Koktail’s editor attempts some work-life balance at the revamped Onyx Hospitality Group hotel in Ratchathewi

Last month, I had the unique experience of editing Koktail Magazine at the newly renovated Amari Watergate Hotel. How did this come together, you ask? Well, I had unintentionally booked a staycation—meant for destressing—during the busiest time of my work cycle. That’s how.

The slip-up actually worked out ideally, as I was able to balance stressful bouts of editing with enjoyable dining and spa treatments. My two “workspaces” during my stay consisted of the Executive Lounge on the hotel’s 32rd floor and my own accommodation, a comfortable Premier Room. The Executive Lounge with its high ceilings, huge windows, and incredible views of Bangkok’s CBD from a height is a wonderful temporary office that’ll make you feel like a corporate exec—if you’re in need of that kind of ego boost. The comfy sofa seatings are well-spaced out from others, offering a sense of privacy despite it technically being a shared space. And the tables? Perfect for splaying out magazine spreads, if you’re asking.

Entrance to the hotel

Besides the atmosphere and the wonderful natural light during the day, the other pull of working at the Lounge is the access to coffee and refreshments, bites, and cocktails. The breakfast buffet is also available here, 6am-10:30am, for Executive guests.

Despite the perks of the Executive Lounge, I did spend half the time editing from the king-sized bed and the chaise lounge in my room. You don’t need to miss the food and beverages of the Lounge either when you have in-room dining. The Premier Rooms as well as the Two-Bedroom Suites at the Amari have been freshly redesigned to accommodate both form and function preferences of modern vacationers (and staycationers). In addition, all guest bathrooms have been updated and upgraded. Makeup wearers will appreciate the double-sized, backlit vanity mirror that even many newer hotels take for granted.

The king-sized bed and gray chaise from which I worked

At night, your choices for dinner consist of an all-you-can-eat menu at Amaya Food Gallery or classic Italian at the famous Prego restaurant downstairs. Personally, I couldn’t stay away from the pasta and tomato sauces at Prego.

The ultimate unwinder at the Amari, however, can be found at its Breeze Spa on the 8th floor, where the pool and fitness center are also located. The oil massage I had there midday when I needed a break was excellent and strong and firm to my needs and specification. 

The lobby with the new water-droplet chandelier

Overall, what made my workcation pleasant and worth its while was the caring and attentive staff at Amari Watergate, who seemed genuinely keen on making sure my needs were fulfilled, especially that of relaxation and leisure. The hotel tells me that it is launching a few more features by next year that will add more value to guests’ stays as well as meet the hotel’s sustainability goals. For example, one of the upcoming options will be for guests to be able to opt out of a day’s room cleaning in exchange for credits that can be used for dining or spa experiences. 

For more information on Amari Watergate Bangkok and its offerings, visit amari.com/watergate.