Bangkok Accommodations: Review of the Emerald Hotel and Legacy Suites

There are hotel options for all budgets in Bangkok and reading reviews from several travel sites is always helpful in making a selection. Hotels closer to the Grand Palace and WATS are going to be more expensive. In 2010, two excellent hotels both within 2-3 blocks of the subway were the Legacy Suites and the Emerald Hotel.

The Emerald Hotel is a large, convention style hotel, located on Ratchadapisek Road, about 2 blocks north of the Huai Khwang Station (MRT/Subway). The Emerald Hotel offers 7 dining options, a spa and health club and an executive floor/business center. The Emerald Hotel does offer Internet specials so be sure to check for best available rates. In March 2010 the Internet rate on the Executive floor was 3800 BHT (about $120 USD) which included breakfast, 15 minute massage, wireless Internet in the room and nightly reception with small bites and coffee, tea or water.

For the most part, the rooms are clean and comfortable with a flat panel television and in-room safe. In March 2010, the room we were in had carpet that was in dire need of replacement and there was hair in the shower drain, but overall comfortable. The breakfast at The Emerald Hotel is incredible with options for every nationality! Eggs made to order, cereal, yogurt, fresh fruit, warm pastries, English breakfast with beans, grilled tomatoes, Chinese donuts, noodles, sushi and more!

The Emerald Hotel is located 5 subway stops (15 minutes) from the Chatuchak Weekend Market to the north and 10 stops (20 minutes) to Hua Lamphong at the main railway station, which is nearest the WATS and Grand Palace.

There are not many restaurants or shops near the Emerald Hotel, but the next subway stop down at the Thai Cultural Center there are shops and dining. The Thai Cultural Center has a Starbucks for those that need that fix, a Robinson's, and Carrefour. There is a food court, which is an inexpensive, clean way to try a variety of local foods; however, very few people speak English and the menus are all in Thai, with pictures of meals. The food is paid for after all items are selected using a food card purchased in advance.

The Emerald Hotel is an excellent option for those looking to stay outside the main tourist area, but would like easy access to the sites.

The Legacy Suites is a boutique style hotel located off Sukhumvit Road on Soi 29 and about 3 blocks from the Skytrain station of Phrom Phong and a few blocks from the main Sukhumvit station. The location of the Legacy Suites can't be beat! The Emporium shopping center is blocks away as are many other shops and restaurants. The Legacy Suites is located away from the hustle and bustle but within just a short walk!

The Legacy Suites is clean and comfortable with several room types to select from. In March 2010, the internet rate for a standard suite was 2400 BHT. For security, there is a private guest elevator, requiring a room key. Each suite offers a sitting area, wireless Internet and a small kitchenette. The kitchenette has an apartment size refrigerator, a two burner stove, microwave and sink. There is a place setting for 2 and a small dining table. The Legacy Suites is perfect for business and longer stays. Wireless Internet access is available in each room, as well as throughout the public areas of the hotel and Internet terminals available for use in the lobby. There is also a fitness center, pool and tennis courts. Breakfast is served in the Japanese Restaurant located off the lobby.

The Legacy Suites has larger rooms and is more conveniently located and a bit more comfortable than the Emerald Hotel and is highly recommended.