Thailand is a dream country to visit, sitting atop plenty of bucket lists. And with its beautiful beaches, bustling cities, serene islands and enchanting culture, there is plenty to look forward to when you book a holiday. But that can also be the most overwhelming part – with so much to see and do, where do you start?!
Many will begin with the obvious – desperately searching for the best things to do in Thailand before traipsing through internet lists of tourist hotspots that, sure, will give you a great trip, but won’t necessarily give you an authentic experience.
So, instead of turning to other holidaymakers who spent just 10 days in Thailand in the summer of 2017, why not take the advice of the locals? Enter the Hilton concierges, whose entire job is focused on helping guests create memorable experiences – from recommending the perfect dinner spot to offering helpful advice on entertaining the whole family.
Here’s what nine of Hilton’s top concierges recommend to see, do, eat and drink around their respective hotels.
Banphot Thauyma, Hilton Pattaya
Having started working in the kitchens at Hilton Pattaya 15 years ago, Thauyma has discovered the art of hospitality through food. Working today as a concierge for the same hotel, his mission is to “craft unforgettable experiences” for guests and show them the best that the city has to offer.
A quiet beach escape
If you hop on a boat for 30-45 minutes, you’ll find an idyllic island called Koh Larn, where you can relax and explore until your heart’s content. “The clear waters and peaceful beaches make it perfect for a day trip,” Thauyma says, recommending a morning visit when it’s quieter. “You can rent a motorbike or enjoy various activities like snorkelling and parasailing, depending on your preferences.”
A vast gin bar – and a touch a romance
A touch closer to the hotel, just a short drive away, you’ll find Cafe des Amis, a “fine-dining gem” that Thauyma calls one of Pattaya’s most romantic spots. “Set in a charming garden courtyard, this award-winning restaurant offers French-inspired cuisine and premium seafood prepared to perfection.” And it’s not just about the food either – there’s “an extensive wine list”, plus one of Thailand’s largest gin bars!
Karnjanawat Banjong Ayamuang, DoubleTree by Hilton Phuket Banthai
Having worked in various hotels around Phuket for more than a decade, and with an extensive knowledge of the area, Ayamuang prides himself on putting guests first, helping them discover “both the famous highlights and the more hidden, local side” of the island from DoubleTree by Hilton Phuket Banthai.
A family adventure in the tree tops
Ayamuang has the perfect recommendation for keeping younger holidaymakers entertained, with a trip to Hanuman World. Anyone for some treetop adventures in the forest? “Children can enjoy ziplines, skywalks and platforms among the trees,” Ayamuang says. “It’s exciting, active and gives them a different view of Phuket’s natural landscape, away from the beach and shopping malls.”
A beachy bar oasis
But of course, holidays aren’t just for young kids – adults need something too! So why not hit up the Barra Cuda Beach Club for an enjoyable night out in Thailand? “It has a laid-back atmosphere right by the sea, with comfortable seating, good music and creative cocktails. It’s a great place to enjoy the sunset and the ocean breeze, and it feels much more relaxed than the busy main bar areas in central Patong.”
Mayshiya Cheephat, Millennium Hilton Bangkok
With 14 years of experience as a concierge – and even more working at the Millennium Hilton Bangkok in general – Cheephat has all the insider Bangkok knowledge to help guests enjoy a memorable holiday in the city.
A classic for a reason
For an “unforgettable” experience in Bangkok, you might want to take in one of its most iconic landmarks. “Wat Pho temple, home to the famous reclining Buddha, offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere,” Cheephat says. “These sites collectively offer a deep insight into Bangkok’s cultural tapestry, and I am confident that they will enrich your stay with us.”
Date night, Bangkok style
Finding a local hidden gem feels like hitting the jackpot, and Cheephat knows just the spot for a romantic date night: Asiatique the Riverfront, which is close by the hotel. “This open-air night market combines shopping, dining, and entertainment, offering a vibrant and uniquely Bangkok experience that only locals truly appreciate,” says Cheephat.
Chetsada Kosalek, Conrad Bangkok
Having worked in the concierge profession since 2013, with two of those most recent years as chief concierge at Conrad Bangkok, Kosalek has tips for the whole family.
Where kids run free
To entertain children, Kosalek recommends starting the day with a visit to Lumphini Park, just a short walk from the hotel. “This urban oasis offers expansive green spaces and gentle pathways, giving children the freedom to play, run in the fresh morning air, and enjoy a classic local pastime – paddling the iconic swan boats on the lake. It’s a simple yet beautifully memorable way for families to experience a calm moment in the heart of the city.”
Where the locals dine
To eat like a local and enjoy some authentic cuisine, Kosalek recommends Gai Tod Jae Gee restaurant. Commonly known as Polo Chicken, it’s close to the hotel and has earned a Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand for its delicious food at reasonable prices. For “a quintessential taste of Bangkok street food” you might want to try the golden-fried chicken topped with crispy garlic, paired with green papaya salad and sticky rice. “It’s the kind of place locals return to time and again – simple, flavourful and deeply rooted in the city’s everyday culinary culture,” he says.
Jantima Buamark, Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa
Jantima Buamark started working at the Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa more than 15 years ago. Having worked in a number of areas since joining, Buamark has a wealth of experience when it comes to delivering “heartfelt hospitality and curating memorable, personalised stays” for guests.
An unforgettable vineyard
The first of Buamark’s recommendations is the Monsoon Valley Vineyard, which provides a wine-tasting experience against an incredibly beautiful backdrop. “This is a stunning, scenic hillside vineyard surrounded by rolling green landscapes,” Buamark says. “It is known for producing some of Thailand’s finest wines, and its calm setting makes it ideal for a relaxing afternoon of wine tasting or simply enjoying the panoramic and picturesque views.”
Homestyle dining
And if you’re worried about only eating in restaurants that every tourist has found with a quick internet search, fear not! “A must-try local authentic experience is Fah Muey, a restaurant I frequent with friends and family,” Buamark says. “It is celebrated by both locals and visitors for maintaining its homestyle cooking and traditional Thai flavours for many years.” Need some guidance on what to order? Buamark recommends the hot and spicy soup with fish fillet and basil leaves, as well as the fried pork ribs. Simply lovely.
Niran Appamok, Waldorf Astoria Bangkok
Niran Appamok has more than 17 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, with 12 dedicated to the concierge profession. Returning to work at the Waldorf Astoria Bangkok in January, having previously worked with the team in 2018, Appamok has plenty of recommendations for the perfect holiday.
Children
One of the best ways to take in the sights and culture of Bangkok is through a private Thai tuk-tuk programme, whether day or evening. “Families can enjoy a scenic ride through the old town, stop for delicious street food at Chinatown, and visit the beautifully illuminated flower market, which is full of colours, scents and local life.”
Bars
It’s always a struggle finding a bar worth your time while on holiday, but Appamok recommends a new establishment with a mythological twist, in the heart of the city. “Hanuman bar at One City Centre is a cultural rooftop venue inspired by Thai mythology. The bar features live Thai inspired performances and serves creative cocktails and dishes infused with local flavours. It beautifully blends traditional Thai heritage with modern design and artistry.”
Suriyon Sawattaman, DoubleTree by Hilton Bangkok Ploenchit
Sawattaman has worked at DoubleTree by Hilton Bangkok Ploenchit for two decades, earning the title of chief concierge in 2010, which was also the same year he earned his golden keys to become a member of Les Clefs d’Or, a global network of concierges.
See the past
To dive into the history of Bangkok, there’s no better place to start than Ancient Siam, which is a 80-hectare (200-acre) museum park which replicates some of the country’s most famous landmarks and sites. “This open-air museum recreates historic cities, palaces and temples from across Thailand, offering guests a beautiful overview of the country’s past – from early kingdoms to the spread of Buddhism,” says Sawattaman. “It’s an excellent introduction for anyone who wants to understand Thailand’s history in a single visit.”
Live latin music and cocktails
There’s nothing more exciting than a speakeasy when you’re searching for a spot to grab a drink, and thankfully there’s one just a short distance from the DoubleTree in Bangkok. “Havana Social welcomes guests into a 1940s Cuban-inspired speakeasy, entered through a vintage phone booth,” says Sawattaman. “One of Bangkok’s most atmospheric hidden bars, known for its live Latin music and expertly crafted rum cocktails.”
Pisit Vanitbuntoon, KROMO, Curio Collection by Hilton
Exuding a “passion for hospitality”, Pisit Vanitbuntoon has worked as a concierge at KROMO, Curio Collection by Hilton for seven years and takes great pride in helping guests discover all that Bangkok has to offer.
Explore by bike
Mixing nature with a touch of adventure, Vanitbuntoon recommends Bang Krachao, which is often referred to as Bangkok’s “green lung”. Just a short car journey and boat crossing (about 30 minutes in all), the island is sure to feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the city. “Renting a bike is the best way to explore: you’ll find quiet paths, small temples and shady parks along the way.” For a little extra, Vanitbuntoon also recommends stopping at Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan park, “a calm and refreshing place that’s perfect for slowing down, breathing deeply, and simply enjoying the moment”.
A taste of home
When it comes to a place to eat, Vanitbuntoon has a personal recommendation. “Whenever I miss home and crave the comforting flavours of southern Thailand, I head to Baan Ice. The dishes here are deeply authentic, rich, spicy, and full of character, just like the food I grew up with.” Unsure what to order when you get there? Vanitbuntoon recommends the gaeng leung pla kapong yod maprao (a yellow curry with seabass and coconut shoots). “It’s aromatic, fiery, and beautifully balanced, a dish that always makes me feel at home.”
Piyanut Kaewkerd, Conrad Koh Samui
Piyanut Kaewkerd has worked as a concierge at Conrad Koh Samui for several years, “helping guests discover the island’s natural beauty, cultural treasures, and hidden gems”.
A sunrise temple trek
Diving into the historical culture of a new place is always a good idea, and there are some real gems on the Thai island of Koh Samui. “We always encourage guests to arrange a visit at Laem Sor pagoda, a golden temple glowing beautifully at sunrise,” says Kaewkerd. “The peaceful atmosphere, monks chanting, ocean waves, and morning light, offer a meaningful glimpse into Samui’s spiritual heritage.”
And an intimate sunset
On the other hand, if you’re trying to spice up the holiday with a romantic date night, then you can’t go wrong with a seaside sunset. “For a romantic island moment, I would choose Thong Krut for a sunset by the sea, followed by a relaxed beachfront dinner at one of the small local seafood restaurants,” adds Kaewkerd. “It feels intimate, authentic, and wonderfully atmospheric.”
As well as making your hotel stay the best it can be, you’ll find hotel concierges are also on hand to unlock the very best of every destination.
To enjoy your very own concierge advice in Thailand, start planning by finding your perfect stay
