From outside, you can’t really see the grandeur of Banyan Tree Bangkok. In fact, the driveway is so tiny it creates its own traffic jam. But once you step inside the lobby this is what you get: the fresh smell of citronella and jasmine, the sound of a live folk artist playing a traditional Thai hymn, a glass of refreshing lemongrass and coconut water, and a beautiful sampaguita garland.
You forget about the craziness of the city outside. Because you’re suddenly in a world of lush and all is good in the world.
The Suite Life
Located in the Silom business district, Banyan Tree Bangkok is the only 5-star all-suite hotel. It is one of the tallest buildings in the city, and it hosts the famous Vertigo and Moon rooftop bar which offers spectacular views and nights filled with libations.
The living area is functional and modern, equipped with a sofa, a coffee table, a resting chair and ottoman, a generous mini-bar and a desk.
After being spoilt silly from the circular bed at Le Meridien Bangkok, I was slightly concerned Banyan Tree’s kingsize won’t suffice (how spoilt does that sound?). But let me tell you guys one thing. This was best sleep I’ve had in the entire trip and it was perfect before the long haul flight back to Londontown.
The bathroom, if I’m being honest wasn’t anything to write home about. It actually looked slightly old school. It had a tub and a separate shower room (which was so powerful and I loved it!). Erm, that’s about it.
The suites are all spacious and I was lucky to be in a higher floor because I had the chance to marvel at the cityscape - which was beautiful. Starting from £200 a night, I think that’s an absolute bargain.
The Rooftop Bars at Banyan Tree
When in Bangkok, you’ve gotta get to a rooftop bar to enjoy drinks with a view. You must! Fortunately, one of the best rooftop bars in town happened to be in Banyan Tree. Unforch, it was actually raining when I stayed there, so G and I went to have drinks at the bar in the “hole” of the building first, Latitude Lounge and Bar.
Latitude Bar Lounge and Bar is an open air space and is adjunct to the hotel’s signature restaurant Saffron. It’s casual and resort-esque with its wooden decking, rattan chairs and trees lining the centre of the area. I loved the breeze passing through this watering hole (in the most literal sense) and the drinks were absolutely on point, as well!
After a few margaritas and martinis, we headed upstairs to Vertigo where we shared a bottle of rose champagne whilst watching a live band perform. This totes took me back to when I was 15, and my cousin J would let me tag along when he went bar hopping. I wanted to be a singer then, even though my talent clearly was holding on to the strength of my liver rather than holding on to tunes.
The rain had passed and we went to the rooftop bar. It was dark, but it was buzzing with the DJ spinning chilled out vibes of Hed Kandi Lounge era. I was at peace, and as I looked into the vastness of the Bangkok skyline I really felt like I was on top of the world.
Verdict of Banyan Tree Bangkok
What a lovely stay it had been at Banyan Tree! Location-wise, it’s very good as it’s quite central and close to transport links. Service was good; I liked the personal touches at Le Meridien better but service at the bars and restaurants in Banyan Tree was fantastic too. I can’t fault the efficiency and the cleanliness of the place, and the pool and spa area were definitely more superior. There’s a lush feel to the hotel itself, with its big halls and corridors. And it smells so freaking nice!
I love the fact that there was so much space to play with because whether I’m travelling on my own or with people, I seriously, seriously, seriously appreciate a big room - and an even bigger bed!
Views from the rooftop bars were amazing - even if you’re not staying at the hotel, make sure you check out Vertigo and Latitude when you’re in Bangkok.
So there you go, another highly recommended hotel for when you’re visiting the busy Thai capital!
Banyan Tree Bangkok
21/100 S Sathorn Rd, Yan Nawa, Khet Sathon, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10120, Thailand
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Wasn’t a fan of this place., found the staff to be conceited. Looks like you had a better experience
Hi Roma! That’s such a shame and hope it was just a one-off.
When I was there I felt the service was rather good and quick as well, but perhaps not as personalised as Le Meridien 🙂
I’ve stayed here! I thought it was a fab hotel and great value for money. I loved the bar too!
It was rather nice, wasn’t it?
I was totally looking at this as a hotel option for our short stopover in Bangkok - it looked great and was reasonably priced too given the space you get! Boyfriend ended surprising me with a different hotel booking, but will bookmark this for a future trip!
Yihee! Please do! I loved the size of the room and loved the fact that the bars were actually lively! Plus the restaurants were very good!
cool bar!