Thailand (Bangkok), Day 1…I didn’t have many preconceptions about going to Thailand, except that I was looking forward to enjoying a genuine green Thai curry and possibly a no-funny-business Thai massage (such a simple Westerner me), if the wonders of their legendary rubdowns are to believed. So no fireworks on arrival, I’m afraid. Outside was humid but not overwhelmingly warm, and the 30-minute trip to the hotel was presided by a host from tour company Asian Trails, who made sure we knew the different denominations of “baht” and warned us kissing in public was an absolute no-no, should our 5 people press party suddenly feel the urge to get to no one another that little bit better (ummmm, no.)

But the most impressive thing thus far has been our hotel, the Amari Residences Bangkok; it’s barely 6 weeks old and it’s positively stunning. There’s a roof-top pool on the 8th floor, a spa room for treatments, and the rooms are colossal! In the evening, we enjoyed dinner at the on-site Soma Restaurant and they served us one of the most divine meals I’ve ever had – spring rolls, satay, fried cod in peppercorn with veg, with a side of shrimp and coconut soup. My gawd – it was so right, it had to be WRONG! And let me not get started on the free-flowing red wine….

Bangkok, for your hospitality alone…I think I love you.

10:00 am  •  1 December 2010  •  3 notes