Bangkok should be a place on everyone’s travel list. It’s a manic city, where hedonism and grittiness are balanced by traditional beauty, pockets of spiritual sereneness and smiling faces. Mostly popular with backpackers and curious tourist it’s a city which requires it to be experienced rather than than seen. Many travellers opt for budget hotels but like in many Asian countries, Bangkok’s top-end luxury hotels are exceptional. Here are four Bangkok hotels ranging from the traditional to the ultra modern which we think you’ll won’t regret blowing the budget on:-

Le Meridien Bangkok

A sleek and towering oasis of calm in one of Bangkok’s liveliest areas it’s no surprise this hotel tops many prestigious hotel hot lists. The much lauded décor is ultra contemporary and the designers have made liberal use of glass, marble and wood. All rooms come equipped with state-of-the-art amenities including an ergonomic work chair, touch-screen IP phone, rain shower and for those that fancy a more interesting slumber there is even an option to stay in a room with a circular bed.

The dining is equally as impressive and the Le Meridien culinary experience consists of top chefs creating dishes live to order and wandering waiters presenting signature dish samples to the lucky guests. Good job the hotel has a pretty cool gym too. Prices range from ($109-$205)

Peninsula Bangkok

Another one of Bangkok’s sky-rise beauties the Peninsula, located on the banks of the Chao Phraya, is an award winning five star hotel strategically designed to ensure every room has a panoramic river view. With only twelve sumptuously decorated rooms on every floor, peace and comfort are not a problem here. All the rooms are decorated in a classy colonial style with a modern twist and contain state of the art electronic delights such as mood lighting, electronic curtains and a sophisticated bedside control panel. Those with even deeper pockets might want to book a room with a personal outdoor jacuzzi…

The choices of dining range from riverside alfresco to world class fine dining and other impressive facilities include a three tiered swimming pool and modern gym. Need a little pampering? The largest spa in Bangkok will surely oblige. The Peninsula’s health and spa centre also offers a whole host of therapies including an innovative all encompassing wellness programme focusing on everything from nutritional cleansing to treatments that purify the mind. Prices range from ($182-$361)

Mandarin Oriental

With 130 years of catering for distinguished guests it’s no wonder the legendary Mandarin Oriental is getting it so right. Within the restored 19th century and more modern walls, historical colonial inspired luxury awaits and it’s easy to see why this five hotel has had a long list of celebrity guests including mega A-listers such as Elizabeth Taylor and the late Audrey Hepburn.

It’s reputation for unrivalled service is well deserved – the hotel has an exceptional concierge and on every floor is personal butler waiting to cater to your every whim. Other unique features include poolside private cabanas, the hotel’s very own Thai cooking school and a fine array of internationally acclaimed eateries. Guests also travel for miles to unwind in the world famous teakwood house spa and Ayruvedic Penthouse. Prices range from $324-$477

Siam@Siam Design Hotel & Spa

Colonial style not your thing? Then try the eclectically designed Siam Design hotel. This smart and luxurious hotel is strategically located in the heart of Bangkok’s commercial district and right on the doorstep of the ubiquitous sky train. Service, relaxation and a sensual moody atmosphere are the priority here and unsurprisingly the hotel attracts a young, hip and trendy crowd.

The rooms are contemporary, large and artistically designed with a sleek and stylish finish and Siam turns up the cool factor with it’s dining experience with a 24 hour restaurant going by the name of ‘Siam Party House’. Other impressive amenities include a handmade cigar and fine wine kiosk and a sun terrace and infinity pool offering great views of the city. Health fanatics will also lap up the state of the art gym, shape-up playground and refreshment juice bar. Prices range from $138-$167

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