Hi:

We are going to Bangkok in February, and I am trying to choose a hotel. I would like to be near the Chinatown/Historic Area. Anybody have reviews of the Royal Pricess, Royal Hotel, Bossotel, or Grand China Princess?

Thanks!
Molly

please give some thought to taking a hotel on the river...it is so much nicer than most areas of town...why chinatown??

bossotel is not exaclty near china town its actually right near shangri la hotel and a block or so from the river. I have nothing against chinatown. it's kind of cool.. but do put aside a good chunk of your budget for taxi's since it is some distance from most tourist sites entertainment and shopping areas.

Check out www.frommers.com. It has Bossotel as one of its top budget hotels.

Hi:
Chinatown appears on the map to be close to the temples and tourist sites. Is it further than it looks? Would I not want to walk to those places? Where is a good central, convenient neighborhood to stay in. Not so interested in shopping or nightlife, mainly temples and palaces.
Thanks!

I don't think you want to be in Chinatown. Take some advice from the veteran fodorites on this forum- stay on the river!

I'm another one who firmly believes that you should stay on the river. I've never felt so strongly about the location of a hotel. Not only is it convenient, but it's the best way to experience the magic of Bangkok.

Gloria

Having just returned from Bangkok a week ago, and (horrors) I didn't stay on the river, I'd like to point out that there are many many many lovely hotels in Bangkok that are very modern chain names and in excellent locations.

Yes, it's lovely to stay on the river. I've stayed at the Penninsula twice and the Oriental once. They were marvelous places... BUT, I have also stayed at hotels along the skytrain route, and I really think they are more convenient.

With that in mind, however, many of the temples and sights you will want to see are along the river. Wat Pho, Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, all are close to the water.

I would recommend finding a hotel that meets your needs, that is along the skytrain route so you don't have to deal with traffic and taxi drivers who might try to take you to a tailor or jewelry shop when you get into their taxi (I've had that experience).

Also, the new subway system is open. It opened during our visit. We did not try to hop on, as it was just getting initiated and I think not all routes were open (?). The King rode and stopped at all 18 stations that are finished.

You need to visit the www.bangkok.com web site to look at maps and areas of the city that might interest you. There are hotels everywhere! I'm sure you will find something within your budget as Bangkok is a bargain! Why not consider a serviced apartment? That is what we had on this last stay.

Carol

We stayed at Grand China and loved it. Chinatown is VERY busy and so different from the rest of Bangkok. The hotel is only two blocks from the river "bus" stop and that is so convenient for easy access to everything.

gnr

chinatown IS on the river and right next too the temples. it's actually a verry good location if you just plan too look at those temples. people here make it sound that walking 1 block will kill them.. chinatown is the oldest part of Bangkok and the streets are small. Unlike sukunvit where you can walk for iternity up one soi.

I don't exactly find anything magical about the mighty mudy chao phraya. I guess if one is staying in a five star hotel sipping chanpagn it probably does seem magical then again so would NYC's Harlem river.

I have been in a lot of Chinatowns around this world and one thing is clear- I would not want my hotel to be located in these areas for obvious reasons- now don't get me wrong I like the Chinatowns- just not staying in them!
Bangkok vs. NYC- this is a no brainer- Bangkok is far more charming and entertaining. Its a fact- people like a view of the water, and yes while the river is muddy, its still pleasant to look out on the water and to ride the hotel boats across to the skytrain station. This was one aspect my wife liked the best about our trip.

Yes the river is great day or night and you don't have to stay in a five star hotel and sip champagne to appreciate it.......although come to think of it it does sound a good idea!