Best hotels in Bangkok

In a jungle of glassy highrises, The Metropolitan is a sleek hotel with cool interiors. Created in the image of both East and West, the hotel combines a crowd-drawing retro bar with minimalist rooms where relaxation is the first order of business. There are plenty of ways to do just that, whether it's a deep tissue massage or laying out by the pool, which feels perfectly hidden away from the city. Just outside, you'll step into downtown Bangkok with its buzzing nightlife scene. Ranking one of the best in Thailand, the Nahm Restaurant is worth staying 'home' for too.

Sitting pretty next to the shimmering Chao Phraya River, The Peninsula has become a staple in this 'Venice of the East'. At a whopping 40 floors, the hotel rivals its neighbouring skyscrapers and some suites come with a telescope to soak up the city before you hit the streets. The hotel's signature wave shape guarantees a river view from every room! Make the most of the idyllic scene at the spa's whirpool overlooking the river or sipping on a 'Thaijito' - an original combo of Thai rum, peach schnapps, lime, mint, pineapple and raw sugar. The hotel isn't far from Bangkok's all-fascinating Old Town so exploring is in order.

Draped across the banks of Chao Phraya River, the Mandarin Oriental has been impressing guests with its flair for over 140 years. And it's impeccable service is as on point today as it was all those moons ago. Upon entering the hotel, there isn't a grand chandelier or meticulously-chosen detail that doesn't make the jaw drop. It also happens to be in a winning location where nothing's too far including the glimmering Wat Arun temple and Bangkok's flower markets awash with heady scents. This gregarious city seems to shine even brighter from the plush rooms of the Mandarin.