Why I Chose the Riverside in April
I have a soft spot for riverside hotels in Bangkok. I prefer staying in, enjoying the view, and avoiding the hustle of outdoor sightseeing. However, visiting in April—the hottest month of the year—was a challenge. Even for someone who doesn’t usually struggle with the heat, the weather was physically exhausting. If you must visit during this time, you might find hotels connected to BTS malls in Silom or Asok more practical to avoid the sweltering outdoor transitions.
Booking and Value
I booked a three-night stay in April 2024 for approximately 370,000 KRW. I managed to secure this rate using a Marriott Bonvoy BRG (Best Rate Guarantee) for a base room without breakfast. Since I prefer exploring Bangkok’s local food scene and the hotel’s breakfast isn’t particularly renowned, I felt comfortable skipping it.
Room Conditions and Amenities
My room was adequately sized and featured a bathtub, which I appreciated. However, the hotel shows its age. I was surprised to find that basic items like a capsule coffee machine and tableware—such as plates, forks, spoons, and knives—were not provided in the room. I had to request these via the Marriott Bonvoy app chat, though the staff was responsive and fulfilled the request without issue. As a Gold member, I was granted a late check-out until 2:00 PM, and the staff were generally kind throughout my stay.
Pools and Service
There are two swimming pools available, including an adults-only pool, which I enjoyed. While the pools were not crowded during my off-peak visit, the service level felt a bit hands-off; you won’t find staff setting up towels for you like at some other five-star properties.
Navigating to Icon Siam
One of the main perks of this location is the shuttle boat to Icon Siam. However, the extreme April heat made waiting for the boat quite draining. The constant rocking while waiting at the busy Icon Siam pier, combined with the intense sun, made the commute feel more difficult than usual.
If you miss the hotel shuttle, there is a local alternative: the Si Phraya Pier is just a five-minute walk from the hotel. Boats to Icon Siam cost 6 THB. At Si Phraya, you buy a ticket at the entrance, while at Icon Siam, you pay when you board. It’s a convenient backup, but be prepared for the heat if you are traveling during the peak of summer.
