Capella Bangkok

We stayed here at the end of a tour through Indochina and it was probably my least favorite of the various hotels (Sukhothai and Aman properties). The hotelis very highly designed in the modern global luxury way - lots of travertine, netural fabrics and bronze tones which was attractive but a bit generic - you wouldn't know you were in Thailand particularly. We stayed in a deluxe suite overlooking the river and although on the small side, packed in a lot of nice features with a decent closet a desk, and a small terrace with a daybed. The room was very nice and the bed was very comfortable. Room controls were a bit annoying as they pushed you towards the "everything on an IPad" thing which is sort of fiddly and doesnt allow you to customize light and window treatment settings. The breakfast was nice by the river but not out of line with other hotels of this type and we did have the opportunity to use the spa which was excellent. I would say that my negatives had to do with the service mainly. I found service was not up to the level of a five star property charging at the highest end of the range for hotels in the city - lots of small niggling mistakes which added up to feeling like people were not on their game. Staff was also friendly-ish but not nearly as warm as we had experienced elsewhere on our journey. I never really saw the same employee twice which meant you felt sort of like a number versus a welcomed guest. At the Sukhothai for the the same price had a giant suite with a tremendous terrace and top notch personal service which felt more special and a much better value.

Our room was beautiful with a large bathroom and a dressing room with open closet space that can be closed off and beautiful views of the river. Bedding was the most comfortable we have experienced. The interior design is contemporary and elegant through out. Service was outstanding with an attitude of happiness to serve. There are approximately 400 staff for 150 rooms. Breakfast was delicious. The yogurt is home made and the pastries are hand made rather than buying machine made frozen and heating. There is a staff that works through the night to make the pastries and the bread is excellent too. Dinner at Cote was another wonderful experience and they created a special menu for us. Service, cuisine and wine were excellent. Overall, guest needs are anticipated in advance of asking and it was hard to depart as one of the best hotels we have experienced.

Good food, good views, good vibes, good service and very good staff . I will come back again. Thanks to all staff Khun Oil, Tam, Wi and Big.

Perhaps my expectations were set too high with the hotel having won best hotel awards. The service does not match the accolades. Despite the small number of guests, the staff never seem to provide unprompted service or remember you. For eg been to breakfast 3 times and each time they would ask for room number. Not a big deal but a clear sign that staff are not well trained. Breakfast feels like any mass hotels. They rush you and as soon as it hits 10:30 am and you ask for a drink they will say “let me check if we can still do it as the breakfast is closed”. It’s their way of telling you that you shouldn’t be late. Had lunch at the restaurant 3 times and each time it’s disappointing. Food wise is okay but service wise borders on the rude to very rude. Restaurant is usually empty and I guess we interrupted the waiters “rest”. The “Living Room” where they supposedly welcome you for after tea and drinks is very unwelcoming. Try it for yourself. Grab a seat outside and you won’t get service. They obviously see you but pretend that they don’t. You will have to walk in and ask for a drink and they will give you a menu with a conceited look. Almost like “ why are you here for free drinks”. Only grabbed drinks there twice throughout my stay. Sadly a very very disappointing hotel stay.

I can sincerely attest to this hotel being said to be the best in Thailand. It is immaculate! The number 1 thing that makes it so great is the staff! Every single staff member was polite and attentive! My spa technician Annie took great care of me during both of my treatments! Each day that I was in the gym, the staff there always looked out and made sure I was good. The waiters and the chef did amazing! I highly recommend this place. It is VERY QUIET, and peaceful!