Top hotels

Colonial gem: Mandarin Oriental Bangkok

Blending 140 years of history and modern business amenities, the MO Bangkok stands apart on the Chao Phraya River's tranquil banks

The Chao Phraya River, once the lifeblood of Bangkok, lost some of its lustre as businesses shifted away from its waters towards the growing downtown. But now, as urban areas have become densely built up, the city is returning its attention to the river’s more tranquil banks. And here stands the 140-year-old Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, a colonial gem updated according to business travellers’ modern needs.

Location

Perched on the river’s edge, the hotel is tucked away from the downtown bustle and its notorious traffic jams. But guests can still get to the centre of it all in 15 minutes via the nearby Surasak BTS station, and they can hop on a speedboat to various spots along the river. The hotel’s close proximity to the airport expressway is also a time saver.

The Rooms

The Author’s Wing, built in 1876, and the newer Garden Wing have recently been given facelifts. Suites all feature separate living rooms with desks, providing plenty of space for meetings. The most impressive of all is the Author Wing’s 6,500-square-foot Grand Royal Suite, which occupies an entire floor and is accessed by private lift.

Facilities

The Business Centre has four workstations and two boardrooms to help you get work done. For larger events, a conference planner is on staff to organise all the details. To unwind, check out the renowned spa or head to the Author’s Lounge, a restored late-19th-century space serving a popular afternoon tea set.

mandarinoriental.com/bangkok

bangkok-pool

Cathay Pacific flies to Bangkok from Hong Kong 60 times a week

Cathay Travell Book

ABOUT

Discovery online brings together all the inspirational travel writing from our two inflight magazines, Discovery and Silkroad. Be sure to look out for the print editions when you next fly with Cathay Pacific or Cathay Dragon.
Discovery Book Silkroad Book