Bangkok (Thailand) – April 1, 2020 /Travelindex/ The newly opened Villa de Pranakorn, the only luxury boutique hotel in Bangkok's historic Sam Yot district, is now a member of Relais & Châteaux, the world's leading association of hotels and restaurants. Villa de Pranakorn is the first hotel in the Thai capital to join this association.

Relais & Châteaux is renowned for its exclusivity and is often compared to the Michelin star of the hotel industry. Founded in 1954, the brand aims to offer the finest regional specialties from independent hotels and restaurants worldwide. Relais & Châteaux members are committed to preserving and promoting the diversity and richness of international cuisine and hospitality. They are dedicated to protecting local heritage and the environment, as enshrined in the charter submitted to UNESCO in November 2014.

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“We are committed to the continuous development of luxurious hospitality and local roots in unique locations, and are therefore delighted to partner with Villa de Pranakorn. This first hotel in our Bangkok collection, perfectly situated in the historic district, offers our guests an unforgettable Thai experience. In short: history, cuisine, and culture come together elegantly at Villa de Pranakorn,” said Philippe Gombert, President of Relais & Châteaux.

Officially opened in February, this intimate 47-room hotel offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the Thai metropolis. Nestled in Bangkok's charming old town, Villa de Pranakorn blends sophisticated urban style and luxurious amenities with Thailand's rich heritage, culture, and cuisine. Grouped around an open-air courtyard pool, the hotel boasts an urban, chic, and minimalist design inspired by the region's Sino-Portuguese architecture.

“It is a great pleasure for us to join the Relais & Châteaux portfolio worldwide, which is known for its unique regional offerings. Just a few weeks after our opening, this new milestone recognizes the charm of our architecture, our idyllic location, and the talent of our staff, especially our chef. Villa de Pranakorn in the historic Sam Yot district is the ideal luxury accommodation for experiencing the vibrant Thai capital and relaxing in style,” said Erik Lannge, Hotel Director.

Villa de Pranakorn offers accommodations for every occasion: from comfortable Superior Rooms for solo travelers to Premium and Grand Deluxe Rooms for couples, and the luxurious Mahachai and Pranakorn Suites. All rooms are modernly furnished and feature a contemporary yet understated design with motifs from old Bangkok. Comfortable beds, rain showers, and free Wi-Fi ensure that guests feel rested, refreshed, and connected throughout their stay. Some rooms even feature freestanding or round bathtubs.

Back on the ground floor, you'll find the Samranraj Cuisine restaurant, a tribute to the owner's ancestors who immigrated from southern China in the early 20th century. It offers a culinary journey between past and present, blending traditional recipes with exciting experiments. This contrast continues throughout: light wood, rattan, and wicker furniture create a charming contrast to the elegant black and white stoneware tiles – a preview of the sophisticated décor of the rooms and suites. Complemented by a discreet and attentive team, Villa de Pranakorn provides the perfect respite from the vibrant city life. Other amenities include a lobby and pool bar, a courtyard pool, a treatment room, a fitness center, and – as a special highlight – a unique ancestral hall.

Villa de Pranakorn is committed to a plastic-free future. In collaboration with the local eco-company Panpuri, guest amenities in the rooms are made from bamboo or packaged in stone paper. The hotel also partners with Nordaq, a water purification company, to produce its own still drinking water on-site. This allows each guest to refill their own glass water bottle free of charge during their stay, instead of using harmful plastic bottles. Every room is equipped with two complimentary bottles of water – one still and one sparkling.

About Villa de Pranakorn: Villa de Pranakorn is an elegant new boutique hotel in Bangkok's historic Sam Yot district, right next to the newly opened MRT subway station. Opened in mid-February 2020, this stylish hotel offers 47 rooms and suites, along with exclusive amenities for discerning guests, including a swimming pool. It is situated in one of the most enchanting areas of the Thai capital, surrounded by historical landmarks such as the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. Operated by Unicorn Hospitality, the forward-thinking Thai hotel management company, Villa de Pranakorn heralds a new era of upscale comfort in the heart of historic Bangkok.

About Relais & Châteaux: Founded in 1954, Relais & Châteaux is an association of more than 550 traditional hotels and restaurants run by independent hoteliers, chefs and owners who share a passion for their businesses and a desire for authenticity in their relationships with their guests.

Relais & Châteaux has a global presence, from the vineyards of Napa Valley and the French Provence to the beaches of the Indian Ocean. The association offers insights into a lifestyle shaped by local culture and a unique perspective on human history. Relais & Châteaux members are deeply committed to preserving and promoting the diversity and richness of international cuisine and hospitality. They pledge to protect local heritage and the environment, as outlined in the charter submitted to UNESCO in November 2014.