What to Expect From a Stay at a Luxury Hotel

There's nothing quite like staying at an outstanding luxury hotel. The service is excellent, the facilities superb and the entire experience leaves you feeling relaxed, invigorated and utterly spoiled. Yet there are plenty of so-called luxury hotels out there who are not worthy of the title, who fall short in some critical area and leave their guests wanting more.

Every hotel is unique, and there is no checklist or official seal of approval that marks out a great hotel from a merely average one. But if you are staying at a hotel that claims to be one of the best, there are certain philosophies of excellence that you should expect to be followed. Whether you are staying at a tiny boutique hotel with only a dozen rooms or a massive 5 star resort hotel, here are some of the things you should look out for to really test the quality of your accommodation.

Superb attention to detail

What marks out a true luxury hotel from the pretenders is the attention to detail. There are a thousand and one little ways in which a luxury hotel can demonstrate its quality, from a complimentary bottle of champagne when you arrive to a main hall that seems like a work of art. The best hotels are those which take great pains to instil quality in every possible way, and which even the most hard to please perfectionist would struggle to find fault with.

Highly personalised service

A truly great luxury hotel stands or falls on the quality of its staff. They should be polite, knowledgeable and helpful, but above all you should be treated like an individual, not as just another patron. If you have individual needs or desires, staff at a true luxury hotel will work hard to accommodate it. Not all will go as far as the staff at President Wilson Hotel in Geneva, who once hired a crane to get a requested bed up to the penthouse suite, But if you stay at a luxury hotel expect a personal service!

luxury accommodation

If you paid rates for luxury hotels, you should expect your space for maximum quality. Actually, the rooms were properly should be when you arrive, but more than that, it must radiate luxury and comfort in every corner. In many boutique hotels, room has been designed for a personal touch, but if your room is part of a species orone of a hundred identical rooms, a luxury hotel room should ideally leave you with nothing to complain about.

Top quality facilities

The sense of luxury shouldn't stop at your room. Luxury and boutique hotels often have additional facilities attached to them - restaurants, spas, gyms and so on. If they do, then they should be of same quality that you would expect from your room and the main hotel. If a hotel has outstanding rooms but a mediocre restaurant attached to it, or a perfunctory sports centre or hotel bar, it is a missed opportunity to truly dazzle its guests.

Best Hotels Near Bangkok's Nightlife 2010

Bangkok is not only known of its spicy food, but also for its fiery nightlife. And staying near any of Bangkok's infamous nightlife districts will not only put you right in all the action, but also to some of the best hotels in Bangkok. There are many hotel budget ranges as well in those areas and below you will find some of the most popular hotels in Bangkok.

Since Bangkok's nightlife districts are located centrally there are many modes of transportation available for tourists - making it an ideal location for venturing and exploring this fascinating city.

One of the best affordable hotels in Nana nightlife district is the Majestic Grande. A superior room there will set you back about 3000 Baht, which includes a spectacular breakfast spread with the room rate. Rooms at the Majestic Grande are spacious, modern and super comfortable. The professional staff in the hotel receive top marks as well.

If 3000 Baht is too much then take a look at the Salil Hotel, also located right in Nana nightlife district. The Salil is just a few years old. It's a colonial style hotel with a home like cozy feel. Since it's a smaller hotel service is much more personable. There are no elevators here though but for 1000 Baht per night most wouldn't mind at all for such a value.

Finally one really exceptional hotel recommendation is found in Patpong's nightlife district. It's the Siam Heritage Boutique Hotel. This classic Thai inspired hotel will put most in awe with it's teak wood furniture with a hint of modern flair. Usually a superior room in Siam Heritage will set you back 3000 Baht. But because of the recent political situation the Siam Heritage has reduced its rate to 1500 Baht.

Staying near any of Bangkok's nightlife districts is safe but most importantly convenient, especially for those making a first time trip to Bangkok. Trains are nearby and most businesses there cater to the tourist crowd which means you won't have to worry too much about the language barrier.

Hotel Lobbies Are Islands of Calm in the City - Here Are 3 to Enjoy in Downtown Chicago

One of my favorite parts of any hotel I stay at is the lobby. Naturally, I'm not talking about the counter, vinyl couch and cigarette machine in your typical interstate exit motel. Nor the slick, sterile, ultra-modern look that so many new places are going for today.

I'm talking the hotel lobbies of the boutique and 100 year old, 5 star hotels you find in the center of the city.

Even if you typically stay at the cheaper hotels - or even the hostel - you can and should check out these 3 hotel lobbies on your next trip to Chicago. That's the great thing about hotel lobbies - you can wander in, sit a spell and enjoy the luxury, even if you have no intention of ever spending a night.

The Elysian - 605 N. Michigan Ave.

This is a glamorous throwback to the art-deco 1920's. The stark black and white design of the entryway will take your breath away. Be sure to see the two enormous busts just inside the door - an allusion to the actual Elysian Fields, final resting place of heroes in Greek mythology.

Hotel Sax - 333 N. Dearborn St.

In the words of Chicago writer, Richard Babcock, this lobby looks like a cross between "Louis XIV and a Gothic Brothel." With a description like that, how could you NOT want to visit?

Sure enough, there are huge throne-like chairs, crystal art-objects, period paintings - alongside crimson walls, dimly lit corners and, well, just a butch of goofiness that is hard to comprehend, much less explain.

You just have to see it to believe it.

Palmer House - 17 E. Monroe St.

This Hilton property is the absolute height of luxury. Try not to stare up at the vaulted ceilings painted with Grecian scenes by French master muralist, Louis Pierre Rigal and the Tiffany crystal chandeliers. Or, go ahead - it's alright.

Take a see at he bar (open all day) or sip high tea at one of the tables.

Just relax and take it in. The world will wait.

What's Your Favorite Bangkok Accommodation?

Bangkok has always been the favorite place of tourists and people from all sections go to Bangkok to enjoy their vacations. This beautiful city has got a fine mixture of traditional values as well as modernization. Its unique and attractive culture has always been the centre of attraction for people. There are beautiful restaurants with high class food and there are street stalls that attract hundreds of customers.

To all these amazing things in the right way, you need a right Bangkok accommodation. That's exactly the point when you can consider the option of staying in Bangkok serviced apartments. People who go to Bangkok for a longer period of time prefer to stay in apartments rather than in hotels. The reason behind this

There are apartments available in Bangkok that have all the facilities that make people feel at their home. There are world class hotels in the capital of Thailand and these are also a centre of attraction of many tourists. The Sukhumvit hotel has received a lot of appreciation from its customers and is mainly accommodated for businessmen, who like to do their big deals in this Tai-pan hotel. It is also known as Pullman Bangkok King Power hotel. The administration of Bangkok has also made apartments in the same region so that tourists can also be accommodated. It is due to this competition that you can find accommodation at lower rates. In fact, it is quite amazing that price of this hotel is $89 per night. Now this is easily affordable and with their excellent customer services, it is a good option to consider.

If you are one of those persons who like to stay near riverside then Bangkok will not disappoint you. The Royal Orchard hotel has been built near the riverside and it is one of the most famous hotels in Bangkok. The price of one room here is $108 per night and its venue distinct it from other hotels. Though people think this rate is a bit on the higher side, but considering the fact that there is no other accommodation in this area other than this hotel, it starts looking good even at this rate.

It is a must place for every tourist who wants to see the real beauty of Bangkok. However, if you like to see a trendy place in Bangkok, then you must have a stay in Baiyoke Boutique hotel. This hotel is known for its excellent decoration, unique style and outstanding customer facilities. This hotel has simple furniture but provides superb facilities along with foolproof security.

This hotel is located at the centre of Pratunam shopping area and is very close to the Baiyoke sky hotel. All these features enhance the quality of this hotel and make it a perfect accommodation. In nutshell, it is enough to say that Bangkok has an apartment in a location that you love the most. Facilities are outstanding and serviced are fabulous. But, you can understand it only when you visit this amazing city.

Hotels in Darjeeling - Opulence in The Mountains

Hotels in Darjeeling cater to everyone's needs and while there are hotels that are lavish and expensive and there are also hotels that suit the budget of everyday man. Some of the high end hotels are Sterling Resort, Hotel Viceroy Darjeeling and the Himalayan Resort.

Darjeeling also has an innovative boutique hotel that offers excellent accommodation and some of the best food in the hill station. The Shangri La hotel is known for its luxury and high level of quality. The hotel boats of a restaurant which offers some of the best continental and Chinese cuisine in Darjeeling. The rooms are designed to offer some of the most breath taking views of the Kanchenjunga peaks. The Shangri La caters to the needs of both the leisure-traveler as well as the business traveler. Imagine waking up in the morning, only to find yourself gazing at one of the most magnificent peaks in the world- that's the kind of ambience you'll get in Shangri La. This is why rooms in this hotel are pre booked months in advance during the peak tourist seasons.

There are numerous three star Darjeeling hotels that are available to the traveler. Some of them are Hotel Anand Palace, Lunar, Swiss, Shambhu, Seven Seventeen, North Star, Mohit, Sunflower and The Mayfair Darjeeling. These hotels are catered for those travelers who require good service and quality at reasonable prices. Most of these hotels provide excellent facilities and their cuisine alone is well worth the stay.

There are a few heritage hotels that are available in Darjeeling. The Hotel Dekeling Resort, Windamere, Fortune Resort Central Darjeeling are hotels that were established during the colonial period. The hotels are renowned for their colonial style heritage service and hospitality. Set amidst tea plantations they offer a glimpse into the world during the colonial times. The Dekeling hotel offers a unique style of hospitality that incorporates both the Tibetan and British style of hospitality. You can take a breezy walk down the tea plantations which lie near the hotel whenever you need to stretch a leg.

There are also numerous hotels that are suited to those on a budget. Some of them are the Apsara Hotel, Farmont, Pineridge, Broadway, Cedar Inn and Classic Guest House. Opting for these accommodations is also a very good idea, money wise.

Where to Stay in Bangkok - Cheap Accommodations

Do you want to take a break in Bangkok? Has it ever occurred to you where to stay in Bangkok? Would you like a magical or a mesmerizing vacation in a beautiful discount hotel in Bangkok? Or you can rejuvenate with a holiday of a lifetime and explore the 'City of Angels' in the land of smiles. Take off into a dream realm and give yourself a break with a wonderful time at guest-friendly discount hotels in Bangkok. Your holiday is complete when you find where to stay in Bangkok according to your budget. Many a traveler would be definitely confused with the number of accommodation rooms and the best thing to do is to settle for cheap accommodations in Bangkok especially when you get deep discount rates that would be ideal for you to save tons of money.

Think of it as your special Asian experience and settle on the main factor of where to stay in Bangkok. Choose the criteria of centralized locations where it would be easy to get around with easy access to all the attractions, restaurants and shopping. Let the land of smiles offer you a great stay at discount hotels in Bangkok where you will definitely get the feel of Thai culture, staff who are guest-friendly and who cater to your tastes and help you out with arranged guided tours. It is also advisable to go through online travel portals preferably if you can find the leading number one hotel agency in Asia. Besides offering deep discounts, the hotel agency is also known to give the best rate guarantees with the assurance that the confirmed room will be waiting for you even if the hotel is completely booked in discounted hotels in Bangkok.

Enjoy Bangkok Cheap Accommodations

Bangkok caters to a wide gamut of travelers be it business or leisure. Take time off to enjoy your Thai experience and absorb one of the oldest cultures with its quaint blend of the traditional and the modern and take the beauty of a memorable stay in the best discount hotels in Bangkok back with you. As the biggest city in Thailand and also its capital, Bangkok is the hub of business in Thailand and is expanding economically, culturally, politically and educationally. Built on the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok evolves over 1,568 kilometers with various provinces. Choose cheap accommodations in Bangkok or a great discount Hotels in Bangkok, she smiles when undecided about where to stay and to discover not only the support and hospitality, but also the warmth of Thai culture and go on a journey of a thousand.

Enjoy a fabulous stay in a comfortable hotel in Bangkok and explore the rich and vibrant remaining Far East has so many things to enrich your vacation or business trip. Lift-off and get into the Thai way of life and the discovery of ancient pagodas, temples, markets, restaurants,the nightlife, shopping malls and streets bustling with vendors. Or take a boat ride and surround yourself with colorful wares, fresh fruits, vegetables, delectable foods of the floating markets and come back to revive in the luxury of the modern amenities of your unique discount hotel in Bangkok. Open a page to a new way of enjoying a vacation with discount online booking and fall in love with the romance of Bangkok.

Take a Unique Path to Luxury in Discount Hotels in Bangkok

Bangkok Hotels - Best Website For Comparing Hotel Rates in Bangkok

After being named as the 'Top City' in 2010 by Travel & Leisure magazine, the city of Bangkok in the Kingdom of Thailand has been catapulted to the top of the must visit city list. Planning a trip to this exotic Southeast Asian city starts with finding a comfortable and reasonably priced hotel to stay in. But most do not know where to start. The solution: Find several online hotel reservation agencies that are based in Bangkok and compare room rates.

Anyone with a computer and Internet connection can become their own travel agents these days. One of the biggest secrets in the travel industry is to book a room with a hotel reservation agency that is based in the country you are visiting. In this case, find a company that has offices in Bangkok, especially businesses that are licensed by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), such as the companies listed below.

Sawasdee.com - A very popular company that has provided discounted hotel room rates for many years.
Hotels2Thailand.com - Another popular company with competitive hotel room rates.
Agoda.com - Though they have an office in Bangkok they are a part Priceline.com one of the biggest online travel agency.

The reason these companies are able to offer prices lower than booking a room through a hotel directly is because they serve as wholesalers. They are able to reach a wider market, therefore bringing a greater presence to consumers looking for a place to stay in Bangkok. In return online hotel reservation agencies receive a bulk discount for hotel rooms in which they pass on the savings to consumers.

And the reason it is best to compare room rates with companies in Bangkok is because since they are able to be notified first about upcoming deals and promotions. And this gives them the major advantage over other companies that are not based in Bangkok.

Finally, remember it is important to compare room rates. Sometimes the prices differences are insignificant. But sometimes it could mean the difference between a free night or a free breakfast. So it always pays to compare prices, especially when it only takes a few extra minutes of your time.