Given the infamous hustle and bustle of Thailand’s capital, many visitors frequenting Bangkok are seeking a destination where they can combine both work and play. One of the city’s newest hotels, the centrally located INNSiDE by Melia offers the chance to enjoy the sites of “The Land of Smiles,” and a luxurious stay inside. This is my takeaway…

Comfort and culture CAN coexist

Owing to the rich culture that pulsates from the corners of the city that locals refer to as “Krung Thep Maha Nakhon”, many visitors to Thailand may struggle to find the balance between exploration and escape. After all, did you really visit Bangkok if you didn’t take a boat ride down the Chao Phraya River? Float past the opulent Grand Palace and its sacred Wat Phra Kaew Temple? Visit the reclining Buddha of Wat Po and the steep steps and Khmer-style spire of the Wat Arun that sits on opposite sides of the shoreline?  Or indulge in dinner at one of its world-class restaurants?

For those seeking to be close to the action and spirit of the city, INNSiDE by Meliá is an ideal hotel to stay for your next Bangkok trip. An escape that places the exhilarating energy of the city at your doorstep. While providing you with the keys to enjoy it at your own pace, and take in the spectacular views from either the bar counter or enjoy a delicious meal at the hotel’s incredible restaurant, LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar.

Here, I enjoyed cocktails and took a culinary journey across Spain thanks to the fabulous cooking from Chef de Cuisine Laia Ferrer who hails from Barcelona. What was special is Laia shared her passion for food with me and explained how she was inspired to cook from a young age where she first learned from her mother and grandmother. Laia went on to develop her culinary skills as chef de partie at two Michelin-starred restaurant El Portal in Spain, after undertaking an internship at three Michelin-starred restaurant Mirazur in France, ranked number one in ‘The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2019’. 

One night in Bangkok (specifically INNSidDe Hotel) and the world’s your oyster

If you’re looking for a hotel to enjoy your time in the city that Murray Head immortalised in his classic 80s hit, then you’d really enjoy INNSiDE by Meliá, ironically situated in the trendy On Nut neighbourhood.

The hotel is also strategically positioned just 30 minutes from Suvarnabhumi International Airport, ensuring easy access to accommodation on arrival to Thailand. And both comfortable (owing to daily housekeeping, 24-hour room service, and an on-call doctor) and convenient – due to its close to proximity several major tourist attractions, including Sansiri Backyard @T77 Community, The EM Shopping District, Terminal 21, W District Art & Lifestyle Mall, Bitec Bangna, and Mega Bangna, and numerous local markets 

Modern and dynamic, the  INNSiDE by Meliá is marketed as a hotel that caters to the needs of “bleisure” travellers, making it an organic pick in my search for accommodation that would seamlessly support both my business and leisure needs. 

Sustainable socialising

Can sustainability and an active social life co-exist? INNSiDE by Meliá certainly thinks so, with its integrated spaces founded with a creative focus on both environmental and event-hosting.  All while being inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Bangkok.

When it comes to going green, some of their initiatives include using organic bathroom amenities.

For those who enjoy their eco-awareness with a side of elegance, all rooms at INNSiDE by Meliá come equipped with free, high-speed Wi-Fi, large flat-screen TVs and USB charging points. While guests who want to enjoy a touch of glam beyond the bedroom will find it at the hotel’s, outdoor infinity pool and its panoramic city views. I particularly loved the clean white designs and rose gold finishes in both my beautifully appointed room and the main reception area and Kites kitchen where the buffet breakfast is delicious.

Thai-riffic tastes

INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok’s dining options are also exceptional, thanks to Laia’s superb cooking. The hotel’s restaurant offers a mix of international flavours and local gastronomy, and Laia’s food at the Spanish rooftop tapas bar Luz is a must-visit for dinner and drinks inspired by the sights and sounds of classic Catalan cuisine.

From street food to finer fare, try the gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), the grandma-inspired-and-approved croquetas de mi abulea, and churros served with a rich chocolate sauce. 

Contemporary and culturally inspired, Meliá Bangkok’s status as one of the top hotels in Bangkok is unsurprising. And so, whether you’re in town for business, leisure, or like myself, a bit of both, the accommodation’s innovative approach to sustainability, excellent social amenities, and spectacular location make it a superb choice for your stay in Bangkok.

Check out the website https://www.melia.com/en/hotels/thailand/bangkok/innside-bangkok-sukhumvit