i am so sorry that i started all of this negetive talk....i have been to the oriental many times, never stayed there however, but have entered without trouble, but have seen others stoppped---they were well dressed and some less well dressed.....i think it depends on the day...one time the queen was coming that nite and there were lots of people in and out and they were more restricting, but we had no problem...<BR><BR>its just that the atmosphere is different penn is rather relaxed but upscale; while the oriental is a bit uptight and less relaxed....ITS A MATTER OF STYLE...<BR><BR>as someone pointed out this is an info board and everyone is entitled to an opinion... i will again be at lord jim's for the seafood buffet in november as i travel accross the river from my room at the penn......

Kristina is obviously extremely well traveled (read her reports on her website) and John G is a possible faker. Kristina gets my vote in this battle. Even if John G isn't fake, she's traveled MUCH MUCH more than him and still gets my vote. Pipe down, John G.

You know, I never wanted a "battle" on this either; I only stated my opinion based on my personal experience. I probably should have ignored the childish remarks of others, but I didn't. Oh well. At least I know I was never rude.

I HAVE THE SAME EXPERIENCE OF KRISTINA OF BEING REJECTED TO ENTER ORIENTAL BECAUSE WE ARE WEARING SHORTS. BANGKOK IS SO HOT AND HUMID THAT I THINK SHORTS IS A PROPER ATTIRE.I JUST COME BACK FROM PENINSULA YESTERDAY AND HIGHLY RECOMMAND THIS HOTEL. I ENJOY THE FERRY RIDE TO THE OPPOSITE OF THE RIVER VERY MUCH.

Veronica<BR>maybe it wasn't the shorts, it could have been for shouting!!

I agree with Kristina. We were also stopped from going in to the Oriental and we were definately not scruffy. Loved stayed at the Penn. The satay restaurant on the river was awesome.

Nobody has mentioned the Regent, which the original poster asked about. The Regent is not along the river, but rather in a busy shopping-and-business area. However, it is an extremely gracious facility, older than the Pen and newer than the Oriental, with large, luxuriously fitted rooms overlooking two courtyards. Even if you choose to not stay there, check out the Sunday brunch, it's amazing!<BR>

flip a three headed coin...