The riverside palace is a whole new world following extensive refurbishing
Elaborate renovations began at the ShangriLa Hotel last November, soon encompassing its popular Italian restaurant Angelini and moving on to all 650 guestrooms and suites. Now, US$60 million later, the place has a whole new look from top to front door.
The lobby is back to its stately form, a beautiful array of flowers to make check-in that much more pleasant and a new bar tempting guests to the riverside.
The freshly renovated rooms are wonderful, neutral tones blending well with natural wood colours, nothing fancy but very functional.
My deluxe has a broad view of the Chao Phraya River, a pair of comfy armchairs and a side table with fresh fruit set out, within easy reach of the king-sized bed and within easy gaze of the balcony and river.
I choose peace and quiet over the buzz of boat engines that pour in during the day when the window's open.
The next great thing about the room is its work desk, complete with a comfortable swivel chair. I set up my laptop and quickly find the multiplug socket, a direct path to broadband Internet, complimentary for every guest.
The socket panel has universal plug, VGA and audio data ports, so you can connect your computer to the 40inch LCD flat-screen television, and there's a DVD player with a USB port if you're keen for some movies and music.
The luxurious new decor includes a traditional carved-wood bedstead and Thai silk trim. The bathroom is a good size, with separate bath and shower, and even speakers to pipe in your music or television sound.
The large safe is big enough for my laptop and other belongings.
On the way down to dinner at Next2, I discover another new addition: The Garden Rooms Event Suites, function rooms in a villa style. They have access to the garden and views of the freeform swimming pool and the river.
Both Next2 and Salathip Thai are, of course, already by the river, with another pool in the restaurants' midst. All of this was redesigned by landscape architect Bill Bentley with a sloping edge where guests can sun-bathe closer to the water.
The new layout has given Salathip Thai a bigger outdoor dining area along the Chao Phraya.
At Next2 I find the new Sunset Lounge at the entrance, with perfectly comfy beige sofas.
Even better, the restaurant has extended its riverside terrace right to the water's edge with "satellite kitchens". There's enough space for private outdoor dinners for corporate partners.
The terrace is busy with guests enjoying the food and the lovely river breeze. I happily sit inside and explore the bright surroundings, including nine food stations.
My plans are already set for breakfast tomorrow morning.
AT A GLANCE
High points: Great views of the Chao Phraya. Everything looks new and modern, and all the hitech amenities are on offer.
Low point: The noise of the boat traffic.
Find it: Soi Wat Suan Plu, Bangkok
Pay for it: Room rates start at Bt6,750+
Browse it: www.ShangriLa.com/bangkok
Book it: (02) 236 7777 or email slbk@shangrila.com
