Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
cakes and fruit shakes). Although these restaurants are convenient and a good way to meet other travellers, don't meas-
ure Thai food based on these dishes.
Most guesthouses cultivate a travellers' ambience with friendly knowledgeable staff and book exchanges. But there
are also plenty of guesthouses with grumpy, disgruntled clerks who let customers know that they dislike their jobs. In
these cases the boss, not the customer, is the culprit for the the staff's bad attitude.
Increasingly, guesthouses can handle advance reservations, but due to inconsistent cleanliness and quality it is advis-
able to always look at a room in person before committing. In tourist centres, if your preferred place is full, there are
usually alternatives nearby. Guesthouses typically only accept cash payments.
TRUSTING THE ADVISORS
Increasingly, guesthouses and hotels have turned to the internet for bookings and marketing. TripAdvisor is well
used by visitors to Thailand of all budget ranges and can be a helpful resource in selecting a place to stay. But be
aware that criticisms of a particular place often apply to accommodations in the entire country. Mosquitoes are
widespread, especially in moist, garden areas. Bathrooms tend to be mouldy; it is a tropical country. Sometimes
staff can be unhelpful when they aren't properly trained or if they are upset with the boss. Staff turnovers mean
that the really nice receptionist might not be there in a year. Check the reviews to see how the proprietor handles
complaints: are they diplomatic or defensive? A proprietor willing to accept criticism and offer amends runs a
good outfit.
Hotels
In provincial capitals and small towns, the only options are often older Thai-Chinese hotels, once the standard in all of
Thailand. Most cater to Thai guests and English is usually limited.
These hotels are multistorey buildings and might offer a range of rooms from midrange options with private bath-
rooms, air-con and TV to cheaper ones with shared bath facilities and a fan. In some of the older hotels, the toilets are
squats and the 'shower' is a
klong
jar (a large terracotta basin from which you scoop out water for bathing). Although
the Thai-Chinese hotels have got tonnes of accidental retro charm, unless the establishment has been recently refur-
bished, we've found that they are too old and worn to represent good value compared to the guesthouses.
The new hotel norm is the 'flashpacker' hotel, which has dressed up the utilitarian options of the past with stylish de-
cor and more creature comforts. Expect an upper budget or lower midrange price tag.
International chain hotels can be found in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and other high-end beach resorts. Many of
these upscale resorts incorporate traditional Thai architecture with modern minimalism.
Most top-end hotels and some midrange hotels add a 7% government tax (VAT) and an additional 10% service
charge. The additional charges are often referred to as 'plus plus'. A buffet breakfast will often be included in the room
rate. If the hotel offers a Western breakfast, it is usually referred to as 'ABF', meaning 'American breakfast'.
Midrange and chain hotels, especially in major tourist destinations, can be booked in advance and some offer internet
discounts through their websites or online agents. They also accept most credit cards, but only a few deluxe places ac-
cept American Express.
