Originally posted on Travel Asia - Travel Europe| Bangkok to Krakow.com
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If you’re visiting Thailand during your travels, you’ll be met with a host of options for accommodation from windowless madhouses (think The Beach) to world-class resorts. Most people who go travelling can’t afford to spend money on luxury hotels, so here’s how you can save money and get the most out of your accommodation.
Get away from the city centre
Bangkok is a destination for all – from European hipsters in search of neon-lit hedonism to the choice of affluent Asians who like to consider affordable city breaks. Hotels and hostels in the centre of Bangkok – say, along the popular Th. Sukhumvit – will cost more than those out of town purely due to their proximity to the main shopping centres and great restaurants. If you can find somewhere 5 or 10 mins away from the centre by a taxi, or even better, close to a Skytrain or Metro station, then you’ll save yourself some money that could be spent elsewhere.
A taxi from the popular Khao San Road to the city centre costs around 120B (US $4) so try and factor any journeys you’ll make into any calculations you come up with when working out what a hotel will cost.
Negotiate!
There is always room for negotiation on anything – just remember to smile and always be polite. Negotiating is generally accepted at guesthouses and mid-range hotels, and you’ll do yourself a favour by learning some Thai phrases, notably ‘please’, ‘thank you’ and basic numbers. If you’re planning on staying for a more than a few days, you may be able to wangle a few nights for free.
Ask to see the room first
Always ask to see the room you’d be staying in first. It could help you in your bargaining position – if you’re not totally happy with it, you may be able to knock them down on the price. Remember, you can always say no after seeing the room; you are not committed to anything.
When are you staying?
Between May and October, due to it being ‘low’ season and prone to rain and flooding, there is always a fantastic selection of low cost holiday apartments on special deal. Some hotels advertise discounts of up to 30% during these summer months to try and get people in. Remember that even in rainy season, there’s still plenty of sunshine to be enjoyed.
Guesthouses
Guesthouses are great if you’re on a tight budget, as they can cost next to nothing. However you will have to compromise on comfort and living standards. The majority are basic, cheap and cheerful. However, cheaper places tend to attract a younger crowd, meaning they can be quite noisy, so it’s worth bearing that in mind, especially if you’re a light sleeper.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected or mandatory, especially in hotels. However if you leave a tip on the first night you may find the rest of your stay more comfortable and you will be treated very well by the staff. Again this could put you in a better bargaining position should you wish to negotiate a couple more nights’ stay.
Some words of advice…
- If you have a problem with your room, dress up before you go to complain – if you are in scruffy clothes you may not be taken seriously. Thai people pride themselves on their appearance, so throwing on a shirt can help your cause.
- Don’t get mad – no matter what the problem is, shouting will be considered ignorant and rude. Thai people try to stick to a philosophy of keeping calm or jai yen (cool heart), so to go in all guns blazing won’t get you very far.
- If you’re sleeping somewhere a bit grubby, use your own sleeping bag or silk bag liner. It just feels nicer to have your own sheets sometimes.
- If you are a male travelling alone or in a group of males, don’t be surprised if you are asked if you would like a girl sent to your room, or even one knocking on your door selling ‘services’.
- Adhere to local customs – some locations may expect you to take your shoes off, especially in internet cafes or shops. This will be clearly signposted outside, so don’t ignore them. Also, learn the wai – a Thai greeting used to greet someone older, or just a sign of notable politeness.
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