We have stayed at many luxurious hotels and resorts all over the world, but Hansar impressed us on a whole new arena. It is hard to say just why, but everything about Hansar feels so right.

Hansar may not be the most accessible, neither does it have a superb location, but for the price you pay to luxuriate, it sure is worth it. Situated at the Ratchadamri area, just farther up from St. Regis and Four Seasons Hotel, it is not your typical commercial hotel where everything feels posh, but one-dimensional.

We’d never forget how welcoming that place is. The lobby is perfumed with the scent of fresh white lilies, and it is a piece of serenity amidst the scurry Bangkok; the calmness instantly soothes the nerves.

We have, also, stayed at many shabby and more-than-mediocre properties all over the world – Bangkok, especially – so a stay at Hansar gave us a fresh perspective of the city, and was one so relaxing and comforting that we found it hard to peel ourselves off the bed, to pack up and to say goodbye.

Hansar is contemporary and spacious, furnished with Jim Thompson silk fabrics, and with silk wall coverings. The use of mirrors is brilliant, creating the illusion of larger spaces and corners. We stayed at the Edge, that comes with a separate living room and bedroom, and a huge toilet complete with double sinks, a bath tub and rainforest shower. An oversized work desk and a day bed also sit within the living room.

We had planned for our trip to be more packed with activities, but the first day we checked in and plopped onto the bed, those activities did not happen. Instead, we went into a deep slumber. Hansar, what did you do to your bed, really?

Everything in the mini bar is free-of-charge, and there is a nightly turn-down service too. Need to take a dip or do some yoga? Hop over to the 8th floor where you get to breathe in some fresh air, and to enjoy a tranquil afternoon.

It is without a doubt that Hansar is one hotel we will return to the next time we find ourselves in Bangkok.

Hansar Hotel Bangkok
250 Mahadlekluang Ratchadamri Road
Soi Mahatlek Luang 2, Lumphini
Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330

Planning to visit Bangkok but clueless on where to stay? Fret not, because options are aplenty. And we have narrowed down 13 Bangkok Hotels that costs no more than S$120 a night.

These credible hotels do not compromise on comfort, and make a great retreat without burning a hole in your pockets. We understand the various factors that determine one’s accommodation, hence we have done some evaluation for each hotel’s facilities and location. Regardless of whether you are in Bangkok for a food tour or shopping spree, one of these hotels may just be the right place for you.

Traveling need not be a costly experience. Read on more to discover these 13 Splendid Bangkok Hotels That You Can Stay At For Under S$120 Per Night.

#1 AMARI WATERGATE HOTEL

Amari Watergate Hotel is located in the heart of Bangkok’s shopping precinct and is great for those with shopping as their main agenda. Pratunum Market, Platinum Shopping Mall and Bangkok’s largest shopping centre Central World can be reached within a 3-minute walk. If you are tired of shopping, retreat into the 5-star hotel to enjoy the opulent comfort of your stylish and commodious rooms.

Rates start from S$113 per night.

847 Petchburi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
Tel. +66 2 653 9000

#2 ARNOMA GRAND

4-star Arnoma Grand Hotel’s optimum location in the Pathumwan District will allow you to shop till you drop. Chidlom Skytrain Station is within a 5-minutes walk. Many shopping complexes are actually reachable within walking distance via the sky bridge that links all the largest malls together.

Rates start from S$88 per night.

99 Ratchadamri Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Tel: +66 2 655 5555

Source: The Ascott

#3 ASCOTT SATHORN BANGKOK

Located in the business district of Bangkok, Ascott Sathorn Bangkok is a lavish serviced apartment with extremely spacious and luxurious units. In-house guests get to enjoy complimentary daily breakfast, premium fitness services and free wifi.

Each en-suite bathroom is equipped with an inviting bathtub and walk-in shower area. With a dining area and kitchenette in all apartments, you can even whip up home-cooked dishes! The nearest train station is a 10-minute stroll, and it allows you to explore Bangkok conveniently.

Rates start from S$100 per night.

187 South Sathorn Road, Yannawa Sathorn, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
Tel: +66 2 676 6868

Source: Aloft Bangkok

#4 ALOFT BANGKOK SUKHUMVIT 11

Aloft Bangok Sukhumvit 11 is a beautiful contemporary hotel that the younger crowd will resonate well with. Dining, retail and nightlife destinations are a stone’s throw away and its easy accessibility includes public transportation too.

Nana BTS Sky Train is only a 5-minute walk away from the chic hotel. Free wifi is available throughout the entire hotel, and an in-house 24/7 eatery will be there for you when hunger strikes at unearthly hours.

Rates start from S$100 per night.

35 Sukhumvit Soi, 11 Sukhumvit Rd, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
Tel: +66 2 207 7000

Source: Casa Nithra

#5 CASA NITHRA BANGKOK

Casa Nithra Bangkok is a gorgeous 4-star hotel that can be found 10 minutes away from the hectic Khao San Road. Famous landmarks such as The Grand Palace, National Museum and Museum Siam are also accessible by foot. Guests get to dip in the rooftop pool and enjoy free wifi in their hotel rooms. A complimentary shuttle is also available for hotel guests who wish to explore nearby tourist attractions.

Rates start from S$85 per night.

176 Samsen Road, Phra Nakorn, 10200 Bangkok, Thailand
Tel: +66 2 628 6228

Source: Chathrium Hotel

#6 CHATRIUM HOTEL RIVERSIDE BANGKOK

5-star Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok is right beside Chao Phraya River, offering hotel guests stunning views through day and night. The brand boasts numerous awards, with recent titles including best value-for-money accommodation. Guests are well taken care of with complimentary wifi and free shuttle boat services to Sathon Pier and Saphan Taksin Train Station.

Rates start from S$100 per night.

28 Charoenkrung Soi 70, Bangkholame, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
Tel: +66 2 307 8888

Source: GLOW Pratunam Hotel

#7 GLOW PRATUNAM HOTEL

Glow Pratunum Hotel’s strategic location in Bangkok’s shopping hub is ideal for all your shopping activities. Stay connected to work with the hotel’s complimentary unlimited wifi and work out during the wee hours with their 24 hours gym amenities.

Rates start from S$113 per night.

919 Petchburi Road, Kwang Thanon Phayathai, Rajdhevi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
Tel: +66 2 257 3999

#8 NOVOTEL BANGKOK ON SIAM SQUARE HOTEL

Situated within the heart of Siam Square, Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square Hotel has a 5-star location. The hotel may be slightly old, but it more than makes up for it with its superb location. Chang Foot Massage and Lek Massage – our go-to places for cheap Thai massage in Bangkok – are just next to the hotel.

Inter Restaurant, our all-time favourite Thai restaurant in Bangkok – is just a 2-minute walk away. Cross the road and you will find yourself at Siam Paragon and Siam Center.

Rates start from S$115 per night.

392/44 Siam Square Soi 6, Rama I Road Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, THAILAND
Tel: +66 2 209 8888

#9 SIAM @ SIAM DESIGN HOTEL BANGKOK

Centrally located, Siam@Siam Design Hotel is perfect for those who wish to be in the city centre. You can relax in your room with satellite & cable tv, free wifi or enjoy a swim in the beautiful pool. Siam is just a 5-minute ride away by cab.

Rates start from S$100 per night.

865 Rama 1 Road, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Tel: +66 2 217 3000

Source: Swissotel

#10 SWISSOTEL NAI LERT PARK

Swissotel Nai Lert Park Bangkok is a serene sanctuary amidst the chaotic city. Designed by famous architect Calvin Tsao, this 5-star hotel resembles a tropical resort with its lush greenery and inviting pool. Each guest room features a private balcony and in-room free wifi.

Rates start from S$100 per night.

2 Wireless Rd, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Tel: +66 2 253 0123

Source: The Dawin

#11 THE DAWIN NANA

Recommended on Trip Advisor, The Dawin Nana Hotel has received a Certificate of Excellence for its great location, superb staff service and clean interiors. Guests get to enjoy free wifi throughout the entire hotel, salt-water swimming pool and also a fantastic location. Located along Sukhumivit Road, the hotel is only a few minutes away from Nana BTS Train Station.

Rates start from S$75 per night.

35/1-2 Sukhumvit Road, Soi Nanatai (4), Khlong Toei, 10110 Bangkok, Thailand
Tel: +66 2 253 5555

Source: Urbana Hospitality

#12 URBANA SATHORN

5-star Urbana Sathorn Hotel is about 10 to 15 minutes away from the nearest sky train station. Located in the heart of Bangkok’s city centre, Urbana Sathorn is of close proximity to many amazing dining destinations.

Rates start from S$95 per night.

55 S Sathorn Rd, Thung Maha Mek, Sathon, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
Tel: +66 2 227 9999

Source: Waterford Diamond Tower

#13 WATERFORD DIAMOND TOWER

Waterford Diamond Tower Hotel is a 5-minute walk away from Prompong BTS Skytrain Station. Shopaholics can rejoice because Emporium Shopping Centre and and the spanking new EmQuartier are also just a 5-minute stroll away! Be sure to go to Karmakamet Diner for a meal.

If you are in need of a good massage, Asia Herb Association offers a complete spa experience without the exorbitant price tag that you would usually associate with a luxury spa.

Rates start from S$40 per night.

Sukhumvit Soi 30/1, Bangkok, 10110, Thailand
Tel: +66 2 661 4777

Disclaimer: Prices are based on average approximation and are subjected to fluctuation through different seasons.

Bangkok is one of the cities that Melody and I go to regularly. The combination of lip-smacking good Thai food, awesome and cheap massages, and crazy shopping makes it the perfect spot for a weekend getaway from Singapore.

Our usual neighbourhood when in Bangkok is the Pratunam area – where everything we need is readily available without having to travel far out. However, during a trip earlier this year, we decided to stay at Pullman Bangkok Hotel G in Silom.

After staying at Pullman London St. Pancras, we are converts and have become fans of the brand. Think of it as a more affordable version of upmarket brands like W Hotels or Sofitel So. Yet, it is no less swanky and mesmerising.

What attracted us to the hotel is the all-white design. The room is minimalistic and clean, while the hotel lobby and lounge are swanky and fun with a touch of the Pullman magic – you will know when you step into any one of their properties.

While the location may not be as ideal as hotels that are located in Siam or Platinum, it is still fairly close and accessible. To get to Siam, take a 1-minute cab ride (or for the diligent, walk) to the Chong Nongsi BTS, and from there, it is but a three-station ride away from the ever popular Siam district. During good traffic conditions, the traveling time is around 20 to 25 minutes.

There are plenty of places to explore around the hotel area. Rocket Coffee Bar, one of our favourite cafes in Bangkok, is about a 10-minute walk away. For those of you who love Thai massage, cross the road and you will find Chang Massage, which is also one of the more reliable massage parlours in Bangkok. If you like burgers, you should check out 25 Degrees – a popular burger joint from the states – which is a tenant at the ground floor of the hotel.

When visiting Bangkok, whether you are there for leisure or work, Pullman Bangkok Hotel G is a lovely place to retreat to. And when you are back at the property, do not forget to pick up a bread or two from the in-house pastry team. There will always be an impressive display of their baked goodies at the lobby, and oh, free smells!

Pullman Bangkok Hotel G
188 Silom Road, Bang Rak, Bangkok
Tel: +66 2 238 1991
Nearest BTS: Chong Nonsi

Folks, sorry for the delay. The winner of my Sofitel So Bangkok Giveaway is Verraine. I will be having more upcoming giveaways, thank you for the support.

During my second trip to Bangkok in September, I stayed at Sofitel So Bangkok and it took my breath away. The hotel is chic, playful and bold – it has a character which will make you fall in love with it.

if you are planning a trip to Bangkok, I’d highly recommend Sofitel So Bangkok for a truly memorable stay. To me, it is definitely one of the best hotels in Bangkok.

P.S. I am giving away two nights stay at Sofitel So Bangkok for one lucky winner. Read on to find out how you can win the hotel stay.

After arriving at Sofitel So Bangkok, we were ushered to the lobby, and the check-in process was a breeze. Instead of waiting in line at the reception counter, we completed the procedure at the bar where we were welcomed with a nice drink, and the staff did the check-in for us using a tablet.

This is what makes Sofitel So Bangkok different from the other hotels. They only have one goal, and that is to make sure that you enjoy yourself and have fun. Throughout our stay there, we noticed that the staff are all chirpy and genuinely interested in engaging the hotel guests.

With a view overlooking Lumpini park, Sofitel So Bangkok doesn’t have to do much. But the view is not the only reason why you should stay there. The hotel has four element themes – Metal, Earth, Water and Wood – with each offering a different experience.

The ‘Metal’ theme is hugely popular with young couples, and with its minimalist white interior, it is not difficult to see why.

The ‘Wood’ theme, on the other hand, has wooden furnishings and it exudes a zen-like appeal.

Inspired by the mountainous region in North-Eastern Thailand, the ‘Earth’ theme is another room that I loved.

They have recently just started the ‘Water’ theme rooms in October, and among the four different themes, it is the only one that comes with a gorgeous bathtub facing Lumpini Park.

The best thing about Sofitel So Bangkok is that you can request to stay in different rooms (subject to availability) if you are there for a few nights.

Besides the beautiful rooms, Sofitel So Bangkok also has a stunning infinity pool, 24 hours gym, luxurious spa, and several excellent dining establishments.

To start the day well, head to club lounge for a hearty breakfast.

For buffet, Red Oven provides a scrumptious international spread with live cooking stations.

Park Society is a chic and sophisticated restaurant where you’d bring a hot date for a nice dinner. The food, while not out-of-this-world, is competent. From the entrée menu, you have appetisers like pan seared foie gras (B750), steamed mussels in white wine (B950), and pan seared hokkaido scallops (B950).

For main course, there are choices like slow cooked pork belly (B1800), pan roasted turbot (B2,600) and roasted wagyu tenderloin (B2,900), And under the ‘happy ending’ dessert section, the white chocolate mousse cake (B350) is an excellent choice. You will also be tempted by the chocolate lava cake (B350) and the So berry souffle (B350). I ordered everything and it was indeed, a happy ending.

Even if you are not staying at Sofitel So Bangkok, I’d suggest going to the bar at Park Society for drinks. At just B350 for a cocktail, it is money well spent for the view.

Chocolate lovers will be happy to see the Chocolab. Truffle, chocolate cakes, and desserts – you name it, they have it. When I was there, it felt as though I was Charlie in the chocolate factory.

All in all, I had a fabulous stay at Sofitel So Bangkok. While I also had a good experience at Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit, I very much prefer Sofitel So Bangkok as it allows me to stay in a different themed rooms every night. And now, here’s a chance for you to stay there too!

How to enter Sofitel So Bangkok Giveaway

1. One winner will get a complimentary two nights stay in So Cosy room (valid till 12th Feb 2013) inclusive of buffet breakfast for two.

2. Leave a comment and tell us why you want to stay in Sofitel So Bangkok.

3. A random generator will be used, everyone has an equal chance of winning.

4. This is open to everyone worldwide, do share it with your friends on facebook and twitter.

5. For an additional chance of winning, please ‘like’ my facebook page.

6. Giveaway ends on 8 Nov 2012 Thursday 2359. Winners will be notified by email.

// The winners of the giveaway are #345 and #495. I have another upcoming hotel giveaway, do look out for it!

Bangkok is a city of contrasts: the chaos and traffic jams can drive you mad, but at the same time, you can find peace and solace in the beautiful temples and spa treatments.

Apart from crazy shopping, wonderful street food and relaxing massages, one of my favourite things about Bangkok is the abundance of beautiful hotels.

During my first trip to Bangkok last month, I stayed in Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit (189 Sukhumvit Road Soi 13-15  Klongtoey Nua Wattana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand Tel: 02 126 9999), and it was a memorable experience. Luxurious, elegant, modern, it is the perfect place from which to explore the city.

P.S. I am giving away two nights stay at Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit for two lucky winners. Read on to find out how you can win the hotel stay.

Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit is located on Sukhumvit Road in Central Bangkok, and you can easily reach the city’s shopping area like Central World, Siam, Emporium via the BTS Skytrain (the best way to beat the maddening traffic).

Upon stepping inside Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit, I texted my travelling companions – Velda and Viola who arrived on an earlier flight – “I don’t think I will be leaving the hotel, it is so awesome!”

The hotel has 345 guestrooms and suites which include 233 luxury rooms, 75 luxury club millesime rooms and 32 prestige suites. We were very lucky to have the luxury club millesime rooms during our stay in Bangkok.

Just past the door, you arrive in a living room which has a lush and comfy sofa. I loved that the beautifully designed bathroom, but what really called out to me was the bedroom – I could stay in bed all day long.

Besides providing the basic amenities, the luxury club millesime rooms also offer a Bose home theatre sound systems, and an in-room Espresso machine, to name but a few. Not that we managed to use all the facilities, but still, it is nice to know that they are available.

I am usually not very hardworking in the morning, but there was no way I could resist the lure of the gorgeous pool.

Most people probably would not associate Bangkok with fine dining French cuisine – after all, the street food is amazing – but if you are looking to celebrate a special occasion, do check out L’Appart, which serves French food with Thai influence.

When you dine at L’Appart, it feels like as though you are in a Parisian apartment. You can either choose to dine in the main dining room which is essentially furnished as a library; at the chef’s table where you get to see the action; or at the open terrace which gives you a spectacular view of Bangkok’s skyline.

The menu is divided into two parts: Chef Jeremy inspiration from the market, a menu which features the freshest ingredients (changes fortnightly); and L’Appart signature dishes. From the tapas menu, I started with a pan fried foie gras (B250), which was nicely paired with a mango confit chutney. This was followed by a salmon tartar, and a saffron tempura lobster black ink risotto (B2000) which tasted as good as it looked. Desserts (B280 each) like the lemon meringue tart, green tea opera, and oreo cheesecake ended the meal on a sweet note.

If you are craving for something sweet, you must visit Le Macaron – a patisserie that features an array of pastries, desserts and savoury items. Think hand-made chocolates, bread and macarons.

Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit is without a doubt, one of the best hotels in Bangkok for business travellers and those who want to indulge in a five star hotel experience. If you are looking for a place to stay in Bangkok, I’d highly recommend it. However, if you prefer something that is more fun and hip, you should check out Sofitel So Bangkok (where I stayed during my second trip to Bangkok last month). I will share more on that in another post.

And now for the giveaway that you guys have been waiting for.

How to enter Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit Giveaway

1. Two winners will get a complimentary two nights stay in a luxury room (valid till 14th Feb 2013) inclusive of buffet breakfast.

2. Leave a comment and tell us: “What you love about Bangkok, and why you want to stay in Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit.”

3. A random generator will be used, everyone has an equal chance of winning.

4. This is open to everyone worldwide, do share it with your friends on facebook and twitter.

5. For an additional chance of winning, please ‘like’ my facebook page.

6. Giveaway ends on 26th Sep 2012 Wednesday 2359. Winners will be notified by email.