Sitara Place Hotel Review: A Budget Retreat in the Heart of Bangkok.
Sitara Place Hotel offers a clean and comfortable stay at an affordable price. Despite being categorised as a budget-friendly three-star property, it doesn’t compromise on standards and provides great value for money. Located in an authentic Thai residential neighbourhood, it immerses guests in the local culture with countless street food stalls and inexpensive local restaurants.
First Impressions
Upon arrival, the initial impression of Sitara Place Hotel may be underwhelming, as it resembles a budget condo complex rather than a traditional hotel. However, the check-in process is easy and straightforward, with reception staff who speak English well enough to handle check-in and answer basic questions. If you arrive during the day, you may even be welcomed by the owner, Sunil, who is friendly and knowledgeable about Bangkok. The hotel has eight floors, the lower floors are mostly occupied by long-term residents, so as a tourist booking via platforms like Booking.com, you are likely to be allocated one of the higher floors with a better view of the neighbourhood.
Accommodation
The rooms at Sitara Place Hotel are surprisingly spacious compared to other hotels in the same price range. Neither modern nor dated, instead being functional and equipped with the essential facilities. Each room includes a fridge, microwave, effective and quiet air conditioning, a kitchenette, a bathroom with a hot shower, a dressing table and closet, and a dining table with chairs. Considering the price, the rooms are comfortable and exceed expectations. However, a potential drawback is that the walls are thin, and noise from neighbouring rooms can be heard easily, even normal volume conversations. The wifi is very fast and reliable making the Sitara Place a great choice for Digital Nomads.
Local Area
Situated in the Din Daeng neighborhood, a working-class area, Sitara Place Hotel offers guests a vibrant and authentic Thai experience. The neighborhood is brimming with hundreds of super cheap dining options, where you can enjoy delicious meals for as little as 40 baht. The hotel is within walking distance of several major shopping malls, including Central Rama 9, Fortune Town, Lotus Supermarket, Esplanade, and The Street. Additionally, it’s a 15-minute walk to the Rama 9 MRT station, which is only two stops away from Sukhumvit/Asok, considered the tourist center. Despite its local charm, the neighborhood is safe, and solo travelers will feel comfortable walking around even at night. It’s worth noting that several new hotels have recently emerged in the same area, such as The Neuf@Rachada and the newly opened Best Western Rachada in 2023.
Facilities and Services
While the facilities at Sitara Place Hotel are somewhat limited, there is a fitness room with two running machines, a bike, and a multipurpose weights bench. The fitness room is better suited for cardio exercises than weight training. However, for those looking for more extensive gym facilities, there are several gyms within a 20-minute walk of the hotel.
Additionally, there is a drinks and snacks fridge in the hotel where guests can purchase beers and soft drinks 24/7 at similar prices to those found in nearby shops.
During office hours, a tuk-tuk is available to transport guests to the MRT station, although the station is also within easy walking distance. For a quicker and inexpensive alternative, guests can opt for a motorbike taxi for just 20 baht.
Each floor also has a self service washing machine / dryer for 40 baht.
Overall Experience and Conclusion
In conclusion, Sitara Place Hotel is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers, whether for a short or long stay. Nightly rates are best booked through platforms like Booking.com, while for longer stays, it’s recommended to contact the hotel directly to inquire about weekly and monthly rates, both for serviced and non-serviced options.
Although the hotel has its faults, it consistently offers excellent value for money and satisfies the expectations of realistic tourists. Sitara Place Hotel attracts a wide range of guests, including retired Westerners on extended stays and young Japanese visitors for weekend getaways.
If you’re looking to explore Bangkok on a tight budget, I highly recommend considering Sitara Place Hotel for your stay.
