SO Sofitel Bangkok

An impressive, modernist tower designed by a renowned Thai architect, SO Sofitel Bangkok is a work of art in its own right; the interiors, created with Christian Lacroix, are similarly chic and stylish, oriented as they are around the themes of Water, Earth, Wood, Metal, and Fire. The ninth-floor lobby -- guests take an elevator from the ground floor upon arrival -- is filled with a stylized wood-themed decor and looks out over lush Lumpini Park. It also opens onto a scenic roof garden with loungers and other sitting areas. The lobby seating area also doubles as the Mixo lounge, which serves cocktails and other drinks and snacks throughout the day. All the hotel's common areas overlook the park and have a lively atmosphere, making the hotel a popular spot for groups and bachelor/bachelorette parties.

Set on a major street in central Bangkok, the SO Sofitel Bangkok overlooks lush Lumpini Park, giving it some of the best views in the city, and easy access to pleasant outdoor space not often found in this crowded capital. Sathorn Road, just out front, can be noisy, but rooms are high up enough to avoid street noise. The airport is less than a 30-minute drive away, and both subway and skytrain stops are within short walking distance, putting the rest of the city within easy reach. The hotel also offers free parking and bicycles to rent, so guests can explore the park on two wheels. Airport transfers can be arranged upon request for a fee.

Rooms at the SO Sofitel Bangkok are divided into rooms and suites, each with a Water, Earth, Wood, or Metal theme. Water, Wood, and Metal rooms feel sleek, understated, and minimalist, while the Earth decor is inspired by ancient Thai mythology, and its undulating blue walls lend a psychedelic effect. All rooms, though, are luxurious and modern, with flat-screen TVs and Apple TV entertainment systems, free minibars with local treats that are restocked daily, and large soaking tubs. Many rooms also overlook Lumpini Park. Suites have iPads and fitness kits for guests' use, and, along with So Club rooms, include access to the Club Signature lounge, which includes free breakfast, and drinks and snacks throughout the day. Bathrooms are spacious and modern, and come with bathrobes, walk-in rainfall showers, and Ytsara bath products. All rooms also have Illy espresso machines, floor-to-ceiling windows, signature MyBed beds, and free Wi-Fi.

As a concept hotel attached to a luxury chain, the SO Sofitel Bangkok is packed with features. The Wellness Center alone includes a full-service spa that combines Thai and French spa and cosmetology techniques, as well as a wood-floored gym with park views and a yoga studio (where classes are held) and an outdoor rooftop infinity pool with sunbeds, in-pool loungers, and, naturally, poolside drink and snack service. There are five places to eat in the hotel, including Mixo, the lobby lounge; Chocolab, a gourmet chocolate boutique that offers classes as well as plenty of sweet treats; the Water Club poolside bar; the main Red Oven restaurant, an international market-style restaurant serving fare from all over the world; and the acclaimed, rooftop Park Society restaurant and bar, with its exclusive Hi-So roof bar with secluded cabanas. Note that both Park Society and Red Oven can book up in advance, so reservations are recommended. The hotel also has meeting rooms, a small business center, and free Wi-Fi throughout. The Club Signature level and lounge include free breakfast, drinks, and snacks throughout the day, and a private meeting room.