Como Metropolitan Bangkok’s facade

For a city where sumptuous spa treatments are at every turn and cost next to nothing, Bangkok is ironically chaotic. The bustling Thai metropolis usually isn’t the first to mind for a relaxing short break from Singapore; its beachy, peaceful neighbours like Phuket and Koh Samui would be. But the COMO Group — the brand behind some of the most outstanding wellness-focused properties in the world — could build amazing, tranquil sanctuaries even in the most hectic of places, and they sure did with COMO Metropolitan Bangkok.

Situated along South Sathorn Road within Bangkok’s busy business district, the gorgeous minimalist hotel first opened in 2003 and has recently completed its year-long facelift in February this year. All 169 rooms have been refurbished, and include walk-in rainforest showers, smart TVs, and wireless BOSE SoundTouch music systems. To celebrate the hotel’s spanking new look, COMO Metropolitan Bangkok rolled out a new ‘Wellness A La Carte’ package for city-slickers seeking renewal and nourishment.

Priced at 35,700 THB (or 21,500 THB until 22 December 2017), the two-day retreat includes accommodation in the Metropolitan Room, breakfast for two at glow restaurant, three 60-minute private wellness sessions (choose from yoga and pilates to Thai boxing), two 60-minute spa treatments at COMO Shambhala Urban Escape, a cookbook, and a yoga mat to take home. Whether you’re in Bangkok for an eat-shop-repeat trip or for business, this holistic package is perfect if you wish to pause and recharge amidst a busy schedule.

We arrived at COMO Metropolitan Bangkok in the morning — admittedly a bit broken (no) thanks to multiple late nights leading up to the trip. But the sleek, calming space and the warm hospitality of the staff (uniformed in Comme des Garcons and Calvin Klein footwear) had us leaving our frantic mood behind as soon as we stepped foot into the hotel. Everything has been designed to de-stress guests, from the neutral colour scheme and the distinct scent of COMO to the luxurious furniture. In the hopes to jump-start our Bangkok getaway on the right note, we opted for yoga and a rub-down before checking into our digs.

If you haven’t been diligent with your wellness routine, worry not that you can’t keep up – COMO’s team of experienced instructors will tailor your sessions according to your fitness level and goals. The yoga class gave us an incredibly good stretch (one of us is now eager to going back to it regularly after years of non-practice), and the mind-melting massage that followed at the seriously beautiful COMO Shambhala Urban Escape was a much-needed fix for our beaten bodies. The 1,200-square-feet wellness centre, consisting of 10 treatment rooms, a yoga studio, a fully-equipped gym, hydrotherapy pool and a 25-metre outdoor pool, is also worth revisiting for more fitness sessions, facials and two-hour spa treatments. Who can say no to that?

Another reason to pop into COMO, even if you’re not a hotel guest: To dine at Nahm, one of world’s best restaurants (voted top spot in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants List in March 2014 and placed 13^th in World’s 50 Best Restaurants List). Created by Australian-born celebrity chef David Thompson, the dining temple puts out big, bold Thai flavours with fresh local produce and traditional cooking methods. (Watch this space for an in-depth review of Nahm Bangkok coming up.)

With amazing culinary options, top-notch facilities, phenomenal wellness programmes and attentive service, you don’t have to leave the property during your stay. But if you’ll like to visit some of Bangkok’s best attractions, COMO’s concierge can help arrange day tours around the city or recommend a free-and-easy itinerary based on your preferences. We recommend ending each day (in or out) with a nightcap at the swish and moody Met Bar (go for special martinis like the Tom Yumtini), before retreating to your stylish, zen-inspired room for a nice, long bath and a good night’s rest. By the time you check out, you’ll be glowing, with a sense of lightness and a spring in your step.

COMO Metropolitan Bangkok, 27 South Sathorn Road, Tungmahamek, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120, Thailand, +66 2625 3333, [email protected].