I recently stayed for a few nights at The Athenee Hotel – The Luxury Collection in Bangkok with high expectations as this hotel was recommended to me by multiple friends and colleagues. When you first walk in you are wowed by the grand entrance. Overall the hotel was very nice and the lounge was pretty impressive. There is a dress code in the lounge so please be aware in case you are coming from a beach vacation like I was. We had some issues with a select staff member however the Manager was very apologetic and went above and beyond anything I would have expected (including dinner and a hand written note of an apology). The one restaurant we tried was very good. The location is alright and in the middle of most things within Bangkok. Below is additional insight into my experiences there.
TTST Recommendation – Yes
SPG Recognition:
- Room Upgrade – yes to a Jr. Corner Suite
- Late Checkout – yes
- Welcome Gift – yes, chose points since buffet breakfast at their restaurant was included
- Lounge Access – yes
- Other
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- Separate check-in/out on the 26th floor (lounge floor)
The good:
- Lounge – very large, includes afternoon tie, cocktail hour and all day refreshments. The cocktail hour runs for 4 hours!
- Restaurant – Smooth Curry (Thai) was excellent and authentic. It was a very good experience and they have excellent cocktails
- Breakfast – Buffet is at the Rain Tree Cafe and they have lots of cuisines including Thai, Western, Chinese and Indian
- Room – was very nice and had all the amenities that one would expect
The not so good:
- Service was ok, some staff were outright rude
- A lot of taxis do not know the hotel, I believe this is because of the name change from Le Meridien
Hotel Website: http://www.theatheneehotel.com/
