Ariyasom Villa Bangkok

On the ground floor of the original house, Na Aroon provides a homely and casual spot to enjoy a range of zesty Thai and more continental cuisine. In the glow of an antique chandelier with a cool breeze wafting in tall windows, the restaurant serves classics like nam prik ong with organic ginger beer and bread and butter pudding to follow. Enjoy a dip in the pool lined with lime loungers or a massage in the open-sided sala at Som Sen spa. Decorated with local artwork, the library has a quiet lounge to recline in.

Down antique-lined corridors in the original house or the fresh-faced additions, Ariyasom has 24 rooms decorated in heritage furnishings and patterned rugs. The selection begins with teak-floored studio rooms and ends with the executive suites, which have a mezzanine floor with a four-poster bed draped in silk, a lower pastel-coloured lounge and canal views. The bathrooms have a traditional feel with mosaiced walls, ornate mirrors and a large tub. Dotted with bright cushions and painted scenes, most rooms also have a balcony.

Start your Bangkok adventure with a morning of meditation with a local monk and learn how to sculpt a Buddha statue before you take it home as a souvenir. Meander up the river on a longtail boat with stops at the shining Temple of Dawn (to watch the sunset) or Wat Poh where you can see the larger-than-life Reclining Buddha. Head to the Riverfront to catch a performance by the Calypso Cabaret and sample street food like moo ping (grilled pork skewers).