Chern Hostel

Chern Hostel is a design-conscious hostel on a quiet side street off Bamrung Muang Road in the old town, between the Giant Swing and the Golden Mount. Its name means to invite in Thai, and the idea of welcoming guests into Thai culture runs through the building: Thai proverbs and idioms appear on the walls, next to the bunk beds and in unexpected corners, so a stay doubles as a short lesson in Thai sayings. The look is clean and minimalist.

The hostel offers bunk beds in shared dormitories as well as private rooms, so it works both for backpackers on a budget and for travellers who want their own space at a lower price than a hotel. Facilities are simple, as you would expect at this price level, and there is no pool or restaurant, but the location makes up for it.

Book directly through the official website, by email or by phone. The hostel is about fifteen minutes from the nearest Skytrain station, so for most sightseeing it is easier to walk, take a taxi or tuk-tuk, or use the MRT. Bring earplugs if you are staying in a dormitory, as you would in any hostel. The surrounding streets are quiet at night compared with Khao San Road, which many guests see as an advantage.

Chern suits solo travellers, backpackers, students and budget-conscious couples who want to be close to the old-town sights and enjoy a calmer atmosphere than the party hostels nearby. It is less suited to families with young children. Rates are among the most affordable in this listing. The shops along Bamrung Muang Road selling Buddhist images, monks' robes and temple supplies are worth a browse even if you are not buying.

The hostel is at 17 Soi Ratchasak, off Bamrung Muang Road in Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon. Sam Yot MRT station on the Blue Line is around ten minutes' walk away. The Giant Swing and Wat Suthat, the Golden Mount, Raan Jay Fai, Thipsamai and Kope Hya Tai Kee are all within walking distance, and the Grand Palace and Wat Pho are about twenty minutes on foot or a short taxi ride.