i believe they told one fodorite that they intend to close down in february for a period...

Jim...I haven't stayed at Omni, but got a tour of the place and saw the apartments. It's within your budget. Happy Travels!

thanks Guenmai...actually i decided to book at Somerset Suwan Park View...looks nice, great price, and short walk to skytrain

Jim...I have had an extensive tour of Somerset Suwan Park View and almost stayed there.At the time that I went there(summer 2004?),it was half the price of Emporium Suites, where I stay...although the two places are totally different. I remember negotiating with Somerset Park View for an excellent price on a 65 square-meter, one bedroom apartment. The staff was wonderful...friendly,warm, and very attentative. You'll love the place and the location. There's also a shuttle service that will shuttle you to a nearby spa. I can't think of the name of the spa, but I think I wrote about it in my trip report of last month(Guenmai in Bangkok). If Somerset would just renovate and if they had studio apartments, I'd consider staying there part of my time in Bangkok. It's my number 2 choice of serviced apartment buildings. And trust me when I say that I've seen A LOT of serviced apartment buildings in Bangkok.The search has left me crosseyed. Smiles. You should be very happy there. You've picked a winner! Happy Travels!

thanks for that info Guenmai, it makes me feel relieved -- and looking forwards to my stay at Somerset

Has anyone stayed at Centre Point Silom recently - we are booked to stay there in early November and although the refurbishments were not an issue from earlier posters, could anyone update as to what the situation is at present please.

I would also be interested to know if anyone has been to Ongkharak Plant Market (Nakhon Nayok) & if it was interesting/worth the trip?

thank you

Jim...Hope you post when you get back to comment on how the place was. Just remember, don't expect perfection in any serviced building. There's always something going on...just go with the flow. In my building, in August, I flushed the toilet and brown water came back as did it flow from the faucets. I was told there was a water problem and to just turn on the tap and let it run for 15-20 minutes or until clear...and call back if it didn't clear up. So, I just went with the flow and it ended up fine. Also sometimes there are power outages. Remember it's Bangkok. Don't let it stress you out. Happy Travels!

Guenmai, I treat Thailand (even BKK) as my antidote to stress. but thx for the advice!

Jim...It's also my antidote to stress! Happy Travels!