 Updated 21/04/2010
THE MANDARIN-ORIENTAL BANGKOK (*****L): Since 1876, and despite of the presence of the neighboring top luxury Lebua and Peninsula, The Oriental remains the most stylish hotel in Bangkok, and one of most famous palace-hotels in the world. In the shadow
of the modern hotel structure, stands the original Oriental: a sublime
colonial pavilion (“Old Wing”), housing some of the best Jet-Set and Peoples are found of this very special atmosphere: royals, statesmen, artists and globe-trotters are still making the reputation of The Oriental. Two or three decades ago, those people didn't mind the standard comfort and decoration of the “ordinary” rooms; just checking in the splendid suites. But times changed: the hotel has been fairly well refurbished, and actually offers a five star deluxe design and comfort in ALL rooms. Anyway, if you can afford, try for instance the "Captain Anderson” Author Suite once in your life, like we did: and you will see what luxury means. That kind of suite costs about USD 1,200 per night; a Deluxe Room goes for more or less USD 450 per night. Which makes The Oriental one of the Top 10 most expensive hotels in Thailand; nevertheless, those lavish rooms actually remain affordable to a large majority of travelers, so happy to spend only 50% of what they would pay in a Paris or London palace hotel, for more space and an unmatched level of service... We particularly enjoyed the location of the hotel, on the left bank of the river Chao Phraya: despite of the mad traffic jams in the streets all around, this is indeed the last area in Bangkok where oxygen remains more or less generously available... Let's cross the river aboard the hotel private teak-wood shuttle boat (also deserving the nearby Sky Train station), land on the right bank, and visit the “Sala Rim Naam”: where royal Thai cuisine can be enjoyed in a typical “Sala”, with live Siamese traditional music. Next door stands the SPA: an Eden, made out of precious teak wood, devoted to relaxation, with a new Ayurvedic Penthouse where we had a well worth the trip 90 minutes massage and treatment, performed by selected Thai masseuses proficient in the Indian techniques of relaxation and soothing. This Thonburi bank is also the quiet Thai Cooking School, and the sports club location . Though quite overpriced for dinner (but a great value for money for lunch), the signature restaurant, “Le Normandie”, remains one of the most awarded French restaurants in South East Asia. Refurbished from its original warm and picturesque design into quite a conventional coffee-shop, the “Lord Jim” remains an excellent alternative for both affordable and palatable international food. We actually prefer “Ciao”, the open-air terrace restaurant (opened during the “dry season” only), its palatable antipasti, pasta and seafood, with a breathtaking view on the river which must be experienced after dark. Note that this is the last place where you could freely enjoy a good cigar; a new law recently took the gourmet and “aficionados”over the freedom to smoke in air-conditioned public areas (which, in Thailand, means everywhere!); even the now smokeless Bamboo Bar, the once so animated Oriental jazz-club, lost his soul, looking like a Swiss clinic... A legendary hotels, by definition has got some legends: we received some remarks, and saw some posts in TripAdvisor also, concerning some guests claiming about shorts and flip-flops supposedly banned in the lobby. Which is -unfortunately- not true! When many clients are indeed smart peoples, some guests tend to feel little bit too relaxed... with the basic rules of elegance. The flip-flops addicted evinced from the hotel, by the gentle though firm security staff, are inquisitive outsiders: basic tourists coming with their rude habits (...and camera) to peep in a hotel where refined guests are actively looking for intimacy. This is a Mandarin-Oriental hotel. Those
going only once to Bangkok should stay nowhere but in The Oriental!
THE
MANDARIN-ORIENTAL BANGKOK: 48 Oriental Avenue, Bangkok 10500
DUSIT
THANI (*****L): We discovered this lavish hotel more than one decade
ago, and stayed there on many occasions with increasing pleasure: breathing
its luxurious and typically Siamese atmosphere, enjoying supreme comfort
and unmatched service. The anticipating staff Most of the rooms and junior suites have been recently redesigned into a somehow «Zen» style; replacing the Old World atmosphere of the « Landmark Rooms » which made the reputation of the hotel until the new millennium and its modernization policy. No more period furniture and deep sofas; but a functional, minimalist though stylish concept, with high tech communication system (the High Speed Internet is, indeed, high speed! Not so common in Thailand...), flat screen LCD TV, etc. We would advise you to book a Dusit Club Room, or a Dusit Grand Room: they are larger, and display ritzy bathrooms. They come with many privileges: like complimentary Internet, credit for express laundry (we gave a ink stained shirt, which came back immaculate!), pillow menu, bath menu... and access to the Dusit Club Lounge which has always been -and actually remains- the best corporate -we would prefer to say « VIP »- lounge in Bangkok. We had lobster rolls, king prawns, French goose liver... while many other hotels serve very common canapés! There is a fine selection of wines -usually imported from reputed California vineyards-, whiskeys and brandies. The fruit juices are freshly pressed, and the coffee is Italian. Five star go to this lounge! Our preference goes to the « Thai heritage Suites »: superb and extra large, with splendid bathrooms, they match The Oriental. In the past we stayed in the « Sukkothai » and « Lopburi » suites: an amazing experience. Of course, exclusive suites guests enjoy the privilege of the Dusit Club Lounge, including the VIP breakfast in the exquisite Il Cielo restaurant. A «Dusit Club Room» will cost you approximately US$ 200 - 250. This is the kind of accommodation we would like to recommend. If you want to feel like a kind, you will be expected to pay about US$ 300 - 350 for a "Thai Heritage Suite". The price of a three star room in a chain hotel in London! Indeed, this is a wonderful value for money. Staff is most friendly and helpful: calling you by your name, and remembering your face until your next visit! The reception staff is among the best in Bangkok. The restaurants are reputed among the Bangkok happy few. A lot of upper class local people consider that the Mayflower serves the very best Cantonese specialties in town. Which is also our opinion. Queen Sirikit is one of its faithful guests. The Thien Duong serves much affordable Vietnamese fares. We like very much the Royal Thai cuisine served at Benjarong. Il Cielo, under the tutelage of a native Italian chef, offers « trattoria » style specialties, and wood-oven baked pizza. Last but not least, the D'Sens is the unique restaurant in Thailand operated by two Michelin star rated chefs: Jacques and Laurent Pourcel ("Le Jardin de Sens", France). Accessible by a private lift, this trendy restaurants occupies the whole top floor. Very innovative food and great wines will astonish the spoildest gourmets. Just make sure you will get a table with a view: the panorama over Bangkok is breathtaking, night and day. Gentlemen's washrooms are unique: with urinals dug against a floor-to-ceiling window, giving you the feeling to pee in the air! For lunch, just forget the impersonal coffee shop: just like in any international hotel, it is definitely standard and packed with dull businessmen. Rather go to the exquisite Hamilton Steak House: great food, and warm atmosphere. The staff at this fine American-style restaurant matches the best European maîtres d'. There is a brand new fitness club: working up there, enjoying a sauna or a steam bath, is a most pleasure way to relax. They even get a golf training on the roof ! We experienced the new Devarana Spa. « Devarana » means « garden in heaven ». Right definition for this outstanding beauty and massage studio, where skilled therapists provide guests with the ultimate in relaxation and pampering. We arrived with a slight jet lag; getting rid of it thanks to the soft 90 minutes massage we received in one of the elegant, peaceful suites decorated in a discrete Thai design. Rates are attractive, and money saving individual or couple membership applies for long stay guests. The Dusit Thani is a distinguished member of the «Global Hotel Alliance». You already understood why
this is one of our favorite hotels in Bangkok!
DUSIT
THANI: 946 Rama IV Rd, Bangkok 10500
CHATRIUM
SUITES BANGKOK (*****L): Being a "Dusit
Thani Hotel Partner" and Tripadvisor
Popularity N°1 hotel in Bangkok, should be enough to attract any
traveller looking for luxury and top-quality. The Chatrium, which we experienced
in March 2010, is one of the most impressive hotels in South East Asia.
The location of this 36-story
tower, with an elegant progressive architecture, is unbeatable: right on
the We booked a 120 Sqm Two Bedroom Chatrium Suite, which was perfectly suitable for a family stay. Just like all the suites, it featured a spacious balcony, floor-to-ceiling windows that afford optimal light, four-fixture bathroom with separate tub and shower, fully-equipped kitchen, and dining table. The beds are amazingly smooth and top-comfortable. Chatrium Suites features three zones, each with its own unique style of accommodation: Grand Floors (7-31), Executive Floors (32-34) and the Premier Floor (35). The outdoor Olympic-size swimming pool on the 6th floor, with a pleasant and romantic river view, is easily accessible from all floors. Guest of the Executive Floor and Premier Floor are entitled to the exclusive «Club» complimentary privileges: breakfast at River Barge Restaurant, in-room hi-speed internet connection, one-hour use of the meeting room in Business Center per stay, laundry service for 2 pieces per day, late check out until 6:00 pm, and use of the stunning Chatrium Club Lounge on the 36th floor. Tailored-made for the distinctive traveller, the «Club Lounge» also hosts the Business Center and boardrooms: it offers all-day refreshments, and evening cocktails with canapés from 5pm to 7pm. A great place to socialize with the other guests! We like very much the «Club Lounge» philosophy, and our personal experience through the years confirmed how much the Dusit Group of hotels dominates the concept over the competitors. Though, you don't need to be an executive guest to enjoy the splendid service which participates in the prestige of the Chatrium Suites Bangkok. We have been systematically called by name by the staff, which is actually 5-star: from the security guard checking our taxi fare upon arrival, just to make sure we had not been cheated by the driver, till the extremely active and efficient room-division manager, we found so much kindness and respectful hospitality in this hotel! This was a good surprise: the Chatrium is large and new. Two factors which, normally, do not facilitate a personalized service. It took short time to train the staff to a supreme efficiency: making the guests feeling perfectly at home. The breakfast, served in the River Barge restaurant, with its curved windows overlooking the river, is delicious. Note that it features plenty of Asian (Thai, Chinese and Japanese) delicacies. The place is very popular for its international cuisine and regional specialties buffet-style and à la carte. We could not experience Silver Wave, which was not opened during our visit. Located on the 36th floor, this chic Chinese restaurant features authentic Cantonese cuisine served in a setting that affords breathtaking 360-degree panoramas views of the cityscape and the river. The professional fitness-club is richly equipped with the lastest instruments available on the work-out market. Impressive! Another bonus is the classy, vintage teak-wood shuttle boat, linking the hotel with a too short -5 minutes- river cruise to/from the BTS Taksin SkyTrain Station: assuring that all points of the city are within reach. This five star hotel remains amazingly good value for money, with attractive rates and regularly updated promotions. Designed
expressly to meet needs of discerning business and leisure travelers, the
Chatrium Suites Bangkok is the new, and certainly the most brilliant, gem
in the legendary Thai five star hotel industry.
CHATRIUM
SUITES BANGKOK: 28 Charoenkrung Soi 70, Bangkholame, Bangkok 10120
THE
PENINSULA (*****L): Since November 1998, The Peninsula Bangkok offers
to the traveller a splendid riverside alternative to the legendary Oriental.
Both hotels are facing each others: without the river Chao Phraya as a
border line, sure a merciless war should had broken out already. Such a
concurrence is a splendid opportunity for who is looking for superlative
service and comfort in Bangkok. According to us, The lobby is palatial. Some find it quite cold; personally, we loved it distinction at first sight. The staff is extremely courteous: which is quite normal in a five star deluxe hotel in Thailand. One of the most impressive difference with other hotels of this category comes with the brand new Rolls Royce Silver Spur II, available for glamourous and top comfortable transportation (THB 1,800 per hour, inside Bangkok). The Dusit Thani used to have its Silver Shadow II fleet, but unfortunately stopped the operation five years ago. Distinctive travellers will hear with pleasure that the Spirit of Ecstasy is back in Bangkok ! Rooms are exceptional. Large: about 46 sq.m. All with a dramatic view over the river. They are certainly the most sophisticated in town nowadays. They come with invisible fax machine, discretely integrated inside the desk. Besides the king size beds, a master switch controls light, air conditioner, and TV. Bathrooms would suit a Roman emperor. Made out of yellow and black precious marble, they are equipped with a TV set: having an aromatic herbs bath while watching a good movie is considered here as a basic facility. The suites are too new to get the charm of those at The Oriental or Dusit Thani; but on the other hand, they offer much more luxury. Impossible to find more comfortable, glamourous and ritzy than The Peninsula Suite. Imagine a duplex, designed like a multimillionaire's apartment, with Chinese furniture and antiques, deep and smooth sofas covered with gold Thai silk, huge bedrooms (including a small one for the butler), a large dining room with separate kitchen, bathrooms with Jacuzzi and, last but not least, an open air sun deck with hot tub overlooking the river and the all city of Bangkok. There is no hotel in South East Asia, even The Raffles in Singapore, offering such a superlative suite. At US$ 2,600 ++ per night, happy few will still find it good value for money. Budget minded traveller will just refuse to believe it when we would reveal the latest (September 1999) rate for a standard room: US$ 85 only ! We couldn't believe it ourselves; but the hotel needs to offer flat introductory rates to build its fame in an economically stricken Thailand. A Superior Suite is US$ 120... It will be mathematically impossible to keep those ridiculous rates more than a few months: it is therefore the right time to experience The Peninsula at low cost. The pool is a long and straight one, with some waterfalls: we like its design. The pool side is much pleasant: very tropical, with a its private "khlong" (canal), and small lake with a Thai Sala. The fitness center is one of the best equipped and luxurious in Bangkok. It is equipped with Californian work-out equipment, and has a very pleasant hot tub. Of course there is a sauna, and all the basic facilities one could find in any international hotel. Fitted for VIPs, The Peninsula has its own helipad. Only the Shangri-La can compete with it on this matter. Before flying over Bangkok, the passengers can have a drink in the very high tech and intimate Paribatra lounge. We enjoyed the place very much, with its aviation related decorative items. We had delicious Dim-Sums, Egg Noodles with Seafood and Moon Cakes at the Mei Jiang: The Peninsula relaxing and smart Chinese restaurant was full the day of our visit. Excellent service: they even get some kind of a sommelier... specialized in tea ! The Cilandro is serving Thai specialities. For lunch, it displays a superb international buffet. There is a terrace for outdoor evening barbecue. Such a luxurious place should have its French restaurant; it does not. As there is the top famous Normandy, at The Oriental, the management certainly preferred to offer a more relaxed alternative to smart dinners: with Jesters. There is some Philippe Starck's influence, indeed, in that trendy room, decorated with aluminium, painted steel, and high tech furniture. A large window faces the river. There is a live band. By night, it may be extremely romantic to have a candle light dinner there. They serve "Pacific Rim" cuisine: we still ignore what it means... More details will be provided after our next inspection. Actually exceptional. Part of the PENINSULA
GROUP OF HOTELS.
THE
PENINSULA BANGKOK: 333, Charoennakorn Rd, Klongsan, Bangkok 10600
JW
MARRIOTT BANGKOK (*****L): Awarded
as one of the Top 50 Hotels in Asia 2007 from Travel & Leisure, with
a remarkable location
in the business and commercial (prestigious shops, night market...) Sukhumvit
district, right in the city center and well deserved by the The hotel took the best from America (excellent security, high tech everywhere, huge rooms...) and Thailand (palatial lobby, Thai design and superb service). We stayed in an Executive Suite: fairly well appointed, with deep sofas, CD player, a panoramic plasma TV in our large living room, plus a a 32 inches flat screen in our bedroom. The king-size bed was extremely comfy, with down comforters and custom duvets, and the bathroom large enough to accommodate a family... From the razors to the toothbrush or talc powder: nothing was missing in the extended toilet kit provided to the guest. All rooms feature tea and coffee facility and ironing board with a steam iron... Which we found very useful for a quick pressing of our jackets. Last but not least, the panorama over the city was fantastic. This five star environment is completed by a top comfortable Executive Lounge; its access is actually limited to a very limited number of happy few, and we immediately felt at ease there. This is the place for breakfast and complimentary drinks and snacks. There is high speed WiFi also: a pleasant place to work and communicate, indeed. Now, what actually makes the difference with other hotels is the breakfast, in the Marriott Café: we enjoyed it so much! The location if bright, pleasant, with a lot of families. You don't feel like in a corporate hotel (but is it so?). The buffet is gargantuan, with a variety of delicacies we found nowhere else in Bangkok. From the Scottish salmon to the Italian sausage, from the French « pain au chocolat » to the bagel, with a wonderful Asian corner (great Dim Sums and fried noodles with tiger prawns...). This is what would make us come back again, and again. The price of the breakfast, included in the room rates with some packages (or if you stay in the Executive Floor), is a great value for money. The impressive quality of the F&B comes graduating in the New-York Steakhouse, Man Ho Chinese Restaurant, TsuNami Japanese Teppanyaki Steakhouse (with all sorts of Saté and rare kobe beef), and White Elephant Thai Restaurant which are all very famous in Bangkok, and very much visited by expats and prominent Thai personalities. We also appreciated the express check-in and check-out, the very friendly and efficient concierges (the head-concierge is a « Clef d'Or », and can solve on the spot any problem the guest might encounter with the somehow sophisticated in-room high tech equipment), and the way the hotel staff cares about you security, even after checking out (taxi reference is taken, in case of any problem with the fare or lost item!). Price for a double deluxe room for 2008 starts from THB 6,900 THB ++ to THB 8,000 ++. A remarkable
hotel, well worth the stay.
JW
MARRIOTT BANGKOK : 4 Sukhumvit Road, Soi 2, Bangkok 10110
LEBUA
AT STATE TOWER (*****): Extraordinary, extravagant,
exorbitant... the easiest way to review such a hotel would consist in concentrating
superlatives. This is the place where each detail, each movement, each
word has been thought up carefully to please much spoiled -though amazingly
young- guests, conviced that they had already visited the best hotels in
the world. The Lebua makes them change their mind... The hotel extends from the 47th till 65th floors of a cyclopean neo-classic sky-scrapper, located right in the center of Bangkok, between Silom Rd shopping district and the Chao Phraya River. The lobby is warm, intimate: it made us feel like in a small luxury hotel: which the Lebua actually is, with only 198 suites. Our Three Bedroom Executive Suite was palatial,, with 266 Sq. M fitted for a king. Our check-in took place in the «intimacy» of a living-room which could host at ease a private party (which sometimes happens, when guests require a private in-suite chef to take care of their gastronomic entertainment!): it was flanked by a service kitchen, with a large refrigerator and all the kitchenware adapted for premium cooking sessions... Another particularity: we were kindly asked to sign up a discharge before we got access to our large, round shaped balconies with a stunning view of the Chao Praya River and the whole metropolis... Who would commit suicide, being already at Heaven in this dreamed hotel? The design of the suites is modern, trendy with large tables and sofas, elegant parquets and fine carpets. The king-size beds are as smooth as silk, with sweet linen and duveted mattresses. There is a Sat TV in each room, with DVD, and complimentary high speed broadband Internet. We liked the spacious marble bathrooms, with top quality Bvlgari amenities. This glamorous atmosphere infuses a restful relief from the hot glare of the city. Service is anticipating and so discreet: we have never been disturbed, though the movement was permanent once we left our suite, which was cleaned many times a day, and generously provided with fresh fruits, fine chocolates and snacks... Each morning was a delight: the Buffet Breakfast was sumptuous. We recommend the Dim Sums and the Sushis. It is served at Café Mozu (a place for belly dancing, each evening, in an atmosphere which remembered us the Buddha Bar in Paris), by one of the best trained -and beautiful- waitresses in Bangkok. They call each VIP -which means 100% of the guests!- by his name, and remember by heart any personal taste and requirement . The hotel pride remains The Dôme: located at the 51th-65rd floor, this is a congregating of fine dining scenes under one roof. We had a wonderful gastronomic experience at Breeze. Seating in the open-air terrace, close to the stars, with a bird's eye glimpse of Bangkok. This multi-awarded restaurant, has been designed to revolutionize the Asian style seafood-dining, The steamed jasmine rice, mixed with abalones and lobster meat, and the Dim Sums are just sumptuous! This is, with Sirocco, Mezzaluna (the best Italian five star restaurant in town), Distil and the Sky Bar (unforgettable: perched on the 63rd floor), the only restaurants and bars in the Kingdom of Thailand recognized by Conde Nast Traveller 2005-2007. There is a pleasant Mezzanine floor open-air pool with Jacuzzi, a large Fitness Center with the ultimate equipment and kind coaches, and one of the most competent concierge in town offering very special services: like staff welcoming you directly at the plane, guiding you through the immigration and luggage processes, while a comfortable air-conditioned limousine with a uniformed driver awaits for you at the gate... Such is Lebua, and such we loved it! Rates are variable, with attractive money saving luxury packages. The Lebua at State Tower is a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. Don't go
to The Lebua to see Bangkok; go to Bangkok to see The Lebua!
LEBUA
AT STATE TOWER: State Tower 1055 Silom Road, Bangkok 10500
REMBRANDT
(****L): Those looking for a deluxe hotel
with a warm, relaxed atmosphere, not to mention an amazingly good
value for money, will like the Rembrandt. One of the most popular top
class hotels in Bangkok, revamped with upgraded rooms, a stylish lobby-bar,
and With its tall architecture and 407 rooms and suites, the Rembrandt looks like very much a corporate hotel; which comes quite correct, as many businessmen made it their home away from home. Nevertheless, this is also a perfect resource for leisure travellers looking for a softer notion of luxury. We found there one of the best level of hospitality we would ever expect in South East Asia; while there was no kind of plush ostentation at all. Except in the palatial «Rang Mahal» restaurant, the design remains «bourgeois» but not rich: making everybody feel at ease for a lovely holiday or business stay in the City of Angels. The rooms (30 Sq. M, with flat-screen TV, broadband Internet, large duveted beds...) are divided in different categories, though there is actually not a real difference between a Superior, Deluxe or Executive Room. After the refurbishment of the hotel, an egalitarian comfort comes to each floor. Nevertheless, we would like to recommend business travellers and couples, looking for a little extra and more intimacy, to rather choose the latest category: the 24th floor Executive Lounge is one of the most cosy in Bangkok (we have experienced almost all of them...). This is the place for separate express check-in and check-out, complimentary soft drinks and sweets all day long (alcohols and fine canapes are served in the evening), Internet surfing (you can use the two computers, or ask for your 24h free Wi-Fi password to the beautiful hostesses)... The Lounge is quite small, but well designed for intimacy and discreet business discussion. There is even a meeting room, which comes also complimentary. We also liked very much the Rembrandt for its restaurants. F&B is brilliant and amazingly affordable; prices are miles away from those applied by the competitors. The legendary “Rang Mahal” is the hotel pride: this is the most authentic and luxurious Indian restaurant in Bangkok. We had a dinner there, and were quite astonished to see that at least 80% of the merry dinners where Indians! So, no development concerning the quality seems necessary. The “Red Pepper” is fine also: it serves delicious Thai dishes in a lovely environment. It is extremely cheap, and captures a lot of hotel guests. Next time we will certainly try the Mexican “Señor Pico” and the Italian “da Vinci”. The “Café” is a coffee shop, with a piano-bar which starts to fill up from 6pm until late by night. Great atmosphere, indeed, extending to the lobby! The location of the hotel, in a quiet lane, a 3 minutes walk off Sukhumvit Road, is very central. Those walking down, will see many small bars, family restaurants, Thai massage parlours which are not so hanky-panky (and where a wonderful foot massage cost 5 EUR only...)... and maybe elephants (with their mahout begging some money to feed the animal)! Those feeling lazy can use the complimentary « tuk-tuk » to reach the Skytrain in minute: it makes Siam Square, Silom or the MBK Shopping center almost next door. This property (and its sister Rembrandt Towers Service Apartments ) is managed by a European team, whose efficiency is remarkable, and just joined the Warwick group of hotels. From the concierge till the maids, the staff is gentle and efficient. The day of our departure, we asked for a late check out; back from breakfast, we were surprised to see that our bedroom had been made up just like everyday, just to assure our complete comfort until our departure! This is the piece of detail which makes the difference between a good and an excellent hotel. The Rembrandt keeps on being posted in Tripadvisor as one of the most lovable hotels in Bangkok, which reflects very much our excellent impression. One of our
finest addresses in Bangkok.
REMBRANDT:
19 Sukhumvit Soi 18, Klong Toei, Bangkok 10110
SIRI
SATHORN (****L): This boutique residence,
displaying a modern, sober luxury after a recent refurbishment, gets a
high reputation among business and leisure travellers. Spacious, designed
for long or family stay, the Siri Sathorn serviced apartments are well
located in the The quiet, almost somnolent lobby doesn't reflect the actual size of the residence. The 111 suites (ranging from studios to two-bedroom apartments) are large and conveniently appointed. We staid in a 100 Sq.m Two Bedrooms Designer Suite, which we would like to recommend to those travelling with a family. Immaculate, with classy furniture, well lit and spacious, it came with an immediate homey feel. Many expats have the same reaction, and book that category of apartment for long stay: they certainly like the full kitchen with a large table allowing to share a dinner with guests. Besides the well sized LCD TV, the soft matress of our bed and the lovely bathrooms, what we found most remarkable is definitely the perfect isolation from the external environment: we have visited few, if none, hotels with such efficiently sound-proofed windows: many tuk-tuk were passing by the street, and a building was under construction next door... but not even a whisper came up to our room! We slept like babies! There is small, pleasant and inexpensive coffee shop, with a pool-side view, where breakfast is served by an anticipating, very courteous staff. The double espresso is delicious, and there is a good selection of fresh fruits cuts. We crossed by many expatriates there, living on a long-term at Siri Sathorn; though this was high season, we didn't see so many tourists. The place might be still quite confidential for leisure travellers. Rates are well balanced, at about THB 6000 for a One-Bedroom Suite, and THB 10,000 for a Two-Bedroom Suite. Including breakfast, Wi-Fi Internet, use of the fine fitness center, and shuttle van to the nearby shopping areas. Monthly updated promotions and money saving long term packages make this residence particularly attractive. A comfortable
alternative to traditional hotels.
SIRI
SATHORN: 27 Soi Saladaeng 1, Silom Road, Bangkok, 10500
COURTYARD
BY MARRIOTT BANGKOK (****L): Located
in an elegant residential and diplomatic district, this brand new hotel
stands behing the Four Seasons and Grand Hyatt Erawan: in a quiet «
soi » (lane), deserved every five minutes by a complimentary shuttle
rickshaw Located in an elegant building, with a hip lobby, this contemporary hotel, contrary to many « Courtyards », has been designed for corporate and tourists alike. The lobby staff, fluent in English, is anticipating and, during our four days stay, helped us on many occasions with an authentic kindness (helping us to pack fruits, to weight our luggage, etc...). There is a little shop (« MoMo Mart » ), selling beverages, snacks and toiletry, at a very affordable price; we used it with pleasure, as there was no minibar in the room. We booked a Deluxe Room. Bright, intelligently designed, with a nice colors variation, we found it cool and trendy. The king-size beds are amazingly comfortable: this is a Marriott! There is a Samsung plasma TV, and tea / coffee facilities. A glass (with adjustable blinds) separates the room from the bathroom: this is a new, hip tendency, which we found quite stylish. The selection of toiletries is excellent, and you can sit in the spacious shower. Internet is provided via the hotel cable network, or using WiFi external signals (like « True Internet », which is quite cheap). There is a convenient fitness room, and a very beautiful, large swimming pool. We enjoyed the Jacuzzi: warm and powerful, with waterfalls, it overlooks a private Siamese style private villa hidden in a green park. It was so relaxing, that we felt like miles away from Bangkok city center! We noticed that the hotel was popular with Asian guests (mostly Japanese and Korean). The breakfast was fitted to please their taste, with a selection of mouth watering local specialties. Excellent fresh fruit juices, and remarkable service in the trendy Café MoMo which also opens for lunch and dinner. Last bit not least, it is actually inexpensive... The « Courtyard » features 5 well designed, high tech meeting rooms (390 sq m of total meeting space). Price for a double deluxe from for 2008 starts from THB 3,699 ++ to THB 3,800 ++ A smart and affordable hotel.
TENFACE
(****L): This hip boutique hotel opened a few months ago, targeting
both tourists and business travellers, it will particularly
How could we describe the Tenface? Let's say that this is somehow an urban hideaway, situated just off Ploenchit Rd. A three minutes complimentary « tuk-tuk » ride from the hectic Sukhumvit Rd (where lots of bars, restaurants and shops await the tourists). An oasis in the heart of the city, Still quite hard to find; order their vintage Mercedes-Benz limousine at the airport or, after a treasure hunt, feel proud for finally reaching the « soi » (=lane) where this sanctuary stands. The Tenface is styled in an original way and bears absolutely no resemblance to other hotels in Bangkok,: inspired by the ten-faced giant Tosakan from the epic Ramakien, it is definitely boutique, cozy, refreshing and rejuvenating. At check-in, we were handed an elegant box, featuring toiletry... and an unexpected iPod Nano Video with AV dock and remote control. This is the first hotel we visited lending iPods to its guests. Second originality: the box contained also a sim card with a private cellular phone number, and a small credit on it. It made us reachable on the spot, anywhere in Bangkok, and we found it a rich idea. The rooms are actually suites. The Tenface is well fitted for long-stay, and comes with some of the particularities of serviced apartments. We had a one bedroom suite, covering more or less the surface of two single hotel rooms (61 Sq.m ): designed into an elegant and relaxing minimalist style, with a top comfortable king-size bed, LCD cable TV, free broadband Internet Wi-Fi, and even an espresso coffee machine. From the bay windows we could see the contrast between the quiet, residential Soi Ruamrudee, and the nearby skyscrapers planted into the bustling capital city of Thailand. There is a nice fitness club, and a small though pleasant swimming pool. The Tenface is also home to the trendy Sita Bar, much visited by the new generation of Sino-Thai nice people, who like to see and be seen, mixing with the hotel guests enjoying elegant evening cocktails before heading to one of the supper-clubs or fashionable restaurants recommended by Pipek, the concierge and «entertainment guru», Note that the Tenface has its own, very affordable restaurant: the Wanara Eatery, serving light meals inspired by popular Thai specialties. Many promotion rates apply, making the hotel a very good value at about USD 120 for a one bedroom suite. A cool, interesting hotel. TENFACE:
81 Soi Ruamrudee, Wireless Rd,
AMARI
WATERGATE(****L): One of the airlines crews' favourite, this elegant
recently opened 575-room hotel, in the very heart of Bangkok, is a splendid
choice for businessmen (the World Trade Center is cross the street) and
tourists (Sukhumvit road and Siam Square are a The spacious guestrooms of 40 sq.m are elegantly decorated in pastel fabrics with Thai artefacts. All are equipped with IDD phones with voicemail, fax link, personal safe and minibar. We like the twin hand basins in the marble bathrooms. All rooms have a dramatic view over downtown Bangkok. Businessmen enjoy particularly the Corporate Floors, on the 29th-31th floor of the hotel. For these top executive clients, everything is available since they step inside the lobby: in-room check in, welcome drink and refreshing face towel, and daily breakfast in the VIP section of the Promenade Coffee Shop. There is also a 24 hours complimentary fruit bowl, coffee/tea facilities, and a selection of business publications on each floor in the lift landing area. Each Corporate Floor room is equipped with e-mail and Internet connections. Full Business Centre services are available, including three small meeting rooms for guest use. The AMARI WATERGATE is extremely popular among travellers. Not only for its discerning comfort and much affordable rates (USD 184 for a single Superior Room and USD 248 for a double Executive room; with very interesting discounted packages); but also for its security. It has been regularly identified as one of the top 3 safest hotels in the city, by the Bangkok Authorities: thanks to the Building Automation System, regular staff training, and up-to-date fire prevention and safety equipment. We like the fact that this nice hotel is also very much family oriented: this is the only one downtown with a Kids Club. Children will be delighted to find a special corner, prepared for them in their room upon check in, with plenty of welcome gifts and candies ! In the bathroom, they will find a rubber duck, and during their stay the hotel's photographer will take a picture of them with their favourite number of staff: as a souvenir to take home ! Thai service -and we get used of it- will never stop amazing us. And, at the AMARI WATERGATE, it is actually first class. Children are also taken care of when parents enjoy with them the restaurants. The choice is great, between the Heichinrou Chinese Restaurant, the Grappino (fine Italian specialities in a trendy atmosphere), and the famous franchised Henri J. Beans Bar & Grill (where a lot of expatriates hang up by night). The buffet at the Promenade Coffee Shop is excellent: its show kitchen is a feature of the restaurant, with uniformed cooks preparing eggs, pastas and meats on request. Their fastuous Sunday Lunch is a favourite in town. One of the best choice in Bangkok. Part of the AMARI
HOTELS & RESORTS GROUP, which manages hotels throughout Thailand.
AMARI
WATERGATE : 847 Petchburi Rd, Bangkok 10400
THE PAN PACIFIC BANGKOK
(****L): One
of the very best business hotels in Bangkok, located within walking distance
of almost all the important offices, banks and tourists attractions in
town. Its four star deluxe accommodations occupie the top 10 floors of
the 32-storey We could also visit the Pacific Floor. Should you come on a business or, better, as a tourist, this is certainly the best place to stay. We didn't see much difference between the Pacific Floor Rooms and ours -except the suites, which are superb- but found that it is worth paying little bit more just to enjoy the Executive Lounge. If you are a traveller and already know Bangkok quite well, you will realise at first sight that this is a perfect copy of The Oriental Author Lounge! Even larger and more luxurious than the original, it is quite impressive: with greenery all around this somehow colonial style private atrium. The perfect place to enjoy a complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea, and pre-dinner cocktails. Note that a private butler and complimentary laundry service comes with the room. This is, let's say, a five star upgraded accommodation. Another good reason to stay in THE PAN PACIFIC BANGKOK is its unique Bali style swimming pool. From far the greatest in Bangkok, this is a landmark which appeared already in all the travel and decoration magazines worlwide. Its beauty is revealed by night, when the stone carved frescoes and columns are softly illuminated. One could hardly imagine being on a 24th floor. The view is, of course, terrific. It is linked to the immaculate and splendidly equipped fitness club and SPA. Patpong and all the bustling nightlife is a two minutes by walk; anyway, many guests like to escape from the hustle and rather use the hotel's restaurants. The KEYAKI is reputed for its Japanese specialities. The HAI TIEN LO serves authentic Cantonese fine cuisine. The meeting rooms and ballrooms are very suitable for banquets, conferences and exhibitions, and can welcome up to 280 persons. Rack rates for a room is US$ 200-275. Suites start at approximately US$ 320. An excellent address downtown.
THE PAN
PACIFIC BANGKOK: 952 Rama IV Rd, Suriyawongse, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500
PATHUMWAN
PRINCESS (****): In
the middle of the city's best shopping and entertainment facilities, with
connecting corridors to the MBK (Mah Boon Krong) shopping and business
centre, a stone's throw away from shopping centres Siam Square, Siam Centre
and Siam Individual traveller receives special attention: like separate check-in, quietly sitting being a guest relation desk. Away from the groups. Though the hotel was almost fully booked, it took us less than five minutes to reach one of the 382 guestrooms and suites. Our Deluxe-Room was fully equipped with air-conditioning, cable TV, minibar, personal safe, IDD telephone, and a nice bathroom with hair dryer, bathrobe, toiletries and telephone. The hotel is a 29-storeys high rise: we had therefore a splendid panorama over the "City of Angels". The Pathumwan Princess is only four years old; but it seems that, due to their immaculate cleanness and excellent aspect of fabrics, some rooms have already received some minor refurbishment. There are also two Executive Floors: complemented by an Executive Lounge, they are perfect for an upgraded stay, and will suit the requirement of business travellers. In addition, there are 64 service apartments for long-term stays. We spent our evening at eighth floor amazing Olympic Club. This is the largest fitness centre in Bangkok: with the latest and best equipment by Cybex, supervised by highly trained personal instructors, it is rated by many professionals to be one of the best in the world. A superb roof top pool, tennis court, jogging track and squash courts, complements it. The Pathumwan Princess is reputed for its restaurants. Great Asian food -including generous buffet breakfast- and good live Latin music at the Salsa Club. Interesting rates, with an average US$ 60/night/room for corporate and Internet booking. The Princess
Hotel & Resorts are part of the Dusit
family of hotels.
PATHUMWAN
PRINCESS: 444 Phayathai Road, MBK Centre, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330
NOVOTEL
BANGKOK ON SIAM SQUARE (****):
When Novotel remains
a three stars product in its country of origin (France), it gets a more
elitist image overseas, offering remarkable comfort and services: a perfect
illustration being the NOVOTEL BANGKOK ON SIAM When we stayed at the Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square, on June 2000, the average rack rate for a "Superior" room was about USD120; corporate discounts and packages are reducing the yet most reasonable prices. Excellent fitness and sport equipment, with a huge swimming pool, a marble Jacuzzi, and a brand new work-out room. The distinguished guest will make sure he stays in an international four stars hotel when enjoying the restaurants which upgrade the fame of the Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square. We warmly recommend the Chistera Cafe Restaurant. For little bit more than USD10, we had free access to its buffet: this is actually one of the best in town, with Lord Jim at the Oriental Hotel. Of course, the Executive Chef is French ! The Lok Wah Hin proposes Chinese gourmet meals for very decent prices: especially if you come for a Dim Sums (succulent steamed Chinese dumplings) lunch. Most of the guests are Asian: which shows how perfect the cook may be. Their Italian restaurant, Focazzia, is quite good. There are many discotheques in the area: starting with the Novotel’s private one, ranked number two in town, just after the illustrious Spasso (in Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel). You will mix up with expatriates, tourists, but also young Thai people much involved in posh and fashionable night spots. The Concept Cm2 actually hosts many discos under a same roof: a ground floor street drives from a Californian bar with a reputed live band to karaoke rooms, or to a curious and top affordable restaurant where rice is cooked following many original -and succulent !- recipes. This is an ACCOR ASIA-PACIFIC
hotel.
NOVOTEL
BANGKOK ON SIAM SQUARE : Siam Square
Soi 6, Bangkok 10330
BANGKOK MARRIOTT RESORT & SPA (****): A splendid resort on the Thonburi side of Bangkok, on the bank of the majestic Chao Phraya river. Nestled in 11 acres of lush gardens, pools and lily ponds, the Marriott Royal Garden Riverside offers pure Thai style comfort in its 425 rooms and suites. We feel like far away from the congestioned downtown, easily and pleasantly reachable by a complimentary shuttle boat made of tropical wood: it runs every 30 minutes from the hotel private pier. Among the six restaurants, we particularly enjoyed the Trader Vics . The hotel also runs the Manohra Song: a top luxurious boat for excursions to Ayutthaya. BANGKOK
MARRIOTT RESORT & SPA:
COMPLETE
REVIEWS OF THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN BANGKOK
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suites
(we particularly like the Somerset Maugham's Suite), and the “Authors'
Lounge” (romantic and classy place, where the Bangkok society enjoys “High
Tea”, comfortably seated in white "Emmanuelle" armchairs). With its
new wing dull 1970's architecture, The Oriental now looks like from outside
any Hilton or Sheraton, with nothing typically Siamese... but the rich
and famous connoisseurs book months in advance. Kurt Wachtveitl, alias
"Khun Kurt", the legendary General Manager, retired after more than 40
years devoted to The Oriental (replaced by Jan Goessing in 2009): remaining
the "adviser" of a soulful hotel, with a very low turn over among the staff...
sometimes working here for decades, and actually knowing regular guests'
personal tastes and special requirements! The much devoted,
anticipating service, always gave us the impression that we were staying
in a very chic boarding house. We were soon called by our name: by the
so friendly female head-concierge, and the discreet though efficients floor
butlers (bringing you complimentary evening snacks and beautiful bouquets,
or shining your shoes without any special request from your part!).
pampers
one of the most distinguished clientele in the world. Our ultimate inspection,
in May 2008, gave us the global impression that the Thai Royal Family's
favorite hotel is bumping into The Oriental, challenging for the title
of the best hotel in town. Of course, the Silom area is not as romantic
as the banks of the river Chao Phraya; but the shady and relaxing Lumpini
Park stays across the street. Night life is great, with Patpong and
plenty of open air seafood restaurants nearby. Last but not least, we like
very much the proximity of both 
bank
of the River Chao Phraya. Allowing a sweeping view of the «Menam»
and the «City of Angels», from the oversized windows
of the 396 
The
Peninsula quickly took the post position: it will do its very best to keep
it. While The Oriental is located in a much congestion area, which is inconvenient
for businessmen, The Peninsula stands on the Thonburi side of the river:
traffic is still OK there, and the highway is accessible in a few minutes.
There is a private pier and river shuttle, with check in/checkout facility
on opposite bank.
Sky
Train, this is one of our best tips in Bangkok.
It
took just a few years to build a universal reputation, rank atop 
a
well appointed Executive Lounge -with a stunning view of the city!- which
we used very much during our stay.
very
central Silom-Sathorn district. There is a complimentary shuttle bus to
the nearby Skytrain and underground metro Silom -Sala Daeng lines; though
the green Lumpini Park (ideal for jogging), Patpong, the shops and
banks are so close that we never used it during our stay.
(«tuktuk
») lifting the guests to the Sky Train (BTS) station Ratchadamri
(Siam square and Silom line). The BTS station Chidlom (Sukhumbit line),
opposite the Central Department Store, can be accessed by a five minute
walk through a picturesque lane, featuring cheap local restaurants and
cafés. The worth the trip Erawan Shrine (« Four Face Buddha
»), with spiritual music and dances, stands 500 meters from the «
Courtyard ».
the
corridors, we saw visitors taking pictures; which is not so common...
ten
minutes walk away). Behind the AMARI WATERGATE stands the bustling Talad
Pratunam: one of the most amazing day and night market in town.
Ramaland
skyscraper. We found THE PAN PACIFIC BANGKOK more intimate as we could
imagine from outside. It is a warm and human place, organised round a quiet
atrium. The check-in is one of the friendliest and quickest we had in Bangkok.
The 235 rooms and suites are perfect for corporate guests. Nothing missing.
We had a Deluxe Room, with a dramatic view over the city. No need to mention
that it was full equipped with IDD telephone, individually controlled air
conditioning, and a useful message viewing and check out facility displayed
on our cable TV screen. The bathroom was ritzy, with separate shower cubicle
and telephone. Though in the bustling center of one of the noisiest city
in the world, we hardly could hear anything when lying on our king-size
bed: this hotel is 100% soundproofed!
Discovery
Centre and walking distance to the World Trade Center: this is a first
class hotel with a first class location. This is also one of the most Asian
deluxe hotel in town: the guests invading all year long the magnificent
Pathumwan Lobby, cool and spacious, with it's luxurious marble floor and
pillars leads, is 75% originating from far east. We have been astonished
that westerners, who would like its discernible comfort and shopping facilities
(home to over 2000 vendors, the MBK arcade is one of the best value for
money in South East Asia), still didn't discover the Pathumwan Princess.
SQUARE.
Ideally located in the whole heart of the business, shopping and leisure
area of the "City of Angels", between the WTC and Siam Shopping Center,
this elegant and modern hotel has got 429 rooms. Most of them being ranked
in the "superior" category: nicely refurbished only few months ago, spacious,
clean and top comfortable, they offer to the businessmen and tourists a
wide range of high tech facilities: there is a minibar, satellite TV receiving
more than 20 international channels, with in-house VDO displaying 14 movies
per day ! We like very much the marble bathrooms, both elegant and fairly
well equipped. Located in a district with a round-the-clock animation,
the Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square is perfectly sound-proofed: you can
be sure that your sleep will not be disturbed in any way.
