poppytrav

I'm travelling on my own to Laos and Bangkok in November. I'll have four nights in BKK and am looking for somewhere to relax and unwind. It's a long time since I've been to BKK (twenty years) and the city was hectic and exciting then, and I still have wonderful memories of my visits. I'm not a great shopper, and I've seen most of the cultural sights so I'd like to spend a few days relaxing and maybe visiting some humanitarian projects. I would appreciate some suggestions for places to stay (safe for a woman travelling on her own, and away from the busiest areas), and activities that don't revolve around markets and temples. Is it worthwhile doing a side trip to Pattaya just to relax by the beach? Any suggestions would be appreciated.

thursdaysd

I would suggest staying by the river. Several hotels starting at the Ibis Riverside and working up the price scale.

Besides the Ibis I've also stayed here: http://www.ramadaplazamenamriverside.com

If you want something even quieter I think this is the place that used to be Marriott. It's a bit far down river for me.

http://bangkok-riverside.anantara.com

MmePerdu

My all-time favorite stay in BKK was literally ON the river, in fact my room was over the water, lapping under the floor. Simply idyllic. It's across from the Royal Palace, just south of Siriraj market. There's a very nice restaurant a few steps away and lots of neighborhood places as well. It's a splurge for me or I'd stay there always.

Called Ibrik "Resort", that's a bit of a misnomer as there are just 3 rooms. Service is great, transport by river bus nearby and I recommend it highly.

https://www.ibrikresort.com/

MmePerdu

By "across from the Royal Palace" I mean Ibrik is across the river. It's in an interesting local neighborhood, hardly another tourist in sight. It feels far away yet also quite convenient by river bus to anywhere. Being right on the water is a completely different experience from the being at a riverside hotel.

Kathie

I'd also recommend staying by the river.

jobin

Upcoming Royal Cremation, 25-29 October, will upset travel in Bangkok for some time. But suspect if you arrive mid or late Nov no problems then.