COMO Metropolitan Bangkok
I spent my birthday here at the always fab Como Met Bangkok (coincidentally my second visit to the same hotel in the space of a year!) Great location for access by rail to all the city has to offer - yet offering a perfect respite from the hustle and bustle. Decor follows the modern / clean lined approach which reflects the COMO groups approach to everything. The fresh and healthy breakfasts here are a real highlight (as was dinner at Nahm; just recently awarded a Michelin star for the second year running.) And you cannot visit without experiencing the Shambhala Spa, their signature treatment is amazing!!
We then flew south, for a stay at the sister property; COMO Point Yamu, Phuket.
Everything about this resort is just glorious. Easily accessed from the airport (20-30mins), the property sits on a promontory overlooking the Andaman Sea and the dramatic limestones of Phang Nga Bay. We were lucky enough to be ensconced in our own personal Bay Pool Suites; massively oversized accommodation with a personal plunge pool and a divine outlook over the Bay. The gigantic main pool area was the perfect location to take in sunsets. And the dining options - La Sirena and Nahmyaa - offer the finest, most moreish cuisine along the same lines of the Como Met.
We didn’t leave the resort (other than to spend a day on their private Como Beach Club island) but if you are inclined to venture out, Phuket Town is only 40mins away by car and Patong a similar distance.
Our final destination is part of the exclusive ‘Small Luxury Hotels of the World’ group; Pimalai Resort & Spa. Krabi.
A more traditional Thai style property, with the most gracious management and attentive staff. There aren’t many places in the world that can boast such a sublime setting. The hotel and villas are spread out over the tropical hillside offering complete privacy. And being the only property in the region the beach is virtually your own. They offer buggies to get around as it really is a massive (and hilly) complex. Though good to get in a bit of excercise after all the feasting. The spa centre here was magical; immersed in the jungle and offering a heady dose of relaxation even before the massage and treatments had begun. Bliss!
We flew with Thai Airways, the best full-service airline for Thailand.
They offer direct flights of course in and out of Bangkok. And convenient connections through to Phuket and from Krabi. Fortunately we got to experience both economy and business. The food for both was a real highlight as were the friendly, discreet staff. Since we travelled they now operate a brand new Airbus A350 aircraft with a completely new fitout.
