The Residence on Thonglor by UHG

The Residence on Thonglor makes a fashionable first impression: Guests are greeted by a chic lobby adorned with a gleaming black-marble desk, mid-century-style chairs, and thoughtfully placed purple orchids. Its a space that hints at the guest rooms beyond, which are equally stylish and simple. But common areas, while compact, have plenty of appeal, and beyond the lobby, a pool, meeting room, library, restaurant, and other spots give more space to spread out. Like many hotels in Bangkok, rooftop views are a focal point, with the pool and putting green offering sweeping city vistas.Given that it's location is slightly removed from Bangkok’s main attractions, The Residence tends to be most popular with long-stay travelers. As a result, the vibe here feels more akin to a posh residential building than a hotel; but you’ll see business travelers, couples, and families here too for shorter stints, with both daily and monthly rates available.

The Residence is located in Thonglor, one of the city’s most popular expat communities. There are ample dining options within walking distance here, including some excellent Japanese restaurants fueled by the neighborhood’s sizable Japanese community. There’s a 7-11 across the street, and a Tops supermarket a 15-minute walk away, both helpful for stocking kitchenettes in rooms. The drawback is that the streets in this area see heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour, so it can be tough for guest with rental cars or those trying to hail a taxi.  While the area around the hotel is great for dining, it’s far from top attractions like the Grand Palace, which is around 30 minutes away by car (or over an hour by public transit). The hotel provides free shuttles to the nearest Skytrain stop, Thong Lo, but service hours are limited. Suvarnabhumi Airport is about 20 minutes away by car, while Don Mueang Airport can be reached in about a 30-minute drive.

Decorated with light-wood furniture and elegant neutral textiles, guest rooms at the Residence on Thonglor have a bright, fresh aesthetic. Crisp white linens and colorful accent pillows top the beds, while walls feature a few artsy photos of Thai temples. Free Wi-Fi, wall-mounted AC units, and 40-inch LED TVs are standard. Long work desks with ergonomic chairs face toward windows overlooking city views. Layouts vary according to the room category: In Studios, sofas and two-person dining tables help to split up the bedroom from the kitchenette area, while one-bedroom units have separate living and dining areas. Kitchenettes are well-stocked with fridges, two-burner stove tops, cookware, and a comprehensive set of appliances that includes washing machines, toasters, and microwaves -- a boon for families or long-stay guests. The lovely bathrooms have updated fixtures and large glass-wall showers, each of which includes a walk-in shower area and a separate tub that’s deep enough for soaking. Some have peek-a-boo windows into the bedroom, although curtains can be lowered for privacy. Toiletries are particularly luxe showcasing the hotel’s own brand of natural bath products made from local lemongrass plus toothbrushes and toothpaste.But there are some downsides to note: Only some rooms have balconies, and they're tiny. Also many rooms overlook Camillian Hospital, which means ambulance noise can be an issue -- particularly at night. Light sleepers should book accordingly.

Although this property has a more residential vibe, it also offers the variety of features travelers would expect from an upper-middle-range hotel -- plus a few surprising extras. The rooftop pool isn’t particularly large, but its infinity edge overlooking the Bangkok skyline makes a dramatic impression. This level also features an enclosed, men-only onsen pool and sauna, in addition to an 18-hole virtual golf course and a small putting green overlooking more cityscape vistas.There’s a little, well-kept fitness center with floor-to-ceiling windows offering scenic high-rise views. A cheerful restaurant/cafe serves breakfast (expect to pay extra), lunch, and dinner, along with room service. The property's large library is a sunken, lounge-like space found just off the lobby. It includes comfy sofas and borrowable paperback books, in addition to a workspace with a PC. The sunny meeting room reflects the same chic, contemporary look of other public spaces with wide windows along one wall and handsome wood accents. Other features include a 24-hour front desk, some concierge services, and laundry service offered. The hotel provides free shuttle service to the Thong Lo Skytrain stop, saving guests a 25-minute walk. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout and there’s a free sheltered parking lot on site.