Check In

As I had booked under FHR CTS, I was entitled to a noon check in. However horrible mid-day Bangkok traffic led to a 2pm check in. The lobby is glorious, but we were whisked away to in-room check in. I had been upgraded at time of booking to a Mandarin room, on the 14th floor. The FHR benefits came with 4th night free, full buffet breakfast, $300 of Spa and F&B credits, free wifi, 4pm checkout, etc. 

Room

A Mandarin room is the lowest level I would choose at this hotel. It is quite large with a huge bathroom and closet, plus a nice corner balcony with 270 degree wraparound views, looking straight up the river as well as across the city. 

The desk is fully equipped with all types of electrical ports and a full set of office supplies. We were welcomed with fresh lemongrass tea and a display of French macaroons, chocolates, fruit and various other treats. 

Service

Simply the finest service in the world. You are greeted at the door and give Pulmeria (or Pulmeria-like) bracelets, whisked up to your room/suite for in-room check in. Your butler brings tea and offers to unpack for you, etc. We tried the butler packing before checkout and it was amazing what they accomplished. My shoes were shined each day by magic it seemed. Any clothes left out were folded and put in an appropriate place. After we came back from dinner, we found a thank you note in the room for dining with the hotel, etc. I'm not sure there is more to say about how great the service is, except that most of the staff is there for life. Our butler had 17 years and the great Khun Ankana has been there since 1949!

And let's not forget about the spa! Your skin will be positively glowing after a fine treatment at the Oriental Spa. I love the relaxing slow boat trip across the river to the spa, gym or the excellent Thai restaurant. 

The pool has great service too. The staff are always coming around wtih food, drink, ice cream, etc. And when an afternoon rain shower hit, they had umbrellas instantly ready. 

Dining

We had dinner at Le Normandie which is not only the finest French restaurant in Thailand, but argueably all of Asia. And breakfast each morning on the river is amazing. Also the constant num-nums served by the pool and even the room service is excellent.

Location

RIght on the river, which is great for tourists. You can also take the boat to the skytrain if you need to really get around the city.

Overall

Overall, this hotel was traditionally regarded as the worlds finest hotel for decades. It may have slipped a bit 10 or 15 years or so ago, but now it is back on top again. And booking with FHR is an easy choice with the upgrade at time of booking and all the great benefits.