Boutique Design Hotel in Bangkok's Hipster District Ari: Josh Hotel
Stayed for three nights at Josh Hotel, a boutique hotel in Bangkok's hipster district Ari. The four-story building is painted in peacock blue with white window shutters and balconies, giving it a distinct hipster vibe.
The first floor serves as the reception lobby, restaurant, and pool area, all designed in a very British Instagrammable style. The open and lively atmosphere is perfect for young travelers, and the pool is a popular spot.
I booked a 6-ping deluxe double room, which has a small balcony. The walls are painted in a deep emerald green, giving the room a calm and elegant feel. There's also a rocking chair.
The hotel pays attention to small details, like providing two bottles of water in the fridge, knowing Bangkok's weather is hot.
I stayed over a more expensive weekend, including Christmas, and the three-night stay with breakfast cost only NT$5052! Yes, it's that affordable.
However, despite its beautiful design, the hotel has some drawbacks: no kettle in the room (it's in the common area), the bathroom isn't separated into wet and dry areas, and the electric water heater has unstable water pressure. Soundproofing is also an issue.
Another awkward point is that there's a Live Bar on the second floor, which gets loud on weekend nights. My room was right above it, making it feel like a concert. I changed rooms the next day, only to find the bar was closed that night!
Overall, the value for money is high. Breakfast isn't a basic buffet but a menu from the restaurant, with freshly made dishes like Eggs Benedict, sourdough bread, and tortillas, with a choice of fillings and drinks. It's both visually appealing and delicious. Highly recommended!