The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel

From October 2017 onwards, Plaza Athénée, one of the most luxurious hotels in Bangkok, will be known by its new name: The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel. The name change follows a major renovation—the biggest in the hotel’s 16-year history—that takes the fancy lodging to a new height of luxury. Everything, from the spacious lobby with that recognizable giant Disney Princess-ish staircase to the restaurants and function spaces and all 374 guestrooms, have been given a head-to-toe refurbish, incorporating artistic elements related to Princess Valaya Alongkorn, a daughter of King Rama V who lived during the 19th century and whose former residence is now part of the hotel grounds. So you’ll see a little bit of this and that, including carving patterns inspired by a flower the princess adored, a book collection that reflects the princess’ educational endeavors and paintings the princess liked. The stories behind the details, however, are not clearly advertised (otherwise there will be thousands of inscripted silver plates hung everywhere in the hotel) but the hotel staff is more than happy to share with you the heritages that lie within.