Explore The Siam – a magical Bangkok retreat

If navigating Bangkok’s permanent rush hour has ever stopped you from fully enjoying Thailand’s beautiful capital, then the magical Siam hotel – which describes itself as ‘an urban resort’ – is the perfect location for your next stay. Nestled on the banks of the Chao Phraya, it offers guests the use of its river cruiser for easy touring of the city beyond.

That isn’t to say staying inside the hotel isn’t a jaw-dropping experience in itself. Owned by a prominent Thai family, it’s a lush, suites-only affair with a wealth of personal details and vintage objets d’art sourced by the son, an award-winning Thai actor and musician.

The service offered to guests is exemplary. Each suite comes with a butler and a pre-programmed smartphone for calling them; the phone can also be taken out when touring Bangkok’s palaces, temples and markets, with the butler acting as a translator where required. The extraordinary in-house experiences on offer include the sacred Sak Yant tattoo ceremony, which usually comes with a waiting list at most Bangkok temples, and muay thai boxing tuition.

Suites themselves have sumptuous teak touches and elegant Art Deco bathroom spaces. Suites and villas offer views of either the peaceful courtyard within, or the rivers beyond; villas come with pools – perfect for cooling off after a hot day of exploring. The ultimate choice, Connie’s Cottage, is a century-old traditional Thai teak house which has been rebuilt as a standalone pool villa.

There’s plenty to do within The Siam’s walls. The outdoor pool with adjoining Bather’s Bar is a great place to unwind, while games lovers will appreciate the full-size billiards table. The Vinyl Room is packed with vintage LPs and a turntable for guests to play their own selections.

For dining, Chon Thai restaurant provides a classic Thai menu, served in an authentic teak house. Guests can also enjoy cooking lessons, which start with a trip to the local markets to buy local ingredients and seasonings. Deco Bar and Bistro serves a wider range of dishes in an Art Deco space, and Café Cha provides morning teas, coffees, pastries and freshly squeezed juices.

The Opium Spa, with its opulent, tiled relaxation area, is tucked away in the hotel and offers treatment packages that draw inspiration from local essential oils and active plant ingredients. There’s also a full-service hair and nail salon next door and an outdoor yoga terrace, where regular classes are held.