Staying at Kempinski Siam, Bangkok

Kempinski Siam hotel, Bangkok. Photo / Supplied

Helen van Berkel checks into Kempinski Siam, Bangkok.

Getting there: The Kempinski is about a 45-minute drive from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi airport. But the city's notorious traffic can easily double your journey.

Check-in experience: Your van drives up a sweeping entrance around a splashing waterfall. You step inside into an air-conditioned oasis of marble opulence and quiet background piano music.

Rooms: The hotel is arranged in a rough triangle around ground-level swimming pools.

Some of the two-storey rooms offer direct access to the pool. Otherwise your room on the higher levels will look down on the pools.

What's in the neighbourhood: You are in the centre of one of the world's most exuberant, exotic and exciting cities. There are temples, shopping malls, more shopping malls and more temples. There are parks and walks and canals and restaurants and more shopping malls.

Food and drink: Hotel Restaurant Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin was in the running for a Michelin star when I dined there. It's Thai food with a twist and were I a Michelin judge, Sra Bua would get all the stars I had to give. The beers and drinks in your room's minibar are free.

The bed: The Super King was the perfect size to host a minibar beer party.

The view: Swimming pools and city high-rises.

Bathroom: A blind separated the bath from the main room. And if you think a bath doesn't appeal in the humidity of Thailand think again as a monsoon thunders outside and your feet ache after a day of exploring Wat Chalong.

Facilities: Kids' club, fitness room, restaurants. The collection of pools looked inviting but Sra Bua and the shopping centres nearby kept me too busy.

Free Wi-Fi: Yes.

Contact: kempinski.com/en/bangkok/siam-hotel

Perfect for: A luxury getaway in one of the world's thrilling cities.

Would I return: In a heartbeat.