Opened in Spring 2019, the Rosewood Bangkok enters the market on upscale Ploenchit Road in a neighborhood of high-end shopping, luxury properties, and embassies. Having booked a car through the property, our trip immediately starts on a high note. Greeted directly at the airport, we are whisked into one of the luxurious BMWs in the Rosewood fleet. We’re further impressed to find the car outfitted with wifi, Bluetooth, lip balm, Evian water, and in some cases – a personally monogrammed linen handkerchief. Even with Bangkok traffic, we’re off to a great start, and we haven’t set a foot in the hotel.
At 30 soaring stories, the Rosewood Bangkok stands (literally) above other hotels in the luxury market. On arrival to the property, the soothing waterfalls of the port cochere help to balance any noise from the street, and we are greeted by name as the front doors open. Escorted directly to our room for private check-in, we’re happy to bypass the usual back and forth of the front desk. With a sophisticated and modern approach to design, the hotel feels polished, yet relaxed. Tall ceilings, smooth finishes, and art from local Thai artists complete the public spaces. The massive interior waterfall is a beautiful feature in its own right.
Although Bangkok has an outstanding food scene, there is plenty to choose from at the Rosewood. On arrival, there’s Lakhorn European Brasserie, an all-day dining concept which easily transitions from a la carte breakfast to high tea, or as a place for drinks in the early evening. On the pool level is G + O, which offers healthier fare, focusing on a farm-to-table experience. For those in the mood for both northern and southern Chinese cuisine, the knock out interiors of Nan Bei is one not to miss. We find it a well-planned part of the design that offers access to the restaurants through a separate lift, such that guests of the hotel are not interrupted, or have to slow down for outside visitors. Upstairs on the 30th floor, Lennon’s is a lounge offering competition to all of the other rooftop bars in the city. With the most extensive collection of vinyl in the country (6,000 pieces!), guests are encouraged to browse and select a title they would like to listen to. Room service is available at all hours, with a menu catering to both Western and Eastern delicacies.
At the Rosewood Bangkok, room categories range from rooms to suites as well as whole villas, including bookings that have private plunge pools, something of a first for the city skyline. The decor, as with many properties in the Rosewood brand, lends itself to a residential feel, with plenty of modern touches. Whether the cozy Frette slippers or the comfortable throw blanket, the hotel offers an experience that will keep guests content. Standard amenities apply, but the addition of the Dyson hairdryer in the bathroom is one of our favorite details. A Bluetooth speaker ensures our ability to enjoy their own music, a feature we always love to see.
We do manage to make one trip to the 24-hour gym, which provides plenty of modern devices to stay in shape and we love its location just inside from the infinity pool, located on an upper floor. With the interior waterfall ending directly into the outdoor pool, nearly all sounds from the city are muted, leaving us to feel completely relaxed.
We’re also lucky enough to visit the onsite Sense Spa during our stay. There is a menu of massages to facials, with longer ‘journeys’ are also available. We opt for the (what else?) 50 minute Thai Massage and are very happy with the experience. The staff at the spa are professional and welcoming.
One final feature worth mentioning is the direct access to the Ploenchit Skytrain Station BTS (via the third floor – all covered to avoid the ubiquitous Bangkok rain). The positioning of the hotel is very easy - for walking, or using public transportation.
While there are well established high-end properties in the same neighborhood, the luxury and leisure the Rosewood Bangkok provides should rate high on travelers’ expectations. Given the incredible service levels, this is perhaps a gateway for guests to be introduced to the incredibly high levels of hospitality that Rosewood has to offer.
