If you are looking for a stylish hotel at reasonable prices for your shopping trip on Sukhumvit in Bangkok, you should check out the Holiday Inn Sukhumvit 22. What? Stylish and Holiday Inn in one sentence? Yes, if you haven’t stayed in a Holiday Inn in Asia, you are missing out! They are generally new and offer the stylish rooms of a boutique hotel – much nicer than any Holiday Inn I’ve staid at in Europe or the USA!
Location: Intercontinental Hotel Group has several hotels in Bangkok and the Holiday Inn Sukhumvit 22 is one of the newer additions. It is located on Sukhumvit Road, between the Asok and Phrong Phom BTS Stations, making it a good choice for sightseeing and shopping trips alike. It is a bit of a walk to either station, making it less convenient than some hotels in this price group that are connected to public transport or only steps away – in the Bangkok heat, that is something to consider! There is a public park close by that makes for a nice break from the busy streets and malls. You will find motorcycle taxis waiting in front, they are fast in bumper-to-bumper traffic, but not for the faint of heart! Auto-taxis are easily called – same as anywhere else in Bangkok.
Service: The service was friendly and professional, but front desk appeared to be understaffed, resulting in longer wait times than typical in Thailand. Housekeeping was thorough, but also seemed short-staffed, sometimes not getting to the room till very late in the day. I used points to stay at this hotel and received a nice room, facing away from the sky train near the top of the building. My Platinum status with IHG was recognized and might have helped with the assignment.
Room: The room is decorated in grey/black tones and very contemporary. The bed was very comfortable with high-end sheets and choice of soft/hard pillows. It has a long work desk/side table, a big TV, kettle, mini-bar/fridge and large safety box. The bathroom was in black and grey stone and tiles – very stylish! Towels were large and soft, amenities were plentiful and refreshed regularly.
Amenities: The hotel has a nice pool and small fitness center, as well as a restaurant. The pool is nice to have to relax after a long day of sightseeing or shopping. With so many restaurants and food options available all over Bangkok, I would not recommend any hotel restaurant – you will have more fun outside!