Lording over the Chao Phraya in postmillennial splendor, this flagship Hilton—which, like the Peninsula, is reached via hotel-operated ferry service from the downtown riverbank at the end of the Skytrain—offers some of the most cutting-edge room design and hotel facilities in the city, competing successfully with Bangkok's longstanding hotel giants at considerably lower prices. The infinity pool hangs like a waterfall off the edge of the cleverly designed deck, an urban beach overlooking the entire city skyline. Towering above everything else, the 32nd-floor open-air roof deck, executive lounge, and chilled-out bar all have spectacular panoramas. Rooms (aside from suites) are on the small side, but their setups compensate well enough for that, and bathrooms seem 22nd century. Every single room in the hotel has river and city views. Pros: snazzy amenities; cool pool area; reasonable prices. Cons: rooms somewhat small; across the river from downtown pursuits.
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