CHANN Bangkok Noi

Style and Character

This is a smart urban retreat, a long way from the city’s frenetic pace, built as a cluster of two-storey wooden houses connected by terraces and walkways, augmented by heavy wooden swings, black and white photography of the city and a beautiful patio with a spirit house by the water’s edge. The property has a minimalist, modern and somewhat retro touch, its elegant austerity very much aimed at adults (though families are welcome). While the rooms and suites afford a great deal of privacy, the wide downstairs patio makes for a very sociable space.

Service and Facilities

Service is great: the staff speak excellent English and are helpful with travel arrangements. In-room massages, khlong tours on long-tail boats, cooking classes and traditional Thai dance lessons can arranged. The CHANN Bangkok Noi is strictly non-smoking, both inside and outside – there’s just too much wood around.

Rooms

The rooms are a little small, perfectly square and refreshingly simple. All come with floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the modern Faculty of Medicine of Siriraj Hospital across the canal, or the local community that surrounds the property. Floors, walls and furnishings are in light, soothing brown tones. There’s a minibar, a TV with too many channels, and large beds which are as comfortable as they look. The bathrooms are small but well designed, with rain showers.

Food and Drink

The air-conditioned restaurant, with views of the canal, serves good, simple but tasty Thai food. The winged bean salad with shrimp is rather excellent. Breakfast is à la carte and includes western and Asian options including eggs served in various ways, salad and fresh bread. If the weather plays along, eating or enjoying a drink outside on the wide patio is definitely the thing to do.

Value for Money

Double rooms from 4500 Baht (£105) in low season; and from 10,000 Baht (£230) in high. Breakfast included. Free Wi-Fi.

Family-Friendly?

While the property caters mostly to grown-ups, children are welcome, and extra beds, cots and a babysitter can be arranged.

Location

CHANN is located along a quiet khlong (canal) just off the Chao Praya River opposite Thammasat University. It is well placed for visitors keen to visit Bangkok’s main historical sites, including the Royal Palace, a 15-minute taxi ride away, as well as for travellers looking for a little privacy and quiet. Saphan Taksin is the nearest sky train station, a 30-minute boat ride down river. The nearest public boat pier is a 10-minute walk away. It’s not possible to drive right up to the property as it is located in a local community of narrow alleys and wooden houses, so guests have to walk 150 metres or arrive by boat. The Royal Barge Museum is next door.