Iconic City Hotels of the World

Mandarin Oriental Bangkok Bangkok, Thailand The legend of ‘The Oriental’ lives on and only gets better! Iconic City Hotels of the World T he Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok is a truly remarkable hotel; timeless yet contemporary, classic yet cutting-edge, a haven of calm on the banks of the Chao Phyra River, and for the many who cherish the very best hospitality it is Bangkok’s premier address. It is an establishment that ensures it knows its guests as well as it knows its location. The recipient of many international awards and accolades, there is no doubt that it is still regarded today after 146 years of immaculate service as one of the finest hotels in the world. From the hotel’s riverbank jetties its fleet of teak boats tarry to and fro across the river linking the main hotel buildings with additional key facilities on the opposite bank like the legendary Oriental Spa, The Oriental Thai Cooking School, extensive sports facilities, and the traditional Sala Rim Naam Restaurant. A few minutes up river connects guests to the sky train, whilst a 15-minute longboat ride will get you to the Grand Palace. Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok is spread between various buildings on either side of the Chao Praya River. The oldest hotel in the prestigious Mandarin Oriental group, it first opened in 1876, since when it has held its position as a genuine cultural institution with great flair and an understated warmth. Only the Author’s Wing remains of the original 19th-century hotel containing some famous suites named after prominent writers like Somerset Maugham and Joseph Conrad amoung others who had the pleasure of staying there. Together with the newer Garden and River Wings, all of which have undergone and completed extensive renovations over the last seven years the hotel offers a selection of 331 classically styled yet modernly appointed rooms (including 61 suites) each with private butler service. In addition guests can enjoy 11 outstanding restaurants and bars, from traditional Thai cuisine to two-Michelin starred French fine dining. When you consider that nearly 1,700 people work at the hotel and that the majority have done so for many years you can then imagine how they achieve such a high level of service excellence!