Hotel query
 

Hi guys

Sorry to be here with such a query, but I will "pay back" with some reports later. I do like "cinemagoing" and hope the one near 39 Sauna (Phaolythin?) is still happening

I shall be visiting Bkk from early or mid-December for about a week.

I have stayed in the past at the Swiss Lodge, Soi Convent (nice, but not easy to get into as it's small and popular) and La Residence on Suriwongse (ok, also small, very easygoing, but not as nice as Swiss Lodge)

I fancy a change this time and wonder if you guys have anything to say about:

- Centrepoint Saladaeng, or
- Elegance Suite?

Are they ok with "overnight guests" for instance?

Any other recommendations near Silom and in the region of under B3,000?

Thanks everyone

Hotel
 

Tarntawan Place hotel. Very nice, in Silom, no problems bringing firends to the room, good security, nice breakfast, friendly staff, business center. Highly recommend it.

1) Unico Grand SATHORN, (NOT Unico Grand Silom). in Soi Pipat 2 (small soi near Trinity Hotel )

Brand new, 36 sq m LUXURY room with free broadband internet, flat screen TV, DVD player, b'f inc about 2,500 per nite for 2. No problem with guests. small pool and gym. Highly recommended. Book the cheapest room you can find on the net...they have some rooms about 40 sqm as well but room spec identical.....they just have a small balcony as well.

2) Saladeng Place Hotel. Just inside Saladang road close to Silom BTS. Rooms only about 26 sq m, a bit tired inside, but great location, large outdoor swimming pool, frenldy staff and Ok buffet b'fast. About 2,800 baht,

Saladaeng Place is pretty bad for overnight guests....(used to be very relaxed).....

Id go with Saladaeng Colonnade, but a bit more expensive....

-- G*y friendly hotels recommended to me by others - mainly from SGP. - include but are not limited to -
1.- 'OM YIM LODGE.',
72/74., Narathiwat rd.,
Bang rak.
- contact: tel.: (02)-635 0169. --- http://www.omyimgroup.com/omyimhome.html
- nrest. BTS.: Chong Nonsi, (S3.),.
2.- 'PAVILION PLACE.',
31/3-17, Phat Pong 2,
Bang rak.
- contact.: tel.: (02)-237 4000.
- nrest. BTS. & MRT.: Sala Daeng, (S2.), Sam Yan.
3.- 'PINNACLE HOTEL.'.
17, Soi Ngam Duplee,
Rama IV rd.,
Sathorn.
- contact: tel.: (02)- 287 0111. --- http://www.pinnaclehotels.com/
- nrest. MRT.: Lumpinee .

NB. - All the usual disclaimers, both financial and otherwise. I've not stayed in any one of them so all info. etc. are 2nd. hand!
-- bibi. --

Useful gay friendly hotel info - some by me - at:

http://www.gaytingtong.com/topic1157.html

Would like to know more about Om yim lodge.Anyone here been?Street noise levels?

Vincents 7 rooms opposite Pinnacle looks good and prices reasonable.Would appreciate any information if you have tried it.

P.S. for the first time I stayed at the Malaysia.Found it basic,clean and had spotless newly installed bathrooms.The staff are very dilligent and happy giving out a hospitable, down to earth ambience.Many have worked here for years.The price is incredible.The snobbish (me ?) often smirk at this place but it still remains great value.With its past stretching back to Vietnam war r'n'r days,the hippy trail not to mention a beacon for gays it has a historic charisma now.(not talking about a section of the clientele here).

The Ibis chain are building across the road which makes the area very competetive.

And now for something new and different:

Take a Nap - it's on Rama IV backing onto Soi Boi Plaza/Twilight/Duangthawee - Dick's Cafe

_ _ _ _ "In a heart of Bangkok city’s renowned Silom district, Take a nap Hotel providing hip, convenient, and personalized accommodations for the stylish traveler.

_ _ _ _ It has the privilege of being located in a central business area of Bangkok, full of activities, sights, shops, nightlife’s and public transportation.

_ _ _ _ The unique urban hotel offers travelers with the thirty graphic-designed guest rooms. Each of the 30 rooms has its own style with an individual work of art. Rooms range from funky street art to the beautiful fairy tale, which can be melts everyone’s imagination."

http://www.takeanaphotel.com/index.php

It has been confirmed that they are very gay friendly and do not charge Joiner's Fees though a suggestion was made of no more than two per room.

-- This forenoon, (30th.), I dropped-in for a look-see:
- loc'n.: 920-926, Rama IV rd., (between S'wong. rd. & Soi Twilight.),;
Bangrak, BKK. 10500.;
- contact: tel.: (02)-637 0015-16. --- takeanaphotel@hotmail.com -- http://www.takeanaphotel.com

- It offers Dorm., Single & Double acc'n.; room-rates incl. a Continental+ b'fast.. Should one book a single room and bring-back a companion the hotel may or may not - at its discretion - make an add'n. charge for his/her b'fast.. Apart from b'fast. no other meals are served;
- It's g*y-friendly, so no problems about bringing-back a companion - but please note well that one's companion does not have to surrender his/her ID. upon entering - thus one becomes totally responsible should anything of one's own be found to have gone missing!;
- Presently there are no short-term rooms, although possibly next year they may be made available?
- There is an IN-htl. and same day laundry-svce., but no dry-cleaning;
- Entry to one's room is by key wch. is inserted into a box for electrical svces.;
- Rooms have coffee/tea-making facilities and a digital safe;
- The htl. is Wi-fi enabled;
- The female Receptionist with whom I talked spoke perfectly good English. - no visible embarrassment at my questions;
- There is a Receptionist available 24/7..
- E&OE.. Usual disclaimers etc. etc..
-- bibi ..

In that location, I'd think they lady will have seen it all by now (or will soon).

This must rate as one of the most belated of replies, but I would just like to finally say "thank you" to everyone who responded to my original request, much appreciated.

It helped to make my stay for a week in early December 2007 that much more enjoyable.

In the end I stayed at Tarntawan Place for the first time. All went well, good, covenient location, nice room, friendly service, understanding staff, no awkwardness etc

The main negative for me was that the rooms did not have safety deposit boxes so I was constantly checking things in and out with reception. I think that is probably safer overall, but it was a bit of a chore. Yes, if that's the "main negative" then the place is clearly doing most things right!

One other observation is that the hotel is pretty "well-known", by which I mean that I sensed some of the guys I met (usually the online fraternity) didn't really wish to be associated with the place.

I did check out "take a nap" which is also convenient. Personally though either there was too much noise from the main road or it meant a room with no windows. Couldn't really argue given the prices being charged though!

For me "La Residence", a bit further up the Suriwong Road is a good compromise

Although known as a "gay friendly" hotel, Tarntawan has, over the years, become more and more hetero. My gay friend is staying there right now, so I've been in and out of the place mant times in the last week. His room is on the 7th floor and he is, in my estimation, the only gay "resident" on his floor. Every time I go to pick him up or drop him off, the coffee shop is the central meeting point for a large group of English speaking women who are having a shopping holiday in BKK. However, please note that the hotel has had no problems at all with my friend taking overnight guests there....and God knows he's taken several!!

Thanks billinbkk, the "tables have turned" then since my stay in December (or rather, sounds like my stay was the exception). To quote Little Britain, I was certainly not the "only gay in the village"!

The hotel is indeed geared up for overnight guests and in my experience provided a courteous, efficient and reassuring service for all concerned

Hope to try new hotels for my forthcoming trip having enjoyed but become tired of the Sathorn selection.

Does anyone have first-hand experience of Le Fenix Sukhumvit hotel? I know it is designer and trendy (once?) but a general consumer rundown would be appreciated.

Any interesting suggestions for budget to medium are also welcome.

Have you tried the revamped Tower Inn Silom (now Unico Grande Silom)? Not sure of your budget but for 3,000 Bt you get a large fully renovated room with free broadband for lap-top, flat screen TV and DVD player. I stayed there for Songkran, but you have to INSIST on a renovated room which are only on 2 of the 20 floors (10th & 11th from memory.) Or Unico Grande Sathorne which I posted earier in this thread. They both give me the comfort and amenities I now look for, and are gay friendly (Book for 2.) and near Chong Nonsi BTS.

Sofitel Hotel Silom
 

The last 3 visits to Bangkok i have always stayed at Sofitel in Silom. No problem what so ever as regards guests.

I stay at the Tarntawan every three to four weeks when I visit Bangkok and, based on those who I encounter in the lobby, lift, etc., three-quarters are gay, and most/many seem to have a young Thai boy in tow.

It's probably somewhat over-priced for what you get in terms of the room, but the location, friendliness and no-hassle nature of service make it very convenient.

I have stayed at Centre-Point Silom, Dusit Thani, Shangri-La, Crowne Point and Tawana Ramada (the latter two have since changed their names, I believe), but for convenience and lack of hassle, I think the Tarntawan is best, although I really like the Centre-Point serviced apartments for stays of more than a couple of days.

Thanks to those who responded.

I almost forgot about Tarntawan,having been satisfied with a stay there about eight years ago.Would have continued my association until it was pointed out that Pinnacle matched it for decor and was less expensive with superior breakfast.At the time it was considered a bit run down.Have they upgraded ? The place is well run and you are right about location.

I usually take the "Deluxe Surawong" room. They have done some upgrades over the years. I find those rooms to be comfortable and reasonably well decorated. @ B3000 in Bangkok it may be a bit high for what you're getting (I've only used the Tarntawan & CenterPoint for the past few years so my price comparisons are probably dated) just in terms of the room, but for the location and the friendly reception, I think it's worth it. One time when I booked late I had to take a "Deluxe Suite" @ B4500 and that was definitely not worth it. If I faced that prospect again, I'd book elsewhere.
http://www.tarntawan.com/special.html

Centre Point Silom is only B3450 for a one bedroom apartment with nice living room, dining area and kitchen, and spacious bedroom with dressing room, etc. It's right next to the Silom Skytrain and Saphan Taksin river boat station, but definitely removed from the Soi Twilight area. Nice view of the city or river. Whenever I've stayed there I booked in with my Thai friend and didn't bring any gogo bar boys there, but I doubt if that would be a problem. I don't think anyone would check a boy's ID or call you when the boy wanted to leave, so that extra security would probably be missing.

There's a Robinson's Dept Store attached at the ground floor level and a large supermarket in the basement, so you can do your own cooking, or they have room service and free breakfast in the small dining room. You will almost certainly be the only farang male with boy at breakfast. Mostly business types, but no one ever seemed bothered about it. They have a nice pool and exercise equipment (which I've never used :rolleyes:). Even a washer/dryer in the apt. All things considered, a real bargain, but not exactly in the middle of all the "action."

http://www.bangkok.com/centresilom/rooms.htm

I'm going to try a new apartment when I visit BKK in 2 weeks time. Its "Silom Convent Garden" www.silomconventgarden.com in Soi Pipat, I think next door to Sauna Mania.

They have weekly rates from 10,000 bht for studio rooms with free broadband. Looks good on wensite. Will let you guys know a verdict later.

Report as promised. This is quite a little gem. Brand new, good size rooms, full kitchen, free broadband access, adequate breakfast, 24 hour laundry room, excellent location 100 metres down Soi Pipat from Soi Convent. (and riht next door to Sauna Mania!) One advantage is the reception closes at 8.30 pm, there's key swipe entry and one security guard who seemed quite dissinterested when I've brough Thai friends back late at night. Recommended!

Report as promised. This is quite a little gem. Brand new, good size rooms, full kitchen, free broadband access, adequate breakfast, 24 hour laundry room, excellent location 100 metres down Soi Pipat from Soi Convent. (and right next door to Sauna Mania!) One advantage is the reception closes at 8.30 pm, there's key swipe entry and one security guard who seemed quite dissinterested when I've brough Thai friends back late at night. Recommended!

Thanks Biggles for the Silomconvent report. Maybe will try this place for a change from Pinnacle Hotel. What's the rate by the way and did you book through the hotel website? Many thanks.

Yes the hotel website is direct and has all the rates. I went for for a larger (type B) studio for Bt 12,000 for 7 nights (exc b/fast which I often miss!)...or its 2,000 a night for short stays. There are smaller rooms so go on line and pick. Beds/ mattresses are brand new but typical Thai style a bit low and hard as a rock.....actually good for f**king & probably better for you sleeping anyway!

-- Tku. for your report - appreciated.
- Before one of my visits to 'SAUNA MANIA.' I looked-in at 'SILOM CONVENT GARDEN.' and was shewn around, at wch. time it was all bright and shiney like a new pin.
- I might add - seeing that 'SM.' has been mentioned - that I found it MORE for the younger Ths.; non-Ths. and older persons might feel LESS welcomed once having paid and been admitted inside.
-- Bibi.. --

-- An aged farang angkrit acquaintance is visiting BKK. from MY.; he's staying in the MALAYSIA HOTEL, (Soi Ngam Duplee - off Rama IV. rd., nrest. MRT.: Lumphini.),.
- He's paying LESS than 800.Bh. per noctem for a std. room with bath - b'fast. excl...
- He reports that he's o'whelmed. with offers from the Th. boyz there, (obviously a farang's mkt.), and has settled upon Khun Jack. who hangs-around the car-park: 30+YO., not pretty looking, writes better English than he speaks, knows what and how to deliver and asks for just 500.Bh. for short time.
-- Usual disclaimers. -- Bibi.. --

I reckon that's about market rate for 30+ and not pretty.

Try Omyim Lodge Bangkok
 

Try Omyim Lodge www.omyimgroup.com
I stayed there a few times before. Its next to the skytrain station and 5 mins walk to Silom soi 2 and 4.

They have double glazed windows, so no noise or try one of the two windowless rooms(big rooms)

Prices are from 800 bht to 1500 bht includes breakfast (big and tasty) and taxes. No joiner fee and friendly staff. I only ever stay there if I can get in. You need to book as soon as you can.:)

Setting the cat amongst the Sathorn pigeons will be Ibis Sathorn.Word is it's slated to open June 30.

Nice to know that...any email ctc or phone for this hotel. Will be there 3rd Jul... maybe shud try. Thanks

It looks as if it will meet its completion date target or not miss by much.I know little else so your search talents will find more.

Monitor C.F.S. as someone will be armed with the facts.

-- Availing of search engine Google I found-out the flg.:
- loc'n.: On Soi Ngam Duphlee by i'sect. with Soi Sri Bumphen, BKK. 10120., (so it's handy for Babylon Sauna: ;));
- contact: tel.: (02)-659 2888. -- 'fax.: (+66 2)-659 2889.;
- MRT.: Lumphini;
- Has approx. 213 rooms;
- NO SMOKING policy, (ciggies., etc., I presume?);
- opening: sch. for jul. '08..
-- E&OE.. -- Bibi.. --

Word from O..Ho cafe is Ibis opening date is July 30.

[quote=brief encounter;661830]
Word from O..Ho cafe is Ibis opening date is July 30.[/QUOTE]

-- We shall see. I passed-by on friday's a'noon. to have a look-see - builders still v. busy with plenty of work to do; they'll have to work fast to meet the schedule.
- On Suriwong rd. LE MERIDIEN HOTEL displayed a banner announcing that its soft opening would be in april 2008 - it's still not open. I passed-by this forenoon and a large part of the approach is torn-up still and is being relaid slowly.
-- Bibi.. --

-- Another web-acquaintance from SGP. reported that he's 'phoned.-up and been assured of an end of july '08. OPENING.
- The rates for a room are reported as being 1,200.Bh./pn., (whether that incl. the usual ++ was not stated.),. To me that seems excessive for what is billed as a 'No frills hotel.' and where the staff are expected to multi-task to help to reduce o'hds..
- Directly opposite is the MALAYSIA HTL. - catering to a possibly different public, I'll allow - wch. charges some 300.Bh/pn. LESS.
- MORE expensive, too, that say TAKE A NAP and/or URBAN AGE HOTELS. at 1K.Bh./pn.. Also there's the PINNACLE HOTEL, although I'm unsure of its present prices.
-- E&OE.. -- bibi.. --

Omyim Lodge still best value
 

I agree with the last post here but, none of them can beat the low cost, high value of Omyim Lodge.
www.omyimgroup.com
:)

have just spent some time at malaysia hotel and never leave it out of your calculations.colourful characters,"on the ball" staff at reception and unbelievable value.hope it survives the competition.

-- the current issue of the freebie & weekly BK Magazine., #241., 20jun08., has a one page article about three Boutique Hotels in BKK. -
1.- HERITAGE, BAAN SILOM,
- loc'n.: 659, Si Lom 19., Bang rak;
- rates: 2,400.oo.Bhfor studio;
- further info.: http://www.theheritagehotels.com
2.- REFLECTIONS ROOMS IN BKK.
- loc'n.: 224/2-8, Pradiphat rd., Samsennai;
- rates: 1,850.Bh. PLUS, depending upon room size;
- further info.: http://www.reflections-thai.com
3.- TAKE A NAP HOTEL.
920-926, Rama IV. rd., Bang rak;
- rates: 1,000.Bh. sngl., 1.3K. for twin, 1.15K.-1.5K. dbl.; there is also dormitory acc'n. avail. from 350.Bh..
- further info.: http://www.takeanaphotel.com

-- BK. Magazine -- http://www.bkmagazine.com

-- NB.: TAKE A NAP HTL., (#3. above.), has a sister hotel -
URBAN AGE HOTEL,
- loc'n.: On the sub-soi linking Si Lom sois 6 & 8., Bang rak;
- rates: slightly cheaper than TAKE A NAP.
- further info.: http://www.guesthouse-bangkok.com
-- E&OE.. -- Bibi.. --

[quote=brief encounter;661830]
Word from O..Ho cafe is Ibis opening date is July 30.[/QUOTE]

-- Accor Hotels, of wch. 'Ibis.' is a part, have a web-site at -
http://www.accorhotels-asia.com/
-- Bibi.. --

i think c.f.s. should run a lottery among the more frequent contributors for the corrrect opening date of ibis and donate one night stay as the prize.