Muan Hostel

The location is literally perfect, and the price was great. Staff were friendly too. The beds were a little dirty, and the showers didn’t get properly hot.

Pear was especially lovely, and the staff at Muan Hotel were warm and attentive. They greeted us kindly and were ready with helpful tips about local attractions. Their service made us feel welcome. The Deluxe King Bed room has a Japanese-inspired feel, with simple lines, uncluttered space, and thoughtfully chosen details that make it calm and comfortable. The hotel also mixes modern amenities with traditional Thai charm. From here, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Old City temples, eateries, and cafes are all a short stroll away, making it a convenient base for exploring. One thing to know is that there’s no elevator, so you’ll need to take the stairs to your room. They’re well kept and fit the cozy design, but it could be a consideration if you have heavy luggage or mobility concerns.

The bathrooms are spacious, and the location feels safe and central. There’s also somewhere to park a scooter or bike. The hotel’s design is wonderful, with a thoughtfully done interior that made me feel right at home. Booking through Airbnb might be cheaper.

This could work well as a backpacker spot for meeting people and exploring the city, but as a business traveler, I found everything wrong for my needs. There’s no breakfast, though there is a coffee-making corner and an espresso maker in the room. The bed is stuffed cotton rather than the spring-pocket type you find in hotels, and I woke up with back pain. The bathroom has a bathtub, but the water pressure is weak and there’s not enough hot water, so it ends up like a cold pool. There’s no elevator, and the narrow staircase is like a maze. The door still uses a turning key, which you have to carry around like 20 years ago. A lot needs upgrading. Otherwise, just take the hostel-style option and enjoy the dorm with friends.