The first thing that struck me on arrival at the Courtyard by Marriott hotel, near the busy Siam central shopping district, was the security.
The taxi boot was checked and I had to go through a airport-style scanner before entry to the foyer.
It was all done in a polite and professional way — that traditional warm Thai hospitality hasn’t been dimmed by last year’s military coup nor the recent death of the beloved King Bumibhol — and I couldn’t have felt more welcome when I approached the desk.
I had arrived ridiculously early — about 7am — and, although I had requested an early check-in, I knew I’d be stretching the friendship.
It was all resolved with an inexpensive (about US$30) upgrade to an executive-floor room, that promised, along with the immediate chance to add to the few hours’ sleep I’d had on the plane from Abu Dhabi, access to the lounge for afternoon snacks, evening drinks, breakfast and a view of this always-fascinating city.
Despite the temptation to return to either the Siam Mercure of Four Points by Sheraton — two of my favourite mid-priced Bangkok hotels — I chose the Marriott because I wanted to try something different. I wasn’t disappointed.
When I entered my room, the television was playing a video extolling the virtues of the recent merger between the Marriott and Starwood hotel groups. As a member of both groups’ loyalty schemes, I’m keen to experience the promised synergies.
The king-sized bed was comfortable, although the mattress was slightly firmer than my preference, and the room clean and well equipped (although it could do with a makeover to accommodate USB devices natively).
Snacks and breakfast in the executive lounge were fresh and tasty — including the broccoli soup (above) and the Vegemite spread that all Aussies welcome when they travel.
Checkout — delayed to 2pm at my request — was a breeze, thanks to the very friendly desk and concierge staff. And the latte I enjoyed at the Momo cafe to kill time before heading to the airport really hit the spot.
So easy, so affordable (about $280 for the two nights, including very early check-in and late checkk-out), and so Bangkok. It seems I have yet another favourite hotel.
