A guest soaking at an Oriental Bangkok pool has taken a dip in history, so to speak. The Oriental was established in 1876 and, in ensuing years, earned a reputation as one of the world’s best, favored by such writers as Joseph Conrad, Graham Greene and Noël Coward. (Try the Authors’ Lounge for a splendid high tea.) Doubles as low as $269. (Susan Spano / Los Angeles Times)