Yes, it is possible to find a quiet area in Bangkok.
Just take a taxi boat from Wat Bang Na Nok pier to cross the Chao Phraya River and head to Bang Kachao, a green and lush island just south of Bangkok.
But before taking the taxi boat, don’t miss Wat Bang Na Nok, a small and lovely temple. Enjoy the spiritual and cultural experience it offers.
After crossing the river, simply rent a bicycle and explore. There are markings along the roadside for cyclists, and the area is very peaceful; you won’t encounter many cars passing by.
Some bike rental services even provide a small paper map indicating various places to visit.
The Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market is a charming and authentic hidden gem that offers visitors a unique and traditional Thai market experience. Local vendors sell their goods from small boats along the waterways.
The market is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere and a diverse array of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delectable street food.
The Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Thailand. It’s a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience while enjoying the beauty of the natural surroundings.
Then, you can continue your biking to Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park and Botanical Garden, which is located about a 15-minute cycling ride from the floating market.
It is a serene and expansive green oasis that seamlessly blends natural beauty with scientific preservation. Spread across a vast area, this botanical haven is a testament to Thailand’s commitment to conservation and environmental education.
The park boasts a diverse collection of native and exotic plant species, carefully curated to showcase the country’s rich botanical heritage. Visitors can wander through well-maintained trails, shaded by towering trees, and explore themed gardens that highlight different ecosystems. From lush tropical rainforests to tranquil lakes and flowering gardens, the park offers a refreshing escape from urban life.
In addition to its botanical wonders, the park features recreational areas, walking paths, and bird-watching spots, making it a favorite destination for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
Where to stay?
I chose to stay at the Cross Vibe Bangkok Sukhumvit Hotel which is located in the heart of Sukhumvit area, just 15 minutes drive by taxi from Wat Bang Na Nok pier from where I took the taxi boat to Bang Kachao.
This hotel offers stylish and contemporary rooms, studios, and suites designed for comfort and relaxation.
Booking.com
With convenient access to transportation, shopping, dining, and entertainment, the hotel is just a 5-minute walk, approximately 350 meters, from On Nut BTS Skytrain and MRT subway stations. It is also close to the Lotus Sukhumvit 50 shopping center and a large street food market.
Its location makes exploring Bangkok easy.
For travellers using cars, vans, or group buses, the hotel offers a large private parking area with a few spots equipped for recharging electric vehicles.
The hotel provides a complimentary shuttle service to On Nut station.
Depending on the traffic, it will take about 30 minutes by taxi (approximately 450 baht) from or to Suvarnabhumi Airport.
The hotel offers a variety of accommodations, including Standard Rooms (with single or twin beds), Studios, Superior Double Bed rooms, Suites, and One, Two, or Three Bedroom Residences located in two different buildings.
I stayed in a Studio, which I will review.
All Rooms, Studios, Suites, or Residences feature a TV with international cable channels, free Wi-Fi, individual air conditioning, an in-room safe, a fridge, a kettle with complimentary tea and coffee facilities, 2 daily complimentary small bottles of water, bathrobes and slippers, a hairdryer, a bathroom with a rain shower or bathtub for the Residences, a toilet, and free amenities. Additionally, there is a tiny balcony for all room types except for the suites.
Studios:
They are the same size as the Standard Rooms but come equipped with a kitchenette, including a microwave, a cooking hob, some kitchenware, a larger fridge, and a small dining table.
Due to its proximity to 7/11 and Lotus supermarkets, as well as the street market, the kitchenette and large fridge become very convenient if you prefer dining in your room.
You can’t really start to cook your own full meal, there isn’t enough kitchenware but you can easily warm up your food.
The bathroom is spacious, featuring a large rain shower and providing all the necessary complimentary amenities, including a shower cap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and cotton buds. You can also request additional amenities if needed.
The balcony is quite small, and the view is not very attractive. Additionally, there is an A/C compressor that can be a bit noisy at times.
Laundry
One positive aspect is that, located in the second building behind the main one, there is a laundry room for guests equipped with several washing and drying machines.
The cost is 40 baht per washing or drying cycle. Payment requires 10 baht coins, but if you don’t have them, you can get exchange at the reception. You will need your own laundry detergent, which you can purchase at the nearby 7/11, just a 2-minute walk from the hotel.
Breakfast
Breakfast is served at the 4K Restaurant near the reception.
The restaurant features both indoor and outdoor tables, offering a extensive buffet with a wide selection of food, including pastries, juices, Asian and Western dishes, as well as egg and Thai soup stations on the terrace.
Due to the hotel’s popularity, breakfast can be crowded, so it’s better to arrive early than late.
From 11:00 to 22:00, the 4K Restaurant and Bars provide a diverse range of local and international cuisine, snacks, and drinks. Guests can enjoy these offerings indoors or on the terrace in a stylish setting.
Activities
Between the 4K Bar and the reception, there is a billiard table as well as a punching bag with boxing gloves.
In the second building, right at the entrance, there is a small lounge with a foosball table.
Located on the second floor of the main building, Yan Spa is open from 9:00 to 21:00, offering a variety of relaxing and rejuvenating massages performed by highly-trained therapists.
On the same floor, to the right of the SPA, there is a small but well-equipped fitness center with treadmills, bike trainers, a multi-exercise machine, and a full set of dumbbells.
Everything you need to maintain your fitness, and there is free 24-hour access, 7 days a week.
And from the gym, you can see the small but very nice outdoor swimming pool with its pool bar, overlooking Sukhumvit 52 street.
There are a few loungers and umbrellas around the pool, making it a delightful place to relax despite being in the heart of Bangkok.
You may not notice it at the pool, but if you visit the restrooms, you will encounter a Japanese-inspired Onsen experience.
It offers a soothing hot springs experience and a tranquil ambiance, providing the perfect setting to relax and rejuvenate.
The hot water will leave you with a refreshed and revitalised feeling.
In conclusion, the Cross Vibe Sukhumvit Hotel is a stylish and popular choice for those seeking convenient facilities near the heart of Bangkok, markets, supermarkets, and main city transportation. Due to its central location and the availability of a spacious private parking area, the hotel is frequently fully booked and can be a bit noisy at times.
But it’s an affordable hotel with attractive prices compared to its location and the quality of rooms it offers, which is why I also recommend this hotel.
Cross Vibe Sukhumvit Hotel, best prices and availabilities!
Look at this video done during my stay:
