Sabai@Chiang Rai

Odd-numbered rooms are quiet, and the place is very clean with plenty of parking. For the price, it's a great choice in a top location. The free drinks maker is a nice bonus.

I've stayed at Sabai many times over the past 10 years, and it's still 350 baht. It used to include one free breakfast, but that isn't offered anymore. The place is a little dated and could use a makeover, though it's always clean and the staff are friendly. There's covered parking if you arrive early, since it tends to fill up. You can walk to the night Bazaar. I'd call it about 2.5 stars, but excellent value for the price. There's no lift, so if you're older and don't want to carry bags upstairs, ask for a lower floor.

Our rooms were spacious and the air conditioning worked well. The bathroom sink leaked in our room, and the other room had a leak too. There's no shower curtain or sloped floor, so water splashes everywhere and the shower area stays wet. A Grab ride to the night bazaar was 50 baht and took a couple of minutes; walking is about 2 km. There's a 7-11 right by the hotel and a large parking lot, so lots of drivers seem to stay here.

It's comfortably modern, good value, and one of my favorite Chiang Rai hotels. The buffet breakfast is included. Near the old airport, there's usually something happening there each night. It's a great area to stay, around 10 minutes from downtown.