Review: Gonkaew Chiang Mai Guesthouse, Thailand

Last Updated on February 9, 2018 by Christine Kaaloa

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When you first step onto the grounds of Gong kaew Chiang Mai Guesthouse, you’ll think you’ve found home.  Nestled off of a quiet side street in Old Chiang Mai, just 8 minutes from the Sunday walking street and Wat Phra Singh, the guesthouse is a perfect sanctuary for budget travelers wanting a personal feel, without a loss for Thai quality, professionalism and hospitality.

Why I love Gong kaew Chiang Mai Guesthouse:

On my very first visit to Thailand, the most horrific thing happened- my DSLR camera malfunctioned and died on me! Happening two days before my 3-day trek into the mountains, I was in a panicked snit. This was my first fully planned solo trip and one I wanted to remember with photos.

The family at Gongkaew made calls, did some research and had one of the daughters drive me around to find the nearest Canon repair shop. They didn’t ask for monetary compensation. They wanted to help mend my trip.  I already knew Gong kaew had tidy rooms, a chill demeanor and many perks for my budget baht, but their sincere kindness was priceless and with that, I was sold; I’ve never looked at another place since.

What you’ll love about Gongkaew Chiang Mai Guesthouse

The family-run lodging looks more like a resort than a guesthouse.

Location convenient, the guesthouse offers spotless, air-conditioned dorms and single cabins with fresh linen. Showers have warm water (which is really all you need in the Thai heat). Well-run, the family keeps check on everything to ensure comfort, cleanliness and convenience.

The grounds also sport a lovely garden and relaxing open-air lounge area with computers, free Wi-fi and an inclusive daily continental breakfast (coffee, toast, fruits).

Bike rentals are cheap, there’s a pay washer and dryer to do your laundry and the guesthouse sports free pickups from the train station and airport.

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gongkaew front desk

Service and Staff

The staff is family run and friendly. Ask the front desk about tours and transportation and they’ll hook you up with the best and most economical services to suit your budget. So far, I’ve booked train reservations, a driver to the Maesa Elephant Camp and a van to Pai through them and in all cases, felt I got hotel concierge service at a third the actual cost! Between tranquil resort-ish grounds, location convenience, charming staff and overall price, you really won’t want to leave.

How much did I love my stay at Gongkaew Chiang Mai Guesthouse? I love it so much that I returned again and will so in the future!

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Information:

Gong kaew Chiang Mai Guesthouse
5/2 Singharath Soi 3 Tumbol Sriphoom
Muang District, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Located inside Kumuang(center of town)behind Wat Dup-Pai,Hor-Phra school on Singharath(soi 3) Road.
Guesthouse /resort
Type: Individual and dorm cabins
Cost a/o 2011: Under $10- 30/night

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