I will be spending a long weekend in Bangkok at the beginning of January. I'm looking for some hotel advice. What's the best area to stay in? Riverside? We don't have much time so location is key. Also we'd like a nice pool/ outdoor area to relax in. We are looking to stay somewhere luxurious 5 star but not prohibitively expensive. Also is agoda the best way to book our trip?

www.booking.com has them all rated and reviewed.
For me SivaHotel suite $150 or so rooftop infinity pool
IHG.com Intercontinental also excellent JW Marriott.com good.
For budget well located 5 star bidding priceline $50
amari.com/watergate rated 5 star but more like a 4 but great deal. Usually surf around on asiarooms.com agoda.com otel.com
for best no bid deals.Priceline bidding gets me very best price albeit lower tier 5 stars.

Happy Hunting!

i like to book directly or i use agoda, sawadee.com or any of the other discount sites....

chatrium hotel suites riverside is a favorite
peninsula hotel is fantastic
anantara is an old favorite
all the above are on the river

sheraton grande
plaza anthanee--i really like this hotel
jw marriott
marriott mayfair---great hotel and street is super
renaissance
these are all in the middle of town

The Sheraton Royal Orchid, located on the river has the loveliest garden poll area of any hotel in Bangkok, IMO. Check the Starwood site, they make have some special offers.

Shangri La has been offerong 25th Anniversary specials.

Thanks all. I will look into these options. Also this is not business it's pleasure does that change any opinions?

The Dusit Thani Bangkok is pretty luxurious and not terribly overpriced. Plus good restaurants.

I always think of the Dusit as a business hotel. Also, not a great location for public transport.

The Sheraton Royal Orchid, I found it pretty nice and worthy to spend some time relaxing in there.