The Shangri-La Bangkok

Stretched out along the banks of the Chao Phraya River with easy Skytrain access, the Shangri-La ranks among the world's top luxury hotels. The decor is mostly modern, though there are some nods to old-school Asia in the wall art and standing sculptures. Of the 799 rooms, those in the posh Krungthep Wing, with balconies overlooking tropical gardens and the river, are on average larger than ones in the Shangri-La Wing. Guests in this exclusive part of the hotel also enjoy extras like 24-hour butler service, complimentary pressing (two garments per guest), and evening cocktails and canapés delivered to their door nightly. Facilities include two pools, outdoor tennis and squash courts, a health club and the recently expanded Chi spa offering Thai massage and holistic healing. Among the multiple cafés and restaurants—specializing variously in Chinese, Italian, Japanese, and international cuisines—Salathip stands out for its traditional Thai food served in a little house by the river.