The Oriental Residence Bangkok hotel review, Thailand: Make Bangkok is a breeze at the Oriental Residence

The rooms are designed, unusually, around a fully functional kitchen with ample cupboard space. Admittedly it's a great resource and unique point of distinction in a city filled with competing hotels, but with all those great restaurants and street food options minutes from your doorstep, is it a smart use of space within a small suite?

I'd happily settle for the kettle and the pressed coffee that's provided, and some extra wardrobe space, so we don't have to prop our belongings on the small dining table and the three-seater lounge. Widescreen television can be viewed from the comfortably-oversized twin beds. There's USB ports for charging appliances on the bedside.

The large bathroom features a double shower, an enormous bath and vanity. This is also where you'll find the provisions for luggage - including a rack for shoes, storage for a suitcase and a wardrobe.

The food

Cafe Claire next to the lobby has the feel of a casual French bistro and cafe serving breakfast in the mornings. Bright and lively, it also serves as the hotel's bar. I'm not ashamed to say I've had more decadent breakfast buffets; the selections are small, but ample for a city where breakfast is the opening act to a much bigger show. A chef is on deck to knock up Chinese-style bowls of noodles; there's a nod to Euro with cured meats and cheese, a small selection of tiny buttery Danish pastries, croissants and fruit. From the menu, choose from fluffy cheese omelettes or a 'waffle tower' with berries. Also on the premises is Savelberg, the Michelin-starred chef Henk Savelberg's French restaurant.

Stepping out

Travelling outside the hotel is easy. The hotel provides cards for taxis with the most common destinations. Core shopping precincts from high end to high street, including the infamous MBK, are all within easy reach. It's a good bet for foodies, with some of the city's best restaurants in close proximity, such as Gaggan - recently voted Asia's number one restaurant. Bar hopping? Around the block is Hotel Muse's excellent rooftop speakeasy. Or you can escape Bangkok's notorious hustle and bustle at Lumpini Park, the city's green lung, a five minute walk away. Sukhumvit Road, arguably home to Bangkok's trendiest bars, clubs and restaurants, is two BTS stops away.

The verdict

I'm constantly impressed by the faultless service this hotel provides: this is Thai hospitality turned up to 11. From check in, to breakfast, to concierge, we were not left waiting for help, for a single second. For a smooth, hassle-free trip to Bangkok in comfort and style, the Oriental can't be beat.

Highlight: Bright and light, location, service

Lowlight: Kitchen space could be better utilised in the small suites