Mayfair, Bangkok - Marriott Executive Apartments

The Mayfair, Bangkok has no definitive theme but feels big and upscale, even if the decor here can sometimes verge on dated. When guests arrive, they're greeted in a long, open, Art Deco-inspired lobby with black marble walls and gold chandeliers. This motif isn't repeated throughout the hotel, but all of the common areas have their own pleasant atmosphere. Bistro M is a homey cafe-style restaurant with cheerful art on the walls, warm lighting, and shelves full of colorful knick knacks, books, and magazines. Adjacent to the rooftop infinity pool is small and casual, open-air Bar M. Given its posh location, it's no surprise that the hotel does have an exclusive air to it, and many guests are drawn by the recognizable name brand. The hotel attracts all kinds of travelers, especially families who want the space and kid-friendly amenities, as well as people who are relocating to Bangkok and want a temporary serviced apartment while they get situated.

The Mayfair, Bangkok is situated in a small area called Soi Lagsuan within the Ploenchit/Chitlom neighborhood that's known for it’s posh malls and restaurants. Lumphini Park -- the city's most famous -- is a 10-minute walk away, as is the Chit Lom Skytrain stop. There are plenty of massive malls along Chitlom and Ploenchit Roads, and the malls around Siam are only one stop away on the skytrain. It's also just two stops on the skytrain to the wild nightlife around the Soi Nana area. The historical sights like Wat Pho and the Grand Palace in Rattanakosin are 20 to 40 minutes away by taxi, depending on traffic. Chatuchak Market will take about 45 minutes to reach by skytrain. Budget at least an hour to reach either of Bangkok's airports, as traffic is nearly at gridlock during much of the day.

As its name suggests, rooms at this Marriott iteration are really apartments, both spacious and stocked with all the amenities one would need to feel at home. Decor is sparse and could use some updating, with mostly wooden furniture and white linens, and muddy colored carpets and curtains. But the quality is good, with designer upholstered sofas by Jim Thompson and mattresses by Dream Master. Kitchens in all of the apartments are fully stocked with cookware, plates, and utensils, and all rooms come equipped with digital music players, work desks, air-conditioning, multiple LCD TVs, and minibars. Apartments are all relatively spacious, with a superior starting 54 square meters (581 square feet) and the largest Three-Bedroom Superior goes up to 130 square meters (1,399 square feet). Not all rooms have views, and some actually face neighboring buildings, so if decent sunlight and a city view are a priority a request should be made upon booking. The bathrooms are clean and modern with brown and grey tiles plus a bit of marble. A magnifying mirror, hairdryer, toiletries are nice add-ons and most -- though not all -- have a bathtub and separate shower. Rooms have access to the Wi-Fi, which is free for Marriott Rewards members (a free program to join). 

The Mayfair has plenty of features that put it on par with other upscale properties nearby. The saltwater infinity pool -- 25 meters in length, and suitable for swimming laps -- is an obvious highlight. A separate whirlpool is in the same space, which feels like a little oasis filled with plants and a friendly elephant statue. There isn’t much in the way of sunbathing, as there are only a few lounge chairs and the area is partially covered, but there is a bar on the roof too. A large, bright fitness center with carpeted floors, plenty of mirrors, and large windows, has a decent selection of workout machines. Thada Heritage Spa is decorated in traditional Thai style and offers massages and a sauna. Guests can choose to eat at homey-looking Bistro M, a cafe-style restaurant with an “international” menu, where the extensive breakfast buffet is served, with both hot and cold selections and a made to order egg station. Bistro M serves lunch and dinner too. A variety of family features are a draw for those with kids -- a kids' club, kids’ menu at the restaurant, kids' pool, and cribs. Other comforts like laundry service, grocery delivery service, free overnight shoe shine, free daily newspaper, and a check-in drink all come together to give this hotel its upscale polish. It’s worth noting that there is a fee for Wi-Fi for guests who are not Marriott Reward members, although this is easy to sign up for at check-in.