The LOCAL Ari - Hostel

The café downstairs from the hotel was really good, and the lady who runs it was very kind. We loved staying here: the neighborhood is quiet, amenities are close by, and the rooftop is lovely, with a very pleasant view.

The rooms are pleasant and the location is handy, so this place had real potential. But our stay felt arranged around what was easiest for the owner. Our room wasn’t ready at the 2pm check-in, and the roof leaked in three spots inside our room and in several places outside. We only got an explanation and apology after we became upset. We were told our bags could be left in a secure staff room. Six hours later, we found them out in an unsecured public area. The rooftop restaurant was still advertised in the pamphlets, online, and on the door, though it had shut down. Updating that would have taken seconds. We asked to extend for five days because it was near our friends, but after all these problems we were offered no discount from the regular rate. We also had to pay in cash and were reminded to pay each day even though we’d already paid four nights ahead. Too bad. I wouldn’t stay here again.

We slept well here, in a quiet local part of Ari. The Local Ari may technically be a hostel, but our private room was huge and nicely equipped, with a comfortable king bed and a TV offering Netflix and YouTube TV. There’s also a lovely little coffee shop on the first floor. For the price, it may be the best value I’ve found in Bangkok.

The location makes it easy to use this place as a base for exploring, and we had a great stay. The rooms were lovely, with comfortable beds and good air-conditioning. The hosts were excellent too, quick to notice concerns and step in with amenities when needed. Really enjoyed the experience.