Nestled on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, Siri Sala (official Facebook page) stands as a testament to one family’s quest to blend Thai tradition with modern luxury harmoniously. As I made my way to this unique retreat via a chartered river boat, I was both excited and curious by the promise of a restful, contemporary escape within the confines of a traditional Thai house.
And when I arrived, that excitement only grew…
A special place…
Siri Sala proudly claims the title of being the first and only private waterfront villa of its kind in Bangkok, a distinction that sets it apart from the city’s myriad of accommodations. Siri Sala is not just another villa; it’s an experience unlike any other in Thailand’s vibrant capital. The moment I stepped off the boat onto their private pier and faced their compound, I knew I was in for something extraordinary.
As you step ashore, you are greeted by the captivating beauty of the surroundings. Upon entering, you find yourself in the heart of the villa, inside a semi-open living room that seamlessly blends with the outdoors.
This architectural marvel follows the ‘tai toon‘ design, a historical building method intentionally designed to allow the lower floor to remain open-air, permitting both animals and floodwaters to pass through without threatening the structure.
This unique space beneath the Thai house is typically utilized during daylight hours, providing the living and dining areas with an abundance of natural light and fresh airflow. However, this modern interpretation of the interior makes it a stunning area to mingle in the evening before or after dinner.
The heart…
The kitchen is often considered the heart of a home. This dining table, spanning over 6 meters in length, is a masterpiece crafted from reclaimed teak floorboards that once supported the original Thai house.
Today, it serves as a communal haven where up to 23 diners can gather for delicious meals. At this table, I had the privilege of enjoying a private dinner with fellow guests, meticulously prepared by the skilled hands of Siri Sala’s personal chef. The meal was a non-stop thrill ride, taking my taste buds on a rollercoaster of flavors. Based on this one occasion, I can confidently say that the setting and menu they present guests is outstanding. It truly gives you a sense of luxury in their beautiful dining room.
The feast!
The resident chef crafts personalized menus for each guest’s stay, tailoring them to suit their needs and wishes. One should allow the chef to amaze you with their passion for Thai cuisine, as these chefs have received training and have worked both domestically and abroad.
They have no issues providing vegetarian and allergen-free variations of beloved Thai dishes as well as Western options like soups, salads, pasta, and burgers. Siri Sala adopts a family-oriented approach, ensuring that the food and dining experience can cater to any family or gathering of friends, whether with kids or without.
The accommodations…
The Villa Suite at Ruen Bangkok Noi draws its inspiration from the historic estate’s oldest house, offering visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the traditional Thai way of life. Within the suite, you’ll find breathtaking hand-painted murals that vividly depict the diverse plant and animal life found in the canals of Bangkok Noi. Bathrooms are thoughtfully furnished with an ong and khunn (water jar and bucket), inviting guests to enjoy a revitalizing and authentic shower experience.
Commonly referred to as the “Wedding Suite” inside Ruen Hor Siri Sala, original pieces of furniture have been preserved and restored. The ceilings feature hand-painted murals that tell a story of love and family, and the room is dedicated to its original owner. The room is comfortable and modern, and it boasts a stunning bathroom. This was my personal favorite among all the rooms.
The second house, called Ruen Siri, features three rooms on the 2nd floor and one on the 1st floor. Ruen Siri Rudee, on the first floor, has two twin beds and can also be converted to a spa room with massage tables if you want a private treatment or massage experience. Ruen Siri San and Ruen Siri Suk are two of the bedrooms with twin beds located on the 2nd floor. They are both comfortable and modern, designed with Thai flair with reclaimed and preserved old furniture. The Ruen Siri Kasem room is a multifunctional room that can serve as another bedroom but also functions as a rumpus room with games and a large TV for kids or those young at heart.
Ruen Deum, also affectionately referred to as the Heritage House. I absolutely loved this part of the villa; it’s also one of the original houses that stood on the ground. Before its construction, craftsmen from Ayuthaya together with architects marked and disassembled every wooden panel from the former structure, preserving the majority of its original materials. This historical ambiance, with a 1920s feel to the interior, provides an ideal setting for pre and post-dinner drinks at a small soirée.
The experiences…
Siri Sala provides a variety of carefully curated tours and excursions that allow guests to explore the vibrant city of Bangkok and its surrounding areas. Whether you seek cultural immersion, adventure, or relaxation, they have a range of options to choose from, ensuring that your stay is comfortable and enriched with memorable moments.
It truly is an incredible property that is unique in Bangkok. You have the option to reserve the Siri Sala Villa for your accommodation needs or choose Siri Sala as the perfect venue for hosting your special celebration or corporate events. Want to keep your visiting family and friends together and show them an amazing time in the City of Angels? Look no further than Siri Sala…
Book Siri Sala HERE!
Here’s a short video capturing my visit to Siri Sala, which gives a comprehensive view of the essence and offerings of this special place. Take a closer look to explore what Siri Sala has to offer.
View this post on Instagram
I want to go. Where is it?
I want to hear from you!
Should you decide to experience Siri Sala, I’d love to hear your feedback in the comment section below, directly to me, or via message on either the Chow Traveller Facebook page or Chow Traveller Instagram (and feel free to like/follow these pages if you want to learn about more about the foodie gems I find). However you choose to reach out, I’d love to hear from you!
oh wow this is a real treat! I think I might ask my wifey if we can have a staycation in Bangkok 🙂