Staying at Anantara Riverside means discovering an unexpected side of Bangkok—the sprawling, vibrant, and often overwhelming megacity that many believe they already know all too well. Ambre Venissac, our marketing and wellness travel expert, had never experienced it the way she did during her time at Anantara Riverside Bangkok. In this travel journal, through her observations, she invites you to extend your stay for a deeply transformative experience—a soothing reset that blends self-reflection and personal growth in what she fondly describes as an oasis of well-being.
Finding harmony in the heart of Thailand’s capital city
Anantara Riverside Bangkok is one of the iconic gems of the Anantara brand, part of the Minor Hotels group. This globally renowned brand is deeply rooted in Thai culture—shaped by it, and celebrating its softened traditional aesthetics along with the genuine, inseparable sense of Thai hospitality. Anantara means “without end” in Sanskrit, a word that reflects the brand’s core values: a profound sense of balance and harmony.
Anantara properties embrace a transformational vision of travel—creating lasting memories, meaningful experiences, and personal journeys toward self-discovery. Anantara Riverside Bangkok is no exception.
Just one hour from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), on the western bank of the captivating Chao Phraya River, this harmonious sanctuary immerses you in a serene tropical paradise, nestled within 11 hectares of lush gardens.
After a direct and comfortable Paris-Bangkok flight with Air France, I was warmly welcomed at the airport by Anantara’s attentive team. At the hotel, I was greeted by the gracious wellness manager, Khun Devi, who offered me a refreshing drink in the majestic hotel lobby.
It’s hard to believe you’ve just arrived in Bangkok. On the way to my room, I wandered from pavilion to pavilion, along a peaceful canal, and found myself in awe of the abundant, unrestrained beauty of the surroundings: a floral symphony in a patchwork of vibrant hues, the crystalline flow of water features cooling the gentle warmth of the air, and a light, addictive melody carried by birdsong and the breeze rustling through palm fronds and leaves.
The ambient stillness resonates deeply, as though your own internal rhythm instinctively tries to attune itself in a mysterious harmony. You’ll have no choice but to let it wash over you, flow through you, and settle within.
Well-being begins here—before you even step into the spa or wellness center. To me, this is the very essence of Anantara Riverside Bangkok’s promise: a tropical sanctuary where time seems to stand still, allowing you to escape the city’s relentless pace and reconnect with your inner peace.
Contemporary elegance for a serene urban retreat
A concierge escorted me to my room—it’s easy to lose your way at first in this tropical maze. I genuinely loved my room at Anantara Riverside Bangkok, and I say this with intention, knowing that city stays can sometimes fall short as a first impression of a destination.
I stayed in a Deluxe Room overlooking the gardens, with the Chao Phraya River visible in the distance. For couples or families, more spacious categories are available, but as a solo traveler, it was just right.
The layout is smart and well thought out. The room is both functional and refined—the desk and armchair by the window quickly became my go-to spot for handling a few work tasks. The welcome was thoughtful: a curated mix of fresh fruits, local flavors, and wellness amenities that created a warm yet elegant atmosphere.
Design-wise, the rooms strike a beautiful balance between contemporary elegance and traditional Thai influence—an essential component of this authentic escape. Dark wood is a recurring signature throughout Anantara Riverside, paired with marble accents, even in shared spaces, evoking a sense of delicate luxury. Soft tones create an incredibly soothing atmosphere, enriched by subtle references to local craftsmanship: carved wooden pieces and shimmering fabrics that catch the light.
The bed was incredibly comfortable, just as I had experienced at Anantara Layan Phuket, and the bathroom was ideal for refreshing and taking care of myself—even after a long-haul flight. I allowed myself a quiet moment on the terrace, soaking in the humid warmth in contrast to the room’s cool air-conditioning. Bangkok. It was then I realized how the hotel’s elevated location on the Chao Phraya River offers a privileged perspective on the city: exclusive and serene, yet close to must-see attractions like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn).
It’s also ideally situated to explore dynamic neighborhoods like Chinatown and Talad Noi, or nearby lifestyle spots including restaurants, art galleries, and the ICONSIAM shopping complex. Anantara Riverside provides complimentary river shuttles, and you can easily connect to the BTS Skytrain for further adventures around the city.
Wellness itinerary: 24 hours at Anantara Riverside Bangkok
After a refreshing shower and a fast-tracked morning routine, I headed to Moccha & Muffins for a quick lunch before joining the wellness team. I chose a healthy, flavorful vegetarian Pad Thai and a delicious, vitamin-packed mango shake.
Dining options abound at Anantara Riverside Bangkok, with no fewer than nine restaurants and bars offering a culinary journey—from traditional Thai flavors to festive or more intimate ambiances, not to mention the much-loved dinner cruises, ideal for couples or families.
After my lunch, I met up with Devi for a tour of the Anantara Wellness concept. During your stay, I highly recommend booking a treatment at the Anantara Spa (a stunning experience you truly shouldn’t miss), in addition to visiting the wellness center. These are two complementary experiences.
Anantara Wellness combines the latest medical innovations and cutting-edge techniques with holistic wisdom, offered through personalized retreat formats spanning several days.
Khun Devi introduced me to Deirdre Groenewald, wellness consultant and naturopathic nutritionist—without a doubt, one of the most impactful and inspiring encounters of my stay. As a passionate wellness expert, her journey is deeply inspiring, but I was equally touched by her intuition, sensitivity, and genuine kindness.
Knowing that guests referred through Luxe Wellness Club are guided by two professionals like Devi and Deirdre is a true game changer. I know the level of care and expertise they bring to each guest.
The wellness center itself invites you to a journey within a journey—its refined minimalism and sensory details create an atmosphere of calm and focus. Although short, my wellness experience captured the essence of Anantara Riverside’s holistic philosophy.
Deirdre welcomed me for a consultation combining nutrition, lifestyle analysis, and an epigenetic test.
Epigenetics explores how non-genetic factors—such as lifestyle choices, diet, exposure to toxins, sleep quality, and emotional well-being—can influence gene expression. These factors can trigger physiological responses that either support or hinder the body’s optimal functioning.
Following the test, Deirdre asked me personal questions about my health and emotional state, which allowed her to give an initial assessment of the areas requiring attention and to make some preliminary recommendations. These were refined and expanded the next day, once the full report had been finalized.
I had brought recent blood test results to give her more insights. At the end of your stay, you’ll receive a summary of your epigenetic results, along with personalized recommendations to optimize your health and wellness. Deirdre also crafted a customized meal plan for me, complete with recipes.
At the wellness center, epigenetic testing, as well as gut microbiome and micronutrient assessments, provide a comprehensive overview of your health. The practitioners combine this diagnostic approach with naturopathy, and traditional Thai and Chinese medicine.
To conclude this detailed diagnostic phase, Deirdre offered me a choice between two revitalizing treatments—one hands-on, and the other involving intravenous (IV) therapy, similar to what’s available at Layan Life (Anantara Layan Phuket).
If you’re getting to know me, you won’t be surprised to hear I chose the manual treatment for my first wellness ritual in Thailand.
Following this deeply grounding session, which helped me embody Deirdre’s recommendations on a more personal level, I returned to my room to prepare for dinner with Devi Irianti, the wellness director.
Before meeting her, I allowed myself to wander through the outdoor spaces, drawn in by the glowing light of dusk. I paused for a moment by the pool to observe the sunset ritual—a choreographed traditional performance that lent the place an almost sacred aura.
I took note of the diversity of guests at Anantara Riverside—from families to business travelers and solo explorers—everyone seemed truly content, serene, and present.
The resort’s facilities are extensive: a beautiful pool with a swim-up bar, a hot tub, a fitness center, a tennis court, and even a Muay Thai ring for beginners, not to mention a kids’ club. The group activities offered are another way to experience Bangkok in a whole new light.
After taking a few photos to capture the moment, I joined Devi. I felt I had already settled in, and it pained me slightly to know I’d be leaving this serene sanctuary the next day. I strongly recommend staying at least two nights.
Devi had chosen the Italian restaurant among the variety of dining options available at Anantara Riverside. The setting was charming, the service attentive, and the menu refined.
We shared a few antipasti, and for the first time in Thailand, I indulged in my favorite Italian dish—a delightful and unexpected experience. Our conversation was filled with insightful reflections on the evolution of wellness, cultural perspectives, and I shared my early impressions of Anantara’s wellness philosophy.
Rise and Shine
After a restorative night’s sleep, I gathered my belongings and headed downstairs for breakfast. The atmosphere was quite unique—the morning light danced on the waters of the Chao Phraya River, while palm trees cast delicate, shifting shadows against a cloudless blue sky.
A variety of culinary offerings awaited, with several areas evoking the vibrant spirit of Thai food markets, reimagined here in a high-end version that blends conviviality with contemporary flair.
There were dedicated sections for children, traditional Thai dishes, and Western classics, but what stood out most for me was the corner curated by Deirdre, featuring her “Skin Radiance Smoothie Bowls” packed with power ingredients.
After fueling up with vibrant energy, I headed to my consultation with Dr. Art, an anti-aging specialist, to try out the Visia Skin Analysis system. I was curious to see this high-tech device in action.
Visia evaluates the skin based on several criteria: fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, texture, photodamage, and even estimates your skin age, which you can compare with your actual age. Dr. Art explained that the device is used to provide aesthetic diagnostics by comparing a patient’s results to a comprehensive database. The 3D visualization is particularly striking and helps the practitioner recommend personalized treatments and skincare. At Anantara Riverside Bangkok, you can access a full range of aesthetic treatments—always preceded by this in-depth, 3D diagnostic.
My wellness journey concluded with a traditional Chinese medicine treatment, combining acupuncture and an abdominal massage. I felt attuned to the inner shifts taking place.
Deirdre then conducted my end-of-program consultation, a warm and insightful exchange. She shared a few valuable tips with her usual care and attentiveness. I then took a moment to thank the incredible team who had made this first leg of my Thai journey so special, before heading off to discover the Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie at the St. Regis.
Before leaving Anantara Riverside Bangkok, I fed the fish in the canal—embracing the symbolism of this Buddhist tradition, which represents generosity, letting go, and the quiet beauty of ritual.
Final verdict: I can hardly recommend a more fitting sanctuary for a rejuvenating wellness escape—and for discovering a more nuanced, soulful side of Thailand’s sprawling, dreamlike capital.
I cherished the chance to experience a new dimension of this city, which had once welcomed me years ago on my very first trip to Asia. Somehow, I rediscovered that first-time feeling, now infused with harmony.
Anantara Riverside strikes a delicate balance between wellness and exploration—a blend that’s neither rigid nor preachy, but fluid and deeply attuned to the individual. The wellness philosophy here is lived, not performed—it flows naturally through the guest experience.
You might start your morning with a visit to Wat Arun, wander through the city’s vibrant markets, restore your energy with cutting-edge treatments, then continue your journey through a culinary adventure that punctuates your exploration of Bangkok—all in a single day.
The expertise and genuine kindness of the team make Anantara Riverside a truly outstanding wellness destination.
Book Anantara Riverside Bangkok
Take advantage of our expertise in wellness stays and contact us for a personalized quote for Anantara Riverside Bangkok and benefit from our exclusive advantages.
Call us for the USA: +1 (646) 980 6652 or for the UK: +44 20 4577 3258 to discuss your holiday plans.
