When my friend invited me for a free stay at his hotel room – The Peninsula, Bangkok, I could not resist his offer. Somewhat, over the years, Bangkok has become my frequent weekend getaway destination and I can effortlessly make 4-5 trips a year to Bangkok. After all, I know exactly where to get my delicious Thai food, cheap shopping and good massage in Bangkok. Not often do I get to receive such tempting invitation, I did not hesitate much and quickly booked a ticket and flew to Bangkok over the weekend.
Located along the bank of Chao Phraya river, the Peninsula Bangkok Hotel offers every room with a panoramic view of the Bangkok skyline and river views. I couldn’t wait long to immerse in such amazing views. Admittedly, I have high expectations on this luxury hotel, after reading reviews other guests have raved about. While at least, I would expect the room to be spacious, clean and equipped with modern facilities combined with warm, personalized service. Too much to ask for?
Balcony Room with River Views
The first impression when I stepped into the room was – did my friend book a suite room?
No, he didn’t.
It’s was just a balcony room with 45 square meters – in other words, there is plenty of space to stretch out. It has a distinct separate walk-in closets (dressing area), a small sofa and coffee table, making the room a perfect cosy place for a cup of afternoon coffee. I could imagine it would be quite therapeutic when I look across the Chao Phraya River from the room at the 32nd story, while sipping a hot aromatic coffee.
Free WiFi with Fast Speed
The room is equipped with an excellent Dolby surround audio system that allows me to listen to my favorite music while I’m lying on the comfy bed. Making me feel just like at home. Having stayed at different hotels in Bangkok, I must say I am pleasantly pleased with this unique feature of The Peninsula. Another plus point is Wi-Fi throughout the hotel is free and super fast. The only regret is there is only one accessible electrical adaptor socket located near the Executive work desk. So, I am unable to charge my phone and using it at the same time while lying on the bed.
The bathroom at The Peninsula is HUGE – the size is equivalent to a standard hotel room. There are two vanity tops (which I find too many), shower stall, bath tub and toilet cubicle, all can be found in the luxurious marble bathroom, plus exclusive Oscar de la Renta’s bathroom amenity collection.
Impeccable Service
Thais are known for their hospitality and friendliness and staff at The Peninsula certainly did not fail me.
While I am happy to receive a complimentary daily fruit basket, I’m quite disappointed that the Peninsula offers only tea leaves in the room. Being a coffee addict, I had to call for room service to deliver a pot of coffee to my room. The hotel staff delivered a full set of the coffee wares at my doorstep pretty fast. But I was too eager to receiving them from the hotel staff, I accidentally spilled some coffee onto the floor. Instead of looking annoyed, the hotel staff was smiling and politely offered to clean up my ‘mess’. I was apologetic and gave her a tip to compensate for the inconvenience caused.
Location
Located right on the Chao Phraya River, The Peninsula is like an escapade from the hustle and bustle of the busy city life, while still remaining close to most tourist destinations.
There’s no worry about Traffic! Peninsula offers free shuttle boats that take hotel guests across the river to the nearest Skytrain Station (Saphan Taksin BTS). The ride is about 5 minutes and Saphan Taksin BTS is about six stations away from shopping areas like Platinum Fashion Mall (Ratchatewi BTS or Chidlom BTS) and Siam Paragon (Siam BTS).
Food
Food in Bangkok is relatively cheap. As such, I’m hesitant to pay for a dinner buffet (USD60) at the hotel restaurant (River Café and Terrace). No doubt it serves a full range of International and Asian cuisine in a luxurious and relaxing environment, I can be easily satisfied with a plate of authentic Pad Thai for a price of USD3.
Room Rates
The Peninsula Hotel offers all its 370 luxurious guestrooms and suites with panoramic river views, equipped with modern facilities including a private bathroom and balcony. A Balcony Room with free internet access starts from USD320.
