What is your full name and age?
Richard Grandis, stuck in my mid-30s for 20 years
What is your current job position?
General Manager at Novotel Living Bangkok Sukhumvit Legacy
What do you like most about your profession?
The thrill of constant evolution! Every day brings a new challenge – crafting experiences, driving revenue, and leading a team to push boundaries. No two days are the same, and that keeps me on my toes.
How long have you lived in Bangkok, and where did you live prior?
I’ve been in Bangkok for 5 years and love it, it reinvents itself daily. One moment, chaos; the next, the perfect escape. Before that, I lived in Krabi, Phuket, and Hua Hin and worked across four continents, each place adding layers to my experience.
What do you like most about Bangkok?
A city of contrasts – where cultures collide, coexist, and surprise you. The energy, the people, and the hidden gems make it special. It never gets old.
What is your favorite restaurant?
It changes daily – anywhere the food stays true, where authenticity hasn’t been lost to trends. Bangkok still has these gems if you take time to look.
What is your favorite “Special Occasion” restaurant?
Maison Dunand – where French tradition meets creativity. Every detail is curated, making dining feel like a journey.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Being a two-wheel guy, I roam Bangkok’s streets – hunting down hidden eateries, unique shops, or unexpected finds. The city always has something new to offer.
Where do you recommend first-time visitors to Bangkok go?
After the usual stops, take a longtail boat through Thonburi’s canals, eat at a riverside hole-in-the-wall, then end the day at Chang Chui or explore Talad Noi, a neighborhood blending Bangkok’s past and present.
On a night out with friends, where do you like to go?
Anywhere with character – a tucked-away jazz bar where the music and atmosphere take over. Bangkok’s nightlife is all about discovery.
Tell us a surprising fact that the public might not know about you?
I’m a family man – no matter how busy work gets, I always make time for those who matter most. Balance is key.
What is the most outlandish thing you have ever done?
A week after finishing my army service in France, I bought a one-way ticket to the UK without speaking a word of English – just jumped in and figured it out. No regrets