MasterChef Australia's Diana Chan, co-host of the all-new season of Luxury Escapes: The World's Best Holidays, shares her foodie tips and favourite stays in Thailand.
Thai food is renowned for its explosion of flavours, so Masterchef Australia alumnus Diana Chan was absolutely in her element while filming the new season of Luxury Escapes: The World’s Best Holidays.
For episode nine, bustling Bangkok and the serene island of Koh Kood were on the menu. Read on for Diana's hot tips on where to find the best melt-in-the-mouth fluffy crab omelettes, luxury spa experiences and out-of-this-world accommodation.
Discover more about Thailand on the new season of Luxury Escapes: The World’s Best Holidays, airing Tuesdays 8.30pm AEDT* on Foxtel Lifestyle and on demand on Binge and 10 Play. *Check your local TV listings for details.
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LE: How would you describe Bangkok's food scene?
DC: Bangkok’s food scene has a bustling atmosphere and is culturally diverse. You can get anything from street food to fine dining – food is a big part of Thai culture. The city never sleeps, it really comes alive at night with vendors lining the streets, offering everything from noodle dishes to grilled seafood and even desserts.
LE: What's one delicacy you must try at a street market?
DC: It’s hard to choose just one delicacy at the street market, but I think you can’t go past crab omelette. Juicy chunks of crab meat in a fluffy omelette really hits the spot. Have it for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
LE: What's the best spot for rooftop views in Bangkok?
DC: The best spot for a bird’s-eye view of Bangkok is Penthouse Bar & Grill. Located on the 36th floor of The Park Hyatt in the heart of Bangkok CBD, you have a 360-degree view of this amazing city.
LE: What was your favourite feature of Park Hyatt Bangkok?
DC: My favourite feature of the Park Hyatt Bangkok is the spa. Panpuri Wellness is a tranquil sanctuary perfect for some relaxation and downtime. There is a wide variety of treatments ranging from facials to massages and day passes to the onsen.
LE: Why should travellers consider Koh Kood while island-hopping?
DC: It's one of the biggest islands in Thailand and it has a lot to offer. There are plenty of watersport activities for the whole family to enjoy, beautiful resorts across the island, incredible beaches and a great variety of food offered in Koh Kood.
LE: What makes the resort you visited in Koh Kood, Soneva Kiri, unique?
DC: When you step into Soneva Kiri, you instantly feel relaxed and your mind is at ease. You are greeted and looked after from the moment you arrive at the airport in Bangkok to catch the private jet to Koh Kood. Everything is taken care of and it’s the best way to leave any troubles behind and relax. You are asked to move your clocks one hour forward so you get to make the most of the day. This means you head to bed early and wake up early. Plus, you're encouraged to walk around barefoot to feel a sense of connection and grounding to the earth.
The resort is surrounded by jungle so you instantly feel relaxed on arrival. There is nature everywhere you look. The sounds of the waves splashing against the shore, the leaves of the trees rustling and insects buzzing into the night, make you feel like you can switch off and be a part of nature.
I love the breakfast buffet as well. There are plenty of healthy options to choose from, it's the perfect way to start the day and fuel up for the endless array or resort activities available. You can do as much or as little as you like.
Discover more about Thailand on the new season of Luxury Escapes: The World’s Best Holidays, airing Tuesdays 8.30pm AEDT* on Foxtel Lifestyle and on demand on Binge and 10 Play. *Check your local TV listings for details.
Ready to escape? Browse our Thailand offers here.
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Looking for more inspiration? Check out An A-List Guide to Luxe Living in Bangkok.
