Anantara Siam Bangkok

Anantara Siam is calmer than its central address suggests. Set among tropical gardens on Ratchadamri Road, right beside Ratchadamri BTS, it's close to the Erawan Shrine and the other Ratchaprasong shrines, as well as Wat Pathum Wanaram. CentralWorld, Gaysorn Village and Siam Paragon are all within walking distance, and Lumphini Park is a short stroll south.

High chandeliered ceilings, hand-painted silk murals, and lush gardens give the hotel a sanctuary-like feel in the middle of the city, with distinctive Thai elements running through the contemporary décor.

Rooms start at 42 square metres, with a choice of classic Thai style with hand-painted murals or a more contemporary look, and marble bathrooms with separate tubs and rain showers. Views overlook the gardens, pool, city, or Royal Bangkok Sports Club golf course. The Garden Pool Villa has its own private pool, and the two-bedroom Jim Thompson Explorer Suite celebrates Thailand's famous silk house.

Sunday brunch here is one of Bangkok's most popular, so book ahead. The rest of the week, six places to eat and drink cover Thai, Japanese, and Italian cuisine, plus a steakhouse and Latin-inspired dining, with a café for coffee and pastries throughout the day.

Anantara Spa is the hotel's wellness retreat, with an IV drip bar for jet-lag recovery. The swimming pool sits in the gardens, with steam rooms and whirlpools, and the Technogym fitness centre is joined by outdoor rock climbing.