W Home Bangkok

W Home Bangkok isn't a typical hotel -- in fact, this small guesthouse feels more like a homestay and is set in a lovely traditional whitewashed teakwood house with beautifully carved banisters, polished wood floors, and several homey touches. There's not a formal lobby per se -- the front gate swings open to reveal a small garden area with tiled floors in various patterns, with a tiny pond in the middle and colorful vases spouting water. It's all shaded by large, white umbrellas. A swing seat beckons guests, and several Thai fold-out cushions are on a small deck for lounging. White metal tables and chairs serve as the breakfast nook and hangout area. Plants abound, and while there isn't a lot of space, the vibe is welcoming, relaxing, and intimate. The hotel almost exclusively draws couples, though the casual digs are great for solo travelers and friends who don't mind close quarters, especially those looking to experience a slice of true Bangkokian life. 

In terms of easy access to tourist sights, the W Home is not in the most convenient location, but it is a great spot for those who want to experience an older and more traditional side of Bangkok. The Saphan Taksin Skytrain station is about a 10-minute taxi ride away when there's no traffic, but the closest public transit is the Chao Phraya River ferry, which docks at a pier that's a 10-minute walk from the hotel. The W Home is slightly off Charoenkrung Road, Bangkok’s first thoroughfare, and it's lined with lots of old Chinese shop houses, and several inexpensive places to eat. The Asiatique Night Bazaar, full of restaurants, bars, and shops, is a 10- to 15-minute walk from the hotel as well. While the hotel is on a quiet side street, Charoenkrung Road can get backed up for miles during rush hour, making travel during these times almost impossible. Allow at least 90 minutes to get to Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang Airports by car.

W Home Bangkok's four brightly painted rooms are compact and cozy -- don't expect the same amount of space found in the high-rise hotels elsewhere in central Bangkok. Decor includes handsome hardwood furniture and more modern dark pieces, with colorful cushions and duvets in traditional Thai textiles. Three of the rooms share a bathroom. The room with the private bath costs a little more, and comes with a DVD player and electric kettle for making tea and coffee. All rooms include with flat-screen TV's with satellite channels and free Wi-Fi. Windows are behind the beds, which can make them difficult to open, and they look out on the small lane outside. Bathrooms (private and shared) are functional, clean, and large; showers have rainfall showerheads, and sets of soap and shampoo are provided.

As a tiny homestay-style hotel, there aren't a plethora of features here. Breakfast is included in the room rate, and is served in a pleasant, outdoor area. Several tables are set up on an open-air porch, which faces the garden entrance, and overhead fans cool the air. It's a great spot to linger, use the free Wi-Fi, read, and relax. There's a free computer for guests' use in the upstairs hallway. The hotel can arrange airport transfers and local sightseeing.