The Sukhothai Bangkok

Most of Asia’s grand hotels are ostentatious skyscrapers, but the Sukhothai breaks the mold — this low-slung and labyrinthine complex, designed by Ed Tuttle (of Aman fame) sprawls over six acres, and functions as an island of calm amidst the bustle of that other City of Angels. Gardens, courtyards and lotus pools await around every corner, and the restaurant floats on a man-made lake; if not for the odd glimpse of concrete high-rises in the distance, you’d never believe this was urban Bangkok.

The décor, too, is anything but business-hotel standard — the look is more pleasure-palace, with teakwood floors, rich Thai silk and celadon ceramics. Guest rooms are a sort of modern-classic hybrid, in muted earthy colors with ornate woodwork and sleek furniture. The feel is urban resort, but with big-city conveniences like flat-screen TVs, fax machines and broadband internet connections. If you need to get away, do so in the palatial bathrooms, with their mirrored walls, wooden floors, oversized tubs and separate showers.

The Celadon restaurant serves fine Thai cuisine, and is a top contender for Bangkok’s best restaurant. Italian and international options are available as well at the hotel’s La Scala and Colonnade restaurants, while after hours the focus shifts to the intimate Zuk Bar, an outdoor lounge and cocktail bar that takes on more of a club atmosphere later in the night. The health club is phenomenally well-equipped, the jewel in its crown being the 82-foot outdoor infinity pool. Massage, fitness, and squash and tennis are available as well.

All very relaxing, but don’t think it can’t compete as a business hotel — private offices are available, as is the business center, and the hotel offers conference facilities in varying sizes, as well as a fleet of Mercedes S-class luxury sedans, complete with drivers. Perhaps a good idea to schedule business engagements early in your stay, as too many nights of decadent Sukhothai luxury may dampen your enthusiasm for hard work.