The Marriott pool is almost circular in shape, huge, and kind of enclosed, with hundreds of lounge chairs around it.

The Peninsula pool is less crowded, more stylish (perhaps less practical), long and thin, rectangular. One end of it looks right out onto the river, a really wonderful contrast.

For me, there's no comparison between the two pools. The Peninsula is a five-star property. Architecturally every detail, including the pool, is incredibly elegant and aesthetically stimulating. The little details, like the fluffiness of the towels, the quality of the chaise lounges, of the Peninsula set it apart from the pack. It is in a class by itself.

There were no kids splashing around at the Peninsula's pool. In contrast, the Marriott's pool (and hot tub) was ripe with kids when we stayed there (over New Year's).

If you have children, definitely opt for the Marriott. If you are looking for a large, tropical Club Med-feeling, perhaps more festive experience, choose the Marriott. If you are looking for something quieter, with more space between the lounge chairs, in a more refined setting, choose the Peninsula.

Also, I'm 38 and I didn't remember having any trouble getting in and out of the pool at the Peninsula.

Stayed at the Marriott Spa for 5 nights in April and thought the pool was fantastic (although the water gets warm when it is 40 degrees during the day!). We really looked forward to returning to the Marriott around 4 pm each day (after doing the whole frantic BKK thing all day!) for a couple of drinks for happy hour.

Can't comment on the Peninsula, but the Marriott is a real oasis, and at a pretty affordable price.

Darcie

alibi---have you been drinking, the marriott pool is a rectangle..

Hi Bob,

Yes, you are correct that the pool at the Marriott is a rectangle in reality, but in my mind it has become more circular-shaped. It's amazing how memory can take a fact and begin to shape it.

I have just yesterday written a thank you to the people who recommended the Four Seasons.
We are going back in January just to stay there.
They have little Cabana houses elevated about 5 feet from the pool level, and we were fortunate enough to get one of these.
We had a huge grassy level, pond, and our own patio.
The pool is large, and the staff are wonderful.
One of the best hotel experiences of our lives.
Each day the flowers and fruits in our room were refreshed.
We even had a bowl of flowers on our garden table.
It totally lacked the snobbery of the Oriental, but we were treated like royalty.
Wherever you stay you will enjoy yourself