A weekend away without leaving Bangkok, would be to head to the Thon Buri side of the Chao Phraya River. Away from the crazy concrete jungle and into the serene sanctity that is Siri Sala Private Thai Villa. Though no longer one entire private Thai villa, Siri Sala recently became part of the Small Luxury Hotels Of The World and now functions like a hotel. Yes, you can now book by rooms, rather than the entire villa. Having visited the villa for various private functions, I was dying to stay there and discover all it had to offer. With six suites on offer, a saltwater pool, garden and The Heritage House, it was the perfect getaway from bustling Sukhumvit.
With the MRT Blue Line’s expansion, Siri Sala is a brisk 10-15 minute walk from the station, though if you travel lightweight, a motorsai does perfectly well. Alternatively, you can also hire a private canal boat and arrive in style from the Bangkok side. The walk from the main gate to the inner sanctum is lined with herbs, edible flowers and shrubs. The “aha” moment of having arrived in the open courtyard is not only breathtaking, I was almost swept away by a cool breeze.
Siri Sala is on a quiet canal in Bangkok Noi, and was restored residence from a three-century-old teak house over five years. Most of the five suites are on the first floor, accessed by a lovely broad wooden staircase. The Bangkok Noi suite takes inspiration from the oldest house of the original property. It is so traditional that even the bathroom is home to a “ong” and “khunn" (water jar and bucket) for you to take a shower in the traditional way.
