Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and with it comes that growing dread spurred on by the question of: How do I make this year extra special? Read on for our suggestions that range from staycations and private yacht trips to dinner somewhere swoon-worthy.
PRIVATE OR JOIN-IN SUNSET CRUISE WITH OCEAN MARINA YACHT CHARTER
With the opening of the new expressway that connects Bangkok right to Ocean Marina Yacht Club, a drive to the beach has never been easier (it only takes a nice leisurely 1.5 hours by car). This year, Ocean Marina Yacht Charter is allowing guests to book private or join-in 2-hour sunset cruises between February 12 and 14. Take in the spectacular views of golden hour from the group’s sailing catamaran, and leave with a surprise gift bag curated especially for the event. Prices start at THB 2,750 per pax for join-in and THB 3,550 per pax for private trips.
Contact Info: LINE @omyccharter
FRENCH HAUTE CUISINE BY LE NORMANDIE’S NEW HEAD CHEF, ALAIN ROUX
On December 1, Mandarin Oriental Bangkok reopened its historic fine dining restaurant Le Normandie with a new head chef in charge. Chef Alain Roux hails from England and carries with him experience working at three-Michelin-starred restaurant, The Waterside Inn. Indulge in a delightful sequence of French haute cuisine whose recipes have been perfected by the Roux family over the decades.
Contact info: 02 659 9000
PICNIC AT BENJAKITTI PARK
Brave the Bangkok outdoors and head to Benjakitti Park’s new wetland park — part of the latest phase in its years-long expansion plan. Work up an appetite by taking a stroll along their skywalk before rewarding yourself with a picnic feast. Leave the heavy lifting to either El Mercado, Passion Boxx or Cagette Canteen & Deli, who can help prepare the perfect picnic hamper for you with their selection of cold cuts, cheeses and light snacks.
Contact Info: –
VALENTINE’S DAY SET MENU AT MIA
Fine dining goes hand-in-hand with Valentine’s Day, and at THB 4,550++ per person, the Valentine’s Day set menu at Mia promises a long night of indulgence. Dishes like Lobster Perfume with Tomato Consomme and Caviar, Ostra Regal Oyster, and Lamb Saddle are just the tip of the iceberg. The set menu is filled to the brim with an assortment of different courses, so come prepared with an empty stomach. Aside from their food, Mia gives off strong undertones of romance. Everything from the subdued lighting to the chic interior curates an intimate setting that’ll set the tone for the night just right.
Contact Info: 098 862 9659
STAYCATION AT COCOON
Cocoon is the ideal staycation location: Situated in Samut Prakan, it’s close enough — a 20-minute drive from the city’s center — where the idea of travel doesn’t seem so daunting, and just far enough where you feel like you’ve escaped the city. Founded by the same people behind Charoenkrung’s ATT 19 art gallery, Cocoon succeeds in ensuring visitors a stay surrounded by nature, art and design in a secluded setting. With their Valentine’s Day package, bookings come with a complimentary bottle of wine, balloons, desserts, flowers and other goodies to make it a memorable weekend.
Contact Info: LINE @078xiaqd (thecocoon.bkk)
CASUAL COFFEE DATE AT CRAFT CAFÉ
Those not looking to go big can enjoy a low-key weekend with their partner, or a tentative first date over caffeine, baked goods and furry friends. Kimpton Maalai’s dog-friendly Craft café serves freshly brewed coffee with ample indoor and outdoor seating. If the weather is nice, opt to sit outside. The hotel’s lush greenery makes for an inviting setting feels worlds away from the city’s center.
