The Garage

The room and bathroom were new and very clean, with water and a small kitchen provided. It was handy for the White Temple, though a long way from the city. We were confused and unhappy when they asked for a key deposit and wouldn't let us check in despite the room being ready. We've stayed in countless homestays, hostels, and hotels around the world, and when a room is ready we've always been allowed in. Some have even let us check in at 7 or 8am when we were tired. Of course, waiting would have been fine if someone was still in the room. It felt like the owner was using the deposit as leverage to keep us out. Maybe it was a miscommunication, but it didn't seem like common practice or very considerate to travellers. We were leaving the country the next day and had budgeted the last of our local currency for that deposit.

The staff were so nice, and the beds were comfortable. The place was really clean, Monica clean if you know what I mean. There's a simple breakfast and water, and the location is good. The common kitchen has a fridge, utensils, and sanitized glasses, plus you can play table games there.

I was sorry to stay just one night and would book again if I get the chance. The owner was very friendly and looked out for my arrival. It's right on the highway, about 7Kms from Chiang Rai centre, and the themed rooms are all named and decorated around the Garage theme. My room had its own washroom, AC, TV, Geyser, and the basics, including a small reading table, chair, and sofa. Wifi was good. There's also a shared kitchen with essentials, a fridge, and unlimited drinking water for guests. Across the rest of my 12 days in Thailand, I didn't find another host offering unlimited water, which felt like a very welcoming gesture. I hope they keep it up. Breakfast in the morning comes with coffee or tea. They also have a restaurant attached, run by the family.

I liked my short stay. The room was nice, and the staff were friendly and helpful. It was farther from the centre than I'd expected, but a tuk-tuk got me there fairly cheaply. The cafe looked nice too, and the coffee was good.