Checking Into COCOON: A Hidden Sanctuary on the Outskirts of Bangkok
Looking for a brief respite from all the clamour and confusion of Bangkok? It’s high time to get a bungalow at COCOON, a hidden sanctuary on the outskirts of town. Like their name implies, visitors are encouraged to recharge during their stay and leave as a better version of themselves.
COCOON is a mere twenty-minute drive from the city centre (which is nothing considering the notorious traffic jams in downtown Bangkok). Most locals utilise the parking lot at the property, but it’s super easy to catch a taxi to drop you off at its doors.
Created by ATT 19, a renowned art gallery in Bang Rak, there’s inherently a feeling of wellness and zen once you enter the grounds. And despite being tucked right behind the Bang Na toll road, one of the main highways leading eastward out of Bangkok, the property was magically quiet once inside. You’d never be able to guess where you were if you didn’t already know.
Guest Rooms
The property only has twenty bungalows, the iconic guest rooms jutting out across the central lake. Each cabin has a private terrace to chill on deck chairs or dangle your feet over the water. It’s a perfect getaway for friends, where you can enjoy a massive terrace shared between conjoining rooms!
The room decor was minimal, with a (huge) free-standing bed and a long desk behind the headboard. The smooth cement floors and feature walls added a rustic touch to the otherwise neutral colours. I must say that the sheets at COCOON were so comfortable; they might just be my favourite thing about the guest rooms. I’m no bedsheet guru, but I suspect they are of a very high thread count, yielding a smooth yet soft touch.
Unsurprisingly, the bathroom alone was larger than most apartments in Hong Kong, boasting a spacious rain shower and bathtub.
Each guest room offers two sets of slippers, jute vs plastic, so you can wear the former without getting them wet. We managed to keep our room completely free of insects, and I recommend always closing the room and terrace doors behind you.
Facilities
Lobby Area
The trellis-covered walkway branches into the lobby, a sizeable pavilion-like building tastefully filled with art, flowers and wide wooden daybeds. Regrettably, it’s the one part of the property I wish we had more time to indulge in, as it gave off a peaceful vibe. With steps leading across the koi pond underneath, we felt transported to Chiang Mai or an island resort.
If you’re lucky, you might even glimpse their resident cat, Coco, patrolling the grounds and chasing after butterflies. Seeing her regal prowl made our afternoon!
Swimming Pool and Gym
Opposite the lobby is a spacious lounge deck with an infinity pool that makes for a serene sight with reflections on a sunny day. The deck heats up quite quickly under the sun, so bring slippers.
Advance booking at the reception is required for both pool and gym facilities, but we checked in on a quiet day, and the pool was empty after breakfast.
Outdoor Lounge Area
Again, this makes for a great area to hang out with friends. There’s a cosy corner overlooking the lake with seat cushions and a gentle breeze. If you plan to spend some time here, bring insect repellent to avoid becoming a mozzie feeder.
Art Gallery
Open all day long is a standalone gallery with floor-to-ceiling windows and modern pieces on show. During our stay, there wasn’t much to look at, but this space can be rented for private events.
Dining
Breakfast at the Pool Cafe
Breakfast included with your stay offers Thai-style congee and a complimentary selection of sandwiches, yoghurt and fruits. Because breakfast is served outdoors, you might want to make it brisk if you’re squeamish about insects.
Mega Bangna Nearby
Initially, we were worried about where we would get dinner from. As COCOON doesn’t offer meals besides breakfast within its doors, we assumed we would order takeaway. Turns out the way to Mega Bangna (literally, a mega mall in Bang Na) on the opposite side of the highway is totally navigable. You’ll need to dodge some traffic on the way, but a footbridge near the hotel will take you across in less than 15 minutes. Apart from grabbing a meal there, you can shop till you drop before returning to quiet and solitude. It’s the best of both worlds.
Do note that the hotel closes its front gate at 9 PM. If you plan on returning later, you can inform the receptionist of your return time, and they will help with the arrangements.
Thoughts
COCOON was a completely different experience from what we’ve seen in Bangkok.
Don’t expect a flurry of activities going on. In fact, bring books, snacks, music and most importantly, excellent company. And I say it in an appreciative light when so much of our attention is robbed by our daily schedules. If you’re looking for some quiet downtime, COCOON may precisely be what you need – an environment that encourages you to unwind from the outside world (and your digital devices) to reconnect with yourself.
That said, the property would make for a much more compelling package if they developed a full-fledged kitchen or offered spa services. We wouldn’t be surprised if it eventually became a popular wedding destination.
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