Service with a Smile
Having grown up in the hotel industry, Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi continues the tradition of hospitality in the family business

Although Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi majored in Art History in Columbia University in New York, it was her destiny to go back to Thailand and join the family business: Bangkok’s first independently owned and operated five-star hotel, Siam City Hotel. “I started with construction, then moved on to sales and marketing,” says the attractive TK-year-old. Now, as vice president, “I oversee marketing, strategic planning, and development, plus all aspects relating to finance and accounting,” says Marisa. “In any business, those are the duties of the owner.” Travelife managed to sit her down for a quick interview at her hotel.

What airlines do you like to take?
Thai Airways’ business class. They fly direct to most major cities within Asia and Europe. Not having a stopover means less travel time. I am a member of Royal Orchid Plus, their frequent-traveler program. They also have a great lounge at Suvarnnabhumi Airport.

Which hotels around the world do you prefer to stay in?
Because I am a woman, I prefer hotels that are more warm, cozy, and intimate. I don’t like the stark, minimalist themes of a lot of modern Asian hotels. At the Siam City Hotel in Bangkok, their Club Siam Lounge is a wonderful boutique concept. The atmosphere is elegant and comfortable, and they’ve got all the technological conveniences such as in-room LCD, Wi-Fi connectivity, and round-the-clock reception and butler service.

What beauty products do you pack for business trips?
I love dry shampoo—you spray it on your hair and your hair looks and feels instantly clean. No need for washing or drying. It’s great for a short trip.

What restaurants or bars do you like to hold business lunches or dinners in?
I always prefer a casual atmosphere even for serious discussions. Since I am a hotel owner, all of my meetings are conducted on premise. It could be in any of our restaurants, the Club Lounge, the gardens, or even on the poolside patio! Unique spaces generate remarkable ideas!

Any tips you'd like to share with other business travelers?
Invest in a multi-functional adaptor that fits any country’s plug outlet. You can find them in most airlines’ duty-free catalog.—