Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
setting, this is the cheapest of the lot, and has comfortable rooms with tiny bathrooms. But
the real value is in the amenities (internet, travel agent, restaurant) and the location on one
of the city's more pleasant streets.
HOTEL
$$$
Old Bangkok Inn
( 0 2629 1787;
www.oldbangkokinn.com
;
609 Th Phra Sumen; incl breakfast r 3690-7790B; ; Tha
Phan Fah)
Providing the dictionary definition of a honeymoon hotel, the 10 rooms in this re-
furbished antique shophouse are decadent and sumptuous, blending rich colours and
heavy wood furnishings. All have computers for personal use, and some have two levels
and semi-outdoor bathrooms.
Praya Palazzo
HOTEL
$$$
( 0 2883 2998;
www.prayapalazzo.com
; 757/1 Somdej Prapinklao Soi 2, Thonburi; incl breakfast r 7000-9000B, ste
12,000-19,000B; ; Tha Phra Athit (Banglamphu))
After lying dormant for nearly 30 years,
this elegant 19th-century mansion has been reborn as an attractive riverside boutique
hotel. The 17 rooms can feel rather tight, and river views can be elusive, but the meticu-
lous renovation, handsome antique furnishings and a bucolic atmosphere convene in a
boutique hotel with legitimate old-world charm.
Baan Chantra
HOTEL
$$$
( 0 2628 6988;
www.baanchantra.com
; 120 Th Samsen; r incl breakfast 2400-3500B; ; Tha Phra
Athit (Banglamphu))
This beautiful converted house dating back to 1936 is without preten-
sions, preferring to be comfortable and roomy rather than fashionable and pinched. Many
of the house's original teak details remain, and the 'deluxe' room boasts a sunny patio and
an in-room computer.
Chinatown & Phahurat
Bangkok's Chinatown isn't the most hospitable part of town, but for those who wish to
stay off the beaten track it's an area where travellers can remain largely anonymous.
There's a decent selection of accommodation, much of it just off busy streets, so be sure to
