From the grandeur of the Grand Palace to the tantalising flavours of street food, Bangkok offers an exhilarating fusion of cultural richness and contemporary energy. Join Global Sales Director and Asia Specialist, Peter Trangmar, as he guides us on a 48 hour whirlwind tour of Bangkok.
With a heritage of humble beginnings, Bangkok has blossomed into a city of grand opulence, now globally recognised for its temples traced with gold, street markets that line meandering canals and flourishing food scene that blends cuisines from across the continent and beyond in an exciting display of gastronomical flair.
A staple of Thai culture and a crucial element of family, community and even business in Bangkok, is its cuisine. Commencing your time in the city famed for its food, you will arrive at Blue Elephant Culinary School (first appearing to be nothing more than an old colonial style mansion) and, upon entering, you will find one of the country’s most reputable cooking institutions.
Alongside one of their esteemed chefs, or perhaps Nooror Somany Steppe herself (Blue Elephant’s Head Chef) the class will begin with a wander through a local food market. Browse the stalls and select your own range of fresh produce, learning about its origins, flavours and significance from the vendors as you go.
Back in the kitchen, get hands on with the skills and techniques that are fundamental to Thai cuisine as you prepare a range of internationally famed, but authentic, dishes such as Phad Kra-Paow and Tom Yum.
After a morning of artistry, sit down to dine on the dishes you have created and revel in the product of your new skill.
Into the afternoon, board a traditional longtail boat and cruise along the city’s intricate network of canals often likened to those of Venice. As the sun sets behind the banks of Chao Phraya river, sail past local communities as they bring their day to a close in an almost harmonic rhythm. Step off the boat to explore Baan Silapin (Artist House) and observe the artwork and photography on display, stopping for a chat with the creatives behind the works. Continue on to Wat Arun, one of Thailand’s most renowned temples and stroll amongst the pavilions and into the prangs, concluding your first day in one of the city’s greatest treasures.
Tonight, dine on the banks of the Chao Phraya River at what was once a prestigious venue among the local Thai elites. Baan Phraya was first built in the early 19th century, and now chef Pom Phatchara redefines authentic Thai cuisine with his signature skill set, taking you on a fine dining journey for the evening.
Waking to the toll of distant temple bells, begin your second day at the Grand Palace, home to Thailand’s Royal Family for more than two centuries. Explore the temples, throne halls and the Emerald Buddha, the most revered Buddhist image you will find dotted across the country. Also located within the grounds of the palace is the Queen Sirikit Museum. Join a curator of the museum for a privately guided tour, taking you through the exhibit and showcasing the chronicles of the Queen’s life with the insight only a true insider can offer.
From here, you will be taken to Wat Pho, one of Bangkok’s most enchanting temples. Admire the religious treasures on display and immerse yourself in the foundations of the Buddhist faith as you tune into the chants of monks and observe offerings to the cherished reclining Buddha.
Food really is the key to the heart of Bangkok, so spend your lunch and the afternoon exploring winding streets with your guide on a culinary tour.
Wander down quiet side streets to a small, historic coffee shop for a cup of ‘kafae boran’, the old-style Thai coffee. Venture onwards to small stalls making ‘khanom thua paep’ and ‘gui chai’. Walk a bit further to the Chinese Chao Phor Suea Shrine and admire its unique tiger god image. Then it’s back on the food trail with a visit to a coconut ice cream shop. Located in a heritage neighbourhood, the small shop has been selling this dessert for generations. Hear about the family’s background while enjoying the sweet, creamy ice cream.
Celebrate the finale of your time in Bangkok with late night drinks and dinner, and enjoy views stretching over the city at Vertigo; and raise a glass to your next adventure.
During your time in the capital, settle in at the Capella Bangkok, situated in the heart of the historic district, Charoenkrung. With riverfront views and a balcony or terrace in all rooms, the balance of city life and intimate seclusion makes it a perfect selection for every guest.
A recent addition to the Bangkok 5* luxury hotel scene, the Capella opened in 2020 and has been a firm favourite with visitors ever since.
Khanom Thua Paep
A Thai sweet made to mark special occasions and important religious ceremonies; it’s a sticky glutinous rice dough stuffed with a classic mung bean filling.
18 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £19,000pp
Beginning in Thailand and taking you onto Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam, this journey highlights the best of Southeast Asia, giving you time to connect and recognise the true merit of exploration off-the-grid.
12 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £12,000pp
Glide through the heart of the Golden Triangle up the famed Mekong River to marvel at the unique highlights on the river’s edge. Reside in Laos and meet the ‘People of Heaven’ in Muang La and prepare to be captivated by the enchanting Kuang Li waterfall
18 Day Itinerary
Guide Price: £19,000pp
Beginning in Thailand and taking you onto Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam, this journey highlights the best of Southeast Asia, giving you time to connect and recognise the true merit of exploration off-the-grid.
Glide through the heart of the Golden Triangle up the famed Mekong River to marvel at the unique highlights on the river’s edge. Reside in Laos and meet the ‘People of Heaven’ in Muang La and prepare to be captivated by the enchanting Kuang Li waterfall
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