Amy Adejokun
Section editor
The Oriental is a real staple in Bangkok. The hotel is known by everybody and many celebrities like to relax there. In addition, it is among the rare grand establishments in Bangkok with a children club. It also benefits from a superb location by the Chao Phraya river.
Mandarin Oriental Bangkok - © Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
Mandarin Oriental Bangkok - © Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
The Oriental is situated around forty five minutes from the airport of Suvarnabhumi, if you do not drive during rush hours! In addition, you will be next to a sky train station.
The Oriental has only 16 floors, which are not many compared to some other buildings. There are 393 rooms, 35 of which are suites, all differently decorated and represented by the name of famous persons and writers who stayed there. The standard room is quite spaciouse and has a beautiful view of the river. The decoration has always the same spirit as the rest of the hotel, which has English inspiration. You will have the choice between twin beds or a king-size bed. The dark wood furniture enhances the elegance of the place. Concerning equipment, you find: TV, air conditioning, filled minibar, safe, hairdryer as well as 24 hour room service. With regard to the bathroom, it is the first one we visited that has a double bathtub. It is all in grey marble. It is a pity for the blue frieze, as it clashes a bit with the rest. Everything is available in the welcome products in case you forgot something: toothbrush, soap, shampoo...
The establishment is a place full of history, filled with luxury. Actually, you will not be surprised to find a Vuitton boutique just opposite... You enter the hotel by passing through grand doors with oriental ornaments. You will find the same look inside. A huge bay window lets the light in and offers a beautiful view of the outdoor vegetation of the Chao Phraya river. A lemongrass scent fills the hall...
The hotel disposes of a small and very private swimming pool not far from the banks of the river, surrounded by trees therefore hidden from prying eyes. The service is ensured on site; you can then sit on one of the wooden beach chairs arranged around the pool.
The hotel is split in two parts. The bigger one is on the same side as the river, where the reception is. On the contrary, if you would like to dine at the Thai restaurant Sala Rim Naam or go to the spa, you will need to take one of the river shuttles of the hotel which will take you to the other bank. The Ayurvedic Penthouse is very recent and offers different treatments including Hindu cares. The setting is very beautiful: the entrance is ornated with a superb pond with water lilies. The lavender scent fills the spa. 20 massage rooms are available, in an atmosphere of total relaxation.
The hotel has no less than eight restaurants. You will need to stay for a few days to try them all! The Normandie, situated on the 5th floor, offers a French cuisine a la carte for lunch and dinner. Gentlemen will have to dress with jacket and tie to eat there! The Lord Jim's is a seafood and international dishes restaurant, with view of the river. It is open all day and also offers to eat from midnight till 2:30 am. The Verandah Coffee Shop takes care to serve a la carte cakes and other similar sweets till 1 am. The Riverside Terrasse offers outdoor barbecues by the river for dinner. The China House, as its name indicates, is a Chinese restaurant for lunch and dinner. For Italian cuisine you will need to go to Ciao. The Sala rim Naan is the success of the hotel. Situated on the other side of the river, the restauran will offer traditional Thai cuisine in a splendid setting. During all dinner you will see a traditional folk show. Its cuisine is very refined and delicious! If you would like to simply eat a sandwich you can go to the Author's Lounge.
The Oriental belongs to the Mandarin Oriental Hotel group which has a beautiful selection of luxury establishments. It opened in 1876 thanks to Captains H. Jarck and C. Salje. The original house is also still there. You can see the pictures of the former owners.
spa, sauna, hammam, massage, beauty salon, keep fit, wellness, Turkish bath
aerobics, tennis, squash, fitness, sports, golf, basketball, gym
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