"Yes, yes, yes... I visit Bangkok two-three times a year and try still to stay somewhere in the Old district. Swana is really perfect. Friendly staff, clean and fresh looking rooms, satisfactory breakfast and the location is good enough to walk by foot to Khao San whithin 5 minutes. If you can take the deluxe room-superior seemed for me little too small. Choose also from backside-these with windows ovelooking the courtyard are quite noisy. Only minus- there is no lift. Thing twice before you choose the 4th floor...but of course the staff will help you with even extremely heavy luggage...Anyway best western is best in the Banglamphu area "

Stayed in the Swana last september. When we arrived at the hotel we weren't too impressed with the location but the hotel made up for it. Got a good rate and the room was very large. Bathroom was very modern with a huge shower. Mini bar was excellent - very cheap (think about 40p for a can of juice) and restocked quickly. Internet available to buy quite cheaply. About 30 mins walk to Khao San road - nice walk but not so good in the roasting hot sunshine. Great service from everybody who served us in the hotel. Beware of the taxis outside waiting to rip you off - agree a price before you get in - they seemed to be intent on selling us a day trip to see tigers.
Breakfast was pretty good - coffee was topped up quickly =D
Had room service a few times as I had food poisoning upon arrival at the hotel and there wasn't really anywhere to eat near the hotel- the thai currys were very tasty as was the thai curry pasta (strange!) and the spaghetti. A 7 eleven across the road which was good for snacks etc.
In Bangkok - watch out for the scammers outside the temples telling you they are closed -ignore them.

Nice hotel, good rooms not to big but OK. Stayed here 3 nights and I experienced good night sleeps. The breakfast at this hotel are very good, everything will be arranged for you and if you want more, they bring it very friendly, without paying more. The reception staff I found a bit lazy. If you wanna go out, go to Khoasan Rd., very nice place to hang out. You can come back as late as you wish, there is always a security guard who will open up...