It's rare to find such timeless elegance in aging grandeur, and the Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok

offers a completely different visual experience from the Park Hyatt Bangkok just a few hundred meters away. After all, the hotel's towering glass atrium filled with artificial trees is a sight rarely matched anywhere in the world. Having received a welcome letter in advance, I made a specific request for quietness. Though earplugs were provided by the bedside, my ears—still ringing from the SkyTrain's roar—weren't so easily appeased. During check-in at the lounge, I met a staff member who had recently transferred from the Park Hyatt Shenzhen, and she arranged for me to stay in an inward-facing executive suite. To me, this is arguably the best room in this Grand Hyatt. Of course, the long-standing noise issue along Sukhumvit Road can be reframed as a question of whether you're willing to sleep in the heart of the city. It ultimately comes down to personal preference, especially when the Erawan Shrine is right downstairs, and the temptation of interconnected walkways leading to major shopping malls is hard to resist. The suite's design aesthetic is textbook-worthy—so much so that it inspired me to consider renovating my own home. As an early masterpiece by the renowned designer Chi Wing Lo, this Grand Hyatt has had a lasting influence. Elements like asymmetrical headboards, intricately patterned tiles, and clever use of mirrors continue to echo in his later works. The owner's vision is also noteworthy, offering a viable solution for older hotels with limited budgets but urgent renovation needs: when a full overhaul isn't feasible, focus on upgrading the interior decor. The line between vintage charm and dated decay often hinges on a stroke of genius in design. The executive lounge retains its classic ambiance, serving light snacks and fresh juices during afternoon tea. At happy hour, waiters circulate with champagne draped in silk scarves, though the offerings lean Western. While the green papaya salad is a standout, it's not particularly filling—so consider this more about soaking in the twilight atmosphere. The sixth-floor public area is impressively functional. The 24-hour fitness center on the left is flawless except for its chilly temperature, and personal training sessions are available at relatively affordable rates. The lace-edged pool on the terrace features an outdoor hot tub reminiscent of a thermal spring. With frangipani trees shading sun loungers, the resort vibe is unmistakable. Sit down, and a server will promptly bring iced water, tea, and fruit. Breakfast is served either in the ground-floor restaurant or the lounge, with both offering a mix of Thai, Indian, and Western fare. Those craving Chinese flavors might struggle here—aside from noodle soup, most dishes feel like approximations. The star item is the orange-infused iced Americano, which nearly everyone seems to be holding. The yogurt ice cream is a nice touch, and members receive special dishes. In summary, over the past month, I've visited three of the most iconic Grand Hyatts in the Far East: Hong Kong, Singapore, and Bangkok. These stays have been a nostalgic revisit to the intricate aesthetics of the economic boom in the '80s and '90s, as well as a glimpse into how Westerners once perceived Eastern charm. Sadly, with current trends favoring newer properties, it might be time for this Grand Hyatt to follow Singapore's lead and plan a renovation. Room Details: Room Number: 1805 Official Name: Executive King Suite Size: 80 sqm Mattress: Sealy Living Room & Bedroom TV: Samsung Speaker: Geneva Bluetooth Speaker: Bose Shower & Fixtures: Lefroy Brooks Master Bath Toilet: Electric TOTO Guest Bath Toilet: Manual TOTO Hair Dryer: Panasonic Scale: Soehnle Amenities: Large Bottle Balmain Electric Kettle: JVD Coffee Machine: Nespresso Coffee Pods: Nespresso (4 capsules) Instant Coffee: Nescafé Tea Bags: TWG Bottled Water: Glass Bottle Singha Minibar: Chargeable