Two Hotels in One?
When I decided to go to Bangkok, I had to stay at the Oriental. Why? History! So many famous writers stayed here, I had imagined to sit, be inspired, and perhaps write the next great novel... Well, I sat and was inspired, but no book came from it. But the hotel was everything I hoped for. I say it was two hotels in one because when we first arrived we were sheparded up the elevators to a very nice but very modern room... I thought to myself, this can't be right. I want romance, I want mystery, I don't want a characterless room with a view. So I did what any savvy traveller does - I complained. I specifically ordered a room in the old part of the hotel, and with minimal fuss, was moved to a much nicer, much more atmospheric room. This was more like it! It even had a writing hutch semi concealed behind the entry stairs. The bed was wonderful, the seating room delicious, and the view inspired.
Bangkok is a hectic place. The Oriental is an oasis by the river, still a stopping place for travellers of all types, although generally a bit more upscale travellers than those whose writings made the Oriental famous.