SHORT-TERM ACCOMMODATIONS IN THAILAND |
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Most Thai cities offer several kinds of short-term accommodations for budget
travelers. Because traffic is so bad in Bangkok, it doesn't make sense to sign a lease until you've determined where you'll be working, so use short-term lodging until you're ready to settle down. Thai Hotels Hotels in Thailand typically offer several classes of rooms. For about US$15,
you'll get a nice room with a double bed, but it will have neither a fan nor air conditioning, and no private bathroom. The more of these amenities you request, the more the room will cost. For a room with
the works, expect to pay around US$25 per night. Before paying for your room, ask to see it and make sure everything (fan, air conditioning, plumbing, etc.) works. Also, room rates are often negotiable and are commonly increased for foreigners, so unless prices are posted, don't be shy about bargaining. If you're a male traveling alone, you'll probably be asked whether you want to
hire a female companion for the night. Guest Houses Guest houses are essentially private "mom and pop" hotels. They are common in Thailand, and are very popular among budget travelers. There are dozens of guest houses in Bangkok, especially in the Banglamphu
area and on Khao San Road near the Democracy Monument, as well as the Thewet and National Library areas. Rates vary widely depending on quality; the cheapest places cost about US$3 per night with a fan, and nicer, air-conditioned places cost about US$25 per night. Again, ask to look at the room before you pay. Youth Hostels
Thailand has several youth hostels, including one in Bangkok, three each in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, and one each in Phitsanulok and Nan. Per-night prices range from about US$1 for a bed in a bunkhouse to US$3 for a private room. Guests must be members of the International Youth Hostel Association to stay.
Memberships cost about US$1 for one night and US$6 for a full year. YMCAs The YMCA runs hotels in several Thai cities. They cost a bit more than youth hostels, and are more formal.
Thailand Accommodations (Long Term) >>> | 
