Accommodations around the Grand Palace can be quite pricey due to the popular tourist attraction and the proximity to the Chao Phraya River. For many, therefore, staying in this area of Bangkok is simply not an option. However, Arom d Hostel (only a 10 minute walk to the main gate of the Grand Palace) offers affordable, yet quaint accommodations with all the comforts of home.
Lobby
Having just opened in February of 2012, the paint is still fresh, the rooms and linen are clean and the decor is modern. Pocket doors divide sections of each floor and the bathrooms are not far away. Each bed is wide and comes with 2 individual reading lights as well as plenty of space for personal items. If you bring a padlock, there is a space for you to lock up your valuables.
Accommodations in the four bed (2 bunk beds) dorm costs between 650-800 Baht, depending on whether a special is running at the time of stay. It is air-conditioned and includes free wifi. In addition to the restaurant on the first floor, there is a lounge area on the 4th floor with a large flat screen TV, comfy couches and two computers, all for guests to use.
4-Bed Female Dorm
Every room comes with its own small balcony and there are also two decks off the lounge area: a large lower deck overlooking the city and an upper deck, which allows views of the rooftops in every direction, including across the river.
Lounge
The owner’s name is Kullada. She is personable with a good command of English and is originally from Bangkok, making her knowledge of the area extensive. In addition, she lived in Chiang Mai for several years so could answer questions about northern Thailand as well. She and her staff are very friendly and accommodating.
The restaurant on the ground floor is well lit with a friendly atmosphere.The vegetarian and vegan options are limited on the menu but they are eager to please so would be happy to make a meat/dairy free meal for you upon request. They have ice-cream and to my delight there were two dairy-free flavors – lychee and strawberry. Like virtually everywhere in Thailand, a 7-11 is only 2 blocks away.
Dining Room
Breakfast is served from 8-10am and is included in the price. You can chose either a breakfast set or an individual selection. The breakfast set includes fried egg/omelet/scrambled eggs, bacon/ham/sausage, coffee or tea and fruit juice. The individual selections also include French toast and egg fried rice. Vegan and vegetarian dishes can be made on request.
If you are looking for a private room Arom d Hostel also has twin and double rooms available, for a price more reasonable than its competitors nearby.