Check in to Anantara Siam Bangkok

Escape the buzz of Bangkok at this majestic hotel located in the heart of the city.

The hotel

A haven amid the bustle of the Thai capital, Anantara Siam Bangkok is a big hotel but it’s never impersonal, thanks to super-friendly staff. Prepare to be wowed by the opulent lobby (and try to guess the weekly flower bill).

The room

Premier Room 402, spacious at 42 square metres, has just had a refresh. The bed is a king, the décor reflects the hotel’s heritage (paintings representing traditional Thai life, gold drapes) and the bathroom is marble. In lieu of flowers, there’s a Siamese fighting fish swimming around (please don’t feed it) and a welcome bowl of fruit. But the room’s best feature is something you can take outside, too: the complimentary “handy phone” that offers free calls (local and international) in and outside the hotel plus internet access, a city guide to help you find the best haunts in town and a direct line to the concierge.

The lowdown

Location Central Bangkok, in the Ratchaprasong shopping and entertainment district.

Number of guestrooms 354.

Check in/out 3pm/noon.

Food and drink There are four restaurants – Thai favourite Spice Market, steakhouse Madison, an upmarket Italian restaurant called Biscotti, and Shintaro, which is Japanese – as well as afternoon tea served in the lobby. The outdoor bar, Aqua, attracts a “HiSo” (high-society) clientele from the city. Reserve a table and join them for a refreshing cocktail while ordering from any of the eateries.

Wellness The luxury spa is world-class and the signature Siam 2482 massage is highly recommended. There’s also an outdoor pool and an excellent 24-hour health club.

Business facilities A conference centre and various meeting rooms.

Minibar The usual combo of alcohol and chocolates. The jars of pearl barley or cashews and peanuts seasoned with tom yum herbs are a welcome touch.

Water in room Complimentary bottles of drinking water.

Room service A breakfast of muesli and toast was delivered in 20 minutes flat.

Pillow menu All the usuals, including hypo-allergenic, are on offer.

Bath A bit tired but it’s deep and has room for two.

Bathrobe A simple cotton waffle-weave robe.

Amenities House-branded.

The concierge test According to Soul Food Mahanakorn’s website, the first available booking for the hip restaurant was at 9.30pm. But the concierge secured a spot at 7.30pm.

The housekeeping test A pair of scissors was at the room less than four minutes after it was requested.

TV and movies Everything from CNN and BBC to Fox Premium Movies, Disney Channel and six sports options. Good selection of movies on demand, although you’ll pay about $25 for the privilege.

Wi-fi Fast and efficient. A basic package is included in the tariff but your free hotel smartphone has unlimited 4G.

Price From about $200 a night.

Ask for… A room on floor five and above, overlooking the golf course of the Royal Bangkok Sports Club.

Verdict A top location and a respite from Bangkok’s hustle.