Old Bangkok Inn
 

The Old Bangkok Inn looks like just the type of small B and B that I love (a little like a city version of Alam Jiwa in Ubud). I am just concerned about the location. Will it be easy to get around from there? Having never been to BKK, can anyone explain exactly where it is located in proximity to the places that we will be going.
Also, if we do book it, should we do the Lemongrass, Jasmine or Orchid (they are all still avail for our dates at the end of Jan.)

Thanks!

Do a search on this board for Old Bangkok Inn. There have been a number of reviews and recommendations about rooms.

Yes, I did do a review and found some information. I was most concerned about location which hasn't really been discussed much. There were comments on the rooms, but no one seemed to say a true favorite.
Thanks!

You didn't give an address. There are several hotels with "Bangkok Inn" in the name. Is this the place you mean?
http://www.oldbangkokinn.com/introduction.php

If you have a hotel near the Skytrain you will be able to get around town a little easier.

The Skytrain route runs up and down Sukhumvit Road, Siam and other areas.
http://www.bangkokbob.net/sky_train.htm

You are lucky being in Bangkok, meter taxi cabs are real cheap - providing you only pay the meter price and not bargain!

Got a street address for the hotel you have questions about?

I am familiar with the Bangkok Inn on Sukhumvit Road, it is a budget hotel, friendly to women, close to the Nana Skytrain stop.

Sir, he really is talking about "The Old Bangkok Inn" of which I only know of one. It is located in an area close to Wat Po. A bit of a difficult location. It is nowhere near the Skytrain. Some people feel the atmosphere and the friendly owners make up for the location. Filmwill especially liked it. But if you are looking for somewhere convenient for transport, you'll want to choose somewhere else.

I love OBI--I've posted much about it on here previously (about both location and rooms...guessing you missed those posts.)

The Orchid room is the best IMO, but it does have a steep staircase (no railings) that goes up to the loft on the 2nd floor. If you're not concerned about such things, you'll love it. Others on here have (rightfully so) expressed concern about that element.

If that's not your cup of tea, I'd go for one of the lower-floor (non-loft type) rooms.

As far as location goes, yes, you are a bit out of the center of things...but Bangkok, in my experience, is much like my home (Los Angeles) in that there isn't one particular 'central' location. We loved the local flair of the OBI's location, but definitely be aware that you need to cab it to most shopping sites (except for the Grand Palace, which is easily within walking distance.) One of the more fun aspects of getting to and from OBI was using the klongs (the canal system--stops right across the street from the hotel) and the crazy boat rides up and down them to get to the Skytrain--definitely an experience!

Guess it just boils down to what you're looking for. I found the hospitality of the owners and the general overall feel to be much more special than most 5-star hotels I've stayed in. Again, this is just a matter of opinion. Hope you have a great trip whatever you decide!

Thanks Bill. I did read all your posts and travel report. Actually I think that is where I saw OBI. You certainly made me want to stay there. We are young and agile and the stairs wouldn't be a problem...I was most concerned about getting around the city from there.
Thanks for your help!

Nantiya or Joey (mother and son owners) will give you all your destinations written down in Thai--so all you have to do is give it to the taxi driver (or the klong boat driver) and you'll be fine.

This was a particularly nice touch since when we took the klongs, we had no idea what stop to get off at. Joey had written down (in Thai) for the klong driver to please tell us which stop to get off at.

Knowing that YOU personally are being taken care of...things like this (and a million others) made our stay really memorable.

Also, you'll be right near Khao San Road (which, even though a complete and utter circus, is a fun night to walk to/around in.)

Happy travels!

When you go to the sign up desk at the airport to get your taxi to the "Old Bangkok Inn" you better have something more than just a name!

Have the street address with you when you sign up for the taxi to make sure you get to the right place!

They'll provide transport to and from the airport for you.