Packed to the brim with many delightful sights, alluring charms and a deep-rooted historical connection to the city’s colourful past, the riverside area, also named Thonburi, is indisputably Bangkok’s most prestigious areas.
Perfectly located on the bustling Chao Phraya River bank where water transport is still an essential commute system then and now, Millennium Hilton Bangkok operates its own shuttle boats ferrying guests to and from the hotel to Saphan Taksin pier with a direct access to the city’s BTS SkyTrain that connects you to most of the major sights in Bangkok.
Historical sites and cultural attractions such as Grand Palace, the Temple of Dawn, China Town, Asiatique The Riverfront night market as well as the latest giant shopping mall, ICONSIAM is just minutes walk away from the hotel. The 32-floor high hotel uniquely stands out along the river and can be easily identified by its space-ship-like-control-tower round glass windows offering a magnificent 360 degree view of the Bangkok skyline.
If you choose to arrive by road, passing through a private long stone tiled driveway up on a small slope, you will be welcomed by a massive water fountain that also serves as the round about to ease traffic congestion together with the numerous copper bowls water feature aligned outside the foyer before entering to the lobby. Alternatively, you can also be picked up by the hotel scheduled shuttle boat from the Saphan Taksin public pier and passing through a serene elevated walkway to the hotel.
The soaring high ceiling in the lobby enticed the supremacy of a grand hotel, adorned by a vertical panel of metal lotus leafs wall with a shade of green harmonized by the hollow foyer. Giant pillars separate a section from the lobby and offers plentiful sofa and lounges chairs to relax with floor to ceiling high windows attracting good natural light. We were escorted to the Executive Lounge on 31st floor to do the check in, with an elevated view from above, and it is simply stunning especially on a bright and clear day. The club lounge design and furniture was a little tired and cushions seemingly come from the 90s and losing their spring and makes you sink while you lean all the way back.
More than five front line staff gathered behind the same desk where only one staff was offering the check-in service and the others stood behind continuing with their leisurely conversation. There were no greetings, eye contact and what-so-ever where a prompt and courteous arrival experience shall be expected, even from any hotel. The first question being asked was credit card instead of passport to check on the reservation with quite an aggressive tone, seemingly having her worries of playing that “catch me if you can” in a disorderly manner. There was a total of three times stressing on providing the credit card in between the conservation. Quite a negative impression made instead of offering a pleasing guest experience.
Our newly refurbished 34sqm King Executive room was designed with comfort and convenience in mind with sweeping river and city views. Compact, simple and neatly designed with modern contemporary touches and quality bath amenities as well as a comfortable bed that aids a restful night’s sleep. The high pressure shower was also a joy with a separate bath tub and a thoughtful mounted ladder designed towel rack.
The half-shaded swimming pool located on the 4th floor is another good spot to watch the sunset, weather permitting. A huge amount of sun lounges looking out to the city and the river were placed in the water on an elevated area to create a floating effect while enjoying your sunbathing.
Taking a stroll at the sacred San Phra Phum (Thai Spirit House) right next to the lobby is calming as this spirit house is a shrine to animist spirits found in the Southeast Asian countries of Cambodia, Laos and Thailand. Most houses and business have a spirit house placed in an auspicious spot, most often in a corner of the property. The location is often chosen after consultation with a Brahmin priest. The spirit house is normally in the form of a miniature temple and is mounted on a pillar or on a Dias. Thai families believe that if they take care of the spirits, the spirit will be their guardian and bestow good luck generously in their daily life. This leads to building spirit houses in order to provide shelter for these celestial beings to respect the spirits and the living. Every morning Thai people will light up incense and pray at the spirit house. Inside the San Phra Phum, you will usually see an image of Phra Chai Mongkol, an angel like figurine, often gilded, and holding a sword in one hand, a money bag in the other hand. Phra Chai Mongkol’s origin lies in Hindusim. Suffice it to say, that she is there to protect the land and its inhabitants. As this is a sacred area, you are requested to show some respect for not smoking, bringing any food & beverages to consume around the area as well as a smart casual attire should be worn and keep quiet.
Evening cocktails can be enjoyed back in the Executive Club floor with a very good spread of cold and warm canapés together with a few daily changing local Thai delicacies for sampling. Wine selection was limited but cocktail mixing seemingly is more popular among the guests.
It is one of the ideal spots in the hotel gazing out on the panoramic views of the Bangkok skyline and to enjoy a light breeze at the outdoor area.
Breakfast is served in FLOW restaurant at the lobby level, with a massive set up and a good wide spread of international variety. It may be slightly over congested during peak hours but it was reasonably controlled by a good floor and stationed kitchen team. Otherwise, breakfast back in the Executive floor for a more peaceful experience would be a good alternative. For a short escape or weekend staycation with a different perspective of the city which you may have thought you might already have known, crossing to the other side of the river may well widen your horizon and vision. A good change does no harm!
Tried & Tested:
Location: 4/5
Design & Decor: 3.5/5
Room Amenities: 4/5
Housekeeping: 3/5
Food & Beverages: 4/5
Service: 2.5/5
Value For Money: 4/5
Experience: 3.5/5
Highlights:
The River View
123 Charoennakhon Road,
Klongsan, Bangkok
Thailand
Tel: +66 2 442 2000
Reviews are based on actual day of visit and experience. mylifestylenews reserves the right of final decision in case of any disputes. All images are photographed by mylifestylenews team without any photoshop enhancement and are the property owned by mylifestylenews unless otherwise stated.
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