What is your full name and age?
My name is Sukamal Mondal and I am 45 years young!
What is your current Job Position?
I am the Area General Manager of Amari Watergate Bangkok, flagship hotel under ONYX Hospitality Group. Along with that, I am also overlooking 8 properties in Bangkok. I began my journey with ONYX in 2006 where I was appointed as the Residence Manager of Shama Century Park in Shanghai.
What do you like most about your profession?
Every day is a fashion show and the world is the runway.
How long have you lived in Bangkok, and where did you live prior?
I’ve been in Bangkok for 12 years. Prior to this, I was in China (Shanghai and Sanya) for 12 years.
What do you like most about Bangkok?
Thailand is known for its rich culture and tradition. With tropical beauty, ancient temples, amazing food and vibrant night life, Bangkok definitely has a charm to it. The county is known as the Land of Smiles for a reason and it truly does not disappoint. The people, the place and the values of Bangkok are unmatchable.
What restaurant is your favorite?
Going back to my roots, my favorite restaurant has to be Rang Mahal. To me, good food comes with a touch of authenticity and a burst of flavors. I have been eating at Rang Mahal for quite some time now and it has always been consistent! Along with that, their new rooftop bar 1826 is also one of my favorites! You will find me there quite often after a long day to cool off with a drink!
Which eatery is your favorite “Special Occasion” restaurant?
My special occasion restaurant would be Jhol. With a kick to Indian cuisine, Jhol offers a dining experience like never before. The menu at Jhol is curated by the regional delicacies of coastal India using the best of season Thai produce.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I am a complete health geek so when I do get some time off, I like to hit the gym. It allows me to work on myself, physically and mentally while also releasing all the stress from the week. It is very important to look after the human body and give it what it needs.
Where do you recommend first time visitors to Bangkok go?
Like I mentioned, the ancient beauty and temples of Bangkok cannot be missed. I would suggest tourists to visit Wat Arun or Temple of Dawn. It is one of the most famous temples, known for its beauty and signature charm of its decoration. Another place I would recommend would be Chatuchak or the JJ weekend market. Recognized as Thailand’s largest flea market, here you will find all sorts of goods from clothes, bags, shoes to household products.
On a night out with friends, where do you like to go?
Sing-sing! This is an upbeat, funky and trendy club.
Tell us a surprising fact that the public might not know about you?
Something that people might now know is that I am a great cook. I thoroughly enjoy getting into the kitchen and cooking up a storm for my loved ones. In fact, cooking is my stress buster. It is extremely therapeutic!
What is the most outlandish thing you have ever done?
Traveled to another country to meet a friend without any contact details! I made friends from Jakarta while out
and about in Bangkok but later realized we did not exchange numbers. Later that year when I flew to Jakarta, I actually made sure to search for them all over town! Funnily, I did happen to locate them! They were great hosts and showed me a good time in Jakarta.