Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport

I booked a standard room. I am ALL Gold. On arrival I was escorted to check in at their executive lounge, which just reopened two weeks ago following Covid closure. I assumed this meant I was being offered lounge access. So I returned during happy hour. This was quite adequate, with a sparkling wine, a red and white wine, four hot items including chicken, shepherds pie, cheeses and fruits. I gave the attendant my room number but she returned to tell me I would be charged for using the lounge. After discussion with EL reception, this misunderstanding was cleared up. I offered my Gold drink coupon and was granted free access.

Of course as Gold, I am not entitled to lounge access, but I have been granted this before at the Novotel Taipei Airport pre-Covid. Considering that I received no room upgrade or welcome fruit tray, I don’t think lounge access is out of line. The Novotel BKK is an expensive hotel by Thai standards. Basic room was 5000 THB. 😊