A pleasant change of pace from the opulence of five-star properties that dot Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River, the newly opened Sala Bang Pa-in is a relaxing riverside retreat designed with a minimalist aesthetic and laidback vibes. The ninth property by Thailand’s homegrown Sala Hospitality Group and the fifth small hotel under the Sala Boutique portfolio, the hotel is scheduled to open in May.
Fitting of the Sala Boutique brand, a collection of intimate properties in scenic and historic locations, the new opening is nestled on an island in the Chao Phraya River between Ayutthaya and Bangkok. A bridge between the Thai kingdom’s ancient and modern capitals, the boutique hotel makes a great base for exploring the nearby Bang Pa-in Palace—an erstwhile summer retreat for the Thai royal family. Meanwhile, the adventurous can make a beeline for the UNESCO-listed ruins of Ayutthaya’s old city.
Sala Bang Pa-in marks the latest collaboration between the Sala Hospitality Group and Twitee Vajrabhaya Teparkum from the Department of Architecture Co., the acclaimed Bangkok-based design firm which counts Six Senses Samui and Sala Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort among its clients. The result is a stylish property with photo-worthy pool villas, where white walls and light wood elements are backdropped by the picturesque riverbank.
Inside are 24 rooms and pool villas, all of which designed with a minimalist flair and cutting-edge technology such as LED TVs, sound systems with smartphone connectivity, as well as Espresso machines. The villas feature spacious riverside terraces with daybeds and luxurious private pools, along with spa-inspired bathrooms that are a picture of bliss with a separate bathtub and rain shower. Bigger groups will appreciate the top-tier three-bedroom river view presidential pool villa, which offers a sprawling 484 square meters of indoor and alfresco living space.
In celebration of the destination’s natural beauty and folklore-filled history, the property treats its guests to complimentary transfers to and from the nearby palace. For a memorable stay, be sure to check out the daily sightseeing tours and sunset cocktail cruises aboard the property’s 12-meter wooden motorboat, meticulously built by Ayutthaya craftsmen. Private charters for half- or full-day activities are also available on a speedboat.
Within the resort, in-room spa treatments and a 30-meter outdoor pool by the riverfront await. To satiate appetites, there’s the Sala Bang Pa-in Eatery and Bar, which serves both Thai and international dishes prepared with ingredients grown in the hotel’s own garden. To complement the food, opt for the local craft beers and creative cocktails.
Prices start from US$165 per room per night, inclusive of breakfast and a river cruise to Bang-in Palace.
More information here.
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