Inaugurated at the end of 2018, Bangkok’s first Hyatt Regency hotel has already established a strong reputation for its service, eye-catching decor and impressive amenities. Contemporary in every sense of the word, the Hyatt Regency was designed by Bangkok-based architectural firm OBA. They’ve created a destination that caters to the every whim and desire of the wealthy Millennial traveller.
For a start, connectivity is high on the agenda; the wifi is the quickest I’ve used in Bangkok, while each room has 6 to 8 power sockets. The building itself is also spectacular – an über-modern glass-covered structure, complete with lobby and snazzy roof bar. Inside, black, gold and brown tones inspired by Buddhist temples dominate carefully lit common areas, lending the lobby a very tranquil air. But, as ever, it is the quality of service that keeps guests coming back. In this regard, the Hyatt Regency performs admirably.
Location
The antithesis of serene, the hotel is slap bang in the middle of Sukhumvit, Bangkok’s main shopping and nightlife district. After 2 minutes walk you’ll be in Soi 11, which is full of (sometimes) bawdy pubs, bars and several excellent restaurants. It is the ideal hotel for younger souls, who wish to immerse themselves in Bangkok’s riotous nightlife. Moreover, the Nana skytrain station is less than 5 minutes walk – the Hyatt Regency is also very easily reached from the airports via a nearby expressway exit. However, the soothing rhythms of the Chao Praya River are some distance away.
Rooms
My favourite aspect of this hotel. 273 rooms and 21 suites have been carefully designed to fully maximise the space available; the rooms are semi-open plan, which is a very intelligent use of space. Our club access room enjoyed spectacular views across the city, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. As you’d expect, the decor is simple and elegant rather than opulent and lavish – think black and white photography and understated Modernist art. Yet the bathrooms are very eye-catching, complete with separate bath tub, rain shower and tall windows. No expense has been spared.
Service
The Hyatt Regency has trained its staff well. They employ a very much “21st century ethos” – warm and personable service, as opposed to stuffy and overly formal. Requests are handled with courtesy and the staff in the Regency Club, in particular, are superb. Smiles are frequent and everyone is treated with the same respect, regardless of their room category.
Food and drink
Although the hotel is close to innumerable dining and nightlife options, there is a strong argument for staying put. The feedback from guests who had tried the fourth floor Market Cafe was excellent – it serves modern interpretations of Thai cuisine for lunch and dinner, with some attractive outdoor seating for those who can stand the heat and humidity. However, we enjoyed several delicious morsels at the Spectrum Lounge and Bar on the 29th and 30th floors. We sat one floor below the impressive rooftop bar, which was designed by the Japanese firm Super Potato. Above us was the sound of happy revellers, enjoying bespoke cocktails, live DJ music and grilled snacks. It offers both indoor and outdoor sections, the latter with great 360-degree views of Bangkok.
Amenities
In addition to a surfeit of dining choices, the hotel also boasts a pool terrace with numerous sun loungers – no Germans were present – infinity pool, outdoor whirlpools and large gym. Strangely enough, the latter didn’t appeal in 35 degree heat.
Unique selling point
I implore you, pay the extra for a room which includes access to the Regency Club. Situated at the top of the hotel, this intimate space is ideal for rest and play. In addition to the stunning views afforded by the floor-to-ceiling glass windows, there’s a large terrace and concierge services to deal with every business eventuality. We took breakfast every morning at the club, which was both serene and excellent in quality. But there’s also all-day refreshments, evening canapes, free-flow evening cocktails and exclusive check-in. It pays for itself.
Don’t forget
This is an excellent hotel, through and through. The only slight issue we had concerned our room on the 28th floor. Some noise from the rooftop bar was apparent, which would not bother everyone, although I found it intrusive. But the staff moved us to a lower floor without any issue, quickly and professionally.
Last word
The Hyatt Regency is the perfect address for tech-savvy younger tourists who abhor formality, yet crave excellent service, facilities and food and drink. Popular with business groups, this hotel is a sophisticated package, designed to please modern travellers with very high expectations. It rarely puts a foot wrong; the room rates are also very affordable, starting at about £150 in low season. The Hyatt is also family friendly, although the main target audience is couples and businesses.
Factbox
Address: 1 Sukhumvit Soi 13 Rd, Khlong Toei Nuea, Khet Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
Phone: +66 2 098 1234
Website: hyatt.com
