Bangkok's Conrad Hotel has introduced a sporty transport alternative, claiming it is the first in the region to offer convertible roadsters to zip guests from airport to suite. The hotel started collecting and returning guests from Suvarnabhumi Airport in sleek Mercedes-Benz SLK200 cars last Friday.

The German sports roadster offers hotel executive guests what it calls the "ultimate rush", according to general manager Gregory Meadows.

He described the service as a combination of "two great brand names, Conrad and Mercedes".

"When limousine transfers were first launched you were asked 'cold towel, sir or madam?'. With the Conrad's latest transfer you will be asked 'roof up or down, sir or madam?'," he said.

"Our research highlighted there was a potential niche in the market for the single business traveller who had carry-on luggage and who did not necessarily want the traditional airport transfer."

He said the "ultimate-rush" package provided "an excellent link for our guests between their luxury flight and the comfort of our new executive floor".

"It also gives them convenience at airport clearance,

a luxurious, speedy ride by our fully certified drivers, express check-in at the executive lounge plus all the executive-floor benefits, inclusive of a late check-out until 10pm."