Finally, it is time for me to share this amazing property with you all. This is the best hotel that I have ever stayed in Bangkok and I can’t wait to share how amazing it is. While 400ish SGD is a lot to spend on a hotel in Bangkok, even a luxury one, I believe that this is worth a splurge and to review this renowned property. Oh well, the things I do for Seeing The World In Steps! The Waldorf Astoria is a new addition to the Hilton portfolio in Bangkok and overtook Conrad as the best hotel in town. If the decor here looks rather familiar to you, it is because it is the design of Andre Fu, the same architect behind Andaz Singapore and Fullerton Bay hotel. This is a fairly new hotel and only opened in Aug 2018. The Waldorf Astoria sits on prime estate and is in the mixed Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard development. You are within walking distance to the CentralWorld shopping centre, the Big C hypermarket and just next to Erawan Shrine. This is as good as it gets for both tourists and business travellers. The proximity to the BTS station makes it even better, just in case you would like to escape the chaotic Bangkok traffic.
Booking Process & Pre Arrival
I book a Hilton Impresario rate for this stay and this will gets you the best deal for WA Bangkok. They are currently a 3rd-night free promotion. I will recommend that you either simply do a 1-night stay or a 3-night stay to get the best deal. For my 1 night stay, the base level deluxe room cost around 400 SGD including taxes. At least, I will be earning 40X Hilton points for this booking. For comparative purposes, that is more than triple the price of Conrad. The Impresario rate is pegged to the flexible rate and I will enjoy extra benefits on top of my Diamond status such as a 100 USD credit, upgrade upon booking, breakfast, double Hilton points, early check-in and late checkout. I was upgraded a tier to the Deluxe City View room shortly after booking and to a Deluxe Suite 3 days before my stay. Pre-arrival liaising was great, I was asked about my arrival time and I also got my reservation for the F&B outlets confirmed. Waldorf Astoria Bangkok comes with 171 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites spread across 8 categories.
| Rooms | Bathtub | Room Size | No.of Rooms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deluxe | Yes | 50 Sqm | 75 |
| Deluxe City View | Yes | 50 Sqm | 27 |
| Deluxe Park View | Yes | 50 Sqm | 34 |
| Deluxe Suite | Yes (Round Tub) | 75 Sqm | 18 |
| Corner Suite | Yes | 90 Sqm | 4 |
| One Bedroom Astoria Suite | Yes | 140 Sqm | 10 |
| Two Bedroom Waldorf Suite | Yes | 200 Sqm | 2 |
| Two Bedroom Royal Suite | Yes | 355 Sqm | 1 |
Checking In
I took a taxi from Vie Hotel, a hell hole that I would like to get out from as soon as possible which cost around 80 baht and took around 20 mins. While Bolt and Grab might be cheaper there is usually a super long wait for them and sometimes it is faster to get a taxi that is in the lobby or right on the street. A bell boy came over to help me with my bags immediately as I pull up to the lobby. As with many luxurious hotels located in a mixed-use building, the lower lobby is just a reception area and comes with plenty of seatings. The decor was lovely and I love the high ceilings. I love how bright the place is. I love how polished the staff is, he gave me an orientation of the place while ushering me to the lobby on the 15th floor.
The lobby might just be the most gorgeous place in the hotel. High ceilings, bright, airy and an awesome view of the surrounding area, including the Royal Bangkok Sports Club. It kinda gave me a central park vibe with that patch of greenery in the middle of the bustling city. The bright and light tones together with the tons of natural light from those floor-to-ceiling windows are such a lovely sight. It gives off a posh and luxurious vibe without being over the top. I was ushered and handed over to the staff at the reception who already had my details pulled up.
Check-in is a sit-down affair and a welcome drink was immediately offered. The butterfly pea flower tea with lemongrass was great and refreshing in Bangkok’s stiffing heat. Check-in was smooth and fast, I was also informed of all the information regarding my stay and they reconfirmed my dining reservations.
I was presented with two welcome letters, one for being a Diamond member and another one for booking an Impresario rate. Diamond members enjoyed additional benefits here such as a 1000 THB Spa Credit (per room per stay) and 500 THB dining credit (per person per stay). Getting up to 1000 THB dining credits is awesome. You do need to register 2 guests. The Impresario credit is worth 3100 THB at the time of my stay.
Sadly my room is not ready at this time and late check-out till 1pm was offered. I was given the option of a further late check out if required by switching to a deluxe room on the day of departure. I love how the WA set up the elevators here. There is one set that takes you between the lower lobby and the upper lobby. There is another set of elevators for the rooms and these goes to the lower lobby as well. As such, you do not have to switch lifts which can be a hassle in such mixed development buildings. My room was ready around 12pm and I was ushered to my room.
Deluxe Suite
I was assigned a suite on the 11th floor, suite 1107 to be exact. All of the deluxe suites are located at the corner at a curved portion of the building. You should opt for a higher floor if possible as that gives you a better view. The double door entrance allows the suite to be linked together with 1106 on the side into a two-bedroom suite if required.
Upon entering the suite have an L-shape entrance way and immediately on the entranceway you can find the minbar which is located in a classy chest. All sorts of glassware are provided as you would expect in a five-star hotel, from coffee cups, espresso cups, wine glasses and whiskey glasses. There is a Nespresso coffee machine with six capsules provided and some packaged tea. The minibar is also fully stocked with miniatures bottles of liquors such as gin, vodka and whisky. There are some snacks too, well of course with luxury hotel prices to match. Complimentary bottles of mineral water are provided and this is replenished during daily housekeeping as well as during daily turndown service.
While being categorised as a full suite, the layout is more fitting as a junior suite given how there isn’t a proper segregated living space and a half bath. I love the floor to ceilings windows as well as the curvature of the suite that makes it looks especially sleek. The decor is elegant and excludes a luxury premium vibe. There is a seating area located to the left of the suite and a gorgeous circular couch that wraps around the wall together with an armchair. The set-up is classy. This can sit 3 to 4 people comfortably.
The high ceilings in this 75 sqm suite make it look even bigger than it is. The ceiling-to-floor window panels give you a view of the surrounding area. I do have to say that the view here is disappointing. It might just be the worst view that I had in Bangkok out of all of my hotel stays. You don’t get much since it faces the nearby buildings. I did appreciate that the blinds and sheers are electronically controlled. The television is on a movable stand in the middle of the suite. It is quite handy since you can pivot it towards the seating area or the bed. The TV is high quality and comes with a good number of cable TV channels. You can connect your laptop easily to the television via HDMI where ports are accessible via connections installed by the working desk.
The huge wow factor in the suite has to be the super king-size bed right in the middle. The bed was posh and comfortable. It is supplemented with four awesome pillows. They are rather mush. Although, a pillow menu is on hand and you can request additional pillow options of your liking. I got one of the body pillows and a contour one. The mattress was top notch and I fell into a deep slumber.
This is one of the best beds I had in a hotel. Bedside tables are located on either side of the bed with universal and USB outlets designed within reach as well as the switches for the lights. There is also a tablet on one side of the bed that acts as the controller for the room. You can adjust your preference for the lighting, air conditioning as well as drapes and sheers here.
At the corner of the suite, you can find a circular table with two chairs. This acts as the working desk and the dining table in the room. The area is designed with all sorts of ports and power sockets for accessibility. Premium wifi is available for Diamond members and the speed is fast.
The suites come with a vanity area as well as a walk-in wardrobe. I am sure the ladies will appreciate the sit-down vanity area. This part of the suite could do with some additional lighting. The area is spacious and comes with all sorts of amenities that you might need from an ironing kit, plenty of hangers, bathrobes, a safe and bath slippers. Those Boca Terry microfiber bathrobes are super comfy. They were a great amenity to lounge in and fantastic for the pool. The spacious area should fit any suitcase that you might have.
The bathroom is another favourite area of mine. It is super spacious and nicely designed. I love the layout. The bathroom comes with a double sink and the toilet in a separate room which is equipped with a smart TOTO bidet toilet. All sorts of amenities are provided here from dental kits to mouthwash. I appreciate that there is a cosmetic mirror installed. Toiletries are from Salvatore Ferragamo’s Tuscan Soul line, one of my favourite. I love the citrus scent of them. This is the standard brand in Waldorf Astoria. They are provided in pump bottles here though.
The bathroom comes with a view too and the blinds are electronically controlled. The bathroom comes with both a separate standing shower and a tub. This tub is magical. I don’t think you need me to describe how spacious this bathtub is. The circular tub is special for this room type. I had such a great and relaxing soak and enjoyed some coconuts while catching up on my TV series.
The high ceiling in the standing shower makes the rainforest shower even more magical. It is so lovely as it does feel like rain is cascading down on you. The water pressure and temperature control are excellent here. In addition to that, you have a handheld shower head as well. The shower fits all my criteria. I do have to point out that the open concept does means that water tends to get all around the area.
Later on, during the day the staff brought over some welcome amenities consisting of some coconuts and some sweets. Look how cute these are! I enjoyed them. Turndown service is offered in the evening but quite a half-ass job. They didn’t even clear the iron after use.
Fitness Centre
The gym is open 24 hours and is located on the 16th floor. This is the highest floor of the hotel and here you can find the spa and the pool too. The gym is at the far end of the floor. It is on the smaller side but well equipped with various new and high-quality gym equipment. It feels like a fancy condo gym.
You can find weights, lifts and bikes. All sorts of gym equipment that you might need. Bottled water and towels are provided. You can also find some apples. The place is very comfortable and welcoming, with a good view of the surrounding area. I am not an expert in this field.
Pool
This is one of my favourite places in the hotel. The pool is located on the highest floor of the hotel on level 16. The place is so gorgeous. It comes with an amazing view of the entire area including the Royal Thai Sports Club. I love the patch of greenery in the middle of the city. Check out how lovely the view is especially when the train is passing by. It is especially nice during sunsets.
Service is excellent by the pool. The staff are readily on hand to bring over water and some fruit snack as well as towels. They are always prompt in clearing the tables as well as the sunbeds. There are a couple of sunbeds and cabanas by the pool. It does get taken up sometimes given that the pool is on the smaller side here. The pool is great for relaxing but doesn’t get too much sun given that it is partially sheltered. You have a wading pool and a deeper one that is better for doing laps. My favourite spot is those semi-immersed jacuzzis where you can lie down halfway. I’m glad that it is a heated pool if not it will be too chilly to enjoy. It is quite windy here at times.
You can order food and drinks by the pool and there is also a poolside bar. The staff will bring over some fruit skewers from time to come.
You can check out the menu here.
Spa
The Spa is located on the 16th floor, the same location as the fitness centre and the pool. Upon exiting the elevators, the hosts immediately welcomed me and gave me a tour of the place. It looks so classy and gorgeous. I love the decor and finishes of the warm wood. You can find the prices for the Spa here. It is on the higher side for Bangkok standards. Do note that Diamond Elite members enjoy a 1000 THB credit off any treatments. The cheapest massage treatment would cost you around 66 SGD (1700 THB).
In-house guests can use the facility even without having a treatment. You can find a sauna and steam bath in the bathroom as well as showering facilities. All sorts of amenities and toiletries are provided.
Bull & Bear Restaurant
The Bull & Bear is the signature steakhouse restaurant of the hotel. They specialised in grilled meats and seafood. The restaurant is located on level 55. The place is designed like a fancy New York steakhouse with opulent interiors and jaw-dropping views of the city. The view is perfect both during lunch and dinner. To get to the restaurant, you have to take the express lifts from the lobby. I came here for lunch given that I had some credits. Do note that you cannot apply your credits on the set lunch and the Hilton dining discount is not stackable.
You can check out both the set lunch and ala carte menu here. Service started with some freshly baked and some whipped butter. The interaction was weird as the staff simply place the bread on my table without giving an introduction. That doesn’t seem very polished.
I got the Lobster Bisque (600 THB) to start which was served tableside. I love the presentation and it is classy that they pour the soup in front of you. The bisque was full of flavour and pack a punch. It is piping hot. I did feel that the portion is on the smaller side.
For my main, I opted for the Roasted Benja Chicken (920 THB). I know that I should have gone for one of the steaks given that I am at a steakhouse but I would like to avoid taking beef since I am going to the temple after. The chicken was a good portion. It is kind of flattened and the skin was super crispy. I love the creamy peppercorn sauce that comes with it. The meat is well seasoned and tender and the skin is crackling. Even the breast meat is juicy. I enjoyed my meal.
The Champagne Bar
I wanted to visit The Loft but during my stay, it is booked for a private event. for that night, The Champagne Bar is open instead. It is located on the top floor and comes with an amazing view. This is the place to be in the evening as the city lights up. It is an extremely intimate affair here and feels more like a private club lounge instead. It also had a speakeasy feel as the entrance was rather hidden. Check out the entryway.
The bar is posh and so gorgeous. The view from the bar is gorgeous. You should come here for some pre-dinner cocktails as I did. Check out the drinks menu and food menu here. Prices are on the higher side, at least for Bangkok standards but relatively affordable for other parts of the world. Cocktails cost around 400-500 THB. You do pay slightly more for the ambience. I had the Bronx (450 THB) and it was delicious. I also got some Steak Fries (320 THB) to go with it. I will stick to the drinks here.
Front Room Restaurant
The Front Room is the hotel local restaurant, they serve authentic home-style Thai cuisine. The restaurant is located in the lower lobby and I love the vibes of the place. It is open for lunch and dinner. The tall ceilings and the natural light make it such a lovely place to dine in. It has such a classy look without being overly opulent. I particularly love the lighting installation and glass lantern, the soft touches of green go so well with the place. The service is excellent here. I got lunch here before checking out. I was immediately shown in and welcomed by name.
Check out the menu of the restaurant here. I do have to say that the prices are very fair for a luxury hotel, even though, it is definitely on the higher side for Thai food. The comfortable ambience and service more than makeup for it. Service started with an amuse bouche. It was a chives cracker and that is an innovative take on the chives pancake. It was so thin and crispy. I love it. It is accompanied by some sweet sauce and a hint of chilli.
Then I got the Goong Phae Phrik Gaeng Gub Ajard (280 THB) to start the meals upon recommendations by the staff. They were curried prawns cooked with crispy batter. It was cooked with the shells left on which you can munch on. I love the lime parsley sauce which goes so well and cut away the greasiness. The shallots and peanuts make the whole dish so delicious. Great starter.
After a heavy breakfast earlier, I just wanted to get something light after all the feasting and went for the Pla Gao Nueng Phrik Larb Kua (540 THB). Look at this, the presentation is like a piece of art. The thick slices of grouper were perfectly steamed and served with a side of baby bak choi on the side. I love the topping of shallots and fried garlic on top that makes it so fragrant.
To end the meal, I had the Maphrao Cheesecake (280 THB), the cheesecake was served in the coconut itself, accompanied by coconut jelly and white chocolate mousse. It is so delightful. I am so stuffed at this point but couldn’t give it a miss. You got to order this! At the end of the meal, the staff brought over some petit fours which are some grilled bananas, it was pretty good. This is such a fantastic meal and there are plenty of other choices at the restaurant that I would love to be back to try. This is my most enjoyable meal in WA. I would recommend everyone to dine here rather than at the steakhouse.
Breakfast at The Brasserie
Breakfast is currently served from 6.30 am to 11.00 am on weekdays and till 11.30am on weekends. This is super awesome timing, especially for a city hotel. I really appreciate them extending it on weekends. It could be a brunch and you will see so why later. Breakfast is in buffet style but they also have a small ala carte menu to supplement it. The Brasserie is located on the 15th floor, just off the main lobby. If it is not included in your rate or loyalty membership, breakfast cost 950 THB on the weekdays and 1100 THB on the weekends. I would recommend it even if you are not staying at the hotel.
The staff are so polite and I was warmly welcomed in. The restaurant is spacious and there are plenty of tables that kind of snake around the corner. I love the decor of the place. It is bright, polished and excludes an aura of luxury while not being over the top. I love the white marble finishes of the place. Here are some pictures of the place.
I would recommend you to come early and get one of the good tables. Those that come with a view of the Royal Thai Sports Clubs are all the way to the end. Having breakfast with this view is a great way to start the day.
Service is super attentive here and there is usually no trouble in flagging someone down. Refills were also prompt and the staff are great with recommendations. Everyone has no issue communicating in English as expected at an international hotel. The drinks orders were taken and I started myself with a glass of the cold-pressed watermelon juice as well as an illy double espresso. The drinks menu here consists of quality offerings from various cold-pressed juices, smoothies, Mariage Frères teas and illy coffees. I love their cold-pressed juices! Here are some of the other drinks I tried.
You can check out the ala carte menu that consists of their speciality omelette and eggs as well as the drinks.
They do an awesome Thai Omelette and this is one of the must-order when you are here.
You also have to try their chilli eggs and the truffle eggs. The truffle cream is wow! It goes so well with the eggs. The eggs are poached perfectly and so delicious. I can’t stop eating them. The chilli egg is a fantastic creation, the pork floss is a nice addition to it. Yum.
The buffet line has everything that you might think of for breakfast and it is worth noting that everything was high quality and fresh. Chefs are on hand and there are plenty of items that are made to order. You would not be bored with breakfast even on a long stay. There are too many items for me to type out and I will just let the pictures do the rest of the talking. There are Asian selections, western selections, cold cuts, a cheese station, a pastry corner and a salad station. They even had a whole Jamon Iberico ham on offer.
The pastries could beat any fancy cafe and bakery. I had a cruffle with soft serve ice cream at the end of the meal. Wow!
I am also very impressed with the fruit selection. There are both whole fruits and cut fruits and a chef is on hand to prepare them on the spot. Look at this! They also had fresh mangoes and lychees. I love them so much. This is the first time I saw freshly cut mangoes on offer in a Bangkok hotel.
I would have loved it if they reserved the window tables for Diamond members. That would be a nice touch. The service is top-notch here, from the restaurant manager Kwang to the chef. It is the simple and little touches that make you feel like you are so well taken care of. This is what separates a true luxury hotel from the good one. With the top-level luxury in-depth service, you never have to worry about anything. From the clearing of coffee cups to giving refills and offering another glass of juice. The initiative to pre-emptively warm up your pastries and bring them to your table without asking where you are seated. It shows how personalised they are. This breakfast is close to perfect for me and hands down the best breakfast I had around the world. I would give it a 90/100. To nitpick, I wish that they had some prosecco or champagne on offer.
Conclusion
Every member of the staff that I interacted with at the hotel was well-mannered and polished. I am always addressed by name throughout the hotel. You are well treated all over the property. My first stay at a Waldorf property certainly does not disappoint. It is a step above the Conrad. This is a really beautiful hotel, from the restaurants to the rooms. It might be a splurge, but if you can swing it, it will definitely not disappoint you. There’s nothing much I can find fault about this place. I felt a hint of sadness when checking out of this hotel. The breakfast is a treat and out of the two I am so conflicted between this and the Conrad for my future stays in Bangkok. While the WA is a step above, the double in cost as well as the lack of an executive lounge makes me hard to choose between the two of them.
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