Check-in at Mahanakorn Hotel was a delightful experience. The hotel lived up to its reputation with everything being new and upgraded. The automated curtains and high-end bidet added to the luxurious ambiance. The lobby on the fourth floor is quite popular among visitors, as it is beautifully decorated in pink, attracting many people for photo opportunities. As a guest, I had the privilege of accessing the free Skypath walkway, which offered a breathtaking view of the city skyline. It was a bit crowded, but the view made up for it.
Being an adventurous traveler, I decided to try riding the BTS (Bangkok Mass Transit System) at Jatujak Station. However, I found it to be too overwhelming and struggled to negotiate prices in the various similar-looking shops. It was exhausting to compare and haggle, causing me to feel mentally drained. Despite noting down the famous Passport Case Shop (No. 183) to visit, I ended up randomly exploring the area, which was a maze of confusing alleys. The shops were excessively large, making it difficult to navigate. Moreover, it was quite hot and humid, particularly after 6 PM, leading to discomfort during the shopping trip.
After feeling tired of waiting for a Grab or Bolt ride, I decided to hail a taxi from Jatujak Market instead. Upon returning to the hotel, I had a disappointing experience with local cuisine, as the food did not suit my palate. Therefore, I ventured to Sorento, an Italian restaurant nearby, where I had a satisfying meal. Surprisingly, the coffee was complimentary, as the staff kindly recommended it to me. The portions served were larger than expected, surpassing what I had experienced in Korea. Although it was a bit pricier, I appreciated supporting a restaurant that was popular among locals and aimed to provide a great dining experience.
When traveling, factors such as weather and personal well-being greatly influence the itinerary. Due to concerns with my teenage children, I had initially planned to visit Bangkok. However, after hearing numerous stories about drugs, bars, and bustling streets, I decided to choose a quieter location that still offered some photo-worthy spots for young adults. This decision brought about some inconveniences, as there were no swimming pools at the hotel. Nevertheless, we managed to explore all the famous attractions before moving on.
I must admit that taking photos with boys is quite challenging. Additionally, riding the BTS caused a bit of motion sickness, so I decided not to ride it multiple times. Overall, despite the minor inconveniences, the trip was enjoyable and memorable.
I’m glad to hear that your check-in at Mahanakorn Hotel was delightful and that the hotel lived up to its reputation with its new and upgraded facilities. The automated curtains and high-end bidet must have added to the luxurious ambiance, providing you with a comfortable stay.
It’s great that you had the privilege of accessing the free Skypath walkway as a guest. The breathtaking view of the city skyline must have been worth the crowd. This is definitely an attraction worth recommending to other tourists staying at Mahanakorn Hotel.
If you’re looking for more attractions nearby, I would suggest visiting the iconic Jatujak Market. While your experience of navigating the market may have been slightly overwhelming, it remains a popular tourist spot with a wide range of shops and stalls. Exploring the market allows visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture and find unique souvenirs to bring back home.
To escape the heat and humidity, you can also consider visiting the Chatuchak Park located near Jatujak Market. It’s a peaceful and green oasis where you can relax and enjoy a picnic. The park is well-maintained and offers beautiful landscapes, making it a perfect spot for families or individuals seeking a tranquil break from the bustling streets of Bangkok.
For food options, if local cuisine didn’t suit your palate, you can explore nearby restaurants such as Sorento, the Italian restaurant you mentioned. The satisfying meal and complimentary coffee you enjoyed there make it a worthwhile recommendation. Supporting local restaurants that provide a great dining experience is always a good choice.
Since your initial plan was to visit Bangkok with your teenage children, I would recommend considering more family-friendly attractions nearby. One such attraction is the Dusit Zoo, which is located within a reasonable proximity to the hotel. The zoo offers a variety of animal species and interactive exhibits, providing an educational and enjoyable experience for both adults and children.
Another option is the Siam Niramit show, which showcases the rich Thai cultural heritage through a stunning performance. The show incorporates impressive stage sets, costumes, and a range of special effects, making it an unforgettable experience for tourists of all ages.
Lastly, for photography enthusiasts, I would suggest checking out the nearby Ratchada Train Night Market. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and an array of food stalls, souvenir vendors, and clothing shops, the market offers plenty of opportunities for capturing colorful and lively photographs.
To summarize, some recommendable nearby tourist attractions for guests staying at Mahanakorn Hotel would include the free Skypath walkway, Jatujak Market and Chatuchak Park, Sorento Italian restaurant, Dusit Zoo, Siam Niramit show, and Ratchada Train Night Market.
Have a wonderful time exploring these attractions and creating memorable experiences during your stay in Bangkok!