Sharing this gem of a find even tho the host probably doesn’t need it;)
I guess it’s a no brainer to book an Airbnb accomodation based on the reviews. However I wanted a quiet nice place that is far from the maddening crowd yet easily accessible. Plus I was going to be staying for more than a week hence the price has got to be very budget friendly. (also since the savings could well be channelled for that essential Shopping!;) My search led me to Oom’s place at Phahonyothin and I was almost immediately sold by all that is being said about it. Yet, it turned out to be even better!
Getting there
If you arrive at Don Meuang Airport, getting to the property is a breeze as it’s less than 20min by the A1 Airport shuttle bus. The host gives specific directions which you just need to follow.
The Apartment
After settling my local datacard at a Central Plaza, I finally arrived at the apartment block to pick up the keys at around 8pm. Being a proud homeowner myself, cleanliness is my no. 1 concern and I was so pleased to step in to a spacious, squeaky clean environment.
The apartment is nestled at one end along the busy street of Phahon Yothin. Hence it has all the convenience from the shops along the street yet away from the noise. The property itself has all the amenities you need and is guarded round the clock. There is a minimart right downstairs mend by a friendly and helpful storeowner. There is an eatery right next block as well as laundromat, however, I never need to use it as there is washing machine in the apartment.
The neighborhood is quiet, and I had the best quality sleep I haven’t had in a long while. As this was part work trip, I needed good, fast reliable internet, and had no problems at all. When there was a slight disruption, the host was quick to resolve it for me. She is always available online as claimed!
Getting Around
The nearest MRT Station – Phahonyothin, is just a 15min walk away. This can take a toll if you are staying longer however, it is only 1 station from Chatuchak MRT station where you are then connected to the BTS and pretty much everywhere else along the entire train network.
The Neighbourhood
As an airbnb stay is really for you to experience the local way of life, the neighborhood is important and it’s easy to love the neighborhood of Phahon Yothin. There are 3 shopping malls that are literally within minutes walking distance from each other and provides everything and anything you need really.
- Central Plaza Lat Phrao : This shopping mall consists of hundreds of brand name retail shops, banks, restaurants, movie theaters, and supermarket. Much like our Bugis. It is also a popular meeting point for students, office workers, and local residents in the area. It is linked by a subway to the MRT station exit 4 and connected to the other big mall, Union Mall, by a linkbridge.
Tip #1: Adjorn to the Central Plaza is a small side mall packed full of small units of shops selling beauty and fashion products at cheap price. Much like Far East Plaza. - Tip #2: The street right outside the Plaza comes alive with the a nite market and many stalls selling anything from snacks, street food, fashion to mobile accessories and electronics.
- Union Mall : The largest fashion shopping mall in the area, offering hundreds shops of wearing apparel and fashion accessories. Prices here are actually cheaper than Pathumwan market. Union Mall is also connected to the MRT station.
- Tesco Lotus Supercenter : Yes, the Malaysian Superstore is located right here in Phahon Yothin, Bangkok. You can find the usual wide range of daily use items at cheap price on level 2. Level 1 consists of mainly Food outlets and restaurants like Fuji Japanese Restaurant and Seefah and Mr D.I.Y, a home fixture and household goods store occupies the entire level 3.
In addition, there are other small eateries and coffeshops around the neighbourhood. There is a nice little restaurant right next to the 7-11 store located just outside the Condo along Phahon Yothin street, Juniors, if I remember correctly, that serves authentic local dishes, very ‘homemade’ taste and at local price ie. yes you can get authentic, yummy Somtam and pineapple fried rice served with side dishes at less than $5!!
Hence, within the neighbourhood itself, you’d be spoilt for food choices! Head on to the other section to see #whati8inBkk and the recommended outlets and food I had in this neighborhood.
On days when I don’t feel like getting out in the scotching weather, or just want to sleep in, I can even prep my own simple brekkie. Check out my instagram for more.
Take a dip in the inviting pool? Anytime!
Overall, it has been a great experience staying at Oom’s place. Truly a home away from home and I highly recommend it to business travellers, family or anyone staying for a week or more.
Tip #3: Local data/Sim Card
Do not get it at the Airport. It will cost you at least 20-30% more. There are basically three providers. I highly recommend AIS, truly value for money.
Cesebon 