Bangkok's ISSARA: The Hostel You NEED to Book NOW!
Bangkok's ISSARA: Holy Moly, BOOK THIS NOW! (Trust Me, I'm a Travel Mess)
Okay, listen up, fellow adventurers, procrastinator-packers, and anyone else who finds themselves staring blankly at travel websites like I do, because I just got back from Bangkok, and I HAVE. A. RECOMMENDATION. It’s not just any hotel; it's ISSARA: The Hostel You NEED to Book NOW! Seriously. Don't even finish reading this – just open a new tab and book it. I'll wait… (Okay, maybe read a little further, so you know why I'm yelling).
Now, you might be thinking, "Hostel? Ew, dorm rooms and shared bathrooms?" Nope. Not here. While ISSARA offers dorms, I opted for a private room (because, let's be honest, I need my space after a long day of getting lost in a bustling city). And let me tell you, it was an absolute oasis.
Accessibility: (Because Being Able to Actually GET There Matters)
I am not mobility-impaired but I know how important accessibility is to a good stay and ISSARA seems to be pretty inclusive. They have an elevator, thank God, because after navigating Bangkok's heat, I was not about to climb six flights of stairs. I saw Facilities for Disabled Guests mentioned, which is reassuring. This isn't just an afterthought; they've clearly put some thought into it. I just wish I could see the specifics, but even the mention is a good start!
Inside My Sanctuary (The Rooms, Oh, The Rooms!)
Okay, let's talk about the room. Air conditioning? Check. (Seriously, the first thing I did was crank that baby up to arctic blast. Bangkok humidity will drain you). Free Wi-Fi in all rooms? Double check! And it actually worked! I could stream my terrible taste in reality TV without buffering. Score! Other little things like a safe box, a mini-refrigerator for the emergency water bottles, a coffee/tea maker – small touches, but they make a HUGE difference. And the blackout curtains? Heaven. I slept like a log, even with the city's (admittedly charming) cacophony outside.
The bathroom? My private one was clean, and surprisingly spacious. The shower, thank goodness, had good water pressure. Towels? Soft. Toiletries?? Enough to keep me smellling fresh. This is not a 'hotel', its like my own little sanctuary in the middle of a bustling place. My room actually was my safe place.
Cleanliness and Safety (Because You Want To Survive Your Trip)
Now, I'm a bit of a germaphobe, and I was a bit worried about the whole COVID thing, but I was so pleasantly surprised. ISSARA takes cleanliness seriously. Hand sanitizer everywhere. The staff, God bless them, were constantly cleaning. They were trained on safety protocols. They were using anti-viral cleaning products. My room itself was sanitized between stays. There was even an opt-out if you didn't want your room cleaned at all. I felt genuinely safe. And the daily disinfection of common areas? Chefs kiss.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (Fueling Your Adventures)
Okay, let's talk food. Breakfast, baby! They did an Asian breakfast (noodles, rice, something-or-other that I couldn't pronounce, but was DELICIOUS) and a Western breakfast (toast, eggs, bacon – the usual suspects). And for the lazy bums like me, they offered a breakfast takeaway service. Coffee shop? Yup. Restaurants offering both Asian and international cuisine? Absolutely. A poolside bar? OH. MY. GOODNESS. Picture this: after a long day of temple hopping, collapsing by the pool, sipping a fruity cocktail, and watching the sunset. Pure bliss.
I will be honest, I didn't spend too much time at the restaurants because Bangkok’s food scene is insane, but I did visit the coffee shop and it was so cute and lively!
Things to Do (Besides Existing)
Okay, so the pool is amazing. Amazing. It's an outdoor pool, but with a view! I could literally spend all day there. Besides that, there's a fitness center (I'm not sure how much I used it – okay, I didn’t, I lied), and a spa. I was tempted by the massage (I'm a sucker for a good Thai massage), but I didn’t find the time.
Services and Conveniences (Because Life Should Be Easy)
Okay, this is where ISSARA really shines. The staff are incredibly helpful. The concierges were amazing and always there, ready to help with anything, including where to eat, what to do, where to book a tour, or where to go. The currency exchange was a lifesaver. And the daily housekeeping? Pure luxury. The elevator was a godsend. They even offered dry cleaning, which I didn’t take advantage of (because, let's be real, I live in a suitcase), but it’s a nice touch. The Wi-Fi was strong, making my travel blogging a breeze.
Getting Around (Because You Need to Actually Get There)
Okay so, this is where it got a little tricky… ISSARA had an airport transfer, which I didn't realize until after I’d already hailed a taxi (which ended up being a total rip-off. I'm talking, "eyes-watering" expensive). But I feel like this is a minor thing that I just missed out. So definitely ask about those options at booking.
The Emotional Rollercoaster That Was My Stay
I need to tell you about how relaxed I felt. I'm a stress case. But at ISSARA, I felt calmer. Like someone finally put a "Do Not Disturb" sign on my brain. The staff was incredible. They remembered my coffee order. They gave me recommendations on where to watch the evening sunset. They arranged a taxi back to the airport after a few hiccups. The atmosphere was just… good.
The Imperfection (Okay, Maybe One Tiny Gripe)
Okay, even in paradise, there's a small crack. The location of the hostel, though very close to shopping and food, wasn't right in the middle of the action. A 10-15 minute walk to the main attractions. I’m being picky, I know. However, after walking around temple after temple, a tiny taxi ride wasn't so bad.
My Verdict (And What You NEED to Do)
Honestly? Book. This. Hostel. Now. I'm not being dramatic. ISSARA is more than just a place to sleep; it's an experience. It's a haven in a chaotic city. It's a place where you can relax, recharge, and actually enjoy your vacation.
So, here's the deal. You should NOT be reading this anymore. Go to the website, find the dates, and book that room. You will not regret it. I promise.
Escape to Paradise: Seabreeze Hotel, Mirissa, Sri Lanka
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because we're about to dive headfirst into the chaotic, glorious mess that is my potential trip to ISSARA by d HOSTEL in Bangkok. Consider this less of a polished itinerary and more of a fever dream with a rough plan!
BANGKOK BOUND: An Itinerary (Maybe…Probably…We'll See)
Day 1: Arrival & Immediate Panic (Bangkok Time)
- Morning (ish): Arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK). Okay, deep breaths. Passport check, collect the backpack that's probably already crammed with questionable snacks and a book I SWEAR I'll read. Quick decision: grab a SIM card to avoid total communication breakdown. Then… THE TRAIN! Apparently, there's this super-efficient Airport Rail Link. Or maybe I'll just blindly hail a cab and pray to the travel gods. Praying. Seriously.
- Afternoon: Land at ISSARA! Oh, GOD, is it as cool as the photos? Pray they give me a good room – seriously, I've seen too many hostel dorm horror stories. Check-in, drop off my bag (hopefully not on the floor), and scout the hostel vibes. Am I cool enough for this place? Probably not. But hey, I'm here.
- Late Afternoon/Early Evening: The Street Food Gauntlet. Okay, this is it. The REAL reason I came to Bangkok. Walking from the hostel, eyes everywhere, trying not to get overwhelmed. First challenge: the street food. I have to try the Pad Thai, right? But what if it's… too spicy? What if I accidentally order a fried bug platter (ew!)? Maybe start slow. Maybe just try the mango sticky rice. One step at a time. Find a street vendor with a smile (and hopefully not a long line) and dive in. Cross my fingers for no tummy troubles.
- Evening: Back at the hostel. Time to socialize. Okay, maybe I'll just lurk in the common area for a while, pretend to read my book (the one I haven't started yet), and see if anyone seems approachable. Maybe a friendly face. Or failing that, a quick beer to bolster my social courage. Or two.
Day 2: Temples, Temples, and (Hopefully) a Little Sanity
- Morning: Temple Time! Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn) is supposedly stunning. Hopefully, the heat won’t kill me while trying to explore. Take a river taxi, easy right? RIGHT? If not, it could be great material for my travel blog.
- Mid-day: Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) is on the agenda. The sheer scale of the Buddha is supposed to be mind-blowing. (I better take plenty of pictures)
- Afternoon: The Chatuchak Market Pilgrimage. Okay, THIS is a beast. Chatuchak Weekend Market. I've heard horror stories of being utterly lost and overwhelmed by the sheer number of stalls. But also, it’s a shopaholic’s dream? I will try to avoid the impulse buys from the 10,000 stalls offering knock-off bags. (Maybe a few). Remember to stay hydrated. And don’t get conned. And don't get lost. Just… survive.
- Evening: Dinner and a rooftop bar. Bangkok has a reputation for its killer rooftop bars. Time to pretend I’m sophisticated and sip a fancy cocktail while surveying the city lights. Or at least, a beer and pretend to be sophisticated. Or maybe just collapse from exhaustion back in my room.
Day 3: River Adventures & Maybe More Street Food (If I Can Handle It)
- Morning: River Cruise! Some kind of longboat tour along the Chao Phraya River. I'm thinking of making a little travel vlog. Will edit those later. Maybe get a little perspective on the city from the water.
- Mid-day/Afternoon: Floating Market Chaos. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. This will be the acid test. This is where I’ll REALLY find out if I'm built for the Bangkok hustle. Bargaining for souvenirs, dodging longboats, and trying not to fall in the water. If I can survive this, I can survive anything.
- Evening: Back to ISSARA. This time I am planning on some hostel party, if I can find it. Should. Be. Fun. Or a complete disaster. Either will make for a good story.
Day 4: Culture, Chill, and Departure (Possibly)
- Morning: Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha. More temples, more history. I NEED to make sure I am well dressed. I'm not trying to get sent back to the hostel for inappropriate attire.
- Afternoon: Time for a massage! Thai massage is a must-do. I'm picturing a blissful 1-hour of getting my knots worked out. OR maybe I'll just feel awkward. We'll see.
- Evening: Last-minute souvenir shopping? Pack my bag (again, cramming). Quiet time. Relaxing and reflecting. Or scrambling to find my passport. Then off to the airport.
- Night: Fly out. Or maybe I'll miss my flight. That would be an adventure, wouldn't it?
Emotional Rollercoaster Predictions:
- Excitement: Through the roof! Anticipating new experiences. New foods.
- Anxiety: Will I get lost? Will I get sick? Will I offend anyone? (Probably.)
- Wonder: The beauty of the temples will blow my mind.
- Frustration: Crowds. The heat. The language barrier. The inevitable tourist traps.
- Joy: The feeling of accomplishment when I successfully navigate the city.
- Exhaustion: Pure, unadulterated exhaustion. (And maybe some sunburn.)
- Food Coma: Guaranteed at least once. Or twice.
Messy Observations & Unrealistic Expectations:
- I fully expect to fall in love with street food and (probably) go overboard.
- I will definitely attempt to speak Thai, and will probably butcher it horribly.
- I will buy something I don't need. Probably at Chatuchak Market.
- I might cry (tears of joy? tears of frustration? Who knows!)
- I'm going to take a million photos and maybe actually share some.
- I will have a story to tell, no matter what happens. And isn't that the point?
Important Note: This is not a strict schedule. This is a suggestion! I am fully prepared for plans to change, for things to go wrong, and for me to wander aimlessly for hours. This is travel, baby! It's messy, unpredictable, and utterly, wonderfully human. Wish me luck, and pray for my digestive system.
Hanoi's Hidden Gem: Golden Legend Boutique Hotel - Unforgettable Stay!
ISSARA Bangkok: The Hostel You HAVE to Experience (Even If You're a Snob... Maybe)
Okay, spill: Is ISSARA really *that* good? I mean, it's a hostel, right? Expecting mold? Bed bugs? Awkward silences?
Alright, alright, settle down. Honestly? YES. It's freaking *good*. I'm not a hostel person, usually. I crave my private space, my perfectly-fluffed pillows, my remote for the TV. But ISSARA? Changed my mind. Briefly. It's clean, people! Like, actually clean. I'm talking gleam! And the staff? Angels. They're actually HAPPY to see you. Which, in the sweltering Bangkok heat, is a small miracle in itself. The awkward silences? Avoided. They've got a chill common area, perfect for… well, I’ll get to that later. Bedbugs? Nope. *Knock on wood.* I checked. Repeatedly. Because I'm paranoid. You probably will too, and that's cool.
Let's get down to the bones: Location, location, location! Where the heck *is* this magical place?
Khao San Road adjacent. Okay, okay, don't freak out. YES, you're close to the mayhem, the touts, the "best pads Thai in the universe" (which probably isn't true). But ISSARA is tucked away just enough to retain your sanity. Which is GOLD in Bangkok. Seriously. It's a short walk, maybe 5-10 minutes MAX depending on how many street carts you're ogling at. You can escape the noise when you want to, and dive in when you feel brave (or need a Singha). Honestly, the location is perfect. You're close to temples, the river, and a million and one food stalls. Just... be prepared for the sensory overload. Bangkok is not for the faint of heart.
What kind of rooms do they have? I'm a solo traveler who likes their privacy... or maybe I'm traveling with my partner, who snores like a freight train.
They've got it all! Dorms (mixed and female-only), private rooms. The dorms are surprisingly comfy. You'll get lockers, your own power socket & USB ports and a decent space so you don't feel like you're crammed in a sardine can. And the private rooms? They’re a godsend if you need to escape the chaos for a bit. We shelled out for one on our third night, and it was total bliss. Allowed me to deal with my jetlag with more ease, I'm telling ya. Plus, did I mention air conditioning? Because, Bangkok. Air conditioning is your lifeblood. The snoring situation? Earplugs. Embrace them. You'll need them anyway.
The common area! The social hub! What's the vibe? Can a grumpy old soul like me find a chill spot?
It's… good! I hate forced socializing, so I was bracing myself. But honestly, it's a relaxed atmosphere. They've got tables set up for chatting, and the bar in the other room is great for a beer. People are generally friendly but not in your face. They play music subtly. Not the ear-splitting club stuff. The staff actively encourages people to hang out but there is no pressure, it's honestly very hard to describe. I met some amazing people. Had some great conversations. One night, we all ended up doing a spontaneous street food tour, led by a local guy. It was one of the best nights of my trip... and it never would've happened if I hadn't been open to hanging out in their chill space!
Is the free breakfast any good? Because I NEED my coffee and good mornings.
Okay, breakfast. It's not Michelin-star level, but for FREE? It's a winner. Toast, jam, peanut butter (essential!), fruit, and *coffee*. The coffee is decent, honestly. You'll be caffeinated. Maybe a little. And the fruit is fresh (important!). They also have some kind of cereals. It's a good start to the day, especially when you're about to go explore a city as hectic as Bangkok.
Any crazy stories or memorable moments? Tell me something juicy!
Oh boy. Where do I even begin? Okay, so… there was this ONE night. We'd been out exploring temples all day. Exhausted, temples are intense so we went back for a nap, then wandered back out to the common area for a beer. There was a group of guys from… everywhere. And then the staff guy, who I SWEAR must have been made of pure sunshine and smiles, started a impromptu Thai cooking class. Like, right there, in the common area! He had prepped everything, and he was walking everyone through making green curry (which, for the record, was AMAZING). And then he got out the karaoke. And at first, it was just a few people, tentatively singing. Then, well, let's just say that by the end of the night, I, a person terrified of public speaking, was belting out a power ballad with a room full of strangers. In Thai. It was… a moment. A glorious, messy, slightly-off-key moment. That's the kind of thing that happens at ISSARA. You'll arrive feeling like a semi-functioning human, and leave with a story to tell your grandkids (who won’t believe you).
Okay, but what about the downsides? Nothing's perfect, right? Spill the tea!
Fine, fine. Okay, it's not ALL rainbows and sunshine. The noise from the street can be a bit much at night, especially if you're in a dorm on a lower level. Bring earplugs. Seriously, just do it. Also, the showers could have better water pressure, but let's be real, you're in a hostel, and these things happen. More seriously they could have provided more security lockers, but that probably is a nitpick, especially if you aren't carrying anything too valuable. I'm grasping at straws here, folks. It's that darn good.
Would you recommend ISSARA? Seriously, straight up, would you go back?
YES! Without a doubt. I'm already plotting my return. It's hard to put my finger on it. The cleanliness? The location? The staff? The sheer *energy* of the place? It's something special. If you're looking for a sterile, corporate hotel experience, stay away. But if you want a fun, authentic, affordable, andRoam And Rests
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