Reviews of Four Seasons Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand

Review of The Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok, by Martin Li

The Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok impresses from the moment you are first engulfed by its cavernous, graceful lobby. Massive white-painted pillars dominate the airy elegance, overlooked by wide galleries reached by a grand sweeping staircase. Guests chat or take tea to the rhythm of a live band, beneath a ceiling of vast hand-painted silk panels whose only drawback is their great height, which can cause them to be missed by new arrivals scouring the expanse for the discreet reception and concierge desks.

Spacious corridors lead to flower-lined storeys of guest rooms set around two open courtyards. At the base of the Parichart Court hides an oasis of water babbling gently into a pool of koi carp lined with Zen-inspired borders and crossed by a small wooden bridge beneath a large palm. Several of the hotel's restaurants and boutiques are set around this restful pool. The Montathip Court's water scene is no less tranquil and leads to the ballroom and extensive conference facilities.

You especially appreciate the peace and serenity of the Four Seasons after an encounter with Bangkok city. All guest rooms and suites are equipped to high standards of comfort and are warmly decorated with generous panels of teak and painted silk. A large health club with squash court offers some thoughtful touches. Gym wear is available free of charge to those who find themselves with unplanned bursts of energy, and a bar serving cold juices and hot teas provides pleasant breaks during exertions. The hotel boasts a 25-metre pool; the spa pampers, heals and relaxes.

The Four Seasons even soothes your passage beyond its calming grounds. A fleet of limousines helps minimise the traumas of Bangkok's gridlocked traffic by carrying you in comfort to meetings, or for shopping or sightseeing trips. The hotel is located just steps from the Skytrain, Bangkok's welcome alternative to road transport.

Dining options range from The Spice Market, an upmarket Thai restaurant decorated as an old spice shop complete with earthenware jars and spice racks, to informal poolside options and a patisserie. The Madison serves steak and seafood from an open kitchen and claims to house the largest collection of single malt whiskies in Thailand.

First-class luxury comes as no surprise from a Four Seasons. What makes a stay here so special and memorable is the impeccable service you receive throughout the hotel, from staff that combine natural Thai friendliness with effortless charm and courteousness.