Bangkok Hotels

[Hiete]

Well each to their own. However let's get realistic here. Column is miles higher than both Mermaid and AP, for standard and class, also for height, and probably the price. LOL I can't say I noticed how old or modern the furniture was. It is 500 m walk from Soi Cowboy (Asoke end) although have to cross Sukhumvit at the lights or use overpass. About same distance to AP maybe very slightly more. Mermaid is 650 m away. So there is no way that Column is far.

If want to go to Snow White, it may be a little too far to walk (1.7km) from Column or AP, about the same. Mermaid is definitely a lot closer (only 1 km). I would take motorcycle from Column through back Sois since taxi would be slower than walking. Motorcycle would still take at least 10 mins I guess. Would walk if not too hot.

If you want cheaper value for money, then Mermaid is the go. If you want high class, then choose Column (at higher price), whether you need pool or breakfast or not. AP used to be great value for money but I suspect not so special any more. Does have a good refridgerator and mini kitchen though.

I have been looking for good priced quality Japanese since my old favourite closed so I will give Masu Maki a go. I hope they do not have crab / seafood stick. LOL I see on internet pics they do (but luckily on not many dishes). I want the "real" Japanese food. The artistry of the pics and "sweet" looking brown sauce splooged on the plates is a slight concern to me. Sauces should be separate (and optional). I trust it is full of Japanese customers but fun and not stodgy place? I probably have to request no sweet sauce put directly on the sushi or other dishes. Not into sweet sauces at all.

I have the impression that you're even more pick about food than women! LOL.

The place is very tiny, not that Japanese looking and I would go there only for lunch mostly due to the fact that I'm going to MP's during that time of the day. I think that for the price you pay there you can't expect too much. As for myself I'm more of a nigiri fan but I'm most definitely not a connoisseur. The maki attracted me and I wasn't disappointed.

If you're more into finer kind of dining then you might give Sushi Masato a go in the neighbourhood of Sukhumvit Soi 31. Rather hard to find as you can't tell it's a restaurant when you look at it. Was lucky that they had a spot left that night and the Omakase was excellent according to my taste. Problem is that you pay a price for it. Question is that it's worth it or not. I had quite a while ago a great salmon skin salad in Tenyuu Sushi Bar in the Emquartier shopping mall. Not sure it still exist though.

Remember that I'm giving some recommendations of Japanese food between Mermaid and Snow White only. I bet there must be other Japanese joints that are better. I'm happy to hear if that's the case.

Apologies to all that thought to read about hotels. I won't be doing it again. LOL.

[Kerrstar]

Off back to Bangkok in a couple of weeks for a visa run. I've booked into the new Hyatt Place on Suk 24. It's a bit of a way from Suk itself but I thought I'd give it a try anyway. Pricesd under 3,000 baht which is cheaper than the other Hyatts in town. Stayed at the Park Hyatt last trip, that place is really nice but pretty expensive.

[Syzygies]

Looking at Column again I have the impression that the furniture and interior is rather old fashion. This and the higher price makes me decide to choose between Admiral Premiere and Mermaid. The only downside I can find in both rooms of AP and MM is the lack of an iron which is rather odd especially when you notice that the Admiral 1 BR Suite has a washing machine. That's a plus for Park Plaza that provides the iron as a standard in their room facilities. I guess I can ask for an iron in case I need one.

The only thing important for me is a spacious room with some nice interior and a bathtub is great addition. I don't bother about a hotel's pool (Never had a glimpse at Mermaid and Park Plaza pool), or their rooftop views nor am I interested in breakfast. I also had the feeling that Column was a tiny bit too far out. I'm not a big fan of taxi's or motorbikes and don't really use the BTS that often. Thinking about it; another plus for Admiral is that it's still not that far away from Phrom Pong in case I'm interested to try out one of the MP's. There are also some good joints to eat in between Asoke and the MP's. If somebody's into Japanese you should give Masu Maki & Sushi bar a try. Cheap but oh so tasty! You can find it in Soi Sukhumvit 39. A hidden gem if you ask me. That brings me to the point that Jackson should have a sub-folder in General Reports - "Where to eat before and / or after sex with / without your bird" .

Having stayed in both Park Plaza and Mermaid I'm pretty sure that if I would pick Admiral I won't be disappointed.

Well each to their own. However let's get realistic here. Column is miles higher than both Mermaid and AP, for standard and class, also for height, and probably the price. LOL I can't say I noticed how old or modern the furniture was. It is 500 m walk from Soi Cowboy (Asoke end) although have to cross Sukhumvit at the lights or use overpass. About same distance to AP maybe very slightly more. Mermaid is 650 m away. So there is no way that Column is far.

If want to go to Snow White, it may be a little too far to walk (1.7km) from Column or AP, about the same. Mermaid is definitely a lot closer (only 1 km). I would take motorcycle from Column through back Sois since taxi would be slower than walking. Motorcycle would still take at least 10 mins I guess. Would walk if not too hot.

If you want cheaper value for money, then Mermaid is the go. If you want high class, then choose Column (at higher price), whether you need pool or breakfast or not. AP used to be great value for money but I suspect not so special any more. Does have a good refridgerator and mini kitchen though.

I have been looking for good priced quality Japanese since my old favourite closed so I will give Masu Maki a go. I hope they do not have crab / seafood stick. LOL I see on internet pics they do (but luckily on not many dishes). I want the "real" Japanese food. The artistry of the pics and "sweet" looking brown sauce splooged on the plates is a slight concern to me. Sauces should be separate (and optional). I trust it is full of Japanese customers but fun and not stodgy place? I probably have to request no sweet sauce put directly on the sushi or other dishes. Not into sweet sauces at all.

[Hiete]

All Natty's suggestions were very good you can be sure. If ever Column has a good price deal, then I would take that every time. It is a super Hotel for rooftop bar, pool, and views over Bangkok if get a moderately high floor at least. Girls really like it too. Classy. Normal prices for Column are quite high. Not absolute closest to the bars but that matters so little. Can always take a taxi or motorbike. One of my favourite regular girls really loves the column Hotel and it's rooftop bar. She likes to dress show off in sexy fashion outfits. I thought was better than being on the top of the State Tower personally.

Mermaid was one of the best value for money Hotels when I tried it (when fairly newly opened). Alas Admiral Premier became too well known. Some Japanese guys live there all the time. Often used by Chinese bus tours, causing it to be fully booked or not having the prices as good as used to be. Was best a few years ago when was little known.

Looking at Column again I have the impression that the furniture and interior is rather old fashion. This and the higher price makes me decide to choose between Admiral Premiere and Mermaid. The only downside I can find in both rooms of AP and MM is the lack of an iron which is rather odd especially when you notice that the Admiral 1 BR Suite has a washing machine. That's a plus for Park Plaza that provides the iron as a standard in their room facilities. I guess I can ask for an iron in case I need one.

The only thing important for me is a spacious room with some nice interior and a bathtub is great addition. I don't bother about a hotel's pool (Never had a glimpse at Mermaid and Park Plaza pool), or their rooftop views nor am I interested in breakfast. I also had the feeling that Column was a tiny bit too far out. I'm not a big fan of taxi's or motorbikes and don't really use the BTS that often. Thinking about it; another plus for Admiral is that it's still not that far away from Phrom Pong in case I'm interested to try out one of the MP's. There are also some good joints to eat in between Asoke and the MP's. If somebody's into Japanese you should give Masu Maki & Sushi bar a try. Cheap but oh so tasty! You can find it in Soi Sukhumvit 39. A hidden gem if you ask me. That brings me to the point that Jackson should have a sub-folder in General Reports - "Where to eat before and / or after sex with / without your bird" .

Having stayed in both Park Plaza and Mermaid I'm pretty sure that if I would pick Admiral I won't be disappointed.

[RickyM]

Hello all,

I'm coming to Bangkok on the 27th staying in the Salil hotel, anyone any views of this place, girl friendly? I see is closer to Eden and Dr BJ, is that a good or bad thing?

Thanks in advance for any replies.

[Zman429]

Hello friends,

Can anybody revert if Holiday Inn express is guest friendly or do they create problems for guests?

On Soi 11? That is way down at the end plenty of options closer, unless your going to the clubs. Not sure about guest friendly part but if one wasn't that would be it I'd ask them first.

[Mogwai]

And make sure it's a pink umbrella with floral or cartoon character motifs. 555 One has to look after the lovely white skin.

I have a Disney umbrella. It's just as lovely as my skin, LOL.

[Syzygies]

Use an umbrella to block the sun when it's too bright.

And make sure it's a pink umbrella with floral or cartoon character motifs. 555 One has to look after the lovely white skin.

[Sumjac]

Hello friends,

Can anybody revert if Holiday Inn express is guest friendly or do they create problems for guests?

[Mogwai]

Some things may help you to adjust (acclimatize) to warmer temperatures. Before I moved here I lived in a very cold climate. It took me awhile to develop an approach that works for me. Here are a few suggestions that I've found helpful.

SNIP

Anyone else with suggestions?

Randy Murican.

Use an umbrella to block the sun when it's too bright.

[Syzygies]

Some things may help you to adjust (acclimatize) to warmer temperatures. Before I moved here I lived in a very cold climate. It took me awhile to develop an approach that works for me. Here are a few suggestions that I've found helpful.

1) Don't keep your air-con at 18 Celsius. Find the highest temp that you are comfortable at and keep the setting there, for me it's 25-26 Celsius. If you keep your room at a very low temp the shock of humidity / heat when you leave it will be perceived as being much worse.

2) Take your time walking, no extra points given for arriving 5-10 minutes earlier. Most are here on vacation, so what's the rush? Find a pace that works for you. Thais will always find the shadiest route to their destination and there is actual science behind that strategy.

3) Stay well hydrated (sorry, beer doesn't count).

4) Light-colored and light-weight clothing can help.

Anyone else with suggestions?

Randy Murican.

Nice.

When I first met GF we used to have arguments about the air-con. 25 C was the lowest temperature she could stand, and 23 C was the highest I could really stand for sleeping. In the end we had to compromise on 24 C. Eventually I got used to being warmer than my office temperatures in home country. LOL.

I am still amazed to see so many Farangs wearing boots or even running gym shoes. I wonder about sweaty smelly feet. I mostly stick to sandals unless something more formal called for or doing exercise. Strangely Thais tell me that wearing sandals with a strap around the back of heel to hold them on securely is considered to be more classy than those without (which are considered as not so different to flip-flops). Hard for me to figure this thinking, but that is what I was told.

One older buddy of mine used to walk so much around Bangkok that he was too worn out to want any sex sessions. Now that was crazy. A few years later I notice he even struggles to get up the stairs. It is pretty stupid to walk any great distance around Bangkok. In bright sun, even 5 minutes walk can be a good limit, just from getting too sweaty. 20 years ago I used to walk a lot more and it did seem to help keep the weight down (maybe). I recall losing significant weight on first long holiday in Thailand. Too busy to eat much perhaps.

[Rob Jones]

Some things may help you to adjust (acclimatize) to warmer temperatures. Before I moved here I lived in a very cold climate. It took me awhile to develop an approach that works for me. Here are a few suggestions that I've found helpful.

1) Don't keep your air-con at 18 Celsius. Find the highest temp that you are comfortable at and keep the setting there, for me it's 25-26 Celsius. If you keep your room at a very low temp the shock of humidity / heat when you leave it will be perceived as being much worse.

2) Take your time walking, no extra points given for arriving 5-10 minutes earlier. Most are here on vacation, so what's the rush? Find a pace that works for you. Thais will always find the shadiest route to their destination and there is actual science behind that strategy.

3) Stay well hydrated (sorry, beer doesn't count).

4) Light-colored and light-weight clothing can help.

Anyone else with suggestions?

Randy Murican.

I will try the air-con tip next time I'm in Asia. Usually I crank it down to 16-18 degrees and lock the remote in the safe so the cleaners can't adjust it. I stayed in Bali for 2 months one time and towards the end no A/C and using a blanket at night so we do acclimatize pretty easily.

Thanks.

[Allover]

Some things may help you to adjust (acclimatize) to warmer temperatures. Before I moved here I lived in a very cold climate. It took me awhile to develop an approach that works for me. Here are a few suggestions that I've found helpful.

1) Don't keep your air-con at 18 Celsius. Find the highest temp that you are comfortable at and keep the setting there, for me it's 25-26 Celsius. If you keep your room at a very low temp the shock of humidity / heat when you leave it will be perceived as being much worse.

2) Take your time walking, no extra points given for arriving 5-10 minutes earlier. Most are here on vacation, so what's the rush? Find a pace that works for you. Thais will always find the shadiest route to their destination and there is actual science behind that strategy.

3) Stay well hydrated (sorry, beer doesn't count).

4) Light-colored and light-weight clothing can help.

Anyone else with suggestions?

Randy Murican.

I live in California with outstanding weather nearly every day. The heat in Thailand just kills me and I find myself diving into 7-11's when I walk just to cool off for a minute or two. Sounds crazy I know. Being overweight doesn't make it any easier. All of my shirts (polo shirts, t-shirts, and short sleeve shirts) are moisture wicking. They are mainly Adidas, Nike, and Reebok brand and the moisture wicking really works. My shirts never show sweat or moisture even though I perspire a lot in the heat. I see people wearing t-shirts soaked in sweat. Doesn't happen to me. I usually visit Thailand sometime between May and September.

I always book hotels close to the BTS or MRT. The farthest away form the BTS I stayed was the Mercure Soi 11 on my last trip. It's still not far from the BTS and I love Soi 11. I keep the room temp at 24 degrees. Randy Murican's suggestions are good too.

[Zman429]

Hi,

My first visit to the LOS coming up in November and planning to spend just 2 days in BKK and 4 days in Pattaya.

Based on good feedback on this forum, shortened the list down to the S Sukhumvit & Ruamchitt Plaza.

Can't decide on either one, both are closer to NEP / Soi Cowboy.

Ruamchitt has a slight advantage since it is located in the dead center.

Price wise, there is not a big difference between the two.

Just looking for a clean no frills place, good breakfast is a must. Of course has to be girls friendly and I believe both are.

Please suggest if there is anything that I need to consider before making a choice. Promise to provide feedback after the visit.

Cheers!

FYI Ruamchitt has been redone fairly nice for couple nights, very hard bed, no breakfast. Never been able to get good price at S Suites so not sure how they compare.

[Randy Murican]

Was a little hot earlier today. 5 PM is 30 C and cloudy. Will come down to 26 C by late this evening and 25 in the morning.

It's not so bad. You just don't want to walk around too much in middle of the day when sunny. In that situation get there quick on motorcycle or use aircon taxi or BTS. Yet I still see plenty of guys sitting in open air bars in the daytime. I don't see that many guys are allergic to warm weather. I actually hate freezing cold weather much worse than Bangkok heat.

It's not really the hottest time of year. Bangkok is never the hottest part of Thailand. The smog filters the sunlight so it is not so bad when it hits you directly.

Some things may help you to adjust (acclimatize) to warmer temperatures. Before I moved here I lived in a very cold climate. It took me awhile to develop an approach that works for me. Here are a few suggestions that I've found helpful.

1) Don't keep your air-con at 18 Celsius. Find the highest temp that you are comfortable at and keep the setting there, for me it's 25-26 Celsius. If you keep your room at a very low temp the shock of humidity / heat when you leave it will be perceived as being much worse.

2) Take your time walking, no extra points given for arriving 5-10 minutes earlier. Most are here on vacation, so what's the rush? Find a pace that works for you. Thais will always find the shadiest route to their destination and there is actual science behind that strategy.

3) Stay well hydrated (sorry, beer doesn't count).

4) Light-colored and light-weight clothing can help.

Anyone else with suggestions?

Randy Murican.