I spent days looking for somewhere decent to stay in Bangkok, Thailand. I googled: Hidden oasis and unknown gem – as I was determined to find a special, quiet place to relax after a long flight. I also wanted something affordable, luxurious yet with character and charm… I searched and searched and searched some more – it must exist….. I finally found it in Phranakorn Nornlen.
I arrived with minimal expectations, and I realised I’d won the jackpot in having found one of the most enchanting places that I’ve ever stayed (as an avid traveller, this is saying something).
There is one big downside of Phranakorn Nornlen, that you may never want to leave! I know I didn’t (I actually extended my first stay and made sure my return flight also passed through Bangkok so I could go back for a few days)
Every time I went into city of Bangkok, the hustling bustling busyness and masses of people got to me, so I’d run back the B&B, so I could spend more time there. Relaxing in their oasis of calm and tranquility.
It is located not too far from Kaosan road, which is a short 10 minutes walk wat – yet it’s far enough away to avoid being touristy. Everything from the divine ginger tea, mouthwatering food, hangout area and small design details are beyond words.
Downstairs is made up to be an old market, so you have antique mini stalls such as a barber shop, post office, corner store, sewing room etc. it is playful, charming and eclectic.
And don’t get me started on the room design… each room is unique and is shabby chic meets industrial fun design. I especially love, the details such as murals on the wall of books shelves and butterflies. These look like they could come to life any second. Books lamp, handmade shower curtains, bed linen, in my room I even had an antique typewriter…
While my all time favorite part of staying at Phranakorn Nornlen is that they also do creative workshops; tie-dye, stamping, sewing or cooking. They have a timetable, pricing and enough to keep you or the kids busy.
Luckily for me I was gifted a small bag for staying more than two nights – filled with a hand cream, mosquito repellent and hand fan all came to good use over the course of my stay in Thailand.
There was also a lounge are downstairs with pillows, amidst plants, swings and an antique tuk tuk. People were quietly working on their laptop enjoying a local drink or just recharging their batteries before heading back out into the city for more site-seeing.
It may cost slightly more than normal Thai B&B, however I can honestly say it is worth every penny. Phranakorn Nornlen has not forgotten it’s all in the details; from the homely service through to all it offers. It is an oasis in a city of craziness, a hidden gem, and a real treat.
If you are ever in Bangkok you know where to go and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
http://www.phranakorn-nornlen.com/ even their site is cute 🙂
