China Town teak house on the riverside

Have you ever travelled down the Chao Praya river and thought it would be fun to stay in one of those wooden houses over-hanging the river? If so, this is your opportunity. Built in the grounds of a temple, the Loy La Long Hotel is a welcoming small family-run hotel crafted from a 30 year old teak house. We like this hotel. Not just because of the welcoming atmosphere, the downtown location, but most of all because we like to sit on the verandas overlooking the river and soak up the charms of old Bangkok.

Khun Air and her staff couldn't be more welcoming. They serve a lovely home cooked breakfast and keep a clean house. They can also offer you good advice on the local attractions. China Town is a less visited part of Bangkok and people are missing out. The local temples and flower market are all well worth exploring. The hotel is only 10 minutes walk from the river boat pier or the main train station, which has a metro station adjacent, so it is easy to explore farther afield as well.

China Town has great food options, ranging from street markets to smart restaurants. Cheap as chips because few tourists make it out to this part of town. Ask Khun Air, she will point you in the right direction.

There is a choice of 7 rooms. Each room is colour coded and has its own individual theme. Orange, blue, green and grey rooms have lovely river views.