SO/ Bangkok

Part French, part Thai, all high-gloss modern design, the thirty-story Sofitel So Bangkok lets you forget neither its European heritage nor its setting at the heart of the bustling capital of Thailand. The green expanse of Lumpini Park is just outside, and beyond it, on view from one floor-to-ceiling window after another, stands Bangkok’s dramatic skyline. Inside, fashion designer Christian Lacroix oversaw the work of five Thai designers, resulting in an adventurous but cohesive look — as well as some very natty staff uniforms.

The design is based on the five elements of the ancient Asian scheme: Metal rooms, for example, are pared-down and smoothed out by cool metallic surfaces, while Water rooms have deep blue walls and big luxurious tubs, some with views of the city that will keep you soaking long enough to wrinkle your fingers. In fact views, of the city or park or both, stand out in every room.

There’s free wi-fi throughout, a Mac Mini or iPad with integrated entertainment in every room, and televisions nearly as big as the windows. Of course it wouldn’t be a top Bangkok hotel without a killer rooftop. This one is home to the Sofitel’s bar and restaurant, and for the truly bold, there’s a glass-walled pool perched high above the city.