Serene, stately, and classically Thai

Popular plate: Indulge in an evening at the Sukhothai's Celadon restaurant, considered to be one of the finest Thai eateries in the city.

Noteworthy for: Standard rooms do not equal cramped boxes here—even the Sukhothai's smallest rooms are a spacious 38 sq m.

The Sukhothai's location—only moments away from the bustle of the river, Lumphini Park and shopping haven Siam Square—belies its impossibly relaxing atmosphere. It's this unparalleled tranquillity that has visitors regularly lauding the hotel as the finest in the city.

Born of the collective visions of several local and international designers, this elegantly appointed urban sanctuary draws on distinctly Thai influences to create a contemporary, yet dutifully traditional, boutique hotel. In a city that tends to favour skyward growth, the Sukhothai is a welcome rarity, which makes use of a low, sprawling, temple-like space complete with ornamental stupas, pagodas, and peaceful pools.

Teak interiors, oversized bathtubs, and Thai silk furnishings complete this modern ode to bygone luxury. And the service is flawless—attentive but blissfully discreet.