Hotels & Hostels

This is a case of an excellent hotel which becomes, by virtue of its location, a phenomenal one. The Peninsula’s location on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River provides a panoramic river-to-skyline view — visible by some wizardly feat of engineering from each of its 370 rooms — and a measure of seclusion in riotous, congested Bangkok. But this is much more than just prime real estate: here, Southeast Asian luxury hospitality is an experience unto itself, an industry that may as well have coined the “well-oiled machine” descriptor. The Peninsula hosts an Asian contemporary art collection spanning 8 countries and 25 artists, for instance, and its recommended excursions include an unforgettable elephant ride.

The guestrooms and suites thankfully eschew sterile futurism for a warmer affect, sustained largely by the ubiquity of fine teak, Thai silk, and ceramic accents. Where they do feel modern is in the open, spacious floorplans and, beneath the surface, in their hyper-sophisticated technological capabilities. Touchscreens by the bedside (and in the bathrooms) control every variable of the room’s environment — climate, mood lighting, communications, entertainment — complemented by docking stations and TVs in bespoke armoires. If you can peel yourself away, the spa is equally well appointed, offering a blend of European, Eastern, and Ayurvedic therapies in a separate, colonial-style building comprising more than a dozen private treatment rooms and an en-suite jacuzzi. (This is in addition to the three-tiered main pool and the swanky fitness center’s plunge pools.)

Three restaurants offer everything from authentic Thai curries in a riverside tropical garden to urbane Cantonese masterpieces, often served on gorgeous celadon greenware. The lobby does multiple duties, serving light fare and Peninsula’s signature afternoon tea to the accompaniment of live music. There are also several bars, including a poolside option with a “thaijito” specialty, though the city of Bangkok, of course, is at no loss for dining options beyond the hotel grounds; nor is there a dearth of nightlife — “legendary” being the most common (perhaps euphemistic) adjective for it after nightfall. Avail yourself of the hotel’s exclusive green tuk tuk if you’re feeling adventurous. That’s in addition to its fleet of Rolls Royces and BMWs, the helicopter, and four restored rice barges — naturally.