Long years ago I embarked on a mission to experience every 5 stars hotel in Bangkok. I have not finished yet though, for too often I prefer to return to my old favourites than to try something new. This time, however, I did it and for half the price of a standard room in a 5 stars hotel I booked an apartment at the Marriot Sathorn Vista. Here are, then, the differences I noticed between this sort of accommodation and a 5 stars hotel:

a) The rate is roughly half that of a standard room in a 5 stars hotel;
b) Instead of just a room you have an apartment. You can conceive it as a suite with a bathroom+bedroom and living room+kitchenette. The latter is fully equipped, including oven, stove, laundry washing machine (although there is a laundry service if you prefer), etc;
c) There is no room service after 11 pm (but how often would you need it?);
d) There is just one restaurant instead of several (but there are many alternatives in the neighborhood, both in luxury hotels and in the street);
e) There is no spa (here, too, you have many options in a walking distance, both expensive and affordable ones).

Conclusion: 5 stars hotels are overpriced!

The weakest point in my apartment: it faced Sathorn Road, which means some traffic noise at certain hours of the day (even in the 21st floor).

We stayed 9 daysvin a one bedroom apartment. The apartments are very spacious and well-equipped, including satellite television, DVD player, full kitchen and laundry facilities. The pool is salt water and large and the gym is modern and has quality equipment. The staff are friendly, efficient and obliging and the manager was frequently out and about talking to staff and guests. The restaurant has a wide variety of dishes, well-priced, especially the boxed lunches and buffets...and a mango sticky rice that was to die for! Rooms were serviced daily and were always spotless. The bathroom was spacious, walk in shower with separate bath, and extra towels in the cupboard. We felt very 'at home' and would definitely return.

Stayed for four nights whilst on business in September. The rooms are very comfortable and clean, and the location good for getting around with the rail station just fifteen minutes walk away.

Staff were always very welcoming and friendly, and the restaurant on site had a range of food to cater for all tastes.