News From Bangkok

Opening this month is Capella Bangkok, and we have it in our sights for when travel returns! The hotel’s general manager, JOHN BLANCO, recently based in Singapore, tells us what we can expect – and describes the state of play with the pandemic in the Thai capital.

- John Blanco

Where are you from originally, and what do you miss about it?

I’m an American with roots in Venezuela and have lived in various cities around the world. I definitely miss Latin food but otherwise Bangkok has it all!

When did you move to Thailand, and what brought you there?

I moved here in 2018 from Singapore as part of Capella Bangkok’s pre-opening team, which is something I’m extremely excited about.

Tell us a bit about the new hotel. Where is it?

The location is close to my heart as it sits along the Chao Phraya River, Thailand’s most revered river. There are intimate views of the river from each of the 101 suites and villas. It’s also close to Charoenkrung Road, Bangkok’s oldest paved road, where tradition and cultural heritage meets the city’s trendiest cafés, bars and art galleries.

Are there features that our readers would find familiar from Capella Singapore?

Our Capella Curates programme runs throughout all our properties and is a defining feature of a Capella stay. It offers exclusive local adventures that incorporate interesting characters and traditions, and the opportunity to hone unexplored skills. It’s a way of offering a glimpse into the soul of each destination.