Le Club Accorhotels - Sofitel So Bangkok

Accor PR (http://www.accor.com/en/news/sofitel-so-bangkok-welcomes-guests-to-stay-connected-with-full-apple-based-solutions.html):

Sofitel So Bangkok welcomes guests to stay connected with full Apple-based solutions

Sofitel So Bangkok (Thailand) scheduled to open by end of 2011, will be Asia’s first hotel to offer a fully connected lifestyle, with complete Apple-based digital solutions to what guests want to know, see, hear and do for leisure or work. From hotel service directory to the most comprehensive in-room entertainment system available today, it’s literally all at one’s fingertips.

Linking up with DirectStreams, one of the world’s top software solutions providers, and using leading-edge Apple Mac mini and iPad, Sofitel So Bangkok provides completely integrated connectivity that is custom-designed for a hotel environment to meet guests’ lifestyle expectations in the digital age.
Sofitel So Bangkok is opening a new chapter in contemporary designer boutique hotels, where boundless creativity and innovation is displayed in a delightful and luxurious environment .

Positioned as designer hotel, Sofitel So Bangkok is created by five interior decorators including signature Haute Couture fashion designer Christian Lacroix, who will introduce French elegance in the decor of the hotel lobby and stylish objects in the guestrooms. This new and completely different hotel, located in heart of Bangkok, overlooking Lumpini Park, with its 238 rooms, offers an original guest experience presented in a novel environmental concept based on the four elements: water, earth, wood and metal.

Hmm looking forward to having a look next year

Accor PR (http://www.accor.com/en/news/sofitel-so-bangkok-welcomes-guests-to-stay-connected-with-full-apple-based-solutions.html):


Hmm looking forward to having a look next year

So Do I

And we are So looking forward as well!

If you would like to know more we would be happy to share with you.

Thank you So much!

Cheers from So Bangkok Team :D

Welcome to FlyerTalk and the Accor A-Club forum Sofitel So Bangkok :)

To the best of my knowledge you are the first Accor property to join us here.

starflyergold, thank you for your welcome!

We are delighted to join the Forum and hope to be supportive in anyway we can.

We would like to share some more information for your pleasure, we hope this is not against any forum rules. Sharing is caring as they say.

Dont worry! we will make sure not to spam with loads of info, we are merely here to chat and discuss with you :)

Sofitel So Bangkok, scheduled to open by early 2012, will be Asia’s first hotel to offer a fully connected lifestyle, with complete Apple-based digital solutions to what guests want to know, see, hear and do for leisure or work. From hotel service directory to the most comprehensive in-room entertainment system available today, it’s literally all at one’s fingertips.

Linking up with DirectStreams, one of the world’s top software solutions providers, and using leading-edge Apple Mac mini and iPad, Sofitel So Bangkok provides completely integrated connectivity that is custom-designed for a hotel environment to meet guests’ lifestyle expectations in the digital age.

All of the hotel’s 238 rooms will be technologically equipped with an Apple Mac mini computer, together with high-definition 40” LCD TV, wireless keyboard, trackpad, free high-speed Internet access, and a full range of Office software. Additionally, guests staying in any of the hotel’s suites will also have the complimentary use of an Apple iPad.

With the ultimate in integrated technology, each Mac mini will function as a multimedia centre, giving guests access to digital TV and radio channels, movies and music library, DVD and CD player, as well as the ability to play each personal iPod, iPhone, and iPad.

For work purposes, the Mac mini enables guests to load files via a USB port, work on them in the normal way, and save them to a memory stick safe in the knowledge that every time the Mac mini is shut down DirectStreams software will clean away any new information on the computer and restore it to its original state at check-in/check-out.

Other applications in this groundbreaking system range from the prosaic, such as browsing the hotel directory and in-room service menu, to the sublime with webcam screening of the Bangkok skyline and panoramic views over Lumpini Park.

Beyond guestrooms, the technology platform extends across the entire property to provide a whole range of multimedia applications in public areas, business centre, meeting rooms, and ballroom via 11 LCD digital signage.

Commenting on Sofitel So Bangkok’s amazing digital world hotel general manager Mr. Gilles Cretallaz said, “Today, the personal computer is integral to an evolving lifestyle, the digital lifestyle, and people are coming to expect that what is central to their lives at home and in the office should also be available when they travel. This is what we are providing, meeting needs in a way that guests are now coming to expect.

“It’s all part of what the Sofitel So brand represents – the recognition of a new generation of urban hotels that are technologically innovative and design oriented. It is also a very ‘green’ concept as with more on screen, the less paper used and the less waste.”

Located on the corner of Rama IV and Sathorn roads, with a commanding site overlooking Lumpini Park and skycrapers, the 30-storey Sofitel So Bangkok has an interior design created around the Five Elements (Water, Earth, Wood, Metal and Fire) which, combined, frame and form a refuge of sense and balance energy at the heart of vibrant Bangkok. Indeed, here is a truly innovative hotel that promises visitors and locals alike with a new focal point, a place to stay, eat, meet and be entertained in stylish fashion and totally connected.



Thank you So much!

Cheers from So Bangkok Team :D

Welcome to Flyer Talk Forum Sofitel So Bangkok

Great to have you on board Sofitel So Bangkok :)
I'm a regular guest at Sofitel Silom and really love this property but may be I'll have to give you a try !

Thank you yauee and Goldorak,

We hope to see you next year :)

Cheers from So Bangkok Team :D

Bangkok has a disproportionately large number of Accor properties for a city. Last count was at least 20 properties of all Accor brands. Not that I'm complaining :) but how does this Sofitel So position itself , being the third Sofitel property ? And whatever happens to Sofitel Sukhumvit (not the Grand Sukhimvit) but supposedly a new one?

The new Sub-brand "So Sofitel" is aimed at the very high end so my guess is this will be "better" than the existing Sofitel offering in BKK (and more epensive)

Bangkok has a disproportionately large number of Accor properties for a city. Last count was at least 20 properties of all Accor brands. Not that I'm complaining :) but how does this Sofitel So position itself , being the third Sofitel property ? And whatever happens to Sofitel Sukhumvit (not the Grand Sukhimvit) but supposedly a new one?

"The more the merrier". :)
According to what I've read (and partially seen), it looks like it'll top the existing Sofitels in Bangkok. As for the price, well, can ANYTHING be expensive in Bangkok? ;)

"The more the merrier". :)
According to what I've read (and partially seen), it looks like it'll top the existing Sofitels in Bangkok.

It seems like a hipper and more contemporary concept.

"As for the price, well, can ANYTHING be expensive in Bangkok? ;)
Yes it can, the Royal Suite at the MO Bangkok. :rolleyes: Truth be told, I paid more for an Ibis in Singapore than a room at Sofitel Silom. So I agree with you, partially. ;)

A short explanation about Sofitel So:

Created by Sofitel as a label, Sofitel So personifies its designer hotels vision, the latest addresses, resolutely contemporary. Blending design and pleasure, style and soul, each Sofitel So address aims to express the essence of the destination. A concept that combines Sofitel art de vivre and personal style entrusted to an international name from the world of fashion, the arts or design. Conceived as a story, each address is a new chapter. The book opens with Sofitel So Mauritius and the narrative continues with Sofitel So Bangkok, Sofitel So Mumbai

Sofitel So Bangkok will be very different from any existing Sofitel in Bangkok. It will be an urban design hotel reconciling design & pleasure with a strong focus on the destination, hence the name So Bangkok!

We have many exciting things to showcase in due time, feel free to ask us anything and we will share with you what we can :)

Thank you So much!

Cheers from So Bangkok Team :D

Any artist impressions of the hotel interiors to show? Sofitel website doesn't show much.

Any artist impressions of the hotel interiors to show? Sofitel website doesn't show much.

Dear RJ77

We will be having a press conference last week of June. We will be sure to share a link to images at that point.

Have a lovely start of the week :)

Thank you So much!

Cheers from So Bangkok Team :D

I am a big fan of the Sofitel Silom and Pullman in BKK and would be interested in trying the new proprty. Will there be an Executive Lounge at the Sofitel So?

I am a big fan of the Sofitel Silom and Pullman in BKK and would be interested in trying the new proprty. Will there be an Executive Lounge at the Sofitel So?

Dear Flyoff

Certainly So! We will have an executive lounge at So Bangkok named Club Signature. It is located on the 25th floor with great views of Bangkok featuring exceptional and friendly service. We are still in development and will be happy to share the final product and rendering once available. We are sure that the Club Signature will be very unique and provide a new experience for you.

We would be happy to get feedback from A-club members on Flyertalk regarding what you are currently missing and deem important to have in an executive lounge, we aim to meet those requests. Feel free to reply or PM us your wish list!

Thank you So much!

Cheers from So Bangkok Team :D

Dear Flyoff

Certainly So! We will have an executive lounge at So Bangkok named Club Signature. It is located on the 25th floor with great views of Bangkok featuring exceptional and friendly service. We are still in development and will be happy to share the final product and rendering once available. We are sure that the Club Signature will be very unique and provide a new experience for you.

We would be happy to get feedback from A-club members on Flyertalk regarding what you are currently missing and deem important to have in an executive lounge, we aim to meet those requests. Feel free to reply or PM us your wish list!

Thank you So much!

Cheers from So Bangkok Team :D My wish list would include a Lenotre shop in the lobby, and underground access via a tunnel to the Lumpini metro station. Crossing Sathorn road at that corner is hell :D!

I see the opening date has slipped to "early 2012". Reservations are open from 1 March.

Dear FT members!

A small update regarding the hotel can be found here http://www.freesun.be/news/index.php/sofitel-so-bangkok-bangkoks-first-truly-urban-design-hotel

Dear Q shoe guy

We will have a very nice chocolate and pastry boutique on entrance level of the hotel, as for the tunnel we cannot confirm anything.

Dear starflyergold

You may now make reservations from 1st of March. As for the opening date we want to make sure that everything is perfect when we welcome you with open arms.

Thank you So much!

Cheers from So Bangkok Team

Dear FT members,

We now have some new images available on http://www.sofitel.com/6835
There is also a facebook fan page if you want to follow latest news and chat with Sophie. http://www.facebook.com/SofitelSoBangkok
If you have any questions please let us know :)

Thank you!

Cheers from So Bangkok Team :D

Dear FT members!

A small update regarding the hotel can be found here http://www.freesun.be/news/index.php/sofitel-so-bangkok-bangkoks-first-truly-urban-design-hotel

Dear Q shoe guy

We will have a very nice chocolate and pastry boutique on entrance level of the hotel, as for the tunnel we cannot confirm anything.

Dear starflyergold

You may now make reservations from 1st of March. As for the opening date we want to make sure that everything is perfect when we welcome you with open arms.

Thank you So much!

Cheers from So Bangkok Team

One out of 2 isn't so bad....:)

Dear So Bangkok Team,

I've just made a booking for next April 2012.
As per your estimation, should the Hotel be ready until then?

Thank you and regards,

"The more the merrier". :)
According to what I've read (and partially seen), it looks like it'll top the existing Sofitels in Bangkok. As for the price, well, can ANYTHING be expensive in Bangkok? ;)

+1, i can't wait to try it.

Hi Sofitel So Bangkok

Can you please confirm, if I am an A|Club Platinum member and book the 'So Comfy' room, should I get an upgrade to the 'So Club' room with Club benefits?

The hotel looks great - really keen to try it out when I'm there in a few months.

Thanks

Welcome to FT and the Accor A-Club forum PabloM :)

I am thinking about going to Bangkok between January 25 and 28, and I am wondering if the hotel will be in operation at that point. Thanks!

I am thinking about going to Bangkok between January 25 and 28, and I am wondering if the hotel will be in operation at that point. Thanks!

The hotel is not open yet and won't be for your dates. The website seems to indicate 28 February as opening date.

While in Bangkok I had quick look from the outside at the new Sofitel So Bangkok

http://img718.imageshack.us/img718/825/p1000973n.jpg

http://img688.imageshack.us/img688/3913/p1000955s.jpg

http://img685.imageshack.us/img685/1980/p1000958kw.jpg

http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/9973/p1000957v.jpg

http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/1502/p1000960t.jpg

Staff wearing grey So Bangkok T-shirts:
http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/5426/p1000961ml.jpg

http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/8158/p1000962n.jpg

http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/3171/p1000965w.jpg

http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/8426/p1000968pz.jpg

http://img854.imageshack.us/img854/4729/p1000972l.jpg

Can you please confirm, if I am an A|Club Platinum member and book the 'So Comfy' room, should I get an upgrade to the 'So Club' room with Club benefits?

Mrs. olisch and I will stay in Bangkok at the end of march, so I'm thinking about giving the new Sofitel So Bangkok a try.
Does anyone have further informations concerning possible benefits for platinum members?

Actually they already have an opening special

80 Dollars - 80 Days

Offer includes a credit value of USD 80 net per room per night to used for: dining at any of the hotel restaurants (Park Society & Hi-So, Red Oven, The Water Club, Mixo and Chocolab), spa treatment at So SPA or upgrade to a higher room category or suite

Sofitel So Bangkok @ Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/SofitelSoBangkok?sk=app_193954510702362)

Rate is available in the first 80 days after opening ...

In line with the tech savy approach the Sofitel So Bangkok has its own YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/SofitelSoBangkok

Mrs. olisch and I will stay in Bangkok at the end of march, so I'm thinking about giving the new Sofitel So Bangkok a try.
Does anyone have further informations concerning possible benefits for platinum members?

Tried to contact the hotel about Plat. amenities but no reply for almost a month now.

Tried to contact the hotel about Plat. amenities but no reply for almost a month now.

how did you try to contact them?

how did you try to contact them?

Whichever e-mail was listed on their website. Either way I could care less about staying here because the prices during my time in Bangkok is really expensive compared to other properties that are probably better in value.

Dear Members of FT

First of all we would like to extend our sincerest apologies for an absence on this forum. We have launched many new interesting projects such as youtube, facebook and twitter with more to come.

However from now on, we will ensure that our A|Club champion of the hotel will always be watching this thread carefully to answer to any needs or questions that you may have. If anything specific, you are more than welcome to send directly to h6835-FO2@sofitel.com

We are in the stage of finalising the Platinum memberfits and will be informing you more by next week.

The hotel will open on the 28th of February and we are looking forward to welcome you.

Thank you so much!

Sofitel So Bangkok

Actually they already have an opening special



Sofitel So Bangkok @ Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/SofitelSoBangkok?sk=app_193954510702362)

Rate is available in the first 80 days after opening ...

Do all rates qualify for this $80 credit? The Facebook pages states all guests doy do, but when you go to book, it looks as if it might just be for fully flexible rates.

We are in the stage of finalising the Platinum memberfits and will be informing you more by next week.



I wonder if there is any update? I'm really looking forward to trying the new property later this year. Thanks!

I have a booking in 2 weeks time with the opening special 80 dollar credit promotion. I am wondering if Gold member of A|Club member is entitle to free upgrade? :confused: Really hope they will upgrade us as we are spending our anniversary there. ;)

However from now on, we will ensure that our A|Club champion of the hotel will always be watching this thread carefully to answer to any needs or questions that you may have. If anything specific, you are more than welcome to send directly to h6835-FO2@sofitel.com

We are in the stage of finalising the Platinum memberfits and will be informing you more by next week.



So two months have passed, are you able to advise the Platinum Member Benefits?

Cheers

I am considering a stay here this fall, and I am wondering if anyone has stayed at Sofitel So?

I am considering a stay here this fall, and I am wondering if anyone has stayed at Sofitel So?

I stayed there about a month ago - I posted a review under the Elite Experiences thread (post #67) but I'll repost it here as this hotel is SENSATIONAL!



What is your Le Club status?
Platinum

Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Absolutely!

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked So Suite and received So Lofty room (top room).

How are the rooms?
AMAZING!!! The room was sensational - so large - massive room, huge bath, shower, dressing, lounge, dining room. Just incredible.

We also got to have a look at the other rooms - hotel is themed water, earth, fire, metal and wood - so saw most of the room styles and there is something there for everyone. It's so Chic and Elegant - just amazing - and the hotel is still only in the soft opening stage - so once it's fully completed it will be even better.

What was good and what was bad?

Good:
Everything! This hotel is sensational. We were given the VIP treatment. When we arrived (at 1130am) our room wasn't ready - we weren't expecting it to be and thought we'd go shopping until it was - but we were offered a complimentary lunch in the Red Oven (sensational food). Checkout was then also extended to 6pm on the day of departure - we hoped for a 4pm checkout but got a 6pm one.

We were also given a one hour massage each, complimentary breakfast, So Bangkok gift (magnet with words So), chocolates, etc.

The Spa was amazing. Great massages and amazing atmosphere.

Red Oven - one of the restaurants - has an amazing buffet with different styles of food. Also had breakfast there and it was amazing too.

The Club Signature lounge isn't quite open but we were still given Club Signature services - afternoon tea, evening cocktails, all day drinks and snacks - and that was so good. The Thai Coconut Daiquiri was amazing.

The staff were outstanding - so friendly, wanted to help, made any little inconveniences just slide away (just some inconveniences because it's still in soft opening - but really, the way they handled it just added to their exceptional experience). Seriously, we felt like we were the most important guests in the hotel - and this was from all of the staff.

The pool, fitness centre, sauna, steam room were all great - beautiful facilities and nice to be in.

The hotel looks amazing - so modern, chic, sophisticated and warm. There is a room type for every taste - we loved Metal and Earth rooms (earth would be especially good if you had kids with you).

Bad:
The only very minor complaint was that the snacks with cocktails were pretty basic (just crisps and some kind of nut thing) but everything else was so good that it really didn't matter.

And I guess that you could say there were some things missing but this is just because the hotel isn't quite finished - but really, it didn't matter.

Value for $ or Vouchers?
Yes for both. So good value - it is a little dearer than other Accor properties in Bangkok but so worth it.

Would you return?
Absolutely. We didn't want to leave.

Really Good Value for the price I paid;
YES!

We just loved the Sofitel So Bangkok. It has to be one of the best hotels we have ever stayed at. Put's other Sofitel's in a different (lower) class. They are really trying to impress guests and they are doing it so well.

Can't wait to get back there.

Thanks for the review PabloM ^

I just book 4 nights there in a So Lofty room and after reading your experience November can`t come early enough :)

Cheers

Thanks for the review PabloM ^

I just book 4 nights there in a So Lofty room and after reading your experience November can`t come early enough :)

Cheers

Enjoy it. I'm slightly jealous.

... as this hotel is SENSATIONAL!

well YMMV. I stayed there in june, booked a So Comfy room and got a So Comfy room, albeit a corner room. Put a request for a Water themed room in my booking, but "just" got an Earth themed room. No further benefits given. I was sligthly disappointed.

The concept of breakfast might be innovative, but for me, old fashioned guy as I am ;), it was quite irritating in the beginning.

Definately can confirm that the staff was truely helpful and friendly

Anyway I'll give them another try next year, though I just booked a So Suite for a nice rate.

well YMMV. I stayed there in june, booked a So Comfy room and got a So Comfy room, albeit a corner room. Put a request for a Water themed room in my booking, but "just" got an Earth themed room. No further benefits given. I was sligthly disappointed.

The concept of breakfast might be innovative, but for me, old fashioned guy as I am ;), it was quite irritating in the beginning.

Definately can confirm that the staff was truely helpful and friendly

Anyway I'll give them another try next year, though I just booked a So Suite for a nice rate.

That's a shame olisch. Our experience was certainly out of this world.

I just completed a 4-night stay at Sofitel So BKK, so I’m pleased to post here a detailed review (sorry for this long post !). After several nice stays at the Sofitel Silom (really liked this hotel and was « devastated » when the transformation into a Pullman was announced on this forum :(), I hesitated between booking at the So or at the Sofitel Sukhumvit but decided finally to try the So. I had an excellent stay and definitely recommend this hotel, but there are some room for improvements, as detailed below.

Booking
I booked a So Comfy room with view on Lumphini park. Among the rates proposed, there was one which was « special offer to discover our new Club Signature », which I choose.
As you may know, the hotel interiors have been worked on by famous world designers and the rooms have 4 different themes based on elements : wood, earth, water and metal. The week before my arrival, I sent a pm on FT to the « Sofitel So Bangkok » member (who posted in this thread) to enquire about the different elements (because you cannot actually choose this on Accor web site during the booking process). After several days without response :td: (disappointing but not surprising as they did not post anything in this thread for several months now), I sent the same question by e-mail to the hotel. I got a prompt response asking me about my preference. I didn’t really had prefs but indicated my 1st and 2nd choices and they replied saying that they have booked me an « earth element » room (which was my 2nd choice in the e-mail sent).

Arrival / check-in
I read on Trip Advisor before coming that the taxis and tuk-tuk didn’t know this hotel and this is true. This is surprising as it is located at the corner of 2 important and well-known streets (Rama IV and Sathorn) but you’d better have the phone number of the hotel with you for the cab driver to call them and have directions. The hotel is located right in front of the nice Lumphini park, and Lumphini metro station is conveniently located at the foot of the hotel.
The main lobby is located on the 9th floor but there is a pre-check-in in the lobby on ground floor. My booking was checked there and as I had booked a room with Club Signature access, I was immediately accompanied to the 25th floor where the club is.

For those of you who are expecting a hotel in the same style as the Silom one, it is not. There is no « Thai/Asian » touch. It is more what I could call an « international design » hotel, very modern and of course very nice. But if they could add a little « Thai touch » like some orchids, that would be nice (we are in Thailand, no ?). The staff uniforms were designed by Christian Lacroix. Some are nice, some are…specials (well, for fashion it’s a question of taste !).

Check-in formalities were quickly done in the Club lounge while drinking an espresso and a fruit juice :). Outside the usual breakfast and happy hour drinks/cocktails in the evening, club benefits include a free 30-min foot massage at the spa, a one day-metro pass, 2 complimentary clothes pressing per day. Upgrade : I don’t think any room upgrade was granted, but I’ll come back on this later. I was also given the drink voucher, but with Club access, this was not so useful. I was also given an invitation for a welcome party for new guests at the main hotel bar the same evening.

So I was accompagnied in my « earth element room ». All blue (you could have thought that the blue colour was for the water element but it’s not). Nice corner room with splendid view on Lumphini park and Bangkok skyline. Large bathroom with bath tub and separate shower. Espresso machine. Mini-mac computer system on TV (everything is done through the TV : obtaining wifi codes, restaurant menus, ordering room service, list of services offered in the hotel, etc). But…I was not feeling so enthusiastic with the room, due to some « psychedelic » painting on the dark blue walls and the bathroom having no separation with the room corridor (felt « strange »).:rolleyes:

Hotel facilities
- swimming pool: very nice, on the 10th floor, facing Lumphini park and the skyline (same view as from my room). Not huge but large enough and larger than the Silom one.
- fitness room : facing pool and view. Didn’t have time to use it (lack of time is always a good excuse as I clearly preferred to relax at the pool :cool:).
- Spa : on 11th floor just above the pool. You can enjoy your massage looking at the breathtaking view on Bangkok skyline :):):). The 30 min-free foot massage offered as a Club lounge benefit is definitely a nice touch ^.

Welcome party
Free alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks were served. I met with the director of the hotel who asked me my impressions about the hotel and if I was happy with my room. Although I could clearly have stayed in the earth room, he understood I was not « in my element » (that’s his own words). I told him also I was platinum and he immediately said that I had surely been upgraded. I said that I was not so sure about that. He then told me that if I had club access while having booked a So Comfy room, I had been upgraded due to the Club access. This was wrong , as I had booked the room with Club access. So as a whole it’s not clear if I received an upgrade or not (I can be wrong but I don’t think so). But anyway, the director asked imediately one of the front desk staff to give me a room in another element. They proposed me a wood element room and I was clearly preferring it. So well managed ^.

Club lounge
I liked the athmosphere. Excellent staff who is really caring about the clients (it’s the case for all staff I interacted with in this hotel, but especially those working at the lounge). Happy hour for drinks was from 5 to 7 pm. The lounge manager (called « guru » on her business card) showed me the water and metal rooms : very nice and probably the nicest ones. Next time I return there, I’ll probably take a water element room.

Restaurants
The hotel has 2 restaurants in addition to the Club lounge :
- the main buffet restaurant (red oven) : excellent quality for price (full buffet for 1200 THB at dinner). This is also the restaurant for breakfast, if you don’t take it in the lounge.
- the « chic » restaurant on the highest floor : nice decor and attentive service but hugely overpriced (see also below).

What I did not like / to be improved :(
- my dinner the 1st evening at the « chic » restaurant : I took some pork (« black pig ») for the main course and was served what I can call 3 pieces of fat :eek:. I mean that, once you remove the fat, there was almost nothing to eat. I complain to the waiter to say it was unacceptable to serve for 2000 THB such a main course. They offered me a dessert as a compensation ^.
- despite the hotel is new, some equipments/furniture are already showing their age : the sink in my bathroom was in a porous material and so had some stained part which gave a dirty-like look. This is not acceptable in such an hotel and when you think it’s open for less than 6 months :td::td:.
- as a platinum member, they put in my room the 1st evening a nice tray with cakes, fruits and a bottle of red wine. This evening, I only ate some cakes and kept the fruits for the other days, but everything (except the wine) was removed the following day. Too bad and hard to understand why.
- no turndown service the 3rd night. They probably forgot me (but this is no big deal of course)
- the swimming pool was privatized my last day (a Saturday) in the afternoon for a « hotel public relation event ». OK, it was not fully privatized as they told me I could go in, but there were so many people without any room + very loud techno music, I litteraly ran away :mad:. I therefore went to the lounge and I told the attendant I was not happy about this (I was expecting so much a last swim after a hot day in town). I don’t think it is normal that the hotel guests cannot use the hotel facilities they paid for. The lounge manager (guru) apologized and called her supervisor to explain the situation. She came back saying that he will come shortly to discuss with me (which he did). And also that they were offering me the transportation to the airport with the (very nice) hotel limousine :).

So as a whole, I had a very good stay :). There are some things that can be/need to be improved and I’m sure they will (I have sent an e-mail to the hotel director listing the good and less good points). What is sure is that the staff is really caring about customers, because every time I have reported a problem, they have promptly reacted in a very professional way.
I will definitely return there without hesitation. Maybe I’ll give also a try to the Sukhumvit one to make my definitive choice between those 2 Sofitel.

Great review Goldorak. The Water element definitely is nice.

I'll be staying here in November and look forward to it. Photos of the earth room (with blue walls) are enough warning for me to not choose that style. What were they thinking with those paintings on the wall?

Great review Goldorak.
thank you :)

I'll be staying here in November and look forward to it. Photos of the earth room (with blue walls) are enough warning for me to not choose that style. What were they thinking with those paintings on the wall?

Some people may like that (I hope for them !)

As always an excellent and thoughtful review Goldorak ^

It sounds like a good choice with typical Accor problems (upgrade uncertainty) and some typical Bangkok problems (private events getting in the way of hotel guests). Both could easily be resolved by management. The latter is a real gripe of mine. When staying at a hotel I don't want to be shoved aside in favour of fashionistas partying hard. The MGallery Muse across Lumpini Park is a serial offender in this regard.

How did you consider the value of your stay?

As always an excellent and thoughtful review Goldorak ^

It sounds like a good choice with typical Accor problems (upgrade uncertainty) and some typical Bangkok problems (private events getting in the way of hotel guests). Both could easily be resolved by management. The latter is a real gripe of mine. When staying at a hotel I don't want to be shoved aside in favour of fashionistas partying hard. The MGallery Muse across Lumpini Park is a serial offender in this regard.

How did you consider the value of your stay?

Thank you Starfyergold :)
For the pool party pb, I explained to the assistant manager who came to discuss with me that it was unacceptable. I can accept the fact that there is no room for me because at the moment I go there all chairs are occupied by hotel guests (OK, I'll come back later), but I cannot accept that the facility is fully used for some private event (when this facility is unique in the hotel, which is the case here). I think he understood my point but there's no guarantee of course that they will take this into account.

For the value for money, well I'm a little bit "polluted" by the unbeatable quality-to-price ratio we had in ex-Sofitel Silom. But, with the promotion I had for the opening of club signature, I consider it good, as long as you avoid the overpriced top floor restaurant. Without promotion, let's see the fares first ;)

How did you consider the value of your stay?

If you don't mind I share my opinion:

- The hotel is nice and I really like the rooms
- Platinum recognition is mediocre at best
- There's a lot of hype surrounding the Sofitel So right now, which attracts the young and beautiful and Bangkoks HiSo's, so you better expect some more "hotel public relation events"

They now they have a high quality product which is well in demand right now. And it reflects in their rates. If you want to get a (standard) room with breakfast for 2 persons you have to pay at least 6.000 THB now.

At that rate imho there are many better options within Bangkok. The hotel is nice but "the bang for your buck" is hardly better than average (if at all).

YMMV

Some are nice, some are…specials (well, for fashion it’s a question of taste !).


well, and some are just ... different ;)

While waiting for my taxi I chatted a little bit with the guy at door and asked him about his new uniform. He explained to me that it's a mixture of ancient thai styles and modern european styles (whatever that might be :confused:). To my question whether the uniform is comfortable to waer, he just smiled at me and replied: I can adapt ;)

I more I think about it the more I question myself why I booked a suite at Sofitel So for next stay in Bangkok. As long as you (or better I) expect to much, you (I) won't be too disappointed. Still that might be a poor return for my 10.000 THB rate.

Would they at least upgrade to Club level rooms?

s
- Platinum recognition is mediocre at best

Would they at least upgrade to Club level rooms?

I got a corner room, but unfortunately no upgrade to Club Level (not really a big deal, because back in june the Club Signature hadn't opened yet).

Still got some fruits and a bottle of red wine (which was definately a nice gesture but useless for me though I don't drink any alcohol)

Mrs. Kalboz thought that the earth element room (the blue one) was very playful and charming with its prehistoric motif paintings mimicking Issan caves with curving walls, door archways, and blue walls:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8472/8085512552_03fffe2f26_c.jpg
More photos of this awesome property can be found here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/kalboz/sets/72157631767707929/with/8085512552/

More photos of the "blue" room Earth Element Room:
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8470/8099393465_dc229cfc07_c.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8328/8099398539_4e0c525339_c.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8331/8099404458_de4ca4f652_c.jpg

More photos of the "blue" room Earth Element Room:


nice pics .. what kind of room did you stay. A suite?

nice pics .. what kind of room did you stay. A suite?

I didn't stay there ... I was busy doing my Marriott MegaBonus stays between the JW and the Renaissance to earn the 3 free nights. We just went to the Sofitel So for a tour of the facility and were nicely received (http://milepoint.com/forums/threads/sofitel-so-bangkok-opens-its-doors.29680/#post-1705577).

Is there a good gym at this hotel? Is it complimentary if you are a guest? Does it have also steam/sauna etc? Thx

Will shortly post my complete review shortly, meanwhile please enjoy this video of my So Lofty Water teamed suite on the 25th. floor:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--1cH_ibz0o&feature=plcp

Cheers
Stein

I'm staying in So Studio at 23rd floor now

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXt23D668ks

Was promised to get an upgrade today, so let's see what I'll get.

I'm staying in So Studio at 23rd floor now

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXt23D668ks

Was promised to get an upgrade today, so let's see what I'll get.

Hmm...I'm recognizing this crazy blue Earth element room ;)
Do you like it ?

And finally some wonder happened ... I received a significant upgrade. I booked a So Studio and was upgraded to So Suite.

My video might not have the best quality but I give you my word that this suite is awesome

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vYB6UtCfGVc

By the way, the fat guy in this video is me :(

Let's see what will happen on sunday, when I will return to Sofitel So Bangkok. I booked a So Suite and was already promised an upgrade.

Do you like it ?

Not so much

So far I stayed at

So Comfy - Wood
So Studio - Earth
So Suite - Water

and the water theme is by far the best. Plus these rooms are on 25th to 28th floor, the highest floors in the hotel.

Not so much
Same for me

and the water theme is by far the best. Plus these rooms are on 25th to 28th floor, the highest floors in the hotel.
I agree too.

I'm back at Sofitel So now and as promised before I got upgraded again. Booked a So Suite and got a So Lofty.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1yIfXCxh74A

Thanks Olish for sharing all those videos with us ^

Thanks Olish for sharing all those videos with us ^

yin dee khrap ... ;)

Having stayed twice at the So Sofitel (total of 8 nights) and once at Sofitel Sukhomvit (6 nights) (suite rooms booked and received at both hotels) I have to say that So Sofitel wins hands downs down. The service at the hotel from greeting at the front door to welcome gift in the suite (as a plat) is excellent. But for me it is the service in the lounge that reality makes a difference; where the huge Sofitel Suk looses out big time is on personal service in the lounge. The So offers personal service by name, and the Suk Sofitel does not.

This is my personal experience with both hotels and my thoughts about both properties.

Hi, guys,

I'm deciding between Sofitel So and Sofitel Sukh...Any experience of being upgraded as Platinum(holding the free one though) to their club room while booking their So Comfy room?

Thanks in advance.

Having stayed twice at the So Sofitel (total of 8 nights) and once at Sofitel Sukhomvit (6 nights) (suite rooms booked and received at both hotels) I have to say that So Sofitel wins hands downs down. The service at the hotel from greeting at the front door to welcome gift in the suite (as a plat) is excellent. But for me it is the service in the lounge that reality makes a difference; where the huge Sofitel Suk looses out big time is on personal service in the lounge. The So offers personal service by name, and the Suk Sofitel does not.


Wow! Guess I have to try Sofitel So next time. Every time I walked into the lounge at Sofitel Suk I was greeted by name and asked about my preferences and received some of the most personal service ever! Perhaps you're just not as handsome as me? :D

Here's my review after a recent 5 night stay.

I am Platinum and booked a So Comfy Water Element Room. I did not get upgraded, but they did offer Club lounge access.

I suppose hotel reviews and choices are very subjective to the individual so I hope you bear that in mind. While the Sofitel So could be described as "modern", "chic" "uber", "minamilist" and "designer" it just wasn't for me. I cannot fault the hotel for its branding and focusing on its target market but I think I would have been better off at a more traditional hotel like the Four Seasons ($$$$) or Intercontinental ($$$).

I was extremely impressed with the view over Lumpini Park from my room. I can't say enough how incredible the view was, becuase it was. There are many aspects of the room that were great, but some were a bit off-putting. For example:

Positives

1. bed - extremely comfortable
2. TV and media
3. Large shower/tub enclosure with spectacular views
4. Internet connectivity
5. Closet/Dressing area behind bed

Not-SO Positives

1. Sink - seems this is a case of style over substance. Why is it SO big? and takes away needed counter space for toiletries. The faucet was "touchy" and inevitably when you turn it on out comes a rush of water soaking all of your toiletries.
2. Tub/Bath - seems like a lot of wasted space
3. Room was actually quite small, even though this was an upgrade from the So Cozy room.
4. Some cleanliness issues (cobwebs in lower corner of window)
5. Seems like some of the material used (i.e flooring), and desk was done on the cheap and shows signs of wear and tear easily.
6. Fish - I had two siamese fighting fish in the room, each in their separate rectangular bowl. For the first 5 minutes I thought it was "neat" and would watch the fish, but after a while I questioned the inclusion of the fish in my room. I know I was in the water themed room and it was part of the style, but just seems a bit weird.

The Red Oven buffet for breakfast was very good and would recommend it highly. Although I did have one service issue (i.e. forgetting about me) when I was put in the back side of the restaurant when it was busy, so best to get there early and sit in the front with the views.

Hallways were dimly lit with installation modern art throughout the floors, adding to the "chic" vibe, but made it difficult to find your room!

All of the staff wear these fun whimsical uniforms. I asked one of them what they really thought of them and they told me, rather honestly I thought, that they were quite hot and uncomfortable.

The pool was also another hit where you can while away the hours gazing out over the city while taking a dip. I was very happy to hear they had a Steam/Suana room but was quite disappointed when I used it. The temperature did not get very hot and while I was using it (3pm) there was remodelling/repair being done in the showers with the sounds of drills being used right outside the steam room door. Not very relaxing to the guest. They also have a jacuzzi next to the pool but did not use it as the water was tepid.

I had access to the Executive Lounge on the 25th floor, Club Signature. It was a nice retreat with a small balcony in which to enjoy a glass of wine and nibbles. It was mostly empty while I attended, which was fine with me. The lounge was designed by Christian Lacroix so again it has this chic and whimsical air to it.

I found the location to be "ok". I have been to BKK before so I knew that the Sofitel So wasn't right in the heart of all the action, but was only a few stops on the MRT away as the Lumpini Station was across the street, about a 4 minute walk.

Every morning I got up early and went for a jog, along with hundreds of others, around Lumpini Park. What a great way to start the day. Being so close to Lumpini Park is definitely one of the hotel's assets.

For local eateries you could take stroll of about 10-15 minutes into the Sala Daeng/Patpong area where there are numerous options or you could also try the Life Center across the street where they have a few good casual restaurants and the obligatory Starbucks.

Great review! I stayed there once and decided I don't need to go out of my way to stay there again the 2nd time. It's not because my first stay was so dreadful that I need to avoid it, but Bangkok has so many great hotels to sample and I already have few favorites that I'd love to return to.