One of my favorite grand hotels in Bangkok

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Written by Linda Hohnholz

The Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel is a truly grand hotel in the “City of Angels” called Bangkok.

The Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel is a truly grand hotel in the “City of Angels” called Bangkok.

May I add one important comment in the beginning of this article – eTN journalists receive a lot of offers for complimentary stays in hotels in return for writing a positive story. I always paid my way staying at the Dusit Thani hotel and booked simply on dusit.com. There was no incentive to write this “review” other than these are my true feeling about this grand property. I did not meet with a PR person, I was a regular full paying guest.

The hotel has an ideal location in Bangkok, not only if you like to experience the known and exciting night life on the famous Bangkok strip “Silom Road,” but also it easily connects to other locations via the SKY Train and MRT Subway.

Conveniently located adjacent to these two rapid transit stations, as well as the lush expanse of Lumpini Park, this luxury hotel is within close proximity to Bangkok’s major business, shopping, and entertainment districts.

Since opening in 1970, Dusit Thani Bangkok has become an icon of luxury in the heart of Thailand’s capital, delivering distinctive service featuring Thai artistry and graciousness.

The Royal family has used the facilities of this hotel, and so have head of states, movie stars, and many celebrities from around the globe.

I must have stayed at this hotel many dozens of times over the last 30 years, and every time I do, I once again get the feeling of another amazing experience.

Earlier this month and also last month I stayed at this hotel and witnessed the ongoing demonstrations just outside my hotel window on Silom Road, Rama IV Road, and Lumpini Park. The hotel made sure all rented rooms faced the back of the hotel so hotel guests would avoid hearing the noise associated with the demonstrations. Safety is always first for the Dusit Thani, and the hotel CEO, David Shackleton, yesterday posted a message on the dusit.com homepage informing about the recently-declared martial law in Thailand.

Several years ago, the hotel became under violent attack by Red Shirt protesters. In the midst of it all, the GM personally escorted hotel guests to safety at a nearby competing hotel. Safety at Dusit has always taken precedence over profit – and guests feel that they are part of the hotel’s extended family.

The hotel features elegant Thai decor and furnishings made of traditional materials, such as silk and teakwood. It’s well worth spending just a little more money and selecting the Executive Suite or even the truly royal Thai Heritage Suite.

Dusit Thani Bangkok is a 5-star luxury hotel which embodies the very essence of Thailand and blends it with modern conveniences, affording guests a truly singular experience. The well-appointed rooms and suites feature distinctive Thai elements and include furnishings made of traditional materials, immersing guests into the mystique of the “Land of Smiles.”

Internet access is always important to me, and web connections are fast at the Dusit Thani. You don’t have to crawl under a table to find outlets for your computer or mobile phone, and you can enjoy working at the pool using their wireless connection.

The Dusit is one of those hotels where I have never felt taken advantage of by hidden fees or any type of nickel-and-dime mentality.

I have tried all the restaurants in the hotel over the years, and the Mayflower, an award-winning Chinese restaurant remains one of my favorites. The hot and sour soup is the best I have ever tasted anywhere. The restaurant Benjarong provides a true great taste of Thailand, and the steaks at the Hamilton Steak House are among the best in Bangkok.

I never miss tea time in the lobby lounge – it is true class! The Dusit Gourmet is irresistible and although its delectable handmade chocolates are one degree short of Nirvana, it is a food destination I try to stay away out of respect for my weight.

Breakfast at the buffet is a real treat with an expansive international selection of dishes to choose from and more than you could possible expect, even from a 5-star hotel.

But, the absolute true treasure of this hotel is its staff.

One of the gym attendants started working for the hotel in the early 80s when I first started staying at the hotel. He is now a middle-aged balding man in tip-top shape who always remembers me by name. You have to check out the hotel’s Devarana Spa where guests may soothe their bodies and minds with signature treatments that fuse East and West treatments.

The uniformed bellmen are more than someone opening your hotel door or moving your luggage in and out of a taxi. They personify that personal touch that impeccable hotels provide for their guests. And the front desk staff is attentive to put it lightly. Every time you walk by the lobby, you will see them smiling and going out of their way to make any little difference they can to make your stay memorable. This detail is also very much visible by the maids who prepare your room. Over the years, many still remember me, even if I haven’t been there for a year or more.

The Dusit Thani will definitely be again on my future travel plans. For me, it is a mainstay and one of my favorite hotels in Bangkok.

About the author

Avatar of Linda Hohnholz

Linda Hohnholz

Editor in chief for eTurboNews based in the eTN HQ.

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