the review 47
Checking out... S TAY: AVANI HOTEL – Bangkok, Thailand
BY CHLOE BAIN THE BACKGROUND: Previously operating as the Atrium Bangkok, this is the fi rst Avani property to open in Thailand following an $8 million refurbishment. It offers 568 rooms and suites and provides a ‘wow’ factor fi rst impression with a 12-storey atrium lobby which doubles as a lively ‘lifestyle’ hub. Dominated by a striking six metre artwork, this was a good spot to meet friends and grab a snack. THE LOCATION: Located in the bustling commercial and retail area of Asoke- Sukhumvit, the hotel runs a free shuttle service to the well-connected Makkasan Station, with links to the airport. The nearest subway station is just a seven- minute walk. THE ROOM: The modern style of the public areas gives the hotel a very contemporary feel which was also refl ected in my chic Avani Deluxe room. Spacious and well-equipped it had great views of Bangkok and a
THE VERDICT
stylish bathroom with great waterfall shower and toiletries. The top levels are Executive Floors where all rooms have 40” LCD TVs plus DVD player and upgraded amenities, plus an Executive Lounge for breakfast, complimentary evening cocktails and canapés. KEY FACILITIES: The outdoor pool area was something of an oasis in this manic city. With sun-loungers, soft landscaping and views overlooking Bangkok, it includes a sauna, steam room, massage
room and fi tness centre. These were good but are apparently due to be upgraded shortly. RESTAURANTS/BARS: There are four options including all-day dining at PUBLIC, quick snacks from the designer deli and light bites by the pool bar. Benihana, an iconic Japanese Teppanyaki steakhouse, is due to open this month (March 2015). Avani Hotel, New Petchburi Road, Bangkok; tel: +66 2 365 7500;
atrium@avanihotels.com w:
avanihotels.com
S TAY: MIDDLETHORPE HALL – York, England
BY JULIE BAXTER THE BACKGROUND: Built as a home in 1699, Middlethorpe Hall was rescued from decay and carefully restored by Historic House Hotels to reopen as a luxury hotel, restaurant and spa in 1984. In 2008 it was donated to the National Trust with all profi ts now benefi ting the house and charity. THE LOCATION: Easily accessible by road
or train, the hotel is just a two-mile, mostly-riverside walk to the centre of York for all its city attractions. THE ROOM: Our room was in the main house and had the style and feel of a private manor house with lush damask furnishing, four-poster bed and tall picture windows with window seats. No kettle is provided as, in the country house tradition, staff are specifi cally employed to bring morning tea to the room. The bathroom was traditional in style but with all modern facilities. KEY FACILITIES: Set in 20 attractive acres, the hotel has 10 rooms and suites in the main house and 19 more in the adjacent 18th Century courtyard. The main house includes an imposing lounge with views over the gardens and a cosier reading room with open fi re. Opposite the main house is a spa and pool area with treatment rooms – all fashioned within two cottages.
THE VERDICT
RESTAURANTS/BARS: Drinks are served in the lounge and meals in the top quality, traditional wood panelled dining room. The chef has won a range of accolades and offers a range of inter- esting options for lunch and dinner including a gourmet tasting menu. Bishopthorpe Road, York, North Yorkshire YO23 2GB tel: 01904 641241; email:
info@middlethorpe.com w:
middlethorpe.com
This historic and interesting property makes a relaxed and peaceful base from which to easily explore York’s city attractions. Dinner in the restaurant was top notch and the country house style ensures visitors quickly feel cosseted and at home. The staff are attentive and extemely professional. The simple spa offers a good range of reviving treatments. RATES: Hotel stays are priced from only £129pp including breakfast, dinner and a spa treatment
This is a cool and convenient hotel and a great place to escape to after a day battling the busy streets and sights of the city. The staff were really friendly and helpful and the atmosphere was chilled and relaxed. The atrium entrance is impressive and the decor throughout gave the hotel a trendy feel. The beds were comfy and the views superb. The location suited us well for exploring the city on a short stopover. RATES: Premier room rates start at £65 including breakfast.
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