I stayed at the hotel recently named the best in the world. After spending $900 for one night, I'm not sure I agree.

Paul OswellOct 18, 2024, 03:53 IST

The entrance to the Capella Bangkok felt understated.Paul Oswell<ul class="summary-list"><li>I stayed at Capella Bangkok two weeks after it was named the <a target="_blank" class href="https://www.businessinsider.com/50-incredible-hotels-you-should-sleep-in-during-your-lifetime-2016-5">best hotel in the world</a> by 50 Best.</li><li>It's a luxurious property on the Chao Phraya River with high — but not perfect — levels of service. </li></ul>I happened to be on vacation in Bangkok when the results of the annual <a target="_blank" class href="https://www.theworlds50best.com/hotels/list/1-50">World's 50 Best Hotels</a> were announced a few weeks ago.Each year, 50 Best ranks hotels based on votes from a panel of 600 industry experts around the world. This year, Capella Bangkok took the top spot.It's owned by the luxury hospitality brand Capella Hotel Group, which I was familiar with because I'd stayed at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/capella-hotel-sydney-australia-review-photos-what-its-like-2023-4">Capella Sydney</a> when it opened in 2023.I had a wonderful stay and was curious if the Bangkok hotel matched the service levels and amenities of its Australian sister property.Considering I stay in around 50 hotels a year for work, I have some high standards and wanted to see for myself if Capella Bangkok really was the best in the world.With an open mind, I booked a room.

From the outside, the hotel resembles a utilitarian building.

Capella Bangkok didn't look fussy from the outside. Paul Oswell

I had booked the cheapest room available.

The lobby had some massive artwork. Paul Oswell

I checked in early at a private lounge.

I got a complimentary cocktail as I arrived.Paul Oswell

My room delivered an excellent first impression.

Even the entry-level riverside rooms are spacious and airy.Paul Oswell

The bathroom was spacious, too.

The bathroom had two large sinks. Paul Oswell

I could see the river from my private balcony.

My balcony view was still nice. Paul Oswell

The balcony was simply furnished but felt nice.

The lounger came with pillows, too. Paul Oswell

The top-tier attention to detail really stood out.

The walk-in closet easily fit all of my clothes.Paul Oswell

With just 24 hours to try everything, I headed to the hotel's spa.

The Auriga Wellness facility has a Vitality Pool. Paul Oswell

I was excited for the nightly happy hour, but I had an underwhelming experience.

The happy hour was hosted in the hotel's Living Room.Paul Oswell

I couldn't try the Michelin-starred restaurant, but Phra Nakhon was a decent substitute — and I liked the cocktails at Stella.

The hotel's Thai restaurant, Phra Nakhon, was a decent substitute for its signature dining room.Paul Oswell

My stay came with breakfast at Phra Nakhon.

Eating breakfast by the river was an excellent start to the day.Paul Oswell

Service levels were high, but I'm not sure they were the best in the world.

There were a lot of great aspects to the hotel, but some details were lackingPaul Oswell

The Capella Bangkok was an excellent hotel, but not the world's best, in my opinion.

I'd say Capella Bangkok is a great hotel but not the best. Paul Oswell

Whenever I'm in Paris, I take a 40-minute train ride to Champagne. A roundtrip ticket is only $60, and the wine lives up to the hype.

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