On top of the world
In Bangkok, being on top of the world has long been associated with the trendy and award-winning Dome venues like Sirocco, Mezzaluna, Distil and Sky Bar at the landmark 67-storey State Tower building close to the Riverside area. The new all-suite lebua hotel in the building offers the same sweeping, awe-inspiring city skyline and river vistas from each of its 198 luxuriously appointed suites, and takes hospitality literally to new heights.
Officially Bangkok's second-tallest building, State Tower do justice to its name. The building towers majestically above other skyscrapers in the area; its gleaming, golden dome a fitting crown and testament to the excellence that can be found within the confines of the impressive structure. The latest addition of the luxurious lebua hotel is simply the cherry on the cake...
A philosophy of excellence
At the heart of the lebua concept lies a philosophy to excel and exceed. The spacious suites, ranging from 66 to 266 square metres, count among the largest in their categories (in the city), and are decorated in a plush, contemporary style with state-of-the-art fixtures and fittings. The one-bedroom suite comes complete with premium appliances like a DVD player, full-sized fridge and microwave oven, while the two- and three-bedroom suites have spacious, open-plan kitchens that are even equipped with a washing machine and tumble dryer (on request, celebrated chefs can cook up a storm in the two- and three-bedroom suites to wow guests). The stylish elegance throughout is extended to the separate living areas and luxury bathrooms. For good measure and pure bath-time bliss, Bvlgari amenities have been thrown in.
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Despite still being in its infant shoes, lebua at State Tower is already setting new parameters with its personalised in-room check-in service that will soon be introduced, together with 400-thread cotton linen and the addition of an Evian Spa towards the middle of next year - which will make use of mineral water from the Alps. The lobby is currently being revamped into a lounge area with a new concierge desk, while a swish new 1,200 square metre function room and two new restaurants are on the cards too...
Take a step beyond the ordinary
Belonging to the Small Luxury Hotels of the World stable, lebua at State Tower goes a step beyond the ordinary at every level, and defines distinction in the truest sense of the word. The same philosophy applies to the Business Centre on the 51st floor - equipped with every conceivable facility - and the Fitness Centre and swimming pool on the mezzanine level. It's about fine living at its very best - work or play - and a proud salute to legendary Thai hospitality in an environment fit for royalty.
Its prime location overlooking (and within walking distance to) Bangkok's 'River of Kings', and close proximity to the hustle and bustle of Silom, as well as prime shopping and business districts, is a major plus. Don Muang International Airport is a 30-minute taxi ride away, and a leisurely 15-minute stroll takes you to Saphan Taksin Skytrain station or shuttle ferries at the Chao Praya River.
This fairly new addition to Bangkok's cream-of-the-crop hotels will undoubtedly help to boost the city's reputation of upholding standards to internationally impressive levels. Service remains king, and lebua's employees have been hand-picked for their exceptional skills and service flair.
Lasting impressions
When it comes to choosing a fine hotel, the true differentiator between the mediocre and the exceptional after all lies in service. The unseen things are as much an integral part of the overall experience as the opulent luxuries that promise comfort, convenience and pampering. The fine balance between the two - service and comfort - has been perfectly mastered at lebua.
Being on top of the world takes on a whole new and different perspective. While sweeping views may create that illusion, the lebua experience is very real; one that leaves a lasting impression.
Reviewed by: Francois Oosthuizen
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