After departing Korea, my next destination on my 21-day birthday adventure was Bangkok. I utilized Delta Airlines miles for my flight and Marriott points for my hotel stay. Opting for a touch of luxury, I indulged in a hotel-arranged, chauffeured ride from the airport. The midnight flight arrival was punctual and uneventful, and my driver promptly greeted me post-customs clearance.
The drive from the airport to Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park hotel lasted about 20 minutes, during which the talkative driver informed me about Bangkok’s winter season, despite the 80-degree weather. Upon arrival, I was pleasantly surprised by the hotel’s grand entrance. The staff welcomed me and escorted me to the check-in desk, where, as a Marriott Bonvoy Elite member, I received an upgrade to an M Suite. A birthday message awaited me on the mirror and bed. After settling in and capturing a few photos, I retired around 2 am.
Following a six-hour sleep, I showered and headed to the included breakfast as an Elite Marriott Bonvoy member. The extensive buffet, akin to a lavish brunch in the US, offered an overwhelming array of American and Thai dishes. Satisfied, I embarked on exploring Bangkok.
Equipped with my backpack, I sought a tuk-tuk from the lobby, preferring it over the hotel’s free shuttle. The tuk-tuk ride, priced at $4 for a 2-hour city tour, included a visit to a custom clothing shop. Succumbing to the charm, I ended up getting three suits. The tour concluded at the mall, where I found the Pandora store and purchased my Bangkok charm. Later I located the free shuttle, and returned to the hotel.
After refreshing in my room, I explored the local vicinity. Later, I enjoyed cocktails and snacks at the hotel’s executive lounge before retiring for the night with room service for dinner. The hotel’s food, as my driver had suggested, proved to be excellent once again.
On February 1st, I embarked on a Viator tour covering the floating market and train market. The Mekong Railway Market offered a unique spectacle of goods being sold, with a train passing through the market six times a day. With the train being so close to the stalls, some things have to be moved every time the train comes through.
The Damnoen Sauak Floating Market provided a vibrant experience via a long-tail boat, leading to stalls along the river. A taste of local cuisine, including mango and sticky rice, rounded off the day. The evening brought a visit to the hotel’s rooftop lounge to watch the sunset, accompanied by dinner and a glass of wine.
The next day started with a hearty breakfast and leisure time in the park adjacent to the hotel. A nap preceded a final fitting of my suits before an evening tour of Bangkok, exploring landmarks like Wat Arun, The Grand Palace, Wat Pho, the flower market, and Chinatown. The illuminated city at night was absolutely beautiful. Chinatown was the place to be. We ate a signature dish at one of the stalls then explored and sampled Chinatown more in depth. Our tour guide was excellent and full of knowledge. What a night!
February 3rd, my birthday, unfolded with self-pampering—spa sessions, pool time, and a surprise bouquet from the hotel staff. A two-hour spa session and a birthday cake and wine delivery added to the celebrations. The day concluded with dinner and drinks on the rooftop.
As my time in Bangkok drew to a close, suitcases packed, I bided farewell to the vibrant city, ready for my next adventure.
See you on the playground.