Have you been eagerly anticipating a trip to Thailand in the near future to enjoy a modicum of much-needed relaxation? Perhaps you are instead required to take such a journey for business-related purposes?
Either way, choosing the best hotel is very important when visiting Thailand. From its location to the service levels, the food, the accommodation standards, the price and the things you want to do in Thailand, many elements play a part in deciding what is the best hotel for you.
In this article we will look at five key variables as well as the role that each has to play when choosing a hotel in Thailand.
Online reviews
While I don’t like to rely on online review sites like TripAdvisor to choose what hotel I am staying at, these are good to ensure you don’t miss out on the big things. It is tough to rely on other people’s recommendations when you don’t know the person, but these sites are good at spotting trends and common complaints and at understanding what the weak spots are of each hotel.
Internet Connectivity
Being able to connect to the Internet should not be taken for granted. While the majority of hotels across Thailand will offer wireless access as a standard option, ask additional questions such as signal strength and bits per second. This is especially important if you are there for business, you like to play online games on your favorite gaming sites, or you are away from the capital of Bangkok where the internet is faster.
Some properties still use older systems and as a result, you might be forced to deal with frustratingly slow loading times. In addition, determine if Internet access is included within your room charges or if you will be required to pay separately as it can become pricey.
All About Location
The majority of tourists choose a hotel that is close to the beach. Still, this is not the only element to consider, its proximity to public transportation is equally important, especially in Bangkok where traffic can mean 1h stuck in jams or in Phuket where tourist attractions are spread out.
Make sure that your hotel is easily accessible, near all the places you want to visit, has taxis nearby, public transportation links and, if the beach is what you are after, that it is also accessible. For example, some of the best hotels in Phuket are isolated and can only be accessed by car.
Pro tip: Sea-facing hotels in the famous Patong area in Phuket are not actually on the beach, there is a road separating them.
You Get What You Pay For
Even if you are on a tight budget and are tempted by Thailand’s really affordable dorm prices, it is best to avoid rock-bottom rates.
Extremely cheap hotels tend to leave much to be desired in terms of luxury and comfort. By paying often just $5 to $10 more you can have a private room, ensuite bathroom and air conditioning. All of these are affordable but necessary in some of the most remote parts of the country.
Additional Amenities
When choosing a room, take a close look at what each option has to offer as well as any additional amenities and charges. Some common examples include:
- Air conditioning (or at least a fan)
- Flat-screen TVs
- Minibars and refrigerators
- Swimming pools
- Balconies
- Linen and laundry services
- 24h Room service
- Taxes and service charge, often not included in online prices
All the additional amenities of a hotel, especially if this is a resort or a place where you plan to spend a relevant amount of time in, will play a role in the price you pay. If you are looking for a hostel, check out if there is a bar where other travelers will socialize. If you are booking a beach resort, make sure a beach is accessible (not just some rocks, but actual sand) and if the resort has a pool.
There are tens of thousands of hotels across Thailand, so you have numerous options to consider. Still, the basic suggestions outlined above can help to save a significant amount of time and effort. Never be afraid to ask questions and be sure to examine the reviews found across websites such as Booking.com and TripAdvisor to learn more about what is available.