Local Guide Series To Rattanakosin, Ayutthaya, and Wat Ket

Designed with the independent traveller in mind, SALA Hospitality launches SALA Journeys – neighourhood guides to age old traditions, authentic dining establishments and lesser-known sights, offering a window to the true heart of the destination.

SALA Journeys invite guests to explore the locale of three sala boutique destinations – Wat Ket in Chiang Mai, Rattanakosin in Bangkok, and Ayutthaya – in a “12 hours in …” experiential series compiled by the SALA team.

“The sala boutique experience is reflected in SALA Journeys which showcase the destination through personal recommendations,” said Volkert Geertsen, Cluster General Manager of sala boutique.

All three guides have been tried and tested by team members of the respective properties, many of whom are local to the area.

Starting in the current capital city, 12 hours in Rattanakosin explores Bangkok’s old town, inviting guests on a self-guided walking tour starting from sala rattanakosin Bangkok. The itinerary includes some of the classics – such as Wat Po, Wat Arun, and the legend behind their respective giants – as well as some local secrets including an unassuming roadside cart which has been selling soy milk pudding and grass jelly desserts for over 50 years.

SALA Journeys continues upstream and back in time to an ancient capital. In addition to highlighting the must-sees of the historic town’s 500-plus temples, the 12 hours in Ayutthaya guide starts at sala ayutthaya and includes a stop at the quirky Million Toys Museum, as well as providing helpful suggestions on Ayutthaya’s culinary symbols – roti saimai, boat noodles, and giant river prawns.

Further north still, 12 hours in Wat Ket unearths cultural and culinary treasures in sala lanna Chiang Mai’s riverside neighbourhood. From dinosaur-shaped dough sticks and herb-packed sai oua northern sausages to a famed young coconut pie and khao soi chicken noodle curry, travellers are in for a delicious adventure. Guests will also learn about the love story that built a bridge, as well as have the opportunity to delve into the local arts scene.

“We are excited to let our guests experience the destination as we do – SALA Journeys are designed by our team for guests to see, hear, smell, and taste the best of the destination,” said Nicolas Reschke, Group Director of Business Development, SALA Hospitality Group.

Plans are underway to expand the SALA Journeys series to include interviews of local personalities, detailed reviews of local shops, and curated lists of recommended activities for different travellers.

The launch of SALA Journeys follows the hospitality group’s efforts to bring guests closer to the destination, allowing them to discover the cultural and culinary nuances that surround them. Last year, signature bicycle tours were launched at sala rattanakosin Bangkok, sala ayutthaya, and sala lanna Chiang Mai. In addition, a “Taste of Place” culinary programme across SALA properties celebrates the unique flavours and cultural heritage accompanying the dishes.

To stay updated with SALA news, as well as to download the SALA Journeys, visit www.salahospitality.com/en/blog-sala.