Okura Prestige Bangkok

BACKGROUND Established in Japan in 1962, Okura is an international brand of hotels with 26 properties globally. The concept is based on “Wa”, the Japanese word for harmony. The hotel opened in May last year and is the first Okura Prestige. It marks the beginning of a super-luxury line of accommodation options from the brand. WHAT’S IT LIKE? Whereas traditional Okura properties all feature minimalist Japanese decor, the Okura Prestige Bangkok is notably grander: the highceilinged sky lobby features onyx marble flooring and art déco-style decoration, for example. WHERE IS IT? Located next to the Phloen Chit BTS Skytrain station, it’s within walking distance of landmarks including Siam Paragon, Erawan Bangkok, Gaysorn Plaza and Centralworld. ROOM FACILITIES Every room in the hotel offers a commanding view of the city’s skyline while the e-coated triple-glazed windows ensure quietness. The deluxe room I stayed in measures 47 sqm, and features a king-size bed on one side of the room and a 42-inch LED television on the other that has internet capability and video on demand.

The long work desk is near the window, and comes with a multimedia panel for connecting gadgets to the TV and a USB charger.

Other amenities include a small walk-in closet as you walk into the room. On the other side is the bathroom, with two sliding doors that can open onto the bedroom or be closed off when privacy is needed. The shower area features the conventional hand-held type and a rainshower, plus a separate bathtub. RESTAURANTS AND BARS One of the hotel’s culinary highlights is Yamazato on the 24th floor, which is part of a brand that’s garnered Michelin stars in Europe. Its kaiseki menu offers multi-course experiences with seasonal dishes designed to look like art pieces. And if you want an alternative to the usual breakfast buffet, come here instead for a Japanese breakfast of grilled fish, vegetables, rice and steamed egg.

The informal, all-day dining Up & Above Restaurant and Bar on the 24th floor features a live jazz soundtrack to complement the cold cuts, cheeses or oysters on ice. The outdoor half-moon terrace is also a good place to chill with a drink with great views over Bangkok.

For Western fine dining, head to Elements on the 25th floor, which is inspired by the two Michelin-star Ciel Bleu restaurant at Hotel Okura Amsterdam. BUSINESS AND MEETING FACILITIES The 383.5 sqm Grand Ball Room, two smaller ballrooms and 141-sqm Sora Room are located on the 3rd floor, and the former features 9 metre high ceilings and crystal chandeliers. Alternatively, the two Drawing Rooms on the 2nd floor offer a more intimate setting. LEISURE FACILITIES The Okura Spa offers five calming treatment rooms and offers a signature massage that uses amethyst stones inspired by those worn by mediaeval European soldiers as a form of protection in battle. There is one room designated for couples that features a Jacuzzi.

On the 25th floor is a 25-metrelong infinity pool with a view of Bangkok, and the 24-hour gym features plenty enough equipment for a thorough workout. VERDICT A superb luxury city property that offers the feel of an urban resort. The deluxe room is well laid out and user-friendly, and the Japanese breakfast is a must-try.

TESTED BY

Reggie Ho

HOW MANY ROOMS?

240, with the following room types: deluxe (47 sqm), grand deluxe (43 sqm on upper floor), deluxe corner (55 sqm), Okura club (43 sqm), premier club (57 sqm), Prestige club (65 sqm), deluxe suite (80 sqm), Prestige suite (97 sqm), presidential suite (156 sqm), royal suite (165 sqm) and the Imperial suite (302 sqm).

HIGHLIGHTS

An exotic blend of Japanese and Thai hospitality traditions, with very Zen décor.

PRICE

Internet rates for a midweek stay in January start from THB5,760 (US$182) for a deluxe room.

CONTACT

Park Ventures Ecoplex, 57 Wireless Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok; tel +66 2687 9000; www.okurabangkok.com