We don't need no resolution

Wed 1 Jan 2014

New Year's Day started with the age-old tradition of a full English brekkie – even in Asia, we found Cumberland sausage and real bacon. It was an absolute treat, and we enjoyed every mouthful. Needless to say, none of us are giving up food as a New Year’s resolution.

Back at our hotel, we eventually summoned the energy to check out the pool, but sadly we’d been beaten to the post. The pool beds had all been reserved, but there was a cute little table for two, so we sat and enjoyed the warm weather and the cool breeze.

The day consisted of a lot of R&R to get over our Bangkok NYE, and there’s not a great deal worth writing about, so I won’t bore you.

We’d done some research about a top-notch restaurant that does exceptional Thai food in a place called Thonglor. It was just down the road, so we thought we’d check it out. Due to a giant toe blister (which had literally taken over my whole toe), I couldn’t walk too far, but on the map, this place was just near the sky train.

After a good half hour and no joy, we asked at the Marriott. A lovely, friendly concierge pointed us in the right direction. The walk was long, and I hobbled all the way there in agony, but boy, it was worth it! Thong Kreuan served up some sensational and unique dishes. We had stir-fried pork and morning glory to start, crackling, nuts, and mango wrapped in leaves, which was strange yet tasty. The pad Thai was delicious as always in Thailand, and the prawn spring rolls were interesting. They didn’t resemble spring rolls in any shape or form. They tasted like a hybrid of the pulped prawns you get in prawn toast and genuine Thai fish cakes. Neither of us could decide if we liked them or not.

Our bellies were so full, and we couldn’t decide if we should stay or go, so we let the coin decide, and destiny chose out. We’d spotted a great wine bar on the long walk here, so we headed there.

The offerings were spectacular, with a full array of exquisite old and new-world wines. With the budget guilt weighing heavily, we opted for two glasses of the house, and what a choice! The house red was as excellent as its ‘by the glass’ counterparts. It was full in flavour, warming, and perfect.

We savoured every mouthful and reflected on our magical time in this crazy city.