What Makes Capella Bangkok the Pinnacle of Luxury Hospitality
Recently crowned No. 1 on The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2024, Capella Bangkok is setting a new benchmark for global luxury hospitality. It effortlessly blends thoughtful design, privacy, and bespoke service while celebrating Thai heritage.
10 January 2025
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Capella Bangkok – Tea Lounge | Photo Credit: Capella Bangkok
The competition within the luxury hotel sector has intensified in recent years, fuelled by the growing demand for bespoke travel experiences, and the ever-evolving expectations of discerning guests. Asia, in particular, has emerged as a powerhouse. Here luxury hotels can blend cultural heritage with world-class hospitality.
Among the estimated 10,000 luxury five-star properties globally, one hotel has risen to the top: Capella Bangkok in Thailand.
Capella Bangkok stands as a remarkable example of this evolution. Opened in 2020, the property triumphed over top contenders from Lake Como, Hong Kong, Paris and Dubai to claim two coveted titles: the No. 1 Best Hotel in the World and The Best Hotel in Asia – a coveted accolade bestowed by The World’s 50 Best Hotels is published by William Reed. This incredible achievement underscores Capella’s rapid rise to prominence in the luxury hotel sector, solidifying its position as one of the most exceptional properties in the world. “This extraordinary hotel is a rare oasis in the middle of Thailand’s bustling capital, offering world-class service while retaining the intimacy and personality of a boutique hotel – making it a worthy winner of the top prize,” said Emma Sleight, Head of Content for The World’s 50 Best Hotels.
A luxurious destination in one of Bangkok’s most storied neighbourhoods
Capella Bangkok offers panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River from every corner | Photo Credit: Capella Bangkok
Situated within the historic Chao Phraya Estate along Thailand’s first paved road – Charoenkrung – Capella Bangkok is a property quite unlike its neighbours, including Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya, Chatrium Hotel Riverside, and Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok. The striking, multi-layered architecture conceived by renowned architects Andy Miller and Richard Scott Wilson of Hamiltons International, was designed to blend seamlessly with the past and present. Expansive floor-to-ceiling glass throughout the property fosters an immediate connection with the river, offering panoramic views of the revered Chao Phraya River from every corner.
“The design philosophy of Capella Bangkok pays homage to the Chao Phraya River, known as Thailand’s ‘River of Kings,’ and blends local heritage with global sophistication. The low-rise architecture fosters a sense of understated luxury and intimacy, creating a homely yet elegant retreat that stands apart from the urban bustle,” shares Antonio Saponara, General Manager of Capella Bangkok.
When the design team set out their vision for Capella Bangkok and the surrounding Chao Phraya Estate, their goal was clear — to breathe new life into the Charoen Krung heritage district. The masterplan juxtaposed the rich culture of Bangkok’s historic riverside gateway – where boats docked and new settlers first stepped foot in Thailand – with the vibrant dynamism of the modern metropolis. The result is a stunning property that invites guests to enjoy encounters that echo the past while anchored in the present. The design incorporates elements such as wood panelling, inspired by the charming shophouses of Charoenkrung, resulting in a flawless integration of old and new.
Guests arrive at the property via the iconic Charoen Krung Road, passing by the historic Wat Sutthi Wararam Temple. As they approach, the river remains hidden, only to be unveiled as they step foot into the premises through the hotel’s screened façade. The lobby exudes elegance, featuring a sophisticated palette of light wood, plush upholstery, marble flooring, mirrored accents, intricate carvings, and crystalline water features, all contributing to a serene atmosphere.
Setting a new Standard of Luxury
Most rooms feature a tropical outdoor space including private plunge pools at the riverside villas | Photo Credit: Capella Bangkok
The interiors of all 101 rooms, suites and villas are equally impressive and luxurious. Conceptualised by the tastemakers of BAMO and PIA Interiors, each room, decked out in blond woods, a subtle hint of gold and sleek licks of dark lacquer, feels like its own urban oasis. Most rooms feature a tropical outdoor space, including rooftop terraces, gardens, spacious salas and even private plunge pools at the riverside villas – a first-of-its-kind accommodation in Bangkok city, making it a truly unique city hotel.
For guests seeking the ultimate indulgence and absolute privacy, book a stay at one of the riverside villas, which can only be accessed via a private entrance. The 259 square metres of indoor and outdoor space includes a separate living and dining room, a master bedroom, a jacuzzi plunge pool flanked by lush tropical gardens and a secluded sala, offering the perfect setting for an alfresco afternoon tea and dining experience with loved ones.
One of the perks of staying in the verandah suite and villa is the personal service offered by a Capella Culturist – the hotel’s fleet of personal butlers, who will curate unique experiences for guests during their stay. Some notable experiences include walking tours of Bangkok’s eclectic local cafe culture, private meditation sessions with the head monk of a 250-year-old temple, and recommendations on the best dishes to order at Michelin-starred food stalls. The culturists are based in The Living Room, Capella Bangkok’s exclusive lounge, offering sumptuous evening cocktails. Guests will also be able to uncover the authentic cultural charms of Charoenkrung, Bangkok’s fascinating heritage district right on the hotel’s doorstep.
Guests can look forward to a slew of unique experiences curated by Capella Culturists
| Photo Credit: Capella Bangkok
“Guests can truly enjoy a glimpse into the soul of the city at Capella Bangkok where our dedicated team of Capella Culturists craft enriching experiences centred around the dynamic neighbourhood and its intriguing residents. Our goal is to create cultural connections that stay with guests long after they have checked out,” says Saponara.
Unrivalled Gastronomic and Wellness Experiences
After a day of activities, unwind at Auriga Wellness, a world-class spa spearheaded by wellness specialists GOCO Hospitality. Surrounded by the resort’s lush landscaped gardens, this exclusive sanctuary is where guests can escape from the outside world and unwind in a tranquil ambience. The spa programme features treatments that are inspired by the communities of Charoenkrung Road like the Tok sen, a hammer massage brought to Bangkok by trading migrants from Chiang Mai.
Depending on your craving and the occasion, the luxury resort’s two acclaimed restaurants promise an exceptional dining experience. For authentic Thai flavours, Phra Nakhon hits the spot with rustic dishes like northeastern som tum papaya salads and coconut-rich curries from the south.
Phra Nakhon serves exceptional, authentic Thai cuisine | Photo Credit: Capella Bangkok
For those celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to be inspired, the two-Michelin-starred Côte, helmed by chef Davide Garavaglia (protégé of Argentine celebrity chef Mauro Colagreco) will not disappoint. The tasting menu not only celebrates the flavours of the French and Italian Riviera but shines a spotlight on Thai ingredients and techniques, which are infused into the dishes to create a truly unique culinary experience.
Whether it’s for a serene escape or an enriching cultural immersion, Capella Bangkok promises an experience that stays with guests long after they leave, setting a new standard for what luxury hospitality can and should be.
Two-Michelin starred Côte, helmed by chef Davide Garavaglia (protégé of Argentine celebrity chef Mauro Colagreco)
Photo Credit: Capella Bangkok
Author: Michelle Yee
A content and communications professional, Michelle spent more than a decade creating content for several leading media titles including Lonely Planet Asia, Yahoo Singapore, and Wine & Dine. After leaving the media industry in 2019, she has been honing her craft at a global communications agency where she helps develop and drive publicity campaigns for brands in the consumer and corporate sectors.
