Sathorn Vista, Bangkok – Marriott Executive Apartments

Situated in a glass high-rise building, the hotel has an upscale, executive feel, but not much in the way of local flavor -- the style and design could be found anywhere in the world, with little decor indicative of Bangkok or Thailand. Upon entering through sliding glass doors, the lobby is revealed: a long open corridor with shiny off-white tile and a sparkly, dome-shaped chandelier above reception and tour desks. Although bright and airy, the lobby lacks conviviality. There are some generic, red and brown abstract paintings hanging above basic brown leather armchairs, shiny metallic wall accents, and a stainless steel elevator bank -- none of which stray from the corporate feel of this property. Most of the guests are long-term residents, so the ambience is quiet and orderly, and feels more like an exclusive apartment complex than a tourist hotel. Most guests don't linger in the public areas, but spend time in their rooms. Even the lovely outdoor pool -- a saltwater pool with stunning green water -- tends to be quiet. The casual MoMo Cafe is nicely decorated with wood floors, retro-chic wood chairs, and red mosaic-tile walls, though tends to be somewhat empty. The hotel feels quiet and suburban, a controlled oasis and peaceful escape from the busy streets outside.

The hotel sits on busy Sathorn Soi 3, just off of the ultra-busy and often traffic-jammed Sathorn Road. The surrounding area is urban, with several residential apartment buildings and a few shops, restaurants, and bars within a five-minute walk. The location is equidistant from the sights along the Chao Phraya River and much of the downtown business and shopping district. The bustling nightlife, restaurants, and bars of Silom Road are about a 10-minute walk away. The Sala Daeng BTS Skytrain and Silom MRT subway stations are a good 10- to 15-minute walk away. The Wat Pho is about 30 minutes away via Skytrain, and the National Museum and Grand Palace are 30 to 40 minutes away by public transportation. Suvarnabhumi Airport is about 30 to 50 minutes away by car or hotel shuttle, depending on traffic. 

Virtually devoid of any decor or local flair, save the colorful area rugs, rooms at the Sathorn Vista are large, comfortable, full-blown apartments with one, two, or three bedrooms. Apartments all have separate bedrooms with plush beds and wall-size windows, and each unit has at least two flat-screen TVs and free (though spotty at times) Wi-Fi. Each has an executive-style living area, desk and office chair, and dining table -- furnishings are bland and basic, in dark wood, red and green fabric, or cream leather. Each unit has a stacked washer/dryer, small vacuum cleaner, and full kitchen with tea/coffee facilities and stainless steel appliances -- full-size refrigerator, electric stove and oven, microwave, dishwasher, minibar -- and all the necessary dishes and utensils. The two- and three-bedroom units have incredibly large living areas, some with long, conference-style dining tables. Bathrooms are clean and modern with glossy white tile; some have separate soaking tubs and rainfall showers, while others have glass-enclosed showers with rainfall showerheads. 

The property's standout features are its executive-style apartments with full kitchens and washer/dryers. There is free Wi-Fi in rooms and throughout the hotel, though it can be spotty. There are also an outdoor saltwater pool with a children's swim area and poolside bar, a hot tub, and sauna. The modern, spacious fitness center is open 24 hours. There are two restaurants, including the MoMo Cafe, serving buffet-style breakfast (not free) with lots of hot and cold items, and international fare for lunch and dinner. The Resident’s Lounge serves international cuisine with Thai flair, and has a full bar. There are several meeting rooms and a business center, and the hotel has a dedicated kids' play area with games and books for children of all ages (toys, blocks, and foosball) and a free kids' club. The hotel offers an airport shuttle and parking, both for extra fees.