The 4-Star Hotel with a 5-Star Service

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And so, we are back from Bangkok, the land of smiles and shopping! It was my first time to this lively city that I’ve had heard so much about, and my heart could barely contain my excitement even as we were in the cab, on the way to the hotel. First things first – we made our way to our hotel, the Novotel Bangkok Fenix Ploenchit, to check in and settle down. The ride from Suvarnabhumi Airport took less than an hour, and we reached the hotel entrance greeted by a smiley porter who took care of our luggage right away.

Superior Room

We reached the hotel around 11+am and were surprised to be informed that our room was ready! We didn’t expect to check in until after 2pm, but we’re definitely not complaining. Our Superior Room on the 20th floor overlooked the busy streets of Bangkok, with a gorgeous night view of the city. The ride up to the room was pleasant, with the lift lit by a million stars, giving us that out of space feeling.

Starry lift

Apparently the hotel was just completed less than half a year ago, hence everything was spanking new. The design was modern, the carpets were new and there was this constant aromatherapy kit burning on every floor, emitting that soothing and comforting smell every time we stepped out of the lift.

Corridor to our room

Our superior room had a King sized bed with plush pillows, together with a long couch by the window. Facing the bed was a LCD TV, built-in next to a study. What I liked about the room was the huge windows that gave it so much light and an illusion that it’s much bigger than it really is.

King-sized bed

LCD TV

As with any hotel rooms, this was equipped with coffee-making facilities as well as a well-stocked mini bar. Oh look, even a pack of condoms was provided!

Coffee-making facilities and mini bar

Bottles of complimentary water

Two bottles of water were replenished daily, as well as the tea / coffee sachets, if they were used up. Not many 4-star hotels provide bath robes, but Novotel proudly does so, together with an umbrella. The umbrella was a brilliant idea since it rained heavily during one of the mornings when we wanted to go out. Without it, we would have been drenched wet or trapped in the hotel.

Bath robes and umbrella

The bathroom was modern with plenty of towels, toiletries and a hair dryer. I was slightly disappointed that they did not provide toothbrushes though.

The bathroom

Rain shower in the shower room

Of course, all the amenities and finishing in the room meant nothing if the service was not up to par. Fortunately, our experience was nothing short of pleasant during our 5 days there. The front desk staff was always eager to please and the boy at the entrance always greeted us with a warm smile whenever we returned.

View from the room #1

View from the room #2

Best of all? The location! This hotel is within minutes from the Phloen Chit BTS (Sky Train) station. We just need to walk out of the hotel, go up 2 flights of escalators and we’d be in front of the train. Extremely convenient if you ask me.

Hotel next to the Phloen Chit BTS (Sky train) station

Apart from the room, the hotel provided minimal facilities though – a decent-sized swimming pool, a fitness centre, a restaurant and a lounge were just about all they have. No sauna, steam room or spa.

Swimming pool #1

Swimming pool #2

Sundeck chairs

Shower stall by the pool

Last but not least, the breakfast! We had their daily buffet  breakfast at The Square and even though the food was quite good, the variety was stagnant. After Day 2, I could memorize what they serve: baked beans, bacon, chicken & pork sausages, french toast, baked tomatoes, potatoes, mixed vegetables, fried noodles & rice, porridge and toasts. But I do have to make special mention of their pork sausages though – they were bouncy and savoury, we always ended up with second helpings of these.

Breakfast spread

Dining area at The Square for breakfast

English breakfast tea for me

Apart from the usual coffee or tea, we could ask for cappuccino which would be brewed on order.

Orange and papaya juice

Breakfast plate

Overall, we were satisfied with our stay at Novotel Ploenchit, not only with their service but with their fantastic location. With the close proximity to the BTS station, everywhere was just so accessible. We booked the hotel online in advance and managed to get the rate of about RM300 per night. If I return to Bangkok, I wouldn’t mind staying here again.

Novotel Bangkok Ploenchit

Novotel Bangkok Fenix Ploenchit
566 Ploenchit Road
Lumpimi
Patumwan
10330 Bangkok
Thailand.
Tel: (+66)2/3056000
Fax: (+66)2/3056001
GPS Coordinates: N 13° 44′ 34.40”  E 100° 32′ 57.92”

 *Note: Read the rest of my Bangkok Escapade here!