Capella Bangkok

An air of elegance permeates the entire resort from the Living Room, where monks host meditation sessions, to each of the lip-smacking restaurants. With its bright conservatory setting, Phra Nakhon serves a range of dishes based on the chef's family recipes, while the glitzy Cote by Mauro Colagreco offers up the flavours of the French Riviera accompanied by a 500+ wine list. The sultry Stella serves high-end nibbles alongside a selection drinks that pay homage to some of Asia's famous female heroes. Many of the ingredients are sourced from local farms and fishermen and the hotel's own greenhouse.

All with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer delightful river views, there are 101 rooms, suites and villas. Each has soothing tones of cream and light wood, as well as a King-size or set of twin beds and a 'Capella Culturist' (butler) who'll see to every detail. The suites have a separate living room, sunlit bathroom and spacious balcony, while the riverside villas – the first of their kind in Bangkok – have private plunge pools, their own dining area, and, for some, their own slice of flower-filled garden.

Take in the tremendous sights of Bangkok from this well-placed resort. Start with a boat ride along the city's great, watery highway, stopping to admire the Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha, see the gleaming Wat Arun, and Wat Pho's iconic reclining Buddha. Then, visit the bustling local markets, museums and street food favourites. When you return from exploring, pay a visit to the rooftop pool at Capella or enjoy a soothing treatment at the spa.