Riva Surya Hotel

Gazing across the river, there is a lovely pool lined with shaded loungers where you can indulge in a massage. Head inside and you'll find the hotel's restaurant, Babble & Grill, which serves a medley of Thai and Western cuisine with stand-out dishes like the deep-fried sea bass with sweet chilli sauce or 12-hour smoked beef brisket. You can also dine on the terrace, which enjoys views of the historic Rama VIII Bridge, or grab a cocktail at the Riverside Bar.

The rooms at Riva Surya are classic with clean lines and neutral tones, as well as ornate king-sized beds draped in 400-thread-count linens and beautifully-designed bathrooms. The more deluxe offerings are uber spacious and boast an additional lounge and dining area, but all rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows and open onto a private balcony with views of the idyllic river or Phra Athit Road. Each room has a vanity table, tea/coffee facilities, minibar, safe and TV, as well as complimentary wifi.

It's really a question of what can't you do in Bangkok... Enjoy a ferry or longtail boat ride down the river, marvelling at the Royal Palace and some of Bangkok's most sacred temples, Wat Pho and Wat Arun. There is also a plethora of sights within walking or cycling distance of the hotel, including the impressive National Museum, the historic shophouses along Phra Athit Road, and many fantastic markets for enjoying Thailand's iconic street food and browsing the brimming stalls.