As I wandered through the vibrant streets of downtown Bangkok to catch a glimpse of the new Ritz-Carlton, a delightful shift in the atmosphere caught my attention. The breeze picked up, unveiling a tapestry of bright blue skies interspersed with fluffy white clouds. Strolling along the beautifully landscaped paths of the One Bangkok enclave, I was enveloped by a sense of nostalgia. The sophisticated surroundings made me ponder: Was I in New York, Los Angeles, or perhaps London? A familiar comfort wrapped around me.
Stepping inside the hotel, I was welcomed by a cheerful bellman who guided me to the lobby on the seventh floor. As the doors swung open, I was greeted by an exquisite focal point: a tranquil lily pond adorned with delicate glass lilies, set against massive arched windows overlooking the captivating skyline that had just captivated me. This was my first moment of awe.
I had the pleasure of meeting Tina Liu, the hotel’s general manager, who offered intriguing insights into this remarkable property. Soaring 216 meters above the bustling intersection of Wireless and Rama IV roads, the hotel embraces the theme “A Fusion of Two Cultures.” The concept is rooted in a vision from the 1800s, where Thailand sought to harmoniously blend its rich traditions with international influences. From what I experienced, the Ritz-Carlton has successfully captured the essence of Bangkok’s vibrant future.
The stunning architecture of the Ritz-Carlton Bangkok, designed by the renowned Chicago-based firm SOM alongside Thailand’s A49, features ascending open-air terraces that deliver breathtaking views of the city skyline. Inside, the PIA design studio masterfully weaves together elements from the past, present, and future, utilizing endless archways, elegant marble flooring, striking chandeliers, and personal touches that create an inviting, residential ambiance.
The dazzling main pool, accompanied by a children’s pool complete with fun water jets, boasts spectacular vistas of Bangkok’s skyline. Plush pool chairs draped in soft white towels line the path leading to a delightful terrace, the perfect spot for enjoying a refreshing drink while watching the sunset over Lumphini Park’s serene lake. Nestled just behind this terrace is the hotel’s exquisite dining venue, Duet by David Toutain, which boasts two Michelin stars at its Paris counterpart. Here, guests can indulge in modern French cuisine crafted from meticulously sourced ingredients and artisanal products, all served within a stunning glasshouse setting – truly a must-visit dining experience!
The Ritz-Carlton Bangkok features a collection of 260 beautifully appointed rooms, each thoughtfully designed to showcase Thai artistry and contemporary elegance. Every room boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that perfectly frame stunning views of the city. The entry-level Deluxe Room is a generous 50 square meters, providing ample space for relaxation. Tip: About half of these rooms come with balconies that accommodate a table for two, ideal for enjoying fresh air. If you prefer additional indoor space, the non-balcony options offer the same layout but include a window-width daybed, perfect for unwinding in the cool comfort of air conditioning.
For those seeking luxury, the expansive Marigold and Amaranth Suites, each measuring 127 square meters, are adorned with soothing gray tones, rich dark wood furnishings, and multiple seating areas. In one of the corner suites I toured, a large central bathroom features sliding doors that provide seamless access to breathtaking views from the living room, bedroom, and corridors. Many of these suites also boast two private balconies, enhancing the overall experience of opulence and relaxation.
No matter which room you choose, you can expect luxurious touches such as Frette linens and bathrobes – highly praised by my editor-beautifully hand-painted armoires, Diptyque amenities, Dyson hair dryers, and Japanese-style toilets equipped with a digital, detachable remote control. I found myself questioning the need for portability, but I couldn’t help but imagine sneaking the remote to play with the “massage” and “swirl” settings while my husband was in the bathroom, leaving him with quite the surprise!
Before heading down, we explored the exclusive Club Lounge on the 23rd floor. As someone who frequently works remotely, I felt right at home. This inviting retreat features cozy arched alcoves with personal charging stations, along with complimentary bites and drinks served five times daily – all while offering stunning, panoramic views. There’s a unique outdoor table where the previously clear blue skies transformed into a breathtaking canvas of oranges and reds. I believe this spot will undoubtedly become the most coveted location for enjoying breakfast or sipping Champagne at sunset.
For those who share my passion for exceptional dining, the culinary offerings at Lily’s, the all-day dining restaurant (or as Tina prefers to call it, the “main dining room”), are a must-try. The restaurant impresses with uniquely designed spaces, each featuring distinct color palettes, moods, furniture, and lighting. With an impressive array of international cuisine, there’s something to delight every palate.
One standout feature that caught my attention is the stunning floral-shaped waffle maker, meticulously handcrafted by a dedicated Belgian ironsmith who worked closely with the hotel team for months to perfect its design. It’s no surprise that he’s in high demand among some of the world’s most renowned pâtissiers, including Cedric Grolet.
I also had the pleasure of visiting Caleõ, which means “being in love” in Latin-a fitting name, as I quickly fell for its charm. This luxurious bar and lounge dazzles with a magnificent floral chandelier and cozy, semi-hidden rooms adorned in rich blues and golds. The cocktail menu is a celebration of iconic social clubs from around the globe, with inspired drinks reminiscing Miami’s Babylon Club and Rangoon’s Pegu Club. I was particularly fond of the delectable bite-sized snacks, especially the layered potato cubes topped with beef tartare and caviar – an absolute indulgence!
The official opening day for The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok is set for December 4th, marking its entry into the vibrant scene of contemporary haute luxury alongside a host of new five-star establishments in the city. Guests can look forward to the introduction of a Ritz Kids club and a rejuvenating spa tailored for ultimate relaxation. Personally, I am particularly excited about the creative tours of the One Bangkok Art Loop. Additionally, I plan to join the weekly 6 a.m. runs in Lumpini Park led by the friendly hotel manager, Lewis Quinn-what a fantastic way to start the day!
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RESERVE YOUR STAY AT THE RITZ-CARLTON, BANGKOK BY CONTACTING sales1@absoluteasiatours.com
