice between an a-la-carte breakfast at Verandah or a buffet on the terrace; I have to say this one is just stunning and for all tastes, with plenty of chefs available to cook fresh food upon your request.
Level of exigency
Mandarin Oriental Bangkok is no exception to the worldwide MO Hotels rule: service must be – and actually is – faultless. We complained at the Reception after the 1st night because of some indoor noises we heard from our room in the morning, and we received immediate apologizes on behalf of hotel’s team, some hours later we had a giant bouquet of flower in our room’s desk and the following morning was particularly quiet. This is the MO signature for Service Excellence. One of the best hotel in Asia with the Peninsula Hong Kong!
Gallery
Stay from February 9th to 11th, 2017 – Sponsored media visit, but this article totally reflects 100% of my opinion and thoughts.
The Oriental Bangkok opened its doors originally in 1876 – it became the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok in 1974 – and is composed of 393 room and suites. We stayed in a Deluxe Room – around 45sqm large – which public rates starts at THB19.000/night.
Mandarin Oriental Bangkok – Book
Address:
48 Oriental Avenue,
Bangkok 10500, Thailand
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