HotelChatter

Like most of the higher priced hotels in town, The Siam sits right on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, though significantly north of the center of the action. This locations is due to the hotel's owning a few century-old traditional Thai homes which once belonged to the friend of silk magnate (and suspicious disappearee) Jim Thompson. You may even book one of the restored buildings—"Connie's Cottage"—for $1,500 per night. It's no small change, but then again we aren't talk about small hotel rooms here, not to mention that all come with personal butler service.

The good news is that the hotel will be in soft opening mode through August 31, during which time rates are 50% off.

The images above are enough to make us long for our next trip to Thailand, if only because the hotel will also operate several dining venues. Thus, if all 39 rooms are occupied, we can at least still spend some time next to their riverside infinity pool and in their glass atrium lobby.

All in all it seems like quite the impressive addition to Bangkok's lodging scene, but since the only photos are glossy, PR-apprioved ones and no reviews from actual guests have leaked, we'll just have to reserve judgement for the time being.

[Photos: The Siam]