“Siam,” the historic name of modern-day Thailand, evokes a sense of grandeur, tradition, and cultural vibrancy. Known for its remarkable temples, rich traditions, and tantalizing cuisine, Siam was a thriving kingdom at the crossroads of Asian cultures. Its heritage absorbed influences from India, China, and beyond, creating a unique identity that resonates today. Remarkably, Siam managed to avoid European colonization, preserving its sovereignty through diplomacy and vibrant trade.
Central to Siam’s prosperity was the Chao Phraya River and its fertile floodplains, the heart of the kingdom. Rice cultivation flourished here, symbolizing the deep connection between the land and its people. At the center of Siam lies Bangkok, the bustling capital, where the Chao Phraya River winds through the city, continuing its role as the lifeblood of the region. Today, the legacy of this rich history thrives in The Siam, where traditional heritage and modern luxury coexist, celebrating Thailand’s legacy and hospitality.
Rising from the Riverbanks of the Chao Phraya
In the early 1970s, Kamol Sukosol, a visionary entrepreneur, acquired three acres of prime riverfront property along the historic Chao Phraya River, which would later become home to The Siam. Initially seeking land to moor his boats, Kamol’s vision expanded, and he instructed his daughter, Khun Kamala, to build a hotel in Pattaya, marking the family’s entry into the hospitality industry. Over the decades, the Sukosol name became synonymous with excellence, establishing a collection of renowned hotels and positioning the family as a respected force in Thailand’s international trading and hospitality sectors.
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Entertainment and creativity have always been at the heart of the Sukosol family’s endeavors. Kamol founded Thailand’s first record company, complete with a state-of-the-art recording studio and vinyl manufacturing plant. His passion for music was passed down through generations. Khun Kamala, a beloved jazz singer, and her siblings, each sharing a love for music, further solidified the family’s connection to the arts.
Kamol’s youngest son, Krissada Sukosol Clapp, affectionately known as Noi, is an acclaimed Thai pop artist, actor, and songwriter, as well as the creative director of The Siam. Following Kamol’s passing in 1980, the riverfront property was leased to a restaurant for 25 years. When the lease expired, Noi envisioned transforming this cherished land into a boutique luxury hotel, a vision enthusiastically embraced by the family. Thus, The Siam was born, elegantly reflecting the Sukosol legacy and the timeless allure of the Chao Phraya River.
Khun Kamala, the heart and soul of The Siam, also inspired the character “Sri Tala,” the iconic resort owner from season three of the acclaimed series The White Lotus.
Arriving at The Siam
Arriving at The Siam’s private dock aboard its vintage riverboat is an unforgettable experience. By day, the hotel’s lush gardens and tranquil pool offer a peaceful retreat, while its teak house and well-decked pier glow at dusk, welcoming guests with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Rather than navigating Bangkok’s busy tuk-tuks and traffic, guests can explore the city by water. The Siam’s boat service provides access to key landmarks such as Khao San Road, the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Chinatown, and ICON Siam.
The Siam offers a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere where guests are treated with warmth and attentiveness from the moment they arrive.
As the only luxury resort located in Bangkok’s rarely explored palace and historical district, The Siam provides a unique opportunity to discover a hidden side of one of the world’s greatest cities. After a day of sightseeing, returning to the hotel’s pier feels like coming home. When we inquired about skipping the evening cruise, the staff’s response was simple and warm: “Of course, you’re at home, sir.”
Signature Spaces & Architecture: Suites & Villas
The Siam’s design, brought to life by the Sukosol family and American designer Bill Bensley, features Art Deco and Beaux-Arts influences. The architecture emphasizes simplicity, with space, light, and water playing key roles. Bold glass and metalwork, combined with noble materials and tranquil water features, define the hotel’s clean aesthetic. Lead architect Khun Khemvadee Paopanlerd and landscape designer Khun Jirachai Rengthong further refined the design, incorporating lush gardens that integrate with the modern structure.
During our stay, we experienced a Siam Suite, a spacious 80 sqm room with unique décor. Adorned with framed images of Buddha, the suite exuded serenity with a distinct Thai soul. The king-size bed provided the perfect comfort, making it an ideal retreat.
The Siam offers a variety of other rooms and villas, each thoughtfully designed to cater to different preferences. Garden View Suites overlook the lush gardens, while River View Suites offer breathtaking views of the Chao Phraya River. For those seeking an exclusive experience, the Courtyard and Riverside Pool Villas, at 130 sqm, provide private gardens and pools, offering both privacy and luxury. Every suite and villa at The Siam is crafted to ensure comfort, sophistication, and an immersive cultural experience.
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Wellness and Experience
The Siam offers a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere where guests are treated with warmth and attentiveness from the moment they arrive. The hotel encourages slow travel, inviting guests to embrace the tranquillity and enjoy the variety of experiences it offers, from serene mornings with birdsong in the greenhouse to sunsets casting warm hues across the property.
The Opium Spa & Wellbeing provides a sanctuary for relaxation, featuring signature treatments, yoga, and meditation in an intimate, nature-inspired space. The gym, adorned with black-and-white photos of Thai boxing legends, adds a unique touch to the fitness experience. Guests can also immerse themselves in traditional Thai practices, such as Muay Thai training and the sacred art of Sak Yant tattoos, in the hotel’s luxury Thai Kickboxing gym, which includes a professional ring and expert trainers.
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For ultimate relaxation, the Riverside Infinity Pool offers magnificent views of the Chao Phraya River, completing a holistic retreat. We enjoyed swimming, yoga, and the steam and sauna, then unwound in the Hammam-inspired relaxation room. Throughout our stay, Gub, our attentive butler, ensured every detail was taken care of, making the experience all the more enjoyable. His warm hospitality and thoughtful service truly enhanced our time at The Siam, and we couldn’t have asked for a better guide to the hotel’s many offerings.
Antiques & Curios, Allure & Entertainment
A leisurely stroll around The Siam offers an artful escape, where each space unfolds a story. The hotel’s interior showcases carefully curated antiques that add grandeur and intrigue, many with links to Thai culture and history. These treasures offer a connection to the past, adding depth and character to the hotel’s modern spaces.
Among the hotel’s charming features is the Screening Room, where guests can enjoy classic films or the latest releases on Netflix and Apple TV. Popcorn and refreshments are available upon request, ensuring a cozy movie night in the comfort of The Siam.
Another highlight is the Vinyl Room, a personal favorite, which houses a curated collection of jazz records, including first edition albums and selections from renowned Vietnam War photographer Hugh Van Es. Here, guests can unwind to the sounds of 20th-century icons like Ella Fitzgerald and Elvis Presley. The room, designed as an homage to Bangkok’s Art Deco era, adds a timeless touch to the hotel’s entertainment offerings.

The Siam’s collection of art and antiques, personally curated by Krissada Sukosol and his family, provides guests with a sense of wonder and intrigue. Often referred to as their “little museum,” these treasures add even more character and depth to the hotel’s atmosphere.
Curio, the hotel’s boutique, is a haven for those seeking unique gifts with a story to tell. A departure from typical hotel shops, Curio offers one-of-a-kind finds from the Sukosol family’s personal collection, including vintage travel posters, charming jewelry, and antique home décor. It’s the perfect place to pick up something truly special, steeped in Thai culture and history.
A Taste of Thailand: Dining at The Siam
At The Siam, dining is a delicious experience, offering authentic Thai dishes in stunning, thoughtfully designed spaces. Chon Thai Restaurant, located along the Chao Phraya River, serves inspired Thai meals with a focus on traditional flavors. The restaurant is set in a beautiful structure once belonging to the renowned Bangkok antique connoisseur and socialite Connie Mangksau, offering guests a unique dining experience. Jim Thompson, the legendary figure behind Thai silk, also played a key role in the building’s history, adding cultural significance to the atmosphere.
We thoroughly enjoyed classic Thai dishes such as pad thai and green chicken curry. The tom yum soup was tangy and aromatic, while the mango sticky rice provided a satisfying finish to the meal.
For an unforgettable escape where heritage and luxury meet, visit The Siam and experience the essence of Thailand like never before.