Baan Orapin Heritage B&B

A peaceful base for sightseeing, tucked into lush gardens on the banks of the Ping, amid the old-world charm of the Charoenrat/Wat Ket area

A characterful, well-kept guesthouse – actually a collection of bungalows around a restful, landscaped tropical garden – Baan Orapin takes its name from the 90-year-old teakwood family home at its centre. The owners still live here, without the benefit of air conditioning, but have striven to offer their guests comfort at a reasonable price. All the amenities are in place, floors are teak or hardwood, furniture is handcrafted, and if the surfaces aren’t always finished to the highest of standards, this is compensated doubly by the attentive service and care which manager Khun Opas takes to make you feel welcome. You can ask him anything, and he will provide the answer, map at the ready.

The location is another draw, a historic street along the sleepy Ping River that has been carefully restored not by edict, but by the affection of the residents. Lovely arts and craft shops abound, and you're within easy striking distance of the Night Bazaar, Wat Ket temple, riverside bars and cruises. The city centre is a short tuk-tuk ride away; the old building at the top of the road is probably the city’s most interesting student-y art showcase. And the hotel's peaceful garden will be welcome respite after a hill-tribe trek.

Highs

• Good value; each room has an outdoor sitting area
• Friendly, helpful knowledgeable owners who speak excellent English. There are few questions about the city they can't answer
• Handy location: out of the worst tourist crush but within tuk-tuk reach of all the sights
• A pleasant small (5x10m) pool (open 10am-7pm) to soothe tired limbs

Lows

• Some of the finishings are a little worn
• No restaurant or food service other than breakfast
• Being near the bars means there can be a colourful cross-section of guests
• The computer in the lounge is rather ancient and thus slow - but free as is the WiFi throughout the property