Waldorf Astoria Bangkok
At the bustling Ratchaprasong intersection and a short stroll from the iconic Erawan Shrine is Bangkok’s most exciting opening of 2018––Waldorf Astoria Bangkok. Managed by Hilton, the hotel marks the first Waldorf in Southeast Asia.
The property is located within the 60-storey Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard and is surrounded by shopping malls, and is close to both the BTS and subway lines. This will come in handy during peak hours when downtown roads are choked.
In line with the Waldorf brand aesthetic of understated luxury, all details are carefully considered. Elements of the New York flagship such as marble and brass feature are present in the form of stunning installations, countertops and vases. Renowned designer André Fu––who was tasked with the project––also uses Bangkok’s artisanal influences.
While a brand like Waldorf isn’t likely used for everyday meetings and large groups, facilities here are ideal for luxury brand events and product launches––especially for corporates that want to make a statement.
The 730-sqm Magnolia Ballroom has an 8m-high ceiling and a car-sized lift. There’s also a dramatic staircase leading to the ballroom, which will make for a memorable arrival experience. Besides that, eight other meeting rooms offer flexible configurations, natural daylight and garden views.
The Loft on level 56 is already a hit with its panoramic view of the glittering skyline. The Manhattan-inspired bar exudes Art Nouveau glamour, where vintage paint tools and tinted glass inkwells serve as props. The menu celebrates old-fashioned classic cocktails for up to 70 guests.
For fine dining, Front Room offers an innovative Thai-Nordic culinary experience, where local ingredients are combined with Nordic cooking techniques.
Rosewood Bangkok
Located in the CBD along Ploenchit Road, the soon-to-open Rosewood Bangkok will be part of the district’s luxury enclave encompassing several embassies and new residential towers, offices and upscale retail.
While luxurious design and finishing will still very much be mainstays in line with the Rosewood brand, this property will reference Thai heritage and customs. For instance, two connecting high-rise structures will create a form inspired by the hand movement of the wai ––the Thai gesture of greeting and welcome.
Meeting facilities will include The Pavilion, a residential-style function space seating 200 people, and the top-floor Sky Villa, which will offer panoramic city views.
Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit
As more business travellers prefer to stay in the trendy Sukhumvit area, Hyatt Regency’s opening is well-timed. The hotel offers easy access to the Nana and Asok BTS stations as well as several nearby shopping malls including Terminal 21––a popular airport-themed lifestyle mall.
For conferences and large meetings, the ballroom can host 850 guests and is supported by two flexible function rooms - all naturally lit. There’s also a stylish communal space with cluster seating.
The two-storey Spectrum Lounge––Rooftop––Events by Japanese design gurus Super Potato includes a venue for 80, terrace for 49, rooftop bar and more.
Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 4
Bangkok is not short on Novotel properties, but this new one sits in the Sukhumvit area, renowned for its modern restaurants, shopping malls, and nightlife––ideal for business travellers who want to stray from large tourist groups and opt for a more modern, cosmopolitan area.
To add, both the Nana and Ploenchit BTS Skytrain stations are within a five-minute walk, and it has close proximity to the expressway providing easy access to Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang international airports. Each room here has a city skyline, a 49” smart TV, a connectivity panel, and a range of business-friendly amenities.
Capella Bangkok
Opening this year, Capella Bangkok will sit along the Chao Phraya River alongside the city’s many other luxury properties. The hotel will also be a part of the Chao Phraya Estate, a US$1 billion waterfront development project comprising a Four Seasons Private Residences and the soon-to-open Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok.
To match Capella’s ‘urban resort’ brand, the hotel will promote villa-style living with 101 private suites and villas, each with a butler and unobstructed river views. Highlight features include a 700-sqm grand ballroom with river views and The Capella Living Room, an in-house piano bar that pairs speciality cocktails and desserts.
The hotel also managed to snag Mauro Colagreco, the chef behind France’s Mirazur, the third-best restaurant in the world according to San Pellegrino’s annual list. Colagreco’s signature restaurant will fuse traditional Italian and French Riviera recipes.