The Regent Bangkok by Daniel Scott

Although undeniably corporate in feel the box-like Regent Hotel was voted “best hotel in Asia” by readers of Conde Nast Traveller as recently as 2001. It has some ardent supporters too, such as US entrepreneur James Humble, who has been staying here since 1989. “It makes me feel at home”, says Humble, “my laundry is always handed in before bedtime and always ready before breakfast and I am regularly assigned my favourite room”.

The Regent is certainly well positioned for business travellers, close to commercial districts and right on the effective skyrail, which has solved some of the city’s transport nightmare. The hotel’s Regency club also provides business services and a quiet space for breakfast or evening canapés and the service has won the hotel many accolades. The concierge certainly enjoys a challenge, managing to procure a mongoose for one guest beset by cobras at home in Vietnam and a tuk-tuk for another guest. In reality service here can be a little ponderous and you don’t get much impression here, of the enthralling Thai capital outside the door.

Nonetheless, the visually open and welcoming lobby – with handpainted Thai silk murals and silk ceiling frescoes – and its large outdoor pool are good places to escape Bangkok’s humidity. Plus if you are finally tired of Thai cuisine, there’s a good choice of on-site restaurants reflecting other culinary influences.