The Yard Hostel

The meaning of The Yard Hostel's name is two-fold; its main feature is its garden courtyard, but in Thai, "yard" means "relative," defining the familial vibe that's created here. All the rooms, built into re-purposed cargo containers stacked on top of each other, are named after family members (like daughter) with some in English, and some in Thai. Evening activities like movie night and live music add to the warm communal atmosphere, which caters squarely to the young backpacker crowd (mostly western guests, but some Asian travelers, too). Most have already experienced the tourist action around Khaosan Road, and are looking to mingle more with locals.

The Yard Hostel is tucked away on a dead-end side street, sheltered from most of the traffic and noise in the trendy Ari neighborhood. It's far from popular shopping and dining areas like Khaosan Road or Silom, but guests have access to some great street food and local flavor, plus Sanam Pao Skytrain station is a short ten-minute walk away. The area is quiet at night, so it's not the best choice for those looking to experience wild Bangkok, but there are plenty of eateries and local bars within walking distance. The Chatuchak Weekend Market is just under 20 minutes away by skytrain, and it takes just over 30 minutes to reach the happening Silom area and notorious Patpong Night Market. Expect 45- to 50-minute rides to reach Suvarnabhumi Airport, or more than an hour to reach Don Mueang Airport.

Decor in dorms and guest rooms is basic, but spaces are tidy and streamline. There are mixed four- and six-person dorms, a female-only dorms that sleep up to six, and private family rooms that accommodate four guests. Most units occupy converted cargo containers, and a few are located in the main building. The dorms tend to be cramped with metal bunks and have simple decor, with attractive wood floors and doors with keycard access. White walls have wooden pegs for hanging clothing, and each bunk has a private locker, and a reading light. Colorful, checkered curtains are a homey touch. Some open to secluded patios or balconies overlooking the garden, and all units have free Wi-Fi. Private rooms add flat-screen TVs and contain a mix of double, queen, or king beds. Private rooms in the main building are spacious, with seating areas and desks with chairs. Some have have balconies, and one has a large private terrace. Most communal bathrooms have shower stalls, and some private bathrooms have walk-in showers. The hostel is generally quiet, although some past guests have noted noise from construction at surrounding properties. 

The Yard Hostel's central feature is its garden courtyard, where a jumble of tables and chairs fill a dirt patio surrounded by a grassy yard and tropical plants. There's a little open-air bar under an awning that serves beer and cocktails, with hammocks in shady spots across the lawn, and a barbecue. Inside, a sunny communal lounge occupies a narrow space with a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows, and a flat-screen TV mounted on a wall with video game consoles. There are games and books scattered on shelves, and around the corner there's a kitchenette with a microwave, refrigerator, and cabinets stocked with dishes. Freebies include a continental breakfast and Wi-Fi throughout, and bike rentals are available for a fee.