Bangkok is booked and busy! At least that’s what I encountered during my recent trip to the fast-paced metropolitan city. While there’s always something to do in the Thai capital—from discovering its growing cafe scene to shopping at its diverse, modern malls and devouring the local street food—it’s totally understandable if you prefer to cosy up in your hotel room or resort grounds in between all the exploring.
Well, there is one place where you can have it all. Cue Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, a waterfront escape nestled on the west bank of the famous Chao Phraya river amidst 11 acres of greenery. True to Anantara’s ancient Sanskrit meaning “without end”, there’s no lack of facilities and amenities around the expansive resort. Not to be confused with its sister city hotel Anantara Siam Bangkok, this riverside resort showcases a different side of Bangkok that’s calmer yet still connected to its high-spirited heart.
What exactly can you expect from a stay here? Having recently spent three days at Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, let me break it down for you.
STAY IN THAI-INSPIRED ROOMS
There are 376 guest rooms, including 95 suites, spread across three low-rise buildings around the resort. All accommodation options are designed with Thai inspirations and boast views of either the scenic Chao Phraya river or the resort’s lush gardens through floor-to-ceiling windows and from spacious balconies. Exquisite marble bathrooms with a rain shower and separate bathtub complete the well-appointed bedrooms.
I was afforded the 409-square-feet Deluxe Room, featuring backlit mirrored panels with ornate inscriptions, solid makha wooden flooring, and a modern sofa and writing desk, softened by Thai silk pillows and cushions. As with all other rooms, my accommodation also came with complimentary Wi-Fi access, 24-hour in-room dining, and a host of amenities including an in-room bar, tea and coffee making essentials, and an LCD TV. Plus, I had the pleasure of enjoying splendid vistas of the resort and river from my balcony!
It’s worth mentioning that my stay was upgraded with Kasara Lounge privileges, which includes exclusive access to all-day refreshments, a decadent high tea, sundowners and cocktails, as well as a dedicated express check-in and check-out area. If you fancy grabbing a bite whenever you’re feeling peckish or sipping on a martini or two at sunset, then you’ll want to consider this added luxury.
DINE WITH ASTOUNDING VIEWS
With 10 dining venues to choose from, there’s definitely something for everyone’s palate. The Market has been uplifted with contemporary Thai décor, offering a charming atmosphere for daily buffet breakfasts. Guests can either dine in the stylish dining room with full windows revealing undisrupted views of the tropical grounds and waterfront, or bask in the sights and sounds of live cooking stations from the al-fresco terrace. The spread is quite extensive with a rotation of international dishes daily, based on the two mornings I spent here.
They say Seen Restaurant & Bar Bangkok is “the place to sin and be seen” and I can see why, thanks to its magnificent panoramas of the river and cityscape from 26 floors high. This swanky rooftop playground is the brainchild of Chef Olivier da Costa, who brought his sensual cuisine and cocktails to Bangkok after establishing Seen in Sao Paulo, Lisbon and Los Angeles. Come at sunset to catch the best photo opportunities, and stay for a hearty meal and contemporary libations accompanied by twinkling night views.
On the other hand, Maa Laa Cafe offers an elegant space for brunch, tea or a casual bite. The sunny eatery is famous for its sausage rolls, alongside freshly baked pastries, all-day breakfast classics, photogenic cakes, extra thick milkshakes and a range of healthy options including build-your-own salads and Asian bites.
For a truly memorable dining experience, you’ll want to make reservations for the Manohra Dinner Cruise. The two-hour journey will take you along the Chao Phraya river on an antique rice barge—past royal palaces, shining temples and striking landmarks—while indulging you with a fine Thai course meal. This was definitely one of the highlights of my trip, and I didn’t even have to leave the resort to embark on the voyage!
Other dining options include Benihana, a Japanese steakhouse known for its theatrical teppanyaki experience; Riverside Terrace, which serves BBQ and seafood buffets in an open-air setting; Brio, a Tuscan-style ristorante and pizzeria; and Trader Vic’s, serving Pacific-Rim cuisine with riverside views. There are also numerous bars, on top of a romantic Dining by Design experience and Spice Spoons cooking class. Although I didn’t get to try these, it goes to show that you’ll be spoilt for choice here even for longer stays.
RELAX AND RESTORE AT WELLNESS FACILITIES
Food aside, the resort also features a swimming pool and jacuzzi, fitness club and tennis courts for recreation. But if it’s relaxation that you’re after, do yourself a favour and book a treatment at Anantara Spa. A lush oasis guides you from the entrance into this calming sanctuary, where an array of facials, massages, scrubs, wraps and therapies are available to soothe the senses. I got the Himalayan Thermal Therapy Treatment and, needless to say, it was a welcome treat after the sensory overload from exploring the city!
That’s not all—the resort is home to BDMS Wellness Clinic Retreat, a preventative healthcare centre that offers a wide range of wellness, aesthetic, and health screenings and treatments. Opened in November 2022, this well-equipped retreat boasts signature wellness check-up packages that feature comprehensive wellness assessment programs aimed at early detection and prevention of diseases. I had the Royal Crystal Skin treatment, a needle-free therapy that delivers essential vitamins and active ingredients deep into the skin for brighter, radiant complexion. The result? Waking up (yes, the treatment was so soothing that I dozed off halfway) to rejuvenated skin!
CONNECT TO THE CITY AND POPULAR LANDMARKS
While there’s enough to keep you busy (or relaxed) around the expansive resort, you can just as easily hop on a complimentary shuttle boat from the pier to the city for more adventures. Khlong Guru Tours as well as excursions to famous landmarks such as The Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Asiatique The Riverfront, Jim Thompson House, and more are also available upon enquiry.
A HOLISTIC ESCAPE
In a nutshell, Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort offers the complete package for those seeking a resort-like stay in bustling Bangkok. With its holistic approach to hospitality, it makes the ideal getaway for wellness-minded travellers, friends, and families.
For resort enquiries and reservations, please call +66 (0) 2 476 0022 or email [email protected]. For more information, visit www.anantara.com.
READ ALSO: Checking in: A rejuvenating escape at Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas
Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort
Address: 257 1-3 Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khwaeng Samre, Khet Thon Buri, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
Contact: +66 2 476 0022
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