Prime Hotel Central Station Bangkok

The perimeter of shops that ring the hotel's modern building don’t make it the most attractive from the outside, but the large, light-filled, white marble lobby makes a much better second impression. The hotel’s design embraces its proximity to Chinatown, from large Netsuke-inspired shelves holding decorative pottery to giant lantern-shaped lights dangling overhead. A small area is tucked off to the side of the lobby with natural wood floors, gray contemporary sofas, bamboo chairs, and views of Bangkok in the distance. The hotel’s Chyna Restaurant is a chic space with an elegant, Cantonese style; the outdoor wood terrace has an earthy feel, with a row of trees, simple wood and glass furniture, and excellent views of Wat Traimit, home of the Golden Buddha. Gler lounge, another outdoor terrace, is a sophisticated place to relax with a cocktail or sunbathe, with loungers set in a lengthy, ankle-deep wading pool. Station Cafe offers a more laid back, cafeteria-style vibe, with vaguely industrial-style gray and neutral furnishings. The on-site Cense by SPA Cenvaree has an airy, rustic quality with soothing blue walls and dark wood accents. Guests here range from couples and families to business travelers.

On a traffic-heavy roundabout across from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Train Station, the immediate area isn’t particularly scenic, but Chinatown’s narrow lanes and vibrant markets are only 15 minutes away from the hotel on foot. The dizzying colors of the Bangkok Flower Market and the historic Grand Palace are both 10 to 15 minutes away by tuk-tuk or taxi. Hua Lamphong Metro station is a few minutes' walk from the hotel, providing easy access to Chatuchak Weekend Market in about 30 minutes to one hour, or Bangkok’s biggest mall, Central World, in 25 minutes by connecting to the Skytrain. The metro also connects to the Airport Rail Link, reaching Suvarnabhumi Airport in one hour, a trip that takes 30-40 minutes by taxi.

The hotel’s contemporary Asian vibe permeates its guest rooms too, with a classic Chinese latticework motif repeated in bathroom lighting, doors, and in headboards or panels that flank the beds. Recessed maroon and black ceilings and long, hanging lanterns add dashes of visual drama to the light wood floors and furniture. All rooms have small flat-screen TVs, safes, mini-fridges with minibars upon request, individually controlled air-conditioning, and electric kettles with tea and coffee. Superior Rooms (the smallest options) can feel a bit cramped and stuffy since they do not have windows, and the two comfortable double beds take up a lot of space. Premium Rooms (a bit larger) get plenty of natural light and some have nice views of Bangkok, with king and twin beds (for four adults or two adults with two children) and comfortable, light gray banquettes with stylish throw pillows. Bathrooms have large vanities and circular sinks with contemporary fixtures, as well as walk-in showers, though the hotel does not provide any toiletries. We did notice a bit of dirty grout in some showers when we visited. 

The spa is a tranquil place to get a massage or herbal treatment and includes free teas and juices, as well as a sauna and steam room. The hotel also has a clean, bright fitness center with several cardio machines, and cable and free weights. Chyna Restaurant offers modern twists on Chinese classics, but while the space is extremely chic, the food is mediocre and plenty of more authentic (and less expensive) meals are available all over Bangkok. Station Cafe serves a great breakfast buffet with hot and cold options, and also serves western and Thai dishes for lunch and dinner. Breakfast is only included with some bookings, but is reasonably priced if added ahead of time. Gler lounge is a stylish place for drinks and light snacks in the tropical sun. Room service is available until late, Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, and laundry services can be arranged. The hotel has a small business center in the lobby area, as well as six attractive meeting and event rooms of varying size that can be booked with catering and/or audiovisual services.