Bangkok landmark the Rex lost to condo jungle
A slice of Bangkok history has gone. It went without fanfare and without so much as a mention in the media.
The Rex Hotel on Sukhumvit near Thonglor, has closed, to be demolished for yet another condo development. Having stayed there regularly for 26 years, it was a shock to arrive on Monday night to find a crudely scrawled “Closed” sign at the door, and workmen busily emptying out the old furniture and ripping the place apart.
The Rex was gloriously old-fashioned, from the ancient electro-mechanical billing machine at reception to the faded 1960s decor to the lovely elderly staff, most of whom I am sure were there when I first stayed in 1979. It was inexpensive, had a fine swimming pool and a 24-hour coffee shop. Most of all, it was comfortable, quiet and friendly – there are few hotels these days where you pay your bill at check-out, not up front on arrival.
Rex Hotel, RIP. You may be gone but you are not forgotten.
Nigel Pike
