Holiday Inn Bangkok

The lobby is tranquil and calm, decked out in a color scheme of golds and creams. The space is embellished with white rectangular columns, marble floors, and winking spot lights in the ceiling. The sitting area feels warm and cozy, thanks to the orange carpets and large, deep sofas which guests can sink into. There's a huge planter on the bar top with the fronds of a tropical plant sticking out of it, and the swiveling bar stools at the sleek black bar are decidedly modern. There's a pool table in one of the corners which adds to the communal feel. 

What really stands out is the restaurant, which has high ceilings that are supported by huge orange columns. Eastern artifacts, such as a vast array of kettles, are displayed on shelves. Buddhist statues loom over guests and add a touch of Zen to the ambiance. The cafe, however, feels a bit like a restaurant you'd find at an Ikea, with self-serve stations and cheaper-looking furniture. Overall, the property is a chic spot that attracts couples and business travelers in equal numbers with its upscale vibe and sexy rooms, complete with modern conveniences.

The hotel is perfectly placed between two metro stations that will take guests all over Bangkok in a matter of minutes. The Grand Palace with its glittering temples can be reached by bus in about 20 minutes. Khao San Road, which is popular with backpackers for its cheap souvenir stalls and bars, is a bit further away -- about 30 minutes on the bus.

However, if travelers want to shop, there are shopping malls -- such as Terminal 21, the Platinum Fashion Mall, and CentralWorld -- within walking distance. For foodies, a fantastic night market takes place each night at Sukhumvit Soi 38, which is a 20-minute bus ride from the hotel. Guests can tuck into a plethora of local delicacies, including mango sticky rice and pad thai.  Animal lovers can spend time at the Dusit Zoo, which takes about 30 minutes to reach via public transportation. Guests who are interested in knowing about the Chinese influence can make their way through Wat Traimit, the symbolic gate to Chinatown. The Erawin shrine is a must-see and is within walking distance of the hotel.

Soi Cowboy is perfect for young (and older) people looking for a good time as it's packed with Go-Go bars. It's a 20-minute stroll from the lobby door, and this makes for an interesting walk as it's along a street full of hawkers and beeping tuk tuks.

Rooms are tasteful; the classic decor includes white walls, glowing lamps, parquet wood floors, and wood furnishings, and all have well-stocked minibars and flat-screen TVs. A cushioned seat tucked between closets and below a mirror offers an added spot for getting ready. Bathrooms have towel warmers and shower/tub combinations. A pleasant design perk is that the bathrooms have slatted blinds which can be open or shut depending on the level of privacy you desire. 

Rooms have good working space which is important for business travelers -- and desks are large and have their own lamps. However, the lighting may be a bit too dim for some travelers. A pillow menu offers a solid array of hard and soft pillows. All the rooms are spotlessly clean and feature doubled glazed windows, which is imperative when you realize some rooms have views of the main road and the Sky train. Especially nice are the rooms for families, which have extra rooms with bunk beds that have cartoon bedding and bright color schemes that young children will appreciate. Two free bottles of mineral water are provided, but unfortunately Wi-Fi comes with a charge in all rooms.

The outdoor pool isn't overlooked and gets plenty of sunshine all year round. It's a pleasant space surrounded by the fronds of tropical plants and even has a mini waterfall. There are plenty of sun loungers and parasols. The gym is well-stocked, but does feel a little sterile with its severe bright lighting and subterranean location in the basement. An on-site spa offers traditional Thai massages as well as rejuvenating spa treatments.