Thinking about going back to Bangkok but still nervous about staying in the heart of the city? We were there recently and found 68-room boutique spot Riva Surya a great alternative to Silom and Sukhumvit.
The hotel’s just around the corner from Khao San Road (as well as the Grand Palace and Wat Phao), but is worlds apart in the style stakes (Phra Arthit has a well-established rep for hip dining concepts and cool cafés). Snag a Premium Riva room and you get amazing views of the Chao Praya River from your own balcony—though truth be told it looks even better over a beer by the poolside.
On-site restaurant Babble and Rum serves up a mix of Mediterranean and Thai food (quite literally in the case of the green curry chicken pizza) as well as signature cocktails include the candy- flavored Jelly Riva (vodka, melon syrup, lime juice on top of jelly). And it’s all just a short walk from the nearest ferry pier (also called Phra Arthit) meaning you don’t have to worry about traffic to get across town. Rooms start from THB3860 ($150) including taxes. Find out more at www.snhcollection.com/rivasurya.
