A little tale from Bangkok... we stayed one night at the Waldorf Astoria in mid-December as we had a meeting in the Rajadamri area, so this was very convenient. The stay was uneventful, but the location certainly worked for us on this occasion. We left part of our luggage there and looked forward to returning a week later... only to find out upon arrival on a busy Friday night that the Waldorf had forgotten to dispatch a driver to collect us from the airport. Despite prior confirmation. I called them and you might have guessed it... no explanation was forthcoming, not even an apology. Sheer arrogance. They suggested taking a taxi, but alas... there was a 55-minute line to get a taxi, and no Grabs were available either. I quickly decided it was not worth going back to the Waldorf and so contacted Khun Nick at The Siam and asked him if they'd take us, basically as "walk ins"... meanwhile, I told the Waldorf they could stay in their suite themselves.

Needless to say... Khun Nick (who wasn't even at the hotel at that time) not only accepted but bent over backwards to make it happen. Within an hour, and being almost fully committed (this was peak festive season!), they arranged everything down to the last detail. And it was so effortless... when, only a little later, we pulled into the driveway of The Siam, Khun Nawee (HM) was already waiting for us with our butlers and several other members of management. They told us that our luggage would be collected from WA and should be delivered shortly... In our villa (upgraded for our one-night stay, despite the highest occupancy), all the preferences were put into place... they even arranged for our favorite orchids (several arrangements, masterfully done) and some extraordinary amenities, as well as small details -- such as a framed picture of us Khun Gub had created for my birthday a while ago. A table at Chon for dinner? On standby. So, so smooth and effortless. Everyone was as warm as ever, turning this unfortunate event into sheer delight. We cancelled our meeting the next day and decided to have breakfast and relax riverside at The Siam. Sadly, we did not have time for Opium Spa as we were leaving right after lunch, but ever-present Spa Director Khun Oh was so considerate to plan for this eventuality as well. Nothing is left to chance at The Siam.

Meanwhile, updates to all the villas are complete, and they are all looking gorgeous. Six suites in the main building have been completed as well, with a further six coming in 2024. They have also completely renovated the gorgeous café/bar inside The Story House (which used to be Café Cha) and adjoining room... styled by The Siam's co-founder/owner Krissada Sukosol Clapp.

Turns out, it was a grave mistake not to book The Siam in the first place for a one-night stay, although I am usually hesitant given time constraints. It would have been nice having an option in central Bangkok, especially when one has meetings or commitments in central Bangkok. I also figured the Park Hyatt is a much superior option compared to the Waldorf, not only in terms of breakfast but also considering the bozo GM at WA.

Very thankful to The Siam family, so fond of all of them. They are the heart and soul of this hotel... already looking forward to our return stay(s) in 2024.


A blue vanda coerulea sitting gracefully in the updated courtyard of villa #107


Only part of the welcome amenities, all bespoke -- and remember this is a one night stay