Exploring Bangkok on a Budget: Luxurious Stay and Dining at Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok

"Bangkok" is a shopper's paradise, offering everything from down-to-earth flea markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market and Train Night Market to luxurious shopping malls. The city boasts a diverse culinary scene, with street food available around the clock, fresh produce at local markets, and fine dining restaurants atop skyscrapers. For these reasons, Bangkok has become the top tourist destination, surpassing popular tourist spots like Phuket and Pattaya, and has held the number one spot for three consecutive years (according to the Mastercard Global Destination Cities Index, GDCI 2018).

In my opinion, Bangkok is the city with the most severe traffic congestion, requiring the most time for travel. Therefore, I usually choose to relax or travel in other provinces. However, this time, I think it would be interesting to get to know Bangkok better. I will try to forget that Bangkok is the "capital of the country" and simply explore what makes it so attractive to tourists from all over the world. For this trip, I will spend 2 days and 1 night exploring the city instead of traveling to other provinces.

Let's begin at the **Temple of the Emerald Buddha**, formally known as **Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram**, situated within the Grand Palace's outer court. This sacred site, constructed by King Rama I in 1782, serves as the abode of the revered Emerald Buddha, a national palladium. It also functioned as a venue for the king's religious observances.

The Grand Palace is home to a variety of interesting structures, including the Phra Mondop, the Phra Sri Rattana Chedi, and the Prasat Phra Thep Bidon. These buildings are located on the Phra Thinang Chakri Maha Prasat, the main throne hall of the palace.

The Phra Debidorn Shrine: A Place of History and Reverence

The Phra Debidorn Shrine, a four-faced structure built during the reign of King Rama IV, initially intended to house the Emerald Buddha. However, upon completion, the space was deemed too confined for royal ceremonies, and the Emerald Buddha was not enshrined there. Subsequently, the shrine underwent renovations and became the resting place for the royal statues of the Rattanakosin kings. Notably, the shrine is only open to the public for seven days each year.

Flanking the staircase leading up to Phra That Doi Suthep are the golden chedis, built by King Rama I to honor his parents. The base of each chedi is adorned with 20 figures of giants carrying swords.

The rear of the Phra That Pathom Chedi houses the seven-tiered Phra Mondop, which enshrines a mother-of-pearl-inlaid cabinet containing the Tripitaka scriptures.

Adjacent to the Mondop is the Phra Sri Rattana Chedi, which was commissioned by King Rama IV and modeled after the chedi at Wat Phra Si Sanphet in Ayutthaya. Inside, the holy relics of the Buddha are enshrined.

The base of the Phra Thinang Phaithi is surrounded by seven pairs of cast metal mythical animal sculptures, created during the reign of King Rama V. One of these sculptures is the Singhaphanon, a mythical creature with the upper body of a monkey and the lower body of a lion. The Singhaphanon holds a club in each hand.

Another notable feature is the twelve guardian giants, each holding a club and standing guard at various doors around the ordination hall. They appear to be vigilantly guarding the ordination hall. These twelve giants were created during the reign of King Rama III, along with the giants of Wat Jaeng. Each giant has its own name.

The intricate patterns on the spire of the Phra Chedi are incredibly detailed and beautiful.

The walls of the Phra Rabieng are adorned with murals depicting the Ramakien epic. These murals, which number 178 in total, begin with images of Narayana's various avatars before his incarnation as Rama. The murals are arranged in a continuous sequence along all four sides of the Phra Rabieng, covering the walls of the doorways and the porches. The murals that are visible today are replacements for the original murals that were painted during the reign of King Rama I and have been repaired and restored in subsequent reigns.

The main sanctuary (พระอุโบสถ) is located in the center of the temple, surrounded by a wall with eight niches containing boundary stones. It was built during the reign of King Rama I. The base of the sanctuary is decorated with a lotus motif and features metal-cast, gold-plated garudas holding nagas. The interior walls of the sanctuary were originally adorned with red-based niello inlays during the reign of King Rama I. King Rama III later ordered the walls to be decorated with gilded stucco floral motifs and mirrors to match the style of the mandapa. The doors and windows are also gilded and decorated with mother-of-pearl. The stairs leading to the sanctuary are flanked by twelve bronze lions, six of which were modeled after a pair from Cambodia and the remaining six were cast later.

The Emerald Buddha, a revered national treasure, resides within the ubosot. Carved from deep green jade in the Lanna style, this Buddha image sits in a meditative posture. King Rama I brought the Emerald Buddha from Vientiane, and it has since become a symbol of the nation. The Emerald Buddha's attire changes with the seasons, adorned with gold, diamonds, and other precious materials. This ritual changing of the robes is a significant royal duty, performed by the reigning monarch. Photography is not permitted inside the ubosot.

The base of the Phra Ubosot is adorned with metal-cast, gold-plated Garuda figures gripping nāgas. This captivating scene is a popular spot for visitors to photograph when paying respects to the Emerald Buddha.

The bell tower is located beside the ordination hall.

The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. As a result, the temple is often crowded throughout the day. To manage the flow of visitors, the temple has separate entrances and exits. The exit route passes through the Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall.

The Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall was commissioned by King Rama V after his visit to Singapore and Java. It served as the royal audience chamber. The top floor houses the urns containing the ashes of the monarchs and their consorts from the reign of King Rama IV onwards. The throne hall is also where foreign dignitaries, high-ranking officials, and distinguished guests are received. Inside the throne hall is the Phuttan Throne, the royal throne of the Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall. The throne is made of wood covered with silver and gold-inlaid niello, a technique known as "ถมตะทอง". It is the largest niello object in Thailand.

The Office of the Royal Secretary is located opposite the Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall.

For those who want to visit the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in a less crowded way, it is recommended to arrive at the temple early in the morning. You can enter through the Mani Nopharat Gate or the Sawasdi Sopha Gate. Both gates are open exclusively for Thai people to pay respects to the Emerald Buddha from 8:00 AM onwards. (Both gates are located near the City Pillar Shrine.)

From Wat Phra Kaew, the next destination is Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram. All tourists leaving Wat Phra Kaew must use the exit gate at Wiman Thewet Gate. Then walk along Maha Rat Road.

From Wiman Thewet Gate, walk along Maha Rat Road, following the wall of the Grand Palace for about 10 minutes, and you will reach Wat Pho.

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha: Wat Pho

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha, formally known as Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhlaram Rajwaramahawihan, is a historic temple dating back to the Ayutthaya period. Located in Bangkok, Thailand, it underwent extensive renovations under the reign of King Rama I, becoming one of the six highest-ranking royal temples in the country.

Key Points:

• Formal Name: Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhlaram Rajwaramahawihan
• Common Name: Wat Pho
• Historical Significance: Founded during the Ayutthaya period, extensively renovated by King Rama I
• Ranking: One of the six highest-ranking royal temples in Thailand
• Significance: Royal temple of King Rama I, founder of the Chakri dynasty

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) boasts numerous points of interest. Let's explore them one by one.

The first point of interest is the **Phra Maha Chedi Si Ratchakal**, a large four-spired stupa located in the center of the temple. It is surrounded by a wall with a gate adorned with a pair of Chinese stone figures. The stupa is decorated with glazed tiles, creating a delicate and beautiful appearance.

The three stupas are arranged in a single plane: the central stupa is the Phra Maha Chedi Si Rattana Mahathat, adorned with green glazed tiles, and is the main stupa of the first reign. The rightmost stupa is the Phra Maha Chedi Dilok Thammakron Kanit, adorned with white glazed tiles, and is the stupa of the second reign. The leftmost stupa is the Phra Maha Chedi Muni Bat Boriban, adorned with yellow glazed tiles, and is the stupa of the third reign. The stupa at the back is the Phra Maha Chedi Song Phra Si Suriyothai, adorned with dark blue or navy glazed tiles, and is the stupa of the fourth reign.

The surrounding glass wall is adorned with numerous Buddha statues.

Let's take a look inside the ordination hall.

Wat Pho is a temple with the most pagodas in Thailand, with approximately 99 pagodas. These pagodas can be categorized into four types: the four royal pagodas of the four reigns, which I have already shown you above; the 71 pagodas located within the ordination hall; the 20 pagodas on a single base; and the four prang-style pagodas. As soon as you enter the ordination hall, you will see small and large pagodas arranged throughout the area.

The ordination hall was built according to the Traiphum cosmology, with the ordination hall representing Mount Meru and the four cardinal viharas representing the four continents. The ordination hall is surrounded by a glass balcony adorned with numerous Buddha statues.

Inside the ordination hall, there is a **gilded Buddha statue** in the posture of meditation. This statue was brought from Wat Sala Si Na by King Rama I. The statue is very beautiful. Inside the ordination hall, there are also beautiful murals on the walls.

The four cardinal directions of the temple house important Buddha statues invited from various cities, divided into the front and back porches.

The eastern pavilion houses the Phra Phuttha Marawichai Buddha statue in the Marawichai posture, which was brought from Wat Khao In in Sawankhalok. The rear pavilion houses the Phra Phuttha Lokanath Sasada Chariya Buddha statue (as seen in the picture), which was brought from the Phra Lokanath Vihara within Wat Phra Si Sanphet.

The western viharn houses the **Phra Phuttha Chinnasi Munanath**, a Buddha statue in the naga subduing posture. Originally located in Sukhothai, it was brought to Phitsanulok along with the Phra Phuttha Chinnarat.

The northern viharn houses the Phra Phuttha Palilayi, a statue of the Buddha in the Pa Le Lai posture, which was created by King Rama I during the construction of Wat Phra Chetuphon. The southern viharn houses the Phra Phuttha Chinarat, a statue of the Buddha in the First Sermon posture, which was brought from the city of Sukhothai.

The Temple of Knowledge: Wat Pho's Legacy as a Repository of Encyclopedic Wisdom

Wat Pho, a revered landmark in Thailand, stands as a testament to the nation's rich history and intellectual heritage. This sacred space served as the country's first university, housing a vast collection of inscriptions encompassing diverse fields of knowledge. In recognition of its significance, UNESCO inscribed Wat Pho as a Memory of the World Heritage Site for the Asia-Pacific region in March 2008. This inscription included the renowned "Tamra Wecha Chetuphon," a medical treatise of immense value. Subsequently, in June 2011, UNESCO further elevated Wat Pho's status by including 1,440 of its inscriptions in the International Memory of the World Register. This remarkable recognition underscores Wat Pho's unparalleled contribution to the preservation and dissemination of knowledge across generations.

This pavilion houses inscriptions and murals depicting ancient massage techniques, serving as a valuable record of traditional medical knowledge.

The small Chinese-style pavilion in the crocodile park showcases Chinese sculptures, featuring the concepts of the ox and the dragon.

The highlight of Wat Pho is undoubtedly the Phra Wihan Phra Phutthaisayan, which houses the Reclining Buddha.

The Viharn of the Reclining Buddha

The Viharn of the Reclining Buddha, constructed during the reign of King Rama III, houses a colossal reclining Buddha statue. The statue predates the viharn, which was built to accommodate its impressive size. The viharn's dimensions mirror those of the main ordination hall (Ubosot).

The Reclining Buddha, crafted from brick and stucco, is entirely gilded. It stretches an impressive 46 meters in length and reaches a height of 15 meters from the floor to the top of its crown. The statue's left and right feet are placed evenly on top of each other, adorned with mother-of-pearl depicting 108 auspicious symbols. The center of the soles features a wheel design, reflecting the Mahapurusha Lakkhana (32 auspicious marks of a Great Man). These 108 auspicious symbols represent a fusion of beliefs originating from both the Indian subcontinent and China.

The Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho ranks as the third largest in Thailand, a testament to its grandeur and significance.

After leaving Wat Pho, walk for approximately 5 minutes to Tha Tien Pier to take a ferry across the river to Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan.

Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan is one of the six highest-ranking royal temples in Thailand, alongside Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangklararam. The temple dates back to the Ayutthaya period and was originally known as Wat Makok. Later, it was renamed Wat Makok Nok. During the reign of King Taksin the Great, who intended to relocate the capital to Thonburi, he arrived at Wat Makok Nok at dawn while leading his troops down the Chao Phraya River. He subsequently renamed the temple "Wat Jaeng". In the reign of King Rama II, the temple underwent renovations and was bestowed the name "Wat Arun Ratchadaram". King Rama III extensively restored Wat Arun and commissioned the construction of the prang (spired pagoda) based on his own design. The prang stands at a height of 1 sen, 13 wa, 1 sok, and 1 niw, with a circular base measuring 5 sen and 37 wa. During the reign of King Rama IV, further construction and renovations were undertaken at Wat Arun, including the enshrinement of King Rama II's ashes at the Buddha's throne in the ubosot (ordination hall). The temple was also renamed "Wat Arun Ratchawararam". Wat Arun features three main points of interest:

The first point of interest is the ordination hall. At the entrance, two giant figures stand guard, each holding a large club. The giant with a white body is named "Sahasadecha," while the giant with a green body is named "Thotsakan." Both giants are crafted in the Chinese style, sculpted from plaster and adorned with glazed tiles. These two giants are the origin of the giants at Wat Jaeng.

Upon passing through the crown-shaped archway at the entrance, one encounters a winding balcony adorned with numerous Buddha statues. The walls are decorated with intricate floral and leaf motifs, creating a truly magnificent sight.

The ordination hall is a traditional Thai structure built during the reign of King Rama II. The original wooden structure was destroyed by fire and was subsequently repaired during the reign of King Rama V. The boundary markers are made of marble in the shape of a stupa, with paired boundary stones made of stone and intricately carved. Along the length of the ordination hall, Chinese dolls are arranged in rows.

The front of the curved balcony is adorned with Chinese figurines.

The principal Buddha image enshrined within the ubosot is known as Phra Phuttha Thammisara Ratcha Lokadhatu Dilok. This image, crafted in the Rattanakosin style, depicts the Buddha in the Mara-Vijaya posture and is situated upon a tiered platform atop a chukchi base. It is believed that King Rama II personally sculpted the face of this Buddha image. Flanking the principal Buddha image are two acolytes, each holding a ceremonial fan. Beneath the Buddha's throne lies the reliquary containing the ashes of King Rama II.

The murals inside the ordination hall depict the life of the Buddha, offering a beautiful and captivating sight.

The second point of interest is the area around the prang. In front of the prang, there are small chapels and a small church on the left and right sides of the entrance to the prang.

The Phra Wihan Noi Maha Chulamani is a historic temple dating back to the Ayutthaya period. It currently houses the Phra Maha Chulamani Chedi, a large metal stupa guarded by four statues of the Four Heavenly Kings. This smaller temple originally housed the Emerald Buddha after it was brought from Vientiane during the Thonburi period. However, after the Emerald Buddha was moved to Wat Phra Kaew, the Phra Maha Chulamani was built to replace it. The Phra Maha Chulamani contains a tooth relic and hair relic of the Buddha.

For the small chapel, it is the place where the stucco Buddha statue is enshrined, gilded in the attitude of subduing Mara on a pedestal. There are many Buddha statues of various sizes.

The front of the base of the Phra Chedi is a stuccoed brick structure with a plaster finish. It features a statue of King Taksin the Great, dressed in royal attire, seated with his feet dangling. According to the Royal Chronicles, towards the end of his reign, the King ordained as a monk and resided at this very temple.

The majestic and prominent Phra Prang of Wat Arun is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of its builders. Adorned with glazed tiles and imported Chinese Benjarong porcelain, the Phra Prang boasts exquisite patterns that are both rare and ancient. The structure has undergone continuous restoration efforts, with the most recent one completed in late 2017.

After walking this far, I must confess that I am completely exhausted. The heat and hunger have taken their toll, and while my heart desires to climb up to the top of the temple, my body simply cannot keep up. Even lifting my arm to take a picture feels like an insurmountable task.

Another point of interest is the Royal Chapel. Inside the chapel, the main Buddha statue is enshrined, named Phra Phuttha Cham Phunuth Maha Burut Lakkhana Asit Yana Nuphaphon, in the Mara-Vijaya posture, cast in gilded bronze and created during the reign of King Rama III. I was able to sit and meditate in the cool air of the chapel, which helped me regain my energy.

Adjacent to the main temple is a replica of the Phra Phutthabat footprint.

In front of the prang of Wat Arun, there is a boat service that takes you on a tour of three temples: Wat Arun, Wat Kalyanamit Varamahavihara, and Wat Rakhang. The cost is 30 baht per person, and there are boats running regularly. If you have enough time, I recommend trying this service.

The boat sailed steadily, passing by Pak Khlong Talat. The Phutthamonthon Bridge came into view, with a breathtaking panorama of towering skyscrapers behind it. The scene was truly magnificent.

The boat journey was short, and we soon arrived at the pier of Wat Kalyanamit Varamahavihara.

**Wat Kalyanamit Varamahavihara**, a royal temple, was established in 1825 by Chao Phraya Nikornbodin (Toh Kalyanamitra), who donated his house and purchased adjacent land for its construction. He then presented it to King Rama III, who bestowed the name Wat Kalyanamit. Subsequently, the King constructed and offered both the main vihara and the principal Buddha statue in the posture of Marawijai, known as Phra Phutthathrirattananayok or Luang Pho To. His intention was to create a large Buddha statue by the river, similar to the one at Wat Phanan Choeng.**

The belfry, located beside the royal viharn, houses the largest giant bell in Thailand. Adjacent to the belfry stands the ordination hall, which enshrines a Buddha statue in the Paalilaiyok (Paa Leelai) posture, commissioned by King Rama III. This makes it the only temple in Thailand with a Paalilaiyok Buddha as its principal image. Another remarkable feature is the mural paintings depicting the life of Buddha and the daily life of villagers during the reign of King Rama III.

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From the pier in front of the temple, walk towards the Phuttha Bridge along the flood barrier, and you will find the Kian An Keng Shrine, also known as the Guan Yin Shrine. This century-old Chinese shrine is a sacred place for the Chinese community in Kudi Chin. It is said to have been built by Hokkien Chinese who followed King Taksin the Great. Originally, there were two shrines next to each other, but later they became dilapidated and were demolished. The two shrines were then combined into one, which is the current shrine. Inside the shrine, the main deity is the Goddess of Mercy, Guan Yin.

The shrine houses valuable artifacts, including intricately carved wood and murals. The exterior features curved tiles in the traditional Chinese style. Photography is not permitted inside the shrine.

A short walk away is the Santa Cruz Church, also known as the Wat Kudi Chin, a Roman Catholic church on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. King Taksin the Great granted land to Portuguese refugees fleeing Ayutthaya to settle and build a church as the center of their community. The current church is the third building, constructed to replace the cramped and dilapidated original structure. Today, the church is over 100 years old. Its most striking feature is the Italian-style dome, resembling the dome of the Florence Cathedral or the dome of the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall. Unfortunately, the church was closed when I visited, so I was unable to see the interior.

After visiting the Christian church, walk back to the pier of Wat Kalyanamit to wait for the boat to the next temple, Wat Rakhang. When boarding the boat, please have your boat ticket ready, which you purchased at the pier of Wat Arun. You will need to show the ticket to the boatman before boarding.

The boat journey was short, and soon we arrived at the pier of Wat Rakhang.

The **Wat Ratchabophit Sathit Maha Simaram Ratchawaramahawihan**, also known as Wat Bang Wa Yai, is an ancient temple built during the Ayutthaya period. King Taksin the Great elevated its status to a royal temple and ordered the compilation of the Tripitaka there. During the reign of King Rama I, an ancient bell was unearthed within the temple grounds, leading to its current name, Wat Ratchabophit.

The Smiling Buddha of Wat Ratchaburana

The main hall of the temple houses the Smiling Buddha, a serene bronze statue in the meditation posture. Flanked by three disciples with hands clasped in reverence, the Buddha exudes a captivating beauty. King Rama V, upon visiting the temple to offer Kathin robes, remarked that every time he entered the hall, the Buddha seemed to smile at him. So impressed was the king that he bestowed upon the statue the Nophaphonratana Varabhorn and Maha Paramabhorn Chakri decorations. It is believed that those who pay respects to the Smiling Buddha will be met with popularity and fame throughout the year, just like the resounding chime of a temple bell.

From Wat Rakang, take a short walk to Wang Lang Pier. Along the way, you'll find numerous restaurants and shops to explore. I enjoyed a delicious meal near Wang Lang Pier myself. From the pier, take a ferry across the river to Maharaj Pier. Once you arrive at Maharaj Pier, walk a little to the right, and you'll find the ticket booth for the Chao Phraya Express Boat. Take the boat to Lhong 1919 for a fare of 50 baht.

Guidelines for Visiting Temples and Traveling

1. Visitors planning to follow my temple tour itinerary are advised to have a hearty breakfast and consider bringing snacks. Finding food options may be challenging after visiting the third temple onwards, which coincides with lunchtime. I personally had breakfast at 7:30 AM and only managed to have lunch around 3:00 PM.

2. Wear plenty of sun protection, such as hats or umbrellas, as the sun is very strong.

The most convenient way to travel is by boat, as it allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery along the way.

4. Chao Phraya Tourist Boat Pass

The Chao Phraya Tourist Boat offers two ticket options: a single trip ticket for 50 baht and a one-day pass for 180 baht. The one-day pass allows unlimited rides on the boat within a 24-hour period. However, the boat only stops at the piers shown in the image below.

From Tha Maharaj, I took a boat to enjoy the view. I was about to enjoy the atmosphere on both sides of the road when the boatman announced that we were about to arrive at Lhong 1919 pier. What a pity! If I could have sat for another one or two more piers, I would have fallen asleep on the boat. Haha.

Lhong 1919: A Heritage Destination in the Style of Ancient China on the Chao Phraya River.

This project aims to revive interest in Thai-Chinese arts and culture among younger generations. It has transformed the former Huai Chueng Lhong pier, a steamship pier on the Chao Phraya River that played a significant role since the reign of King Rama IV, into a vibrant cultural space. The pier served as a crucial link during the golden age of Thai-Chinese trade. However, with the advent of modern transportation, river trade declined, and the pier's importance diminished. Today, Lhong 1919 has been revitalized, preserving its rich cultural heritage while offering a unique destination for visitors.

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The 1919 Warehouse comprises the Ma Cho Po Temple, a sacred site for the Chinese community in Thailand for over 167 years (located on the 2nd floor of the building). Additionally, it features an event space, an outdoor activity area, and shops selling designer products and handicrafts by contemporary artists. Stepping off the pier, one is immediately struck by the sight of the old warehouses, the traditional Chinese wooden architecture, and the murals painted by Chinese artists. It truly evokes the era when the Huay Chuan Long pier was at its peak.

After a long and tiring day, it was time to check into my accommodation. For this trip, I had booked a stay at the Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok, which was conveniently located near Lhong 1919. I opted to travel by the complimentary shuttle boat service, which departs from Lhong 1919 Pier and arrives at Sathorn Pier. From Sathorn Pier, I took the hotel's shuttle boat to reach the Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok.

Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok: A Luxurious Riverside Retreat

The Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok is a 5-star hotel that has garnered numerous accolades from prestigious websites such as TripAdvisor, Hotel.com, and HolidayCheck. Situated along the scenic Chao Phraya River, the hotel boasts breathtaking views and unparalleled luxury.

From the boat, we can see three towering buildings standing side by side. The building closest to the Chao Phraya River is the hotel.

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The lobby is spacious and offers comfortable seating areas for guests to relax while waiting for check-in or check-out. During check-in, the staff will provide detailed information about the hotel's amenities, shuttle boat schedules, free Wi-Fi access, and present a welcome drink voucher that can be redeemed for a complimentary drink at any time during the stay. A security deposit of 2,000 baht will be collected upon check-in and refunded upon check-out.

The hotel's security system adheres to 5-star hotel standards, requiring a key card for elevator access. Due to the hotel's 36 floors, the elevators are divided into two sections for convenience: one for floors 1-16 and another for floors 1, 4, 6, and 17-36. This expedites access for guests on higher floors as the latter elevator bypasses floors 7-16. During my stay, I occupied a Grand Suite One-Bedroom River View room.

Upon opening the door to my room, I couldn't help but let out a soft "wow." The breathtaking view of the Chao Phraya River unfolded before me, unobstructed by any buildings or structures.

The living space is surprisingly spacious and well-organized, featuring a comfortable seating area with a large LCD TV. Impressively, it offers a wide selection of channels, including international options and local Thai channels like Channel One and Workpoint, which was a delight for a drama enthusiast like myself. (Typically, hotels of this size only provide international channels and major Thai channels like 3, 5, 7, and 9.)

The entrance to the room is a food preparation area, which is equipped with a full range of kitchen appliances, including a microwave, range hood, large refrigerator, electric kettle for coffee, dishes, and a sink. There is also a dining area.

Complimentary refreshments, including bottled water, tea, and coffee, are available outside the refrigerator. The mini-bar inside the refrigerator, including snacks and alcoholic beverages located in the drawer, incurs a charge.

Each room boasts a private balcony with a table and chairs, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the view. The available views depend on the room type booked. The hotel offers two options: city view and river view. A unique feature of the river view rooms is the opportunity to witness stunning sunsets directly from the balcony. Unfortunately, during my stay, the rain prevented me from experiencing this breathtaking spectacle.

Next to the living room, there is a sliding door. When opened, it leads to the bathroom and bedroom. To the left of the sliding door is a sink, and to the right is the bathroom. A hairdryer is provided at the sink.

The bathroom is divided into three sections: a bathtub, a toilet, and a shower stall with a wall-mounted showerhead. One side of the bathroom is a wall of glass, allowing you to enjoy the river view while showering. If you desire privacy, you can close the electric blinds. Unfortunately, the toilet does not have a bidet spray.

The bedroom area features a dedicated workspace, arguably the most stunning in the entire room, offering panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River. The king-size bed comes with four plush pillows, guaranteeing a comfortable night's sleep. Additionally, the room includes an LCD TV, a wardrobe, bathrobes, a safe, and an iron with ironing board.

In-room dining is also available.

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A view from the balcony of my room.

Overall, the room was excellent. It was spacious, clean, and well-equipped with amenities, making me feel right at home.

After a refreshing shower and a relaxing nap in the air-conditioned room, I enjoyed some welcome fruit while taking in the beautiful view. My fatigue vanished instantly, and my energy was restored. This evening, I plan to visit Asiatique The Riverfront, which is only one kilometer from the hotel.

There are three ways to travel to Asiatique The Riverfront from the hotel: walking, taking a car, or taking the Asiatique Shuttle Boat (which requires taking the hotel's boat to Sathorn Pier first, then waiting for the Asiatique free boat at Sathorn Pier).

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Asiatique The Riverfront is the largest riverside shopping center in Asia. The site was originally a port and warehouse complex owned by the Danish East Asiatic Company, established during the reign of King Rama V. The company built warehouses, sawmills, and installed large machinery. This port marked the beginning of international trade between the Kingdom of Thailand and European countries. It played a crucial role in Siam's ability to maintain its sovereignty and independence to this day.

The Asiatique project incorporates historical elements to educate visitors through archival records, highlighting the significance of various aspects and showcasing the architectural advancements of the era. It preserves the original architectural structures, including World War II bunkers, antique railway tracks, an old sawmill, a sawmill crane, warehouse arches, a historic pier, and a riverside crane.

Asiatique The Riverfront is a popular destination that combines shopping, dining, and picturesque photo opportunities. It also features the "Asiatique Sky," a giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city. After spending an hour soaking in the atmosphere, I returned to my room to relax.

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Before retiring for the night, I took one last opportunity to soak in the atmosphere of the Chao Phraya River from my balcony. The ambiance, both in the light of day and at dusk, evokes distinct emotions. I wish my friends could experience sleeping under the stars on earth as I do.

Yesterday, I missed the opportunity to see the sunset. So, I woke up early this morning in the hope of catching the sunrise. Thankfully, the sky was clear enough for me to see the morning light streaming through the balcony of my room.

Since I was already awake, I decided to capture the atmosphere of the breakfast room for you. Breakfast is served at the River Barge restaurant, which is located on the ground floor, the same floor as the lobby.

The River Barge restaurant offers breakfast from 6:00 AM to 10:30 AM and can accommodate approximately 150 guests at a time. However, during my stay, the restaurant was quite crowded, resulting in a significant queue of guests waiting for breakfast during the late morning hours.

The buffet line is an International Buffet.

The restaurant features an Egg Station and a Noodle Station where dishes are freshly prepared.

The food was incredibly diverse and delicious, offering a wide range of options from Thai, Japanese, Chinese, Indian, and Western cuisine, as well as fresh salads, cheeses, baked goods, and fruits. I thoroughly enjoyed the breakfast buffet, spending hours savoring the various dishes.

For those who prefer an outdoor dining experience, enjoying their meals while admiring the lush garden views, there are ample seating options available.

In the morning, I did not schedule any outings, as I wanted to maximize my enjoyment and comfort within the hotel. This gave me time to explore the various amenities that the hotel had prepared for its guests.

The tour begins at the ground-level garden, located next to the dining room. This lush green space is perfect for a leisurely stroll or some light exercise.

Situated at the intersection of the Lobby and River Barge restaurant, the Lobby Lounge offers a selection of beverages and bakery-style snacks.

The Welcome Drink Voucher you received during check-in can be redeemed at three locations: the Lobby Lounge (7:00 AM - 11:30 PM), the Pool Bar on the 6th floor (8:00 AM - 7:30 PM), and Silver Waves on the 36th floor (5:00 PM - 8:00 PM).

The most enjoyable place to have a drink is at Silver Waves, located on the 36th floor. It offers a breathtaking 180-degree view of the Chao Phraya River. If you time your visit right, you can even witness the stunning sunset. The Lobby Lounge is another great option, providing a view of the lush green garden. The Pool Bar, however, is somewhat secluded.

Welcome drinks are available in three categories: Soft drinks (Coke/Sprite), fruit juices (orange/pineapple/lemon), and punch, which is a mocktail made with guava and pineapple juice.

The Fitness Center is located on the 4th floor. In addition to a variety of fitness equipment, the Fitness Center also offers separate saunas for men and women.

The swimming pool is located on the 6th floor and is a 35-meter infinity pool that stretches out to the Chao Phraya River. It also features an outdoor jacuzzi located next to the main pool, as well as a children's pool. Additionally, there are sun loungers available for guests to relax on.

The Pool Bar is located in the furthest corner of the swimming pool, which I believe is a somewhat secluded spot.

After exploring until we were drenched in sweat, we decided to head back up to shower and relax while we waited for our breakfast to settle. For lunch, I plan to enjoy the services of the Silver Waves restaurant.

Dim Sum Buffet is available from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM at Silver Waves Restaurant on the 36th floor.

The Silver Waves restaurant is divided into two sections. The first section is a seating area where guests can enjoy drinks from the restaurant's menu or welcome drinks received upon check-in with a voucher.

The second area is designated for dining guests.

Silver Waves: A Modern Chinese Dining Experience with Breathtaking Views

Silver Waves is a renowned Chinese restaurant boasting a modern design inspired by the elegant hues of Chinese porcelain. The serene and sophisticated ambiance is further enhanced by high ceilings and expansive glass walls offering panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River.

Silver Waves has garnered numerous accolades, including TripAdvisor's "Certificate of Excellence" and recognition as one of the "10 Best Chinese Restaurants in Bangkok with Stunning River Views" by 10best.com. The restaurant also received the prestigious "Bangkok Best Restaurant Award 2014" for its exceptional Chinese cuisine and the "Thailand Tatler Best Restaurant Award 2015" for its outstanding food and service.

The food may cost hundreds, but the view is truly worth millions.

The dim sum menu here offers over 50 varieties, including soups, fried, baked, and steamed dishes, as well as noodles or fried rice. To finish the meal, there are also desserts available.

Let's start with the soup category. This dish is the Yunnan ham and wonton soup.

Red Shark Fin and Crab Meat Soup

In addition, there are fish maw and preserved egg soup, corn and crab meat soup, and Sichuan soup.

Next, we have the fried and baked category, starting with deep-fried tofu pockets stuffed with shrimp.

Deep-fried taro stuffed with seafood

Red pork pie

Radish cake

Egg tart

The menu also features spring rolls with roasted pork and duck, Guilin spring rolls, salmon spring rolls, fried shrimp dumplings, fried crab claws, and fried sticky rice with pork and shrimp fillings.

Vegetable Selection

The meal begins with a selection of vegetables, including broccoli drizzled with oyster sauce (seasoned dried scallops) and stir-fried mixed vegetables with garlic.

Special Dish Start with Sichuan Shrimp.

Honey-roasted pork

Crispy roasted duck, another menu is chicken stir-fried with Peking sauce.

Noodle Rolls

The Noodle Rolls category begins with the Char Siu Noodle Rolls.

Scallop rice noodle rolls, as well as chicken, duck, shrimp, and mushroom rice noodle rolls.

One type starts with shrimp and crab roe dumplings.

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Steamed Grouper Stuffed with Shrimp in Tausi Sauce

Steamed pork ribs with XO sauce

Steamed shrimp with seafood sauce.

Black pepper chicken feet

Steamed crab with curry powder sauce.

The menu also features steamed fish with black pepper sauce, shrimp dumplings, steamed crab and crab stick, crab shumai, tom yum shrimp shumai, green curry shrimp shumai, seaweed wrapped crab stick stuffed with shrimp in red sauce, mushroom stuffed with shrimp in red sauce, seafood and salted egg hakaw, and shrimp and scallop hakaw.

Types of Salted Buns

Starting with fresh milk salted buns.

Steamed buns with red pork filling, steamed buns with cream filling, and Shanghai steamed buns.

And I would recommend the Mandarin orange bun. You can taste the mandarin orange, and the filling is slightly sour, which is very refreshing.

Rice and Noodle Dishes

This menu item is chicken fried rice with salted fish.

This includes Yangzhou fried rice, stir-fried rice noodles with pork gravy, dry-fried e-mee with sliced ham and fish powder.

End the meal with cantaloupe sago.

In addition, there are hot ginkgo nuts, cold ginkgo nuts, cold tofu pudding with fruit salad, and mixed fruits.

The chef, Virach, has been involved in the Chinese food industry for over 25 years. He is constantly developing and adapting the flavors of the dishes to suit the tastes of his customers. The chef came out to greet me and share his knowledge of Chinese cuisine.

The overall taste of each menu is delicious. The chef has selected high-quality ingredients, showing attention to the production process. The appearance of each menu looks delicious. In addition to delicious food, the surrounding scenery of the restaurant is also considered a highlight that makes the food even more delicious. It is suitable for bringing lovers, family and friends to find happiness from eating together. For those who are dim sum lovers, I think Dim Sum Buffet at Silver Waves Restaurant is another good choice. It is recommended to call to reserve a table in advance to get a good seat by the large glass window. At 02-3078888 ext. 1948-1949. The service charge per person is 820 baht net for adults and 410 baht net for children aged 6-11 years. This price does not include drinks. Drinks are available in Refill style, Chinese tea and chrysanthemum tea, available in both hot and cold. The service charge is 95 baht per person.

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After a satisfying meal, it's time to bid farewell to the bustling city and return to the realm of reality. At the hotel's pier, a small tent awaits guests, providing a comfortable space to relax while waiting for the shuttle boat. The boat operates on a 15-30 minute schedule, depending on the time of day. (During check-in, the lobby staff will provide a boat schedule for your reference.)

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Staying at the Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok feels like being at home. The amenities are incredibly comprehensive, and the location is excellent, right on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Each room offers stunning views, and getting to the hotel is convenient. You can travel by car or by BTS Skytrain (get off at Saphan Taksin station and then take the hotel's shuttle boat). Plus, it's close to many of Bangkok's major tourist attractions and shopping areas.

A Two-Day, One-Night Journey of Discovery in Bangkok

This two-day, one-night trip was a truly enriching experience, opening my eyes to the vastness and beauty of Bangkok. It was a journey that satisfied my every need:

• Culinary Delights: The food was incredible, leaving me so full I could barely walk.
• Physical and Mental Relaxation: The luxurious accommodations and stunning views provided the perfect escape for both body and mind.
• Spiritual Fulfillment: Visiting the various temples and engaging in acts of devotion brought immense peace and joy.

Each temple I encountered was a treasure trove of cultural and historical significance, showcasing unique architectural styles and captivating stories. It became clear why Bangkok is such a popular destination for tourists from all corners of the globe.

With so much left to explore, I know I must return to Bangkok soon. My two-day, one-night adventure left me yearning for more. If you seek a similar experience filled with joy and discovery, follow my itinerary and discover the hidden gems that await you in this vibrant city. You'll realize, as I did, that happiness truly surrounds us.

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