Tiny Taladnoi Hostel, Bangkok

Tiny Taladnoi Hostel is a fine option for backpackers visiting Bangkok -- this large city of districts with varying characters -- and not wanting to witness the speedier side of life in the city; this hostel welcomes guests with genuine smiles.

The Location

Tiny Taladnoi Hostel is rather nicely situated, especially for guests wishing to stay near the oldest, original Chinese settlers area of Bangkok. Away from the tourist traps and rowdiness of the Khao San district, but positioned on the southern fringe of Chinatown. A fascinating maze of narrow backstreets with some glorious temples to savour lie within walking distance.

Arriving at the main train station, Hua Lumphong Station, Tiny Taladnoi is a twenty-minute walk away. From Thon Buri station, use express boat pier number eleven, alighting at marine department pier number four. The hostel is three minutes on foot from that pier.

The neighbourhood is calm, yet not dull. There is a popular bicycle trail through the little streets, giving an insight into the lives of the local people. Conveniently, there is a restaurant next door. More street food vendors and a convenience store are just moments away around the corner. Tops Supermarket is within five minutes' walk.

Rooms and Bathrooms

A ground floor toilet, shower, and laundry room exist for general use, however, most of the smart, spacious, and extremely clean bathroom facilities are on the three floors above (handily close to the dormitories and private rooms). There are well-designed sinks and large mirrors, soap dispensers, toilet paper, and even hair dryers. Guest rooms are accessed using a key card. The good-sized dorms are fitted with modern, comfortable bedroom fittings. People can definitely get a a good night sleep at Tiny Taladnoi. Privacy curtains, reading lights, and small shelves have all been provided. Furthermore, there are private lockers of a reasonable size inside the dorms. Do bear in mind, the upper floors can only be accessed by stairs.

Common Spaces

Downstairs is the homey breakfast/snacking area of the ground floor, a good-sized space where a free breakfast is the usual jam-and-toast-with-free-coffee-and-tea affair supplemented with little cakes, sandwiches, and fruits! It's a very generous spread.

This dining area is very appealing and conducive to meeting fellow travelers; guests feel relaxed and content here. There is sufficient space for all wishing to sit down and enjoy their meals at the long dining table, or in a cosy corner of the smart sofa and chairs. A microwave, big fridge/freezer, and hot-water dispenser are at guests' disposal, as is a computer.

For smokers, or any guests wishing for an al fresco experience, a selection of chairs and tables are placed neatly on the attractive terrace to the front of the building. There is also a variety of books and games.
Behind reception, a stack of guide books in several languages are a useful resource for backpackers.

Summary

Possibly, this is the best value for money/high-quality hostel option in Bangkok, and it's evidence that you don't have to be a former backpacker to know what travelers hope to find in a hostel. The kind owners have thought of everything. Guests extend their stays here and return when passing through Bangkok. The people here are all smiles and it's hard to fault (besides the one potential drawback for some people -- the presence of four cats living on the ground floor of the hostel).