we stayed at the Club floor, it was very dispointed, room are pretty basic and old, the service also not good. It cannot be a 5 star hotel.

it was not a pleasant stay, get the feeling of they're short of staff. Dine in 2 of their resturants, takes far too long to serve food after ordering (with less than 10 people dining)

Pipes were noisy in the room, always heard when next room use toilet. Service in restaurant very slow. I order beer and never get it. The bill arrive after second request in 25 minutes.Baht-tube was not cleaned, sand on bottom.

All right, if you've seen our other entries, you already know that we were largely budget travelers in Thailand. But sometimes, you just have to let loose. Or be visited by very generous relatives, which was the case for us. Thus the Banyan Tree experience.

Self-described as "the only all-suite vertical resort in Bangkok", Banyan Tree Bangkok is an unmistakable landmark -- from afar, just look for the sliver of gray and glass soaring hundreds of meters into the Bangkok skyline. The rooms are simply but elegantly decorated in various beige tones and come with all the fixings. The well-appointed bathrooms (with separated shower stall and bathtub) have lovely soaps and spoil-yourself-silly goodies that will make you reluctant to ever leave. Turn-down service at night with complimentary trinket and incense lighting are nice touches that assure you that you are being looked after. Baby-soft robes and slippers and numerous other perks further pamper you. And the higher-floor rooms have some impressive views of the city, which heighten the distinct danger that you will not want to leave the facilities.

For the more practical traveler: The rooms are also geared for business travelers, so they have a desk, two TVs, and lots of international newspapers and magazines that will be sure to keep you apprised of all the world's events.

The breakfast buffet included in our rate was absurdly plentiful. The lobby bar was a bit dull and empty, but it was pleasant enough for a nightcap. Banyan Tree properties are known for their spa facilities, so if you have the extra time (and spending cash), give it a look-see.

Sure, there are a number of other hotels in Bangkok that are even more impressive (e.g., we liked the overall atmosphere at the Sukhothai, the Bamboo Bar at the Oriental), but for the money, it’s hard to argue against the Banyan Tree. We (um, our benefactors) paid a very fair $120 a night, including breakfast (special Internet deal). However, as with all luxury places, you can pay over $1000 a night for the ultimate experience. For more information, check out .