The views of Bangkok’s neondrenched skyscrapers were a distant memory amidst the swaying tropical palm trees. And instead of roaring motorcycle engines and car horns ringing in my ears, my senses were soothed by the Andaman Sea’s gently lapping waves. “It’s just more relaxed here,” explained tour guide Teddy, as we travelled along the crescent-shaped Patong Beach in Phuket. “We call it the island life.” The serene tropical paradise felt like a world away from bustling Bangkok where I had spent the last three days. That’s not to say I hadn’t had a blast in the Thai capital, but by combining the two very different destinations, you can end up with a memorable twin-centre post-wedding getaway. AMARI BANGKOK After arriving on an EVA Air flight direct from London Heathrow to Suvarnabhumi Airport, I discovered a citycentre haven. From the moment you walk into Amari Bangkok, you feel like you’re being pampered, and although the hotel in the upcoming Ratchaprasong/ Watergate area is five-star, a stay there comes with a surprisingly affordable price tag. I checked in at their exclusive Voyager Lounge and made my way up to a Club Premier Room, with its king-sized bed, work space, marble bathroom with Panpuri toiletries and floor-to-ceiling windows framing spectacular views of the sprawling metropolis. For guests on their honeymoon, the hotel can provide little touches on request, such as a specially decorated room with sparkling wine or flowers and romantic dishes in the restaurant. Speaking of restaurants, the eateries at Amari Bangkok’s are seriously impressive. I devoured a delicious Thai meal of crispy fried calamari with Chaiya sauce and stir-fried noodles with minced duck at ChomSindh. I also dined across the fourth floor in NILA, where restaurant manager Vicky took me on a mouthwatering culinary journey through coastal India with paired cocktails. For breakfast, there were two options at Amari – the refined à la carte offerings at Club Siraa, or the huge selection at Amaya Food Gallery’s live cooking stations. The hotel is also home to a popular curbside Italian restaurant – Prego Bangkok – where I sampled delicious prosciutto pizza and lobster linguine. And what trip to Thailand would be complete without a massage or two? During my stay Amari Bangkok, I was treated to a signature treatment at Breeze Spa. Following a consultation, the masseuse tailored my massage, using aromatherapy oils, herbal teas and mood-setting colours to leave me feeling rejuvenated and invigorated. CITY OF ANGELS While Amari is somewhat of a R&R refuge in Bangkok, I hadn’t travelled thousands of miles to not explore the fascinating and HONEYMOONS 87
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