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

• I stayed at Capella Bangkok two weeks after it was named the best hotel in the world by 50 Best.
• It’s a luxurious property on the Chao Phraya River with high — but not perfect — levels of service.
• I had a great stay and think it’s one of the best hotels in Bangkok, but not in the world.

I happened to be on vacation in Bangkok when the results of the annual World’s 50 Best Hotels 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 Capella Sydney 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.