Starwood Preferred Guest - Royal Orchid Sheraton - Bangkok, Thailand 2007 onward [Master Thread]

I don't think so, more important will be the traffic time. I used several types of taxi (green or red one) to the old airport from the Westin and paid always ~ 220 -270 Baht.
Let's see tomorrow from the new airport to the Westin.;)

it's unbevielable for myself, it was my cheapest trip forever: 190 baht (without tip and no tolls) from the airport to the westin. ^ with a clean taxi and a nice driver.
i made it as at the old airport: moved to the 4th floor and catched a arriving taxi on the departing level, asked to use the meter ~ no problem.:D

My flight to Bangkok arrives shortly after midnight. I'll be staying at the Royal Orchid Sheraton. Is it a problem getting a taxi that's willing to use a meter at that hour, or should I reserve a car from the hotel? My flight leaves at 7:30 am several days later. Same question -- with early morning departures is it difficult to find a taxi willing to use the meter?

Take a taxi. The charge will be about THB 360 - 400 incl. tolls (65 baht)

Take a taxi. The charge will be about THB 360 - 400 incl. tolls (65 baht)

Or, if the driver thinks you're a clueless farang, THB 500, as happened to me this month. This was from the Royal Orchid Sheraton. (Yes, I was clueless but didn't feel like arguing over USD ~3.)

My flight to Bangkok arrives shortly after midnight. I'll be staying at the Royal Orchid Sheraton. Is it a problem getting a taxi that's willing to use a meter at that hour, or should I reserve a car from the hotel? My flight leaves at 7:30 am several days later. Same question -- with early morning departures is it difficult to find a taxi willing to use the meter?

The official AOT limo service with desks inside the baggage claim is going to be you best compromise on this if you wan't to go there. I think it's 900 THB oneway. THEY NOW TAKE CREDIT CARDS (Visa and maybe MC but no Amex) right there in baggage claim. It posted as $29 on my CC. I actually went to the counter and arranged my car during the time I was waiting for my luggage. Brand new Camary of course.

This is not the "budget" way my any means but it is less than the Sheraton Car. Depending on your situation this may be a good choice for you.

Good Luck.

My flight to Bangkok arrives shortly after midnight. I'll be staying at the Royal Orchid Sheraton. Is it a problem getting a taxi that's willing to use a meter at that hour, or should I reserve a car from the hotel? My flight leaves at 7:30 am several days later. Same question -- with early morning departures is it difficult to find a taxi willing to use the meter?

From the airport, on the meter no problem. From the ROS back to the airport in February I found taxis consistently claiming they couldn't do this because of tolls and airport fees. So rather than ~350 Baht it was 500. I won't argue too vehemently for $5.

Used the RO limo service last July for my honeymoon. The prices listed so far have been accurate. It was nice, little luxury - C class Benz picks you up, get the bottled water, etc. That being said, we just took the standard taxi for the return trip to the airport.

I think it really just depends on if you want to add some frills to your trip. Either way, you'll get there quickly and dependably.

Does anyone have any recent experience staying at Royal Orchid Sheraton, Bangkok? How is ROS compared with Sheraton Grande Sukumvit. I really like ROS for it river location (am I right here?) and for it *word redemption value (cat. 2 ) though it looks quite dated. Sheraton Grande, on the other hand, looks first-class (ranked #4 in BKK on Trip Advisor). I will be staying in BKK from Dec 27 to Jan 1 with my 15 yo son.

Other question: what place would you recommend to be on New Year Eve in BKK?

what place would you recommend to be on New Year Eve in BKK?

Being on the River for New Years Eve is great. There is a spectacular fireworks show over the river at midnight. The Mandarin Oriental throws a great party, and I believe the ROS does one as well.

On my visit to the ROS in February it was the same fairly-high standard hotel it was 18 months ago; clean, neat, good rooms and superior recognition for Platinum level SPG members. Got a suite upgrade (there are lots of suites). Lounge access. Good breakfast.

The location is good for sightseeing, using the riverboats as the first step.

I've stayed three times at the SGS too. It's opulent, they treat you pretty well, and if you get a suite upgrade it can be over-the-top. However, you are in a whole different place: a business hotel, on the main traffic artery through jam-packed Bangkok, instead of in an out-of-the way location near the river. There's no lounge at the SGS. The jazz bar there is FAR superior to the entertainment at the ROS, but the pools at the ROS are (imho) superior to the small rooftop pool at the SGS.

Given the cheap points-redemption, I opted for the ROS last trip, since it was a busy time in Bangkok and both had room rates exceeding $200. But pick either--- you can't go wrong. You just have to decide your flavor.

We just did 2 nights at each at the beginning of the month as I am a fan of both Hotels.

If you are there from 27 Dec to Jan 1 then I would recommend splitting the stays between both properties like we did, thus getting the opportunity to enjoy both.

For NYE itself I would definitely go for the ROS as a number of the big Hotels on the river (Peninsula, Shangri-La & Oriental) put on excellent firework displays as mentioned by cranrob.

We got a suite at both properties without any problem.

I would agree with staying at each hotel while you are in Bangkok. I love them both and Just came back from a month in Thailand. The locations are very different although you can get to both easily on the skytrain. While at the ROS go over to the Hilton and goto the top for a look at the view from the top, amazing! I stayed a the ROS the year it opened in the early 80's and it was the highest building around. Not the case anymore. Prepse to be amazed and enjoy the buffets at all the hotels.

There's no lounge at the SGS. The jazz bar there is FAR superior to the entertainment at the ROS.

The jazz bar is the lounge. If you stay in a Grande Deluxe room, you can enjoy free drinks from 6-8pm in the Library (jazz bar), Sala (poolside) or Versu (nightclub on the ground floor). Jazz Bar is great!

I prefer the SGS for its easy skytrain access (skybridge connected to Asoke BTS). The big, brown river doesn't hold that much of an attraction for me, but I guess if I'd never been there or hadn't experienced the river, I'd give the ROS a try.

I'd do both...
the SGS is better for access to Skytrain, and everything that will connect you with.
I was last at ROS about 6 months back, and it seemed to me that the 'local' area, just walking aroudn the near blocks, it has gone quiet, some businesses closed, etc...
ROS might be a good spot to watch fireworks over the river on NYE

The ROS does have it's own, very nice, motor launch, which leaves the ROS for the BTS Taksin station every 30 minutes, up to 10pm. The trip is about 5 minutes. On the return the attendant serves complimentary cold water - a nice touch.

Mrs. DownUnderFlyer is a big fan of the ROS. Nice hotel, good service and great value. The furniture is a bit dated but overall standard is okay. Food is very good, we always like the breakfast options. I find the river boat transportation great so the hotel comes recommended.

Mrs. DownUnderFlyer is a big fan of the ROS. Nice hotel, good service and great value. The furniture is a bit dated but overall standard is okay. Food is very good, we always like the breakfast options. I find the river boat transportation great so the hotel comes recommended.

hi,

i have stayed at a renovated suite at the royal orchid sheraton.

the service at this hotel is really bad . it seemed to be that i got the worst checkin staff. she was very unfriendly.

and i still hate the concierge at this hotel. this OLD man with glasses seems to be the biggest idiot in bangkok.

when i were there 2 years ago, my friend called me from the cab complaining that the driver wont use the meter. i told the concierge to tell the driver to put the meter on. the man talked talked talked ,and than told me the driver wont use the meter...

this time same thing again. friend in a taxi, meter not used, i told the same man to tell the driver to put the meter on. after 2-3 minutes of talking he told me its not possible as the driver said he has a negotiated rate of 1500baht to the hotel...........

i mean whats wrong with this guy , i told him to tell the driver to put the meter on. he should help us, but this guy is totally incompetent.

so forget about the staff at the hotel.!!!

anyway the new lounge on the 26th floor is very nice, and the new suite was very nice too .

dp

hi,

i have stayed at a renovated suite at the royal orchid sheraton.

the service at this hotel is really bad . it seemed to be that i got the worst checkin staff. she was very unfriendly.

and i still hate the concierge at this hotel. this OLD man with glasses seems to be the biggest idiot in bangkok.

when i were there 2 years ago, my friend called me from the cab complaining that the driver wont use the meter. i told the concierge to tell the driver to put the meter on. the man talked talked talked ,and than told me the driver wont use the meter...

this time same thing again. friend in a taxi, meter not used, i told the same man to tell the driver to put the meter on. after 2-3 minutes of talking he told me its not possible as the driver said he has a negotiated rate of 1500baht to the hotel...........

i mean whats wrong with this guy , i told him to tell the driver to put the meter on. he should help us, but this guy is totally incompetent.

so forget about the staff at the hotel.!!!

anyway the new lounge on the 26th floor is very nice, and the new suite was very nice too .

dp

I know the old codger you're talking about. I dislike him too!!
I bypass him and go to the two guys on the door, or anyone else on the desk bar him.
There is a con going on at the ROS with the taxis, and has been for a long time, they will not allow anyone other than their own crowd onto the tarmac. I stay at the ROS every time I am in town and the staff know that I know the "bosses" and I must say they are very wary of me. I am back there this weekend, so I will say to four eyes, Hey hear you are still not telling your mates to turn the meters on, I mean we have to have a bit of fun sometimes, he will fumble about and no doubt pretend he doesn't understand me. I like it down by the river, I can work all day and if i choose to just relax at night, i grab a table and chair by the river and watch the world go by, dressed any old how. Up town at the Grande, i always feel I am still working. The pool is better too. Funny enough I agree with the check in staff, nobody in particular, but they have never been the happiest lot. I get on well with the front office SPG man and I always mail him before I arrive now because from Australia we arrive early Am, so now they are waiting for me with a room. regards bkkrop

I know the old codger you're talking about. I dislike him too!!
I bypass him and go to the two guys on the door, or anyone else on the desk bar him.
There is a con going on at the ROS with the taxis, and has been for a long time, they will not allow anyone other than their own crowd onto the tarmac. I stay at the ROS every time I am in town and the staff know that I know the "bosses" and I must say they are very wary of me. I am back there this weekend, so I will say to four eyes, Hey hear you are still not telling your mates to turn the meters on, I mean we have to have a bit of fun sometimes, he will fumble about and no doubt pretend he doesn't understand me. I like it down by the river, I can work all day and if i choose to just relax at night, i grab a table and chair by the river and watch the world go by, dressed any old how. Up town at the Grande, i always feel I am still working. The pool is better too. Funny enough I agree with the check in staff, nobody in particular, but they have never been the happiest lot. I get on well with the front office SPG man and I always mail him before I arrive now because from Australia we arrive early Am, so now they are waiting for me with a room. regards bkkrop


every hotel has its own contracted taxi companies, thats fine with me.
but the concierge should tell the driver to put the meter on, if asked by a customer.

cant be too difficult to shout at the taxi driver to put the meter on.

well taxi driver arrived at the hotel, tried to tell me 1500baht ( from don muang)

i told him, ok you take this 300baht and leave right now, or you can try to talk to mike tyson (pointing on my right hand) and the police , pointing on my mobile in my left hand .

he happily took my 300baht, and i told him that i ever see him trying to ripoff a tourist, this will be his last day as a taxi driver...

i just hate it, guys like this taxi driver are giving the 90% of the fair drivers who put the meter on without asking a bad reputation, and tourist a bad impression about the country the second they enter the taxi...

dp

every hotel has its own contracted taxi companies, thats fine with me.
but the concierge should tell the driver to put the meter on, if asked by a customer.

cant be too difficult to shout at the taxi driver to put the meter on.

well taxi driver arrived at the hotel, tried to tell me 1500baht ( from don muang)

i told him, ok you take this 300baht and leave right now, or you can try to talk to mike tyson (pointing on my right hand) and the police , pointing on my mobile in my left hand .

he happily took my 300baht, and i told him that i ever see him trying to ripoff a tourist, this will be his last day as a taxi driver...

i just hate it, guys like this taxi driver are giving the 90% of the fair drivers who put the meter on without asking a bad reputation, and tourist a bad impression about the country the second they enter the taxi...

dp

When Mrs. DUF and I took a taxi from the hotel the driver refused to turn the meter on. We had to open the doors while he was driving to convince him to turn it on.

When Mrs. DUF and I took a taxi from the hotel the driver refused to turn the meter on. We had to open the doors while he was driving to convince him to turn it on.

anyway, i know the prices from the airport to the hotel, so if the driver does not turn it on, i only pay him 300baht for the drive and the drivers take it an leave usually.

once a driver tried to make a big scene, i called the bell boy, explained the situation and asked him to tell the driver that i will call the police if he insists of the ripoff fare he is quoting.

usually they take the money and leave.

dp

I stayed here last week. Maybe I've just had good luck, but have always enjoyed staying here. In room Check-in was seamless. They gave me a 'Junior Suite', smaller than the end ones I've always gotten until this time, but it was fine.

Late checkout as requested. In the morning went down for breakfast, asked to eat there instead of the lounge upstairs. They said OK without giving it a second thought.

As for the taxis. I can't agree more. It's insane that I should have to drag my bags or walk out to the street everytime I need an honest taxi.

Thanks for all the info about the cabs at the Royal Orchid!

Mrs. Bob and I will be staying at this hotel in a few weeks.

Are there any shuttles that will take people from the airport to/from hotel?

It seems that the cab fare should be 300 baht, correct? Is it the same amount regardless of the number of passengers?

Thanks! (what a great resource FT and its members are!) ^

Bob

...from the airport to/from hotel?

It seems that the cab fare should be 300 baht, correct? Is it the same amount regardless of the number of passengers?


To clarify, the taxi meter has a few counters:
*Meter starts at 35 Baht
*Distance counted in 1/10ths of a KM. I don't know exactly, but should be less than 30km between the hotel and the airport
*Time standing in minutes. Counter should only go up in slow traffic or while stopped. 60 minutes in traffic only ups the meter 30thb or so
**Airport departures ADD 50THB

Tolls are an extra 65THB, IIRC.

I think 300+tolls is not enough for ROS - BKK. (Last trip cost me 465 w/toll + tip)
For BKK - ROS, you'd add an extra 50 to the meter.

I always get a limo from the hotel for arrivals into BKK. I almost always stay at the SGS and find that I can typically complete the check in formalities in the car on the way to the hotel. For the relatively small additional cost when compared to taking a taxi (about £20) I really do not see the point of negotiating the taxi queue, carrying my own bags and running the risk of rogue taxi drivers.

I take taxis back to the airport more frequently but even for this journey I would typically take the hotel limo, I would far rather spend the hour or so journey in the relative comfort of an E-Class than the variable quality of taxis in BKK (none of which have working seatbelts in the rear seats). After all £10 each for 2 people to upgrade from "economy" to "business" for a one hour trip seems like rather a good deal to me ;)

Great Service, good location, you can access the skytrain from the hotel.
I've stay a couple of times last year, never been upgraded to a suite but always put on the top floor. Free buffet breakfast in the am.

The hotel is literally across the street from the Westin and so it makes for easy swapping of properties if you want to rack up stay credits.

Its actually across the river from the Millenium Hilton. You were confusing this property with the SGS ;)

The ROS has a semi-resort like feel with gardens,tennis court and 2 pools. View of the river is pretty especially at night, but noise could be a problem if you are a light sleeper. Shuttle boat to Sky Train station not as frequent as the Hilton opposite. Very mixed service level, generally ok but certain managers and associates can be very unhelpful.

Overall not a bad place to stay if you are a tourist or a leisure traveller.

Flyingbrick is correct. The Royal Orchid Sheraton (ROS) is on the river and not close to the skytrain. However, there is a pleasant free boat ride offered to the last stop of the skytrain. It is not necessarily faster than the taxi option, but if you are not in a hurry it is a pleasant way to travel.

The rooms at the ROS are nicely furnished. I have often stayed on points which is a great value at a category 2. As a gold, I have always gotten a room with a beautiful view of the river (if that is your thing) and a couple of times I was upgraded to a Junior Suite which is nice - somewhat small, but 2 separate rooms with 2 bathrooms and quite a nice step up.

The staff are very friendly and helpful. The lobby is nice and there is free internet with about 3 or 4 computers available at 30 minutes a shot.

I never ate in the restaurants, but they all looked relatively good - but priced like a 4 star hotel and not a restaurant in cheap Thailand.

The area, other than the feeling of being on the river, is a bit desolate as most river hotels are. A taxi (or the boat to the skytrain) is necessary to get to anything of interest, but easy to get at the front of the hotel. I did walk from the hotel to the more interesting parts of Bangkok once and it is not worth the time investment as it is an uninteresting walk. There are a couple of food stalls and a 7-11 within easy walking distance, but not too much of interest.

Overall a great hotel in an OK location. If you do not value the proximity of the river, then I recommend the other locations as better options. Especially if it is the first time in Bangkok and your time is limited.

Just returned from this hotel and was generally pleased. Have stayed here about 4 or 5 times in the last couple years. Rooms are new and very comfortable. It is nice, they have free wireless internet in the lobby and they 2nd floor. Free computers on 2nd floor also..

Strongly recommend you pay the rate for the club floors. The lounge is great and has free drinks and generous hors d'heuvres at night for a few hours. You can take a continental breakfast in the club lounge or the huge buffet in the restaurant. Staff here are extremely polite.

stayed over the summer and enjoyed a very nice upgrade to a beautiful suite.

My family stayed at the ROS in December, using it as a meeting point as we flew into BKK and before proceeding on a multi-city vacation.

As a Plat I did not receive an upgrade to a suite. However, this was primarily because I checked in very early (~10AM) and had requested two adjoining rooms. The front desk was very apologetic about not having a suite, but the rooms were fine, and they did send up the typical big, exotic fruit basket every day, which my daughter loved.

1) The room was nice, normal ROS room with outstanding views of the river. The bathroom amenitied were very nice, including my wife's favorite bar soap. The rooms are not very modern, but neither do they show the signs of aging - I belive that the maintenance here is pretty good.
2) The location was fine as long as you realize that this is a river hotel. This is not down on the main drag, and it does require a little more effort if that is your destination.
3) The lobby had a "kim" player, a very pleasant lady who payed the instrument wonderfully and talked to my wife and daughter at the same time for a long period. My daughter loved it.
4) The pool situation includes the official hotel pool, a deep, rectangular one outside the gym, and the Portugese embassy pool, which is down the stairs beyond the official pool. Both pools front the river, and the embassy pool is a terrific pocket-sized resort pool set in lovely grounds (peacocks, huge trees, wet bar, swim-in jacuzzi, etc.). The official hotel pool is colder, and the embassy one gets crowded as the day goes on, but for kids, the embassy pool is the highlight.
5) The entrance and lobby has a very uniquely Thai/SPG feel. The second floor overlook has computer terminals, etc, and links to the River City Mall with an overhead walk-way. The area in front of the hotel isn't particularly beautiful, but you can eat at the stalls that set up along the front of River City very cheaply, and if you walk further along the soi toward the church, there are even more stalls serving lots of different street fare.
6) This property is not new, but it is very welcoming. The grounds behind the hotel are nice, the staff are pleasant. The river boat shuttle to the Thaksin Station runs every 30 minutes or so, and on the way back, they serve little juices and waters.
7) I have never visited the spa here, nor has my wife, so I can't comment.
8) The lounge offerings are nice, and they specialize in giant cups of coffee.

The ROS usually offers pricing that is competitive with the other SPG properties.

I stayed here about 8 days ago on our way back from Vietnam. Like Wilbur, I had 2 adjoining rooms booked on points. Was disappointed that there was no upgrade even to an SPG floor. We were put on the 19th floor - rooms were ok - nowhere near as nice as the junior suites I've received in the past. We arrived late (11pm) and since this was for just one night didn't press for an upgrade.

Did get access to the lounge for one room only. There are 2 computers in the lounge for use. One nice thing is the 6 or so computers they have on the 1st floor (2nd floor if using Western convention for counting floors) outside the business center that are free for guests.

Lastly, I wanted the local gift instead of the 500 pts for the PLT amenity. I got sent to 3 different places and finally got to the gift shop to find out that it was a polo shirt and they only had it in XL sizes. Rather strange that this would be a local gift.

Edited to add that we took a cab to the airport from the hotel. Had no issues with the guy using the meter. Fare came out to be around 300 THB plus the 65B for the tolls.

Stayed at ROS for 3 nights in October for my anniversary, used points and called the hotel to ask about securing a suite upgrade. They infomed me that I was confirmed in a one bedrom suite with river view because thats what we book our Platinum members in, I offered to use points but was told that was not necessary. Arrived at the hotel with printed confirmation in hand with one bedrom suite with river view on it and was told, Sorry we are sold out tonight we do have a King deluxe room for you. I showed them the confirmation again and they said again sorry we are sold out tonight.
Real Nice Ha!

IN all my years of SPG Platinum status this is the first hotel I have been actually downgraded in. Wrote the GM and got some joke of a response like we were sold out and we do try and upgrade our SPG Platinum members and please call him directly when I return to make my reservation. Yeah Ok!

On a positive note we spend a lot of time in the SPA, which was not the good of a deal in comparison to treatments in the US, but the staff were absolultey wonderful.

And we enjoyed breakfast in the Club lounge.

FV

Hmm, indeed about service.. Is far away in this hotel.... I booked an Executive Suite and mailed the hotel about possible upgrades... Got a reply that I already had a suite booked so no need for an upgrade to a different type of suite... Also airport transfer seems really hard to understand for the staff at Reservations in the hotel....

Think I am kind of beginning to doubt about my reservation... Maybe should book another SPG hotel in BKK....

Hmm, indeed about service.. Is far away in this hotel.... I booked an Executive Suite and mailed the hotel about possible upgrades... Got a reply that I already had a suite booked so no need for an upgrade to a different type of suite... Also airport transfer seems really hard to understand for the staff at Reservations in the hotel....

Think I am kind of beginning to doubt about my reservation... Maybe should book another SPG hotel in BKK....

This is the only current BKK Starwood Property (or come to that Thailand Starwood Property) that I have yet to stay in, but I have visited the property since I had a dinner cruise a little while ago departing from the pier next door.

I just really really do not understand why anyone would choose this location let alone the property (whch at least in the public areas looks rather tired). It is in quite a busy part of town traffic wise but away from most of the city (except the riverside temples etc.).

If you want the lowest price then the Plaza is rarely more expensive. For service the SGS is simply superb (followed closely by the WGS).

The ROS is great for redemptions at 3000/4000 points !
They also always upgrade me to a suite. I think I have stayed there about 15 times. My favourite place (Oriental excluded) is the Millenium Hilton just across from the ROS.

The ROS is great for redemptions at 3000/4000 points !
They also always upgrade me to a suite. I think I have stayed there about 15 times. My favourite place (Oriental excluded) is the Millenium Hilton just across from the ROS.

LOL do not get me started, stayed there once and hate the place with a passion. I really really do not like the riverside location. It may be worthwhile to stay at the Oriental but for anything else I just do not see the point. I have no urgent desire to spend 3 hours per day travelling around when I could have saved 2 hours a day by staying more centrally.

LOL do not get me started, stayed there once and hate the place with a passion. I really really do not like the riverside location. It may be worthwhile to stay at the Oriental but for anything else I just do not see the point. I have no urgent desire to spend 3 hours per day travelling around when I could have saved 2 hours a day by staying more centrally.
Horses for courses.We love the river and have stayed at ROS,Millenium and Peninsula on many occasions.Have tried the SGS,Conrad and Meridiens but keep coming back to the river.

...hate the place with a passion. I really really do not like the riverside location. ... I just do not see the point.

For just as many visitors to Bangkok, the riverside is just as good a location as any other. It is near the Skytrain if you need to avoid traffic.

Just because you don't like it, don't assume we all do.

It's a great hotel that takes great care of it's Platinum members. I like it. My friends like it. Although the design in the rooms is old, the furniture is comfortable, the lounge (soon to be re-opened on a different floor with more space) is nice, and the staff very committed to guest service.

Think I am kind of beginning to doubt about my reservation... Maybe should book another SPG hotel in BKK....

I wouldn't worry. The hotel is fine. Yes, there are more choices, but as far as Starwoods in Bangkok, it's like comparing flavours of ice cream. Not everyone likes the same one, but doesn't make one better than the other.

My choices: Le Meridian, Royal Orchid, SGS, Westin. But, That's just me!

The ROS is great for redemptions at 3000/4000 points !


Word is that this hotel is changing from Category 2 to Category 3 hotel, in just over a week from now. (I heard Feb 5th)

BOOK NOW TO GET 3000 and 4000 POINT ROOMS.


It'll jump to 7000+ very soon ;) ;)

QUOTE: It's a great hotel that takes great care of it's Platinum members. I like it. My friends like it. Although the design in the rooms is old, the furniture is comfortable, the lounge (soon to be re-opened on a different floor with more space) is nice, and the staff very committed to guest service.

is the current lounge closed now? if so, do you know what they are doing for platinums. i am in bkk end of feb and trying to decide where to stay.

QUOTE: It's a great hotel that takes great care of it's Platinum members. I like it. My friends like it. Although the design in the rooms is old, the furniture is comfortable, the lounge (soon to be re-opened on a different floor with more space) is nice, and the staff very committed to guest service.

is the current lounge closed now? if so, do you know what they are doing for platinums. i am in bkk end of feb and trying to decide where to stay.

The lounge is still open,not to worry.

I like the ROS too and have always been treated well above average.
Afterall yes the SGS is a better hotel for many things,but you get what you pay for.

In todays weak US$ and strong BHT the ROS has been looking better to this guy.

The lounge is still open,not to worry.

I like the ROS too and have always been treated well above average.
Afterall yes the SGS is a better hotel for many things,but you get what you pay for.

In todays weak US$ and strong BHT the ROS has been looking better to this guy.

you are absolutely correct. my choice is between the ros and sgs and the rate spread is 2560 baht. big difference.

I am also a fan of this place, and prefer it to the Westin. It can be a pain to get too by car but to get around I just hop on the courtesy shuttle boat the Saphan Thaksin BTS station and use the Skytrain.

Land-of-Miles must have had a bad experience here methinks. :)

I am also a fan of this place, and prefer it to the Westin. It can be a pain to get too by car but to get around I just hop on the courtesy shuttle boat the Saphan Thaksin BTS station and use the Skytrain.

Land-of-Miles must have had a bad experience here methinks. :)

LOL no I haven't really, I said I had not stayed there, but I had visited the property, I just don't really like the riverside location (having stayed at the Hilton, Shangri La, Oriental and Peninsula), since it really doesn't tend to work for where I want to be when in BKK. I can see why other people might like it, it's just that personally I would avoid the area at all costs if I wanted to get out and about rather than just have an overnight hotel stay. The Shangri-La seems to be the best of the riverside properties since you have the BTS immediately adjacent, but generally in BKK I prefer to take taxis where possible and where the journey will not end up taking years off my life ;)

I did actually consider the ROS just over a week ago when I had an unexpected stay in BKK which involved only time in the hotel then off to the airport, but the current Meridien promo swung me over to the Plaza.

LOL no I haven't really, I said I had not stayed there, but I had visited the property, I just don't really like the riverside location (having stayed at the Hilton, Shangri La, Oriental and Peninsula), since it really doesn't tend to work for where I want to be when in BKK.



You should give it a try, it's a decent place and they look after Plats. Corner Suites and access to the nice Exec lounge.

I've also stayed at the Shangri La and Hilton. I prefer the ROS to the Hilton. Of course depending where you need to be on business comes into it but if you're not working then you'll be fine. ;)

I didn't like the look of the Meridien when I visited for a meeting with some friends but am trying it out next month due to the LM promo.

Has anyone had recent luck booking a "Tower Room" using points at this property?

I was able to book an upgraded award to Tower Room last year (for something like 1,000 extra points a night IIRC), which was a great value as it came with lounge access - good breakfast and evening snacks as an earlier poster pointed out and you practically have to beg them to stop serving you free drinks - free in-room internet, and several free pieces of laundry each day. I tried to book the same deal again today, but the SPG rep said she could not find any rooms with lounge access and suggested that I save points and go for the upgrade at check-in. Even when she was kind enough to call the hotel to check, the only additional info I received is that they're at about 30% capacity for my travel dates and my chances for an upgrade are very good.

Sections of the tower floors were still under renovations last month; and although it was bookable online the front desk agent insisted these rooms should have been blocked and they probably have done so now.

Since you are SPG Platinum, wont you get lounge access anyway ?
While the towers rooms are fresh and new, its quite small and the decor does not really reflect the location of the hotel. The exec suites are much nicer accomodations :)

I was fortunate that the day I checked in this week was opening night of the new Exec Lounge on 27. All the managers were greeting customers and taking photos.

The lounge looks great. And will accomodate many more people. It looks like it has been set up with many tables that will sit 4,5 or more people. They've used a few rooms overlooking the river, end units that are usually the suites plus some.

Reception Desks greet you as you approach from the hallway.

What is normally the 2 end suites are the main part of the lounge behind the reception desks. Boardroom to the left, a bar serving drinks from the centre of the room, and lots of seating with great views out of the many windows.

To the right of the main lounge area is more seating, at least 5 couchs areas, each with its own full length window overlooking the river. Another dozen tables in this wing, either with bench against the wall or table/chair sets on their own. Each end has a large flat screen tv.

Food area is tucked in the back corner and is quite a bit larger than the last area. Behind this room is the kitchen

Computer area in the far back has 3 desktops and another large window out to the river.

As usual, the ROS does a great job of taking care of it's regular guests, platinum or not.

The inhouse thai restaurant is quite good (and expensive) but I like to try somewhere else for a change.

Nothing in River City look interesting to me; and I have no idea how to get to the massive restaurants across the river, not looking forward to walking through deserted soi at night.

Can someone recommend a decent thai restaurant (decent in terms of food, dont mind simple ambiance) nearby without having to take a cab. Or maybe I should just take a dinner cruise from River City .....

Thanks

The inhouse thai restaurant is quite good (and expensive) but I like to try somewhere else for a change.

Nothing in River City look interesting to me; and I have no idea how to get to the massive restaurants across the river, not looking forward to walking through deserted soi at night.

Can someone recommend a decent thai restaurant (decent in terms of food, dont mind simple ambiance) nearby without having to take a cab. Or maybe I should just take a dinner cruise from River City .....

Thanks

just as you come into the soi to get to the hotel there is an excellent thai restaurant that i have eaten in a number of times over the years- most recently in february- called gallery cafe. phone 639 5580. you will not be disappointed.

just as you come into the soi to get to the hotel there is an excellent thai restaurant that i have eaten in a number of times over the years- most recently in february- called gallery cafe. phone 639 5580. you will not be disappointed.

Is this the one with a spa attached, looks a bit touristy but will try it !

Thanks

Is this the one with a spa attached, looks a bit touristy but will try it !

Thanks

it is not really that touristy. if you are willing the travel a short distance i also like tongue thai which is near the oriental although i have not been there recently.

Not sure I like the new lounge better. Though larger, it lacks the "wow" (as well as the bright and airy) feel which the old lounge had with no part of the old lounge further than 10-20ft away from the panoramic windows.

The new lounge is very much larger with a thai-less decor and looks much more like a nightclub (dark woods and corners, semi-high back red chairs, bar counters etc). Service is almost non-existent outside of cocktail hours (had to search for staff just to get a drink).

Its does offer more privacy and it is more comfortable no doubt, but unless you are seated next to a window you wont even know you are in Bangkok. Having seen the new towers room and this new lounge, it looks like the ROS is abandoning the thai decor in their new design. A shame really, because of all the Starwood properties in Bangkok, only the ROS makes me feel I am in Bangkok.

just as you come into the soi to get to the hotel there is an excellent thai restaurant that i have eaten in a number of times over the years- most recently in february- called gallery cafe. phone 639 5580. you will not be disappointed.

Agreed food is good and atmosphere is nice, but the "cafe" name seems misleading. Its more of a semi upscale thai restaurant targetted at tourists, not the kind of place a typical thai family would go to. Prices very similar to the inhouse thai restaurant at ROS.

The huge restaurant across the river (Yok Yor) is accesible by complimentary boat transfers at the River City. Mainly locals here with karaoke singing indoor, and alfresco dining by the river which is nice with most diners respecting the non-smoking rule. However if they ask whether you like the food spicy, say NO ......

So how hot is spicy at Yor Yuk? I've eaten there a number of times and really like it - but can't remember having anything too spicy.... I do tend to like very spicy ;)

So how hot is spicy at Yor Yuk? I've eaten there a number of times and really like it - but can't remember having anything too spicy.... I do tend to like very spicy ;)

My "local-spicy" tom yum kung was hotter than anything I had eaten during the past 3 years, and as you know I live in SE Asia :(

Their website still indicates 'special condition' of construction.
I SWORE I'd never stay again after staying through construction that DID disturb.
Even my spa treatment was destroyed by noise - and they did nothing...

However, it is closest to my business, and hence am willing to give it another shot...
provided someone has update on the construction??
Thanks!

The last time I was there (like several weeks ago) they were still renovating the rooms on a couple of floors. I am surprised you were "disturbed" at the spa since the renovations were on the higher floors while the spa is at the lower section, unless the renovations have suddenly moved down.

With the number of rooms at this hotel, it looks like room renovations will be a common feature for a long time; I believe they started almost a year ago.

Does anybody know which rooms have nice new bathrooms with separate tub and shower. It seems that the towers rooms definitely do. How about remodeled deluxe and deluxe premium rooms. What about junior and executive suites. An upscale bathroom is the one thing I am trying to accomplish. Also any idea which floors have been remodeled?

Is there an email to contact the hotel and inquire about paying for an upgrade in advance.

...Is there an email to contact the hotel and inquire about paying for an upgrade in advance.

I would use the Email Us link on their homepage at spg.com:

http://www.starwoodhotels.com/preferredguest/property/overview/contact.html?propertyID=172

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Online Guest Feedback Coordinator
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

I just sent a message to the Email Us link. But so far I have not heard back from the hotel in my previous message questioning their rate of 8250/9250 per night for what they tell me is a 5250/night room.

So what would one say is the pecking order of "upgrades" at the ROS.
I'm booked in at SPG 50 cheapest king rate for 2 nights in the near future.

I place a premium on space, thai style, new/cleanlines and fine bedding.
Thanks in advance.

Thanks,

Scho

As a Platinum you should get an upgraded room. Often a Exec Floor Room (lovely & redone), a Jr Suite, or one of the 1br Suites at the end by the river (my fave). You will have lounge access as well. They have a high number of plats each night, give good benefits & recognition. Quite often lately the end suites aren't enough for all the plats, but the Exec room, although smaller is lovely. It may have something to do with the renovations they're doing.

I prefer a lower floor for my cell phone signal (that I use for internet as well).

Stayed there for a night last Monday and was upgraded to a newly renovated exec. room. I don't like this hotel, too much traffic and too many Americans :)

Stayed there for a night last Monday and was upgraded to a newly renovated exec. room. I don't like this hotel, too much traffic and too many Americans :)

Not just American but there seems to be lots of tourist groups. Also the atmosphere at the lounge is rather "festive".

Personally I rather stay at the SGS or Plaza Athenee.

This time of the year I've many European's staying at the ROS.

The lounge in the PM seems mostly German and NOT American as stated above.

Upgrades harder to come by as many rooms closed for renovations.

Stayed there for a night last Monday and was upgraded to a newly renovated exec. room. I don't like this hotel, too much traffic and too many Americans :)

Couldn't have been me. First timer at ROS. I do SGS and the occasional WGS.
But this time I think it's has what I'm looking for. Traveling with Thai first timer.

Landing after 11pm from the West Coast it's a quick look out the window and off to bed.

Morning is breakfast and 2 hour boat charter.

Something in the pm and then nice Thai dinner and maybe a run up to Vertigo.

After the second night its off to Hua Hin.

Looking for a little "wow" and a "welcome to bkk" hit for her. The way out of Thailand is via the SGS happy hour and buffet after 3 suite nights in Hua Hin.

For the amount of time awake in the room at the ROS, I will be able to feign satisfaction with anything that has been renovated or labeled suite.

I will be coming off my first longhaul in Y since 2002. (ugh!) Hopefully the NH F lounge at NRT will cheer me up!

We were originally going to run down to Hua Hin after the river trip (pm of day 2) but "one night in BKK" is better and more respectful outside of time frame of the upcoming cremation ceremonies. I was able to book a second spg50 night. The change saves me 14K points in HH. Dropping from a wasted a "5th night free" to just 3 suite award nights.

I'm sure that the ROS will hold it's own with its Thai service standards and Plat recognition. It will be a lovely base for my goal of creating a whirlwind BKK experience. Plus I've never stayed so I would like to expand my SPG frame of reference!

The ROS won't steal me from the SGS as a customer! However that new LM golf resort by the airport may;)

Look forward to reporting on my experience as well.

Cheers,

Scho

They have the cruise ship contracts for Thailand, they stay here before and after moving up north to CNX

Lots of photos of the Royal Orchid Sheraton here (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/11760113-post50.html) as part of a larger South Asia trip report.

Have just completed 3 night stay here.Only running at 20% occupancy.Still only an executive room on floor 27.They seem to interchange the words Towers and executive.This room is the saqme size as a standard room.recently renovated and looks nice but on closer inspection the wallpaper job is substandard and the shower certainly lets a lot of water onto the floor outside.
lounge is good.breakfast exactly as the pictures from Gleff.4 hot items per day-overcooked bacon and boiled(?)ham,an egg dish and one other.basically decided I didnt need a hot breakfast.Evening cocktails 1730-1930.Only 1 white and 1 red wine.Acceptable assortment of snacks.
Stated as a platinum benefit is 1 hours complimentary internet in lounge-however all ROS guests get complimentary internet at the Sheraton lionk on Floor 1 and willing give you extra hours.Pointed out the stupidity of this and given an access code for 3 hours-which I then used downstairs.
At the present floors 5-10 and the ground floor being renovated.So no riverside breakfast and the boat shuttle goes from the River Centre next door.
This was my 5th stay here(last was 10 years ago).By contrast a week earlier we stayed at the SGS for the first time and were upgraded to suite automatically.The SGS will certainly be our choice of sheratons in the fyture.
on the river I have stayed at the Peninsula,Millenium Hilton and ROS and I would rate them in that order.

Anyone stayed at the ROS in the past few weeks since drron and can comment on the status of renovations in terms of the noise, etc. impinging on enjoying the rooms, the pool or the riverfront area? Thanks.

Anyone stayed at the ROS in the past few weeks since drron and can comment on the status of renovations in terms of the noise, etc. impinging on enjoying the rooms, the pool or the riverfront area? Thanks.

I had a single night stay at the ROS in early June. The riverfront seemed closed off due to construction, there was a large construction fence blocking the view from the ground floor restaurant. However, I did not press the issue, so maybe there was a way to get back there.

I did not notice any noise pollution and was delighted with the welcome gift and my upgraded high-floor room w/ river view. My room seemed recently renovated, as it included A/V plugs for watching vids off my iPod. (I wish all hotels had this.) The new lounge is very nice and a wonderful improvement over the old one (which wasn't bad at all.)

In an upstream comment I complained about the taxi situation that existed at the ROS a year or so ago where the taxis would only run off negotiated, exorbitant flat rates. When it came time to check out and return to the airport the doorman made a point to tell me that my taxi would use the meter. Perhaps someone is monitoring comments here on FT and marrying them back to SPG accounts? If so, cheers! That demonstrates a considerable commitment to customer service. Of course, it could just be that after years of complaints the staff has taken to ensuring meters are used. Cheers to that as well. Either way - thanks, ROS, for the improvement. :)

BTW: the breakfast buffet on the ground floor (not the lounge) is the best among the Starwood properties, with the Athenee running a close second. The ROS has more space, and while the Athenee has the same number of stations, the ROS uses the extra room to include a selection or two extra at most of these stations.

My room seemed recently renovated, as it included A/V plugs for watching vids off my iPod. (I wish all hotels had this.) .

what type of room was this ? suite / towers club room ? hope to upgrade to this type of room in my next stay to hook up my ipod to see how it works.
is there also a dvd player in the room ?

Dear members,

My colleagues over at this property has informed me on some great news.

"Announcement

As we complete the final stages of a transformation in our guestrooms and Riverside Terrace, a stay with us will soon be better than ever and we are working hard to make our hotel even more inviting for you. Our new guestrooms will provide you with beautifully appointed accommodation, a warm contemporary and relaxed ambience, and of course each one features our famous panoramic Riverview.

Look out for the stunning new Riverside Terrace that includes our renovated swimming pool, along with Bangkok’s newest lifestyle and entertainment venue, Sambal, an alfresco Grill and Bar infused with Balinese flair. We are looking forward to sharing this contemporary space by the River of Kings with you by the end of October.

So we invite you to join us after our renovations are complete and experience our hotel as never before. In fact our rooms will be completed by most likely by end of September, all 734 of them and the terrace to finish by end of October to welcome our first conference.

For business, leisure or a bit of both, we look forward to sharing it all with you."

apguest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Thyetus Lee | Online Forum Coordinator(AP)
Starwood Customer Contact Centre (AP) Pte Ltd

I'll probably be in Bangkok for a week or so the end of October / first part of November. I don't have status in Starwood's program anymore but I do have a lot of points.

It's been suggested by a friend that I stay at the Royal Orchid Sheraton because it is on the river and I'll have a great viewpoint to watch on the night of Loi Krathong (sp?). On the other hand, the hotel's website indicates it is undergoing construction/renovation. I'd sure appreciate it if anyone can offer up-to-date information on the state of the construction/renovation or anything else you would want to know if you were me.

Also, I'm strongly considering booking using points - 7000 points a night seems like a steal compared to US$130+ per night. Any thoughts or advice on this subject would also be much appreciated.

Many thanks.

--Bob

Hi Bob -

I've merged your query in to the master thread for the property. Fortunately, Starwood Lurker II just gave us an update on the renovation. It looks as though your timing will be perfect to enjoy it.

I'll probably be in Bangkok for a week or so the end of October / first part of November. .....I'd sure appreciate it if anyone can offer up-to-date information on the state of the construction/renovation or anything else you would want to know if you were me.

In fact our rooms will be completed by most likely by end of September, all 734 of them and the terrace to finish by end of October to welcome our first conference.

As for paying $140++ or 7K points, I'm with you. If you're rich in points, it sounds like a good use of them rather than cash out of pocket. You might even call reservations, and see if there is a higher category of room you can book for a modest additional points. I don't know the case at this property, but sometimes just 1.5K/night additional will yield a junior suite. And certainly, if you could get a river facing room here, it would be ideal. With no status, you'll have little chance of that without using a few more points. Keep in mind that if you want to stay in Bangkok for several nights, you can use a 5 night for the price of 4 (point redemption).

Thanks, SD1K, I appreciate the quick help! I had forgot about the 5 for 4 deal. I just have not been traveling much lately and the short term memory is letting go.

When you say 'call reservations' I assume you mean the US Reservations toll free number, correct? I've got good help from them in the past and I'll sure try them again.

--Bob

Using 7k pts. vs. paying $130++ is not a steal, I don't think, esp. if you have status.

Check to see if cash and points are available during the time you want to stay. If so, I think you will find that is a much better deal than using just points.

There are a lot of good deals at Starwood properties in Bangkok this year, so $130++ may not be the best rate. That is the standard rate at the Sheraton GS when using an SPG50, for example, and most people consider the SGS a fancier property than the ROS.

Kevino, I don't have status (well, corporate status, whatever that means).

As noted in my original post I am considering the ROS mainly for its river location during the festival night.

kevino, he said he had points but no status. That's why I suggested seeing about using additional points for a better room.

I don't have status in Starwood's program anymore but I do have a lot of points.

I'm not familiar with the festival he named. Do you think the other Starwood hotels would offer as good a view? When I looked it up on wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loy_Krathong), it showed a lot of fireworks over the river.

It's been suggested by a friend that I stay at the Royal Orchid Sheraton because it is on the river and I'll have a great viewpoint to watch on the night of Loi Krathong (sp?).

SanDiego1k,
Yes, you're right that the river view is best to watch the festival. :) ^^
It would be worthwhile (as you suggest) to see if points can be used to ug to a better room with lounge access or to pay for lounge access since it's on a high floor and has sweeping views of the river. I think all the rooms at the ROS have river views.

I value SPG points at 3 cents each so I try to be careful using my points, even though I have a lot. I think that generally people tend to think a lot about earning points, and that once they have them, they tend to not think about how to use them wisely. I think both sides of the equation are equally important, esp. for people who don't have status (bc it's harder for them to earn points to begin with).

So even if I did not have status, I would pay the $130++ rather than use
7k points (assuming pt. stretchers are not available). And before paying $130++, I'd check to see if the rate at the Hilton right across the river is cheaper.

Btw, I like the ROS very much. They don't usually have an SPG50 rate though and I've noticed that they have increased their rates a lot now that the renovation is nearing completion. I guess you could call me a price sensitive shopper, though others might use different terminology. :)

Kevino, thanks for your thoughts.

Which Hilton is it that is right across the river? (As you can maybe tell, this will be my first trip to Bangkok.)

Are there any other hotels you can suggest with a river view?

--Bob

Hi Bob,

It's the Millennium Hilton that is right across the river from the ROS. Like the ROS, a very nice hotel. Both hotels have a free river boat to the Skytrain station. The Hilton also offers a free boat ride directly across the Hilton to the shopping center next to the ROS. The Oriental and Marriott Resort are also on the river.

If you check the rates at the ROS, note that the lowest prepaid rate usually includes a free breakfast, which is a very nice buffet. ^^

If the rates are high at the ROS bc of the festival ($200+), then I would agree with SanDiego1k that it would be a good use of 7k points instead. :)

The M. Hilton costs 25k HHonors points per night. No more pt. stretchers posted at Hilton so far for the remainder of this year. :(

I hope you have a good trip to Bangkok.

On the other hand, the hotel's website indicates it is undergoing construction/renovation. I'd sure appreciate it if anyone can offer up-to-date information on the state of the construction/renovation or anything else you would want to know if you were me.


Renovations are still in full swing; several lower floors are blocked off, italian restaurant and the lap pool are closed (you can still access the garden pool). All the rooms on the towers lounge floor are closed (but the lounge is operating as usual). Not much of a noise disturbance though compared to a year ago (when there were hacking and drilling noises during the day). The main works now seems to be on the river front restaurant and pool area where its evident they are rushing to complete the works.

You will probably not find too much disturbance, but the hotel river front is all blocked off so you cant enjoy the view (and breeze in the evenings) from there. The shuttle boat now uses the pier at River City and I believe the operating hours have been reduced.

Thank you, Mario33. I was afraid of that. Sometimes 'official announcements' can be a bit over-optimistic.

When were you there last?

Do you think its likely they'll be finished in time for the festival at the end of October? I would think that would be a target date, but then....

--Bob

Thank you, Mario33. I was afraid of that. Sometimes 'official announcements' can be a bit over-optimistic.

When were you there last?

Do you think its likely they'll be finished in time for the festival at the end of October? I would think that would be a target date, but then....

--Bob

I was last there last week, and I honestly do not think they could finish everything by end Oct but then there have been some sort of renovations going on there for the past 2 years, so its probably unrealistic to expect zero ongoing works for a hotel of this size.

does anyone have a further update on the status of renovations at the ROS? I am planning to be there for one night in mid-November and then for 5 nights in early December.

Well, e stayed there beginn of Oct. and found exactly what mario33 discribed. Especial the relxing are on the "green" pool was a very nice location to relax but noisy from renovation.

Some floor(s) where completly renovated. I stopped once at floor 24 or so and on that floor was completely renocation.

We had once dinner in the restaurant to the river. And sorry guys you can save at least 20% of the operating costs just by increasing the temperature from a windchill factor of 12 to 14 degrees to lets say 18. The windows where clowded inside!

We have booked a Junior Suit on Executive lvl and received have received an "old" and slightly damaged Suit with 2 rooms. Well not exactly what I was looking for but we have wonderfull memories at BKK.

One advice for everyboday who stays here you should go to the State Tower and go for a Cocktail on teh 64 floor. Amazing atmosphare outside and no noise.

Have fun there!

I just checked out of the RO Sheraton yesterday. As a plat, I was upgraded to a non-towers junior suite despite the hotel being quite full. Nice room and recently renovated. (I was also offered a choice of a regular towers room, but the check-in agent recommended the non-towers suite instead.) The Towers lounge has a nice view and decent evening hors d'oeurves. The breakfast in the etc. restaurant (free for plats) is considerably better than the breakfast in the lounge. The lounge also offers afternoon tea, but the selection was quite small.

Sunday morning the temporary wall around the construction area was taken down and I was able to walk around the new terrace area as at least a dozen construction people were painting, scraping, and wiring things as they scurried to finish the renovations before the hotel's first scheduled conference (starting yesterday) and the big Loi Krathong festival for which they've been selling expensive terrace seating. It still looked like there was a bunch to finish, but hopefully they got it done.

Not staying there but had lunch at the ROS yesterday. The Terrace restaurant is still undergoing renovation; the ETC restaurant is open and has a nice buffet luncheon; didn't go above the ground floor so can't comment on other renovations but the pool appears to be open.

I'm staying at the Westin Grande Sukhumvit and it is fine for my needs.

the pool appears to be open.

Which pool ? There are 2 pools at the ROS, the garden pool has always been opened.

Which pool ? There are 2 pools at the ROS, the garden pool has always been opened.

I can't answer that. I was on the boat dock level and looked up and saw the heads of some people who appeared to be sitting in deck chairs around a pool.