Montien Hotel Bangkok Montien Hotel Bangkok 54 Suriwongse Road   Bangkok, 10500  Thailand Offering 475 rooms and suites, the Montien Hotel Bangkok boasts an ideal location for exploring this incredible city. Just 25 minutes from the airport (depending on traffic, which at times can be brutal) and steps from the night markets and clubs of Patpong, this hotel offers tourists and business associates a comfortable and quiet place to stay in this bustling metropolis. Also a short walk to the department stores of Silom Road and to the sky train, the Montien's location is ideal. However, being set back from Suriwongse Road, guests get the impression of being away from all the noise of the city. Immediately upon arrival, a porter met my cab and escorted me to the check in desk. The clean and attractive lobby is exceptionally well staffed with Thais eager to accommodate guests with anything they might need. (I later had a small tiff only when there was some miscommunication over a surcharge for a late check out -- so be sure to get price quotes in writing.)  Rooms have direct dial phones, safes, and black-out curtains to keep out the morning light -- which is greatly appreciated after a long flight. Also notable is how quiet the property is -- there is no noise to be heard from the highway, the busy streets of Patpong, nor neighboring guests. Clean and modest, my room was reasonably spacious and offered two comfortable beds. The marble floored, western-style bathroom also offered amenities to make my stay more comfortable. Though the hotel is rated as a four star property by many sites, this is not four star under high American standards. The hotel is well maintained, but on par with a Best Western with a nicer lobby. In Bangkok, unless you want to stay in one of the top notch hotels overlooking the river, then the Montien is certainly one of the finer hotels. Take a few moments to relax at the pool or in the fitness center.  When evening falls, the local Patpong street markets across from the hotel sells clothes, watches, and souvenirs to eager tourists. Not far from the hotel, there are some saucy shows and dance clubs, but be assured, the area is quite safe although you do want to keep aware of your surroundings. The driveway to the hotel is well monitored to give guests an extra sense of security. - Cara Chase