Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok

Since 1876, royalty, dignitaries and distinguished travelers have followed the legendary Chao Phya River through the heart of Bangkok to one of the world's most luxurious hotels: Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok.

Named to the prestigious Institutional Investor 2004 World's Best Hotels list, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok is renowned for sublime accommodations and personalized service. The hotel is within three kilometers of the Silom shopping district, the Patpong night market, the Wat Pho Temple and the Royal Palace. The hotel also operates daily river tours on the Oriental Queen cruiser to the ruins of Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Siam, now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Part of the exclusive Mandarin Oriental hotel group, the 16-story Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok provides 393 beautiful guestrooms and suites. Each features teakwood and Thai silk fabrics, fresh fruit and flowers, Bose CD players, bathrobes, in-room safes and complimentary 24-hour butler service. Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok's nine dining options cover French, Thai, Italian and Chinese cuisines.

The hotel's landmark restaurant is Le Normandie, one of Asia's most renowned French restaurants and a favorite with the HRH Queen of Thailand. Other restaurants include Sala Rim Naam with indoor and alfresco dining and traditional Thai dancing, and Lord Jim's, for superb seafood with a beautiful riverside view.

The Author's Lounge, located in the historic original wing of the hotel, serves spa cuisine and afternoon tea. Voted "The Best Spa in the World" by Travel & Leisure magazine, the hotel's well- known spa is located across the river in a traditionally carved Thai-style house, and offers both ancient Thai remedies and modern Western treatments. The spa is accessible by the hotel's private ferry, along with the health club, two outdoor lap pools surrounded by tropical gardens, tennis courts, squash courts and jogging track.

Superior River Wing Room Description: One king or two single beds with Thai-silk duvet covers and comforters. 40 square metres (430 square feet). Garden and river views from floor-to-ceiling windows. Complimentary 24-hour butler service, bathrobes, slippers, CD player, complimentary bottled water, and complimentary fresh fruit and flowers daily. Large work desk with high-speed Internet access (surcharge), three multi-line phones, minibar, and in-room safe. Fax machine available on request (surcharge).

Deluxe - Garden Wing Description: One king or two single beds. Located in the Garden Wing. River views. 35 square metres (144 square feet), with split-level layout. Sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows.