Some people don’t like Bangkok and dismiss it as too big, too chaotic and just to much in general but I’ve loved this glorious city ever since I’ve visited it first about 20 years ago and stayed at the famous Khao San road with all the other backpackers.

Now this most recent trip was something different all together. Thai Airways in conjunction with Starwood Hotels organised this fabulous corporate educational and I was the lucky person from our office attending it. Our small group of agents met at the Thai Service desk on Friday afternoon, where we were warmly welcomed by our Thai Airways representative and checked in efficiently.
We did not have much time to spare before our flight left but managed a quick glimpse of the Air New Zealand business class lounge, which can be used by Thai Airways business class travellers and Star Alliance Gold card members. I was surprised to see a piano player entertaining the guests with some very relaxing tunes. Apparently this happens 3 times a week. Apart from that we found the lounge very spacious and comfortable.

In-flight service in economy class on our way to Bangkok was friendly and the food edible. Thai Airways does not have individual video screens at the back of the seat in front of you. I managed to follow the movies on the big screen, but it’s difficult to focus on the story line. Being on the tall side I appreciated that the legroom was a little more generous than on other carriers I have travelled on in the past.

We arrived at the new Suvarnabh Airport in Bangkok late on Friday night local time and managed to get through customs in record time. The airport is very modern and well sign posted in English.
A transfer had been organised and we had to wait for a few minutes until our minibus was allowed to enter the airport grounds to pick us up. During our wait we got attacked by some giant mosquitoes, apparently the airport was built on a swamp (that’s just a bit of trivia for you).

Once we were on the road it took us approximately 40 minutes to reach the centre of the city via the freeway. Our first hotel the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit is located in the heart of Bangkok's business and entertainment district, with a direct link from the lobby to the Asoke Skytrain and Sukhumvit subway stations (MRT). The hotel is just minutes from popular shopping areas such as The Emporium, Gaysorn Plaza, Siam Square and MBK Shopping Centre (my personal favourite).

After a short nights sleep we got up early and were whisked across to the Plaza Athenee Bangkok, a Royal Méridien Hotel for a site inspection followed by breakfast. It is situated on Wireless Road, in the heart of Bangkok’s most beautiful tree-lined avenue, within Bangkok’s central business and diplomatic quarter. This is a wonderful deluxe hotel and I was particularly impressed with the decoration of their suites using Thai themes. Especially the Ratanakosin Suite modelled on the great Thai temple is the ultimate in divine luxury.

Then it was our turn to explore the city using an alternative means of transport, one of the famous Long Tail Boats operating on the river. They use a car motor engine to be propelled across the busy waterways at great speed. You can feel the wind in your hair; it’s an amazing experience.

Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya river, Wat Arun is among the most famous of the more than 400 Buddhist temples and monasteries in the city. The most attractive structure in this temple is the 260 feet high pagoda, or Phra Prang, which is completely covered with pieces of multi-coloured glass and Chinese porcelain. We stopped there to explore the sights and just in time to escape a drenching as the skies opened and heavy rain poured down. Other people got caught on the river and resembled drowned rats, when they made it ashore.

When the rain finally stopped it was time to return to the wharf and do a bit of shopping and grab a bite for lunch. We ended up at the Shangri-La hotel and ate our food on their terrace over looking the river. It turned out to be a great meal and a lovely experience. Afterwards we jumped on the sky train station located nearby and it took us back to our hotel in no time at all. It’s the best way to get around Bangkok, that’s for sure.

We only had time for a very quick shower before our mini bus took us to the last appointment for the day, a side inspection and dinner at the Dusit Thani Hotel, a five-star property and world-famous for the excellence of its facilities and services. The hotel is located in the heart of Bangkok's entertainment, business and shopping districts, close to Lumpini Park and other Bangkok attractions such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and the night markets of Patpong. It even features a golf driving range with a resident professional. I really enjoyed their sumptuous buffet and ate far too much, but you only live once, right?

After a very quick stroll through the nearby night markets it was time to call it a night. The trusty sky train took me back to my very comfy bed at the Sheraton Grande. One of the special features of that hotel is the fact that all rooms have a spacious walk in closet, huge rooms and marvellous bathrooms. Unfortunately I only discovered their tropical garden and swimming pool, when we had to leave. It’s like an oasis of peace in a usually ultra busy bustling city.

Sunday was our dedicated day of rest and all that was required of me was to enjoy breakfast (delicious) and pack my bags, so they could be moved across the road to the Westin Grande Hotel. This was our base for the last two days in this vibrant city. I spent my day off with friends, ex-pats who moved to Thailand 3 years ago and made the city their home. Despite the fact that I turned up without the usual offering of vegemite I was made very welcome and directed to a beauty shop for some well deserved pampering. They do great massages & facials here and I’ve enjoyed every second of this treat.

After dinner we decided to check out the Sirocco bar on top of the State Tower building. They would never be able to get anything like that approved here in Australia. It’s situated on the 63 floor and build jutting out towards Sathorn Road. If you are afraid of heights, this is not a place for you. It was recently voted number 6 in the top 10 bars of the world but I personally prefer the bar we stopped at next. It is called Vertigo and is situated on top of the Banyan Tree Bangkok. This bar does not have the river views but it’s still absolutely spectacular and their service and cocktail list a lot better in my opinion. I make a point of having at least one drink here every time I make it to this fair city. One of those days I’ll try and have dinner in the roof top restaurant as well.

The best thing about the Westin hotels is their beds. They are truly heavenly!!! I just wish I could have one of my very own.

After a good nights sleep we were off again to visit the Metropolitan Hotel situated right next to the Banyan Tree I had visited the previous night. They are part of the Como hotel group; the famous Metropolitan in London is their flagship property. A cool and contemporary east-west aesthetic with modern Oriental accents is combined with award-winning cuisine, a holistic spa and Bangkok's chicest lounge bar. This property is very popular with the music, media & fashion industry. The first thing you notice is the striking uniform the staff is wearing, Comme des Garcon liveries - a very unusual look. The property has a unique feel to it. I would not mind spending some time here to discover it in more detail. We were treated to a lovely luncheon prepared by Award-winning Australian chef Daniel Moran, who’s cooking style has been influenced by early mentor Neil Perry. The meal was the best we had on our trip.

That evening we had a really good look at both the properties we had stayed at. They are both absolutely beautiful, the Sheraton with their great pool area, lovely bar area and opulent style and the Westin, which is maybe more contemporary. So it all depends on what your personal preference is.

After another good nights sleep it was time to face up to the sad fact that it was our last day in Bangkok! The blow was slightly lessened by the fact that our morning was spent at the divine Nibhana Spa. This independent Spa, which can be booked through Royal Orchid holidays offers some amazing packages, fit for a queen (or a king for that matter) We “endured” an 1.10 hour aromatherapy body treatment combining Indian, Chinese and Thai heritage and were floating on cloud nine, it was utter bliss.

Our transfer took us back to the hotel to get ready to leave for the airport. I realised then that once I was back home I would have to get back to washing my own feet, opening my own doors and cooking my own food. We had been truly spoiled for those last 4 days. When it comes to service and attention to details I can only comment the Thai people. They know how to look after a visitor.

Back at the airport we had the privilege to be shown through the Royal Orchid Spa (who offer complimentary Foot-massage and traditional Thai massage (only neck and shoulder) for First Class traveller’s using Thai Airways and a visit to the Silk (business class) and Royal First class lounge. All lounges are beautifully appointed and located very conveniently. So if a traveller has a bit of time to spare during a transit, it’s highly recommended they try and visit the Spa but even if it’s full just spending some time at any of the lounges is very soothing. The average economy class traveller of course does not have access and since that is my usual mode of transport I enjoyed our visit to the Royal First lounge immensely.

I could not believe my luck when we started boarding the plane and I was one of 3 lucky people being upgraded to business class. They did not have enough business class meals on board but I was just happy to stretch my legs in and enjoy the comfortable seat. Much nicer then economy class, that is for sure. Thai does not offer a fully flat bed but it does recline a fair bit. Alas, I never get good nights sleep on any aircraft and managed to snooze for a few hours only. At least I got to watch a few movies and was well looked after by the attentive staff.

We arrived in Sydney in the morning rush hour and hundreds of travellers had to squeeze through the one small opening at customs where everybody’s luggage got checked. Whatever happened to the “nothing to declare” channel? I suppose too many people tried to cheat the system..

Well, 3 hours later I made it outside and my loyal partner, who had been waiting patiently since 7am was glad to see me and whisked me to our place, so I could unpack and rest. It’s always great to come home but I had a marvellous time in the “land of smiles” and will definitely go back if given the opportunity.