The Peninsula hotel - Bangkok, Thailand

The banks of the River of Kings — more formally known as the Chao Phraya — present some spectacular real estate. Giving way to unrivalled views of Bangkok’s skyline, both the eastern and western stretches are home to the grandest of the city’s grande dames, including the Peninsula — a waved-shaped urban oasis that neatly combines luxury with sophisticated Thai charm. 

At this riverside location, famed Thai hospitality informs every facet of service. From the hotel’s signature green tuk tuks that transport guests, with wi-fi and cold towels, in transit to the in-house florist responsible for arranging 800 fresh orchids every day, each detail is considered, refined and perfectly executed. The Peninsula’s 360 rooms are lined with a mixture of Thai silk and teak, and suites are an unsurprisingly grand affair, combining antiques, Oriental carpets, crystal chandeliers and teakwood. Local culture is celebrated in public areas —not least on the walls, which are decorated with contemporary art by 25 South East Asian artists.

In-house restaurants give a tour of international cuisine, from fine Cantonese dining at Mei Jiang to authentic Thai food at Thiptara. Though more laid back fare can be enjoyed at the cafe that sits adjacent to a three-tiered outdoor pool — an equal rarity and luxury in this city. Sweat it all out at The Peninsula Spa, the brand’s first dedicated wellness centre which offers treatments informed by European, Oriental and Ayurvedic philosophies. The bonus? The Peninsula’s international training academy just happens to be onsite, guaranteeing spa-goers textbook relaxation.