Introduction: Overview of The Quarter Chao Phraya by UHG
I recently stayed at The Quarter Chao Phraya by UHG in Bangkok. As a relatively new property, there weren’t many reviews available, so I decided to share my personal experience. To put it simply, this hotel is a place of stark contrasts—it has some fantastic perks, but also some significant drawbacks that might make it a “love it or hate it” situation for many travelers.
Value Assessment: Pricing and Room Experience
I booked a basic room through Monkey Travel for about 70,000 KRW (excluding breakfast). My advice on value is straightforward: if you can find a rate under 80,000 KRW, it’s a solid choice. However, if the price climbs above 100,000 KRW, I would suggest looking at other options.
I had hoped for a room upgrade, but it didn’t happen, and the hotel was fully booked, so I couldn’t pay to switch to a river view. My room faced an apartment building, which felt quite intrusive, so I kept the curtains closed most of the time. On a positive note, the basic rooms are quite spacious for the price. I also requested a late check-out and was granted a free extension until 1:30 PM, which was a nice touch.
Pros: Facilities (Lek Massage, Convenience Store, Pool, Kids Zone)
The hotel really shines when it comes to on-site convenience:
- Lek Massage: This was the highlight of my stay. It’s a well-known chain, and the on-site branch is clean, reasonably priced, and the therapists were excellent. I went every day.
- Lawson 108: Having a large, well-stocked convenience store right in the building is incredibly handy.
- Amenities: The pool is open late, making it perfect for night swimming. For families, there is a dedicated indoor kids’ zone and pool slides, which seem great for children.
- Dining: The on-site restaurant and room service are quite affordable compared to other hotels.
Cons: Maintenance, Pest Issues, Location/Transport Challenges
It wasn’t all smooth sailing. Despite being a new hotel, some facilities already feel a bit worn, and the overall hardware and software feel more like a 4-star property at best.
- Pests and Odors: I encountered ants in my room—they appeared as soon as I ordered room service—and there was a persistent, unpleasant sewer odor in the room, even on a higher floor.
- Location: The hotel does not provide a shuttle boat. While Icon Siam is a 10-minute walk away, it can be difficult to navigate during the rainy season. The nearby BTS Gold Line (Khlong San Station) is a branch line, meaning it’s less frequent and requires a transfer, which can be inconvenient.
Practical Tips: Transport to Icon Siam and Nearby Attractions
Since there is no shuttle boat, you can walk to the Khlong San Pier (about 10 minutes) to take a boat to River City for 5 baht. From there, it’s easy to grab a taxi or Grab bike to reach areas like Chinatown. If you are visiting during the rainy season, I would strongly recommend staying at a hotel directly connected to the BTS or MRT, as getting to and from this property in heavy rain was quite a struggle.
Conclusion: Who should stay here?
If you are a family looking for a “hotel-cation” where you can utilize the kids’ zone and pool, or if you prioritize having a great massage shop and convenience store right downstairs, this could be a good fit. However, if you are sensitive to maintenance issues or need seamless public transport access, you might want to consider other locations.
