If you are looking for a hotel that will take your breath away then you have found it. Although five star hotels in Bangkok are abundant, few hotels in the capital can compare to the luxurious world of Siam Kempinski. Read on to find out why we fell in love with this relaxing retreat during our hunt for the top ten luxury hotels in Bangkok…
The Idea
To create a peaceful inner-city sanctuary within the heart of Bangkok.
Location
Located in the busy Pathum Wan district, the Siam Kempinski is situated in one of Bangkok’s main entertainment and cultural destinations. Tucked just behind one of Asia’s largest shopping complexes, the hotel is a stone’s throw away from the Siam Paragon Mall, Central World, MBK and the markets of Pathuwan. The BTS Skytrain system is a short five minute walk away and the hotel is within 10 minutes of both the underground and the new airport train link.
Out of all the luxury hotels in Bangkok, this one really is in an enviable position and the perfect place for people who love to shop, allowing guests to easily enjoy the restaurants, shops and hustle and bustle of the walkway-linked luxury shopping malls of Bangkok. Should you wish to take transportation to sample the delight of the shopping malls, the hotel offers a free Tuk Tuk to Central World.
The Welcome
This hotel represents the sort of indulgent fantasy you create in your daydreams about luxury. Walking into the entrance hall of the Siam Kempinski will simply take your breath away. As soon as you enter the majestic and marvelous marble lobby; with its high ceilings, pretty light-purple rugs, cream sofas and vibrant fresh flowers, you are awed by the elegance of the hotel.The staff are warm and welcoming and take the meaning of superlative service to another level. The relaxing ambiance of the Siam Kempinski immediately takes over, and the serenity of the hotel is enough to make you forget that you are in the hustle and bustle of central Bangkok.
The Ambiance and Decor
The elegant lobby sets the tone of the hotel. Here everything is designed with the ‘wow’ factor in mind and opulent decor is key. Bringing with it a certain savoir-vivre, the flamboyant European flair of the Siam Kempinski is obvious in the classical, yet modern decor of the hotel, but it is the thoughtful nod to Thailand’s artistic heritage that is really impressive.
The Siam Kempinski certainly serves up authentic Thai charm and culture as the property displays approximately 4,000 pieces of art, including 200 original paintings and sculptures by Thai artists, all of which express the personality and culture of Thailand. In the lobby of the hotel hang impressive bass lamp cones, formed like the decorative fingernails of northern traditional Thai dancers performing a graceful welcome dance.
The colour accents in the decor reflect the purples, greens and creams found in the colours of the lotus flower which is an Asian symbol for things of special value. The lotus can also be found in the hotel’s logo, in the design of the carpets, on the staff uniforms and in the charming prints and photos featured in every guest room in the hotel.
The hotel is built next to the Sra Pathum Palace, formerly the home of Prince Mahidol (the current King’s father) and is now home to HRH Princess Srindhorn. The ground where the hotel now stands was once part of the Lotus Pond Palace commissioned by Rama IV (known in the Western world from the story ‘The King and I’) as a retreat outside the city. Keeping in line with the historical site of the Siam Kempinski, the lotus flower is harmoniously blended into the overall decor of the hotel, nodding to the old lotus garden.
The architects of the Siam Kempinski have built the hotel with the Royal history of the area in mind. The hotel’s encircled landscaped inner gardens is a serene haven with three saltwater pools, tropical trees and a grassy lawn, recreating the serenity and beauty of the former lotus gardens.
The Rooms
For globetrotters who have stayed in the very best hotels, then the rooms at the Kempinski will please. Featuring 303 contemporary rooms and lavish suites, all rooms offer a beautiful view of Siam Kempinski’s lush green gardens. Modern comfort and convenience are combined, with each guestroom featuring a tea and coffee maker and a flat-screen TV. For a truly unique experience, stay in one of Cabana rooms with direct pool access. What could be more luxurious than opening up your hotel room doors, stepping into a serene pool and letting your cares slip away?.
It’s the little things that set luxury hotels apart and the Siam Kempinski certainly is the master of petites choses. Complimentary soft drinks and local beers are available from the minibar in each room, and they don’t skimp of the toiletries, offering dental kits, fragrant bath goodies and more. Also if you decide to spend the day basking in the sun by the saltwater pools, the hotel staff bring around much needed water to quench your thirst and cold towels to cool yourself which are a god-send.
Facilites
Once you’ve relaxed by the pool or shopped ‘til you’ve dropped, you can take advantage of a variety of recreational facilities that the hotel offers…
The Gym overlooks the garden and is fully equipped with the latest cardio, strength and conditioning equipment. For the fitness fanatics out there it also offers yoga, aerobics and Muay Thai classes.
The Spa – What luxury hotel would be complete without a spa? The spa at the Siam Kempinski is a magical getaway in the bustling city offering a wonderful range of therapies themed around the changing four seasons.
Kempinski Kids Club – Perfect for parents who want some time alone. The kid’s club offers facilities specially created to entertain, amuse and occupy your little monsters under the supervision of professional child care specialists.
The Business Centre – For the business travellers out there,the hotel room has a separate working station with the option of having a faster internet connection.
Food & Drink
The luxury continues when you indulge in the award winning food of the Siam Kempinski. The Sra Bua, which has been voted as one of Asia’s top 50 restaurants, is the hotel’s flagship restaurant and the one all the critics are swooning over. There are not many restaurants in the world that will wow you, but this one certainly will by inspiring both your eyes and your palate. It combines authentic Thai food with cutting edge flair, and the result – amazing molecular- gastronomic interpretations of Thai cuisine. Elsewhere, the Brasserie Europa serves up traditional European inspired dishes and is famous for its Sunday Family lunch.
Why go
To experience a hotel in the heart of Bangkok, exuding traditional Thai charm with wow worthy extras. Awaiting for you at the Siam Kempinski is luxury, luxury and more luxury. The hotel oozes quiet tranquility with discreet but highly attentive service. As the hotel says ‘We warn you – don’t be surprised when you decide to extend your stay…’
Address: 991/9 Rama 1 Road, Pathumwan Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
Website: www.kempinski.com
IDEAL stayed at the hotel as a guest