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Jimmymac
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Well, another notch on the "5*" bedpost. I put that in quotes because a 5* hotel is now a nebulous description. I say that because with so many options for higher level hotels in BKK there are also many interpretations of what constitutes a * level. This is not a 5 to me, but it's the nicest 4 I've been to.
Hansar makes it in ultra-cool design that is comfortable to inhabit. It's trendy "green" in it's choices of materials, thats good. It puts live plants throughout, including terrarium like "green walls" in the rooms. However, common space is frequently non AC, including the elevators (at least on this trip, so far).
The rooms, at least the Urban Suite, are very well done for surfaces and furnishings. interesting bathroom choice, only a glass wall for the WC. Now one of my distinguishing characteristics of a 5* is a separate WC, and having glass walls somewhat defeats (at least one of) the purpose. Bath/rain shower space is generous and well designed and finished.
The standout furnishing, and perhaps of the whole deal, is the bed. Way comfortable, the best duvet I've yet experienced. I'm not a duvet fan, but this is in another class.
The AC control in the room is maddening, cant get the damn thing to go up a few degrees, which leads me to appreciate the bed all the more.
Free minibar is quite limited in choices, but, HEY, it's "free". Two beers a day, any flavor you like so far as it's Chang or Singha. Speaking of choices, that's another characteristic of a 5* in my book, the choice of a morning newspaper. Every one Ive stayed at in BKK has either provided a IHT or gotten one on request after the first day. One of the earliest experiences I had that showed me what 5* is was when I returned 4 months later and the IHT was hanging on the knob the first morning, after a midnite checkin. It was one of the few IHT's hanging, so I went to thank the front and they told me "of course Mr.>>, that's your preference". Not here. Iwas told it wasnt available by front desk staff, and they couldn't get it. I didn't push it since I now travel with an iPad and read the NYT. Still, points off.
The fitness room is nice, but small, with few choices. Still spoiled by the club at JWM.
The breakfast buffett takes more of an ala carte approach, small table of choices wouldn't fill 1/20 th of the Sheraton or 1/10th of the JWM. But cooked to order for eggs, waffles, etc, and, without a doubt the best coffee I've had in BKK makes a positive difference. They bring a press pot of a dark roast arabica, 2 cup size, and replace as required. If you're a tea head they had some very nice glass pots with full leaf infusion.
The Eve restaurant is a near 1* Michelin. One of the better places in BKK, but be prepared for a 3000bht dinner bill. Hell, the rooms only 4800!!! I say that toungue in cheek, I'm used to paying this amount for this quality, in fact I'm going back tonight. Unfortunately the choices in wines by the glass are weak. But, the stemware is excellent, including for water. They were able to match the bowl with the wine, which is a minimum expectation. The wait staff is attentive and personable, without being intrusive. Well done Eve!
However, help is not 5* level at the front desk, and the concierge is in name only.
Okay, it's definitely GF. And so far they've both loved it...except for the glass walled toilet. Strange the way "shy" comes back.
I'm glad to be here, but looking forward to trying the St Regis perhaps next time out. Did a walk thru and got some rave reports, so it's on the list.
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Thai Girls : Meet Sexy Thai Girls
Posted on: 8:51 am on May 12, 2012
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