Bangkok isn't remotely a new destination, having welcomed millions into her wards for decades but there is almost always something new and stunning to be discovered after every return. We present our Fab List of Bangkok's best for the expectant traveller in 2022.
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Fab Hotels
New is Good but Old is Gold
Most of the highly anticipated openings in Bangkok took place in 2020, but to the rest of the world streaming into the city today, they remain as new as the resumption of global travel. The historic riverside enclave of Charoen Krung Rd, the first major road built in Bangkok using modern construction methods, now houses the Four Seasons Bangkok, probably the luxury chain's most stunning flagship currently, and the Capella Bangkok, an elegant property boasting comely rooms and a row of handsome riverside villas. Another enclave that has popped up is the Sindhorn parcel where Kempinski's 2nd property in Bangkok was erected. The Sindhorn Kempinski is architecturally resplendent and caters to long-stay guests with a deck of apartment-like rooms and suites. Over at the perpetually bustling Erawan area the Anantara Siam is still looking resplendent with its classical milieu and newly renovated contemporary rooms. Another elegantly restored grand dame of the city is The Sukhothai, which now boasts of a new wing with plush modern rooms and a cluster of the city's most winsome suites.
Fab Bars
Stunning Heights and all that Jazz
Bangkok's reputation as the party town has taken a rarefied turn with some eclectic offerings that are new to the scene. Taking top spot is BKK Social Club helmed by master mixologist Philip Bischoff who expertly knows how to show everyone walking into the joint a spirituous good time. Ojo is literally Bangkok's top watering hole as it was set at the crown of the Mahanakhon, currently the city's tallest building. Both the views and the cocktails are well worth a visit. Stella is another fabulous spot to people watch as it is routinely packed with the stylish set posturing within its modish ambience. For a more laid-back night out in the frenzied city, head to Firefly Bar where the mood is Gatsby and the jazz is groovy. It is an elegant bar where conversations and cocktails go hand in hand.
Fab Spas
A New High
Wellness is Thailand's thing and nowhere than its capital can one find more opulent and stunning spas. The newest sensation is Sindhorn Wellness by Resense that occupies nearly an entire floor at the Sindhorn Kempinski. The facilities here are incredibly varied, from a spacious hammam to a floating pool, and there is an endless list of pampering treatments to choose from. One of the oldest luxury spa in Bangkok is still its plushest, and these days one can buy into the health fad and enjoy some cannabis treatments at the Anantara Siam Spa too. Clinique La Prairie is also one of Bangkok's top spas that not only offer massages and relaxation facilities but medical treatments administered by resident doctors too. Another prime spot to relax and soak it all up is Auriga Spa by the river of kings where the treatments and thermal facilities are royally resplendent.
Fab Restaurants
Newness is in the Air
Fine dining is one of Bangkok's most glorious attractions and there are always new restaurants to look forward to with each return. Grand Thai cuisine can still be savoured at Celadon while Phra Nakhon is a wonderful new joint for refined Thai cuisine with a extensive menus of classical favourites to choose from. Foreign cuisines are also making fantastic representations in the city, with fabulous Cantonese at Yu Ting Yuan, spirited Peruvian at Guilty Bangkok, surprising Mexican at Ojo Bangkok and superlative French at Cote by Mauro Colagreco. For full reviews of the city's top restaurants visit our 2022 Bangkok Gourmet Bulletin.
