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Sukhumvit Soi 1Backpackers Hostel Reviews

220/7 Sukhumvit soi 1, Bangkok, Thailand

Reviews & Ratings Explained

86%Overall Rating

From 26 ratings
  • 82%Character
  • 81%Security
  • 90%Location
  • 95%Staff
  • 85%Atmosphere
  • 84%Cleanliness

The following reviews were submitted by customers who booked in the last 6 months.

The reviews and ratings in the rating box are based on all-time feedback and are the opinions of the customers who submitted them and do not express the opinions of Hostelworld.com. This way, you get an up to the minute opinion of just how good a hostel really is. Read our review guidelines »

We now classify our reviewers based on how well travelled they are.

  • Novice Nomad: 1-10 Reviews Added
  • Avid Traveller: 10-20 Reviews Added
  • Globetrotter : 20+ Reviews Added
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73%

Nice place with lots of information and advice for future travels posted on the walls. Good location but facilities aren't up to scratch for the price and there is very little security.

Owner Comment (Show)
Just not understanding the "lack of security" thing. 7 yrs and not one incident. CCTV Camera's on lockers and door and common room. 24 hr manned reception. I realize some people come from area's that aren't so safe in the world..and some don't. I can see it here from things like this review ( more worry than fact) and the other extreme how some people leave their Laptops/phones etc.. In the common room. Look it's like this, Your personal safety and comfort are my main criteria and we do it well. Our lockers are next to the reception and under CCTV- Please put all your gold and diamonds in one and as our track record shows best place to put them. We like a casual environment but that does not make us unsafe. It all may be new to you , but we have been doing this a long time and know how to take care. Look back on our reviews, and you will see nothing about any ones security being transgressed. As for our facilites.. What else can we add? We have as much as anyone and more than most. Free Wi-Fi, 24 hour check-in !! ( not common in most hostels here.) Free long term storage under CCTV.(a life saver to those having to carry winter gear or other bulky items that are just no fun to have to take to the beach. It's well used and is what I think is the best perk here. You're issued a towel on arrival so you don't have to pack your wet one and stink up ur bag. these two things I started on day one as in my travels they are something I always appreciated. Our maids take care of the linen ie.. you don't have to put a deposit on them, you don't have to make your bed, you don't have to bring the linen down on check-out.. NO curfew. Large Common room that promotes interaction. Free DvD's, TV sports, Music, in house bar, Pool table, darts ,Sometimes it Rocks sometimes it Rolls. We have a room that is just a library- well it holds the Buddha Bookshelf ( free books, travel guides you don't HAVE to exchange , but it's nicer if you do.It's is quiet for reading, Skyping. We have so many options for food outside our front door that you get confused for choice. under our common room is a 24 hr 7-11 shop.VERY HANDY. (btw get your Sim cards there for less than 2$ and no paperwork). translators, real Massage, the top hospital in S.E.Asia is one block. I get a lot of young travelers who have damaged themselves with moto-bikes, Injuries from Tubing, Infections from not taking care of scratches and wounds, gastro etc.. We know and make the process easy. I hope you don't need this service but if you do you will be that much happier that we are here. Onward Travel? We know all the options from cheap to faster. We tell you exactly how to directly purchase your tickets and from where. You don't know how much you can save that way till you do it. Want somewhere specific? A quite couples retreat, A party beach? somewhere off the tourist trail? Rock climbing? Jungle retreat,. i even know where a forensics museum is in Bangkok, strangely unique and something you never hear about. Elephant rides, tiger temple.. We've done them many times. From here to the grand palace and back let us tell you how to do it for less than 80 baht. The Canal (3 blocks away) something that many never see or use while in Bangkok, Cheap, fast and Visual. I could go on, But our facilities are mentioned many places on-line. A look at Google or Fb will give you a more detailed coverage. Thanks for mentioning our Info wall - more than just the answers to the most commonly asked questions, We have personal guidebooks that make things cost effective with a few inside tips to enjoy Thailand fully. And our English speaking staff easily answer your inquires. We are Soi1guesthouse, a proper hostel in Bangkok, Come look. P.S. We like to party and if you like a free beer on arrival you'd do well to look at our specials. ( in Australian terms, a free beer is like subtracting 8$ from the bed cost. Our Motto " Seize the world before it seizes you". Enjoy!

87%

Good location. David, the owner, is very budget-oriented which means that you get tens of tips and tricks how to avoid scams and travel cheaply in Bangkok. That was great. Rooms and bathrooms good as well. Only problem, in common room basically no air. Fans were not good enough.

  • Novice Nomad
  • 16 Apr 2012
  • Anonymous
  • Estonia
  • Male 25-30
  • (8 reviews)

Owner Comment (Show)
"tens of tips' lol. Just to make it clear, All our rooms have Air-con that you can control 24 hrs. We do have A/C in the common room, But knowing what I know during Songkran festival (Thai New Year 3 day 24hr water fights) and our parque floors get a bit wet, everything gets a bit wet!, so those days I let the air run trough both sides to keep it dry, But that event ( "Have to get that Event on your bucket list, Google can't even define it's madness!") is finished till next year. look, If you ever need the air-con in common room just ask, If you ever want the windows open just ask. We're pretty accommodating you're on holiday. I reckon the two things usually work out well. We can't be everything to everybody, But with our diversity we usually have what ya need < Rolling Stone song here ;>). "Sanuk"

93%

the place was great friendly staff great people staying there little messy but not dirty

  • Novice Nomad
  • 13 Apr 2012
  • Anonymous
  • USA
  • Male 31-40
  • (1 review)

Owner Comment (Show)
Pretty happy with this review, tho my maids are not, lol. You have to understand that you stayed here during the songkran water festival. Most in the hostel participated in the 3 day street water wars, We were all decked out with super soakers water guns as was the entire city of Thailand. after when we returned home Everyone was drenched which leads to a lot of dripping wet people at the hostel on the return, We had extra towels for everyone, but with 12 people walking in wet ande wanting to shower things did get a bit "messy". Thanks for your review your demographics are some of the hardest for me to please. For those reading this, The Songkran Water festival should be on your "bucket list!" WET MADNESS. SO FUN. have a google of it and look at the videos.

77%

The only thing I could say about this place is that there are no locks on the doors. I was there a week and had no problems whatsoever, but it made me very nervous as anyone could come in the room. They do have cameras and 24 hour reception but you never know! The air conditioning was a life-saver and the beds were comfortable. I recommend it to someone who wants a good night\'s sleep, and won\'t get overheated. But for security reasons, be a little cautious.

  • Novice Nomad
  • 06 Apr 2012
  • Anonymous
  • (Country undisclosed)
  • (Gender undisclosed)

Owner Comment (Show)
We are secure! No problems in 6+ yrs. just to be a bit more precise, "as anyone could come in the room". It is not true the "Anyone" can walk into your room. All our guest are registered. While it is true that other Guest could walk into your dorm, It is a rare occurrence as they have their own dorm. Sleeping in a ten bed dorm is like having even more security on hand. As the young lady stated ,"I was there a week and had no problems whatsoever". I'm sure that you will also have No problems as we are a social environment and within a short time you will have met everyone that stays here. ( Even to the point of finding great travel companion(s)- Happens regularly ). When I started this place, After extensive traveling in S.E.Asia, I knew what I had to provide. AIR CON, Real western Mattresses, Free linen incl towel. and Free long term storage. And the response I've had for providing these things has been Grateful. Here you WILL NOT wake up sweaty, then after your shower having to pack your wet towel in your bag (stinking up the bag) then since your departure time is in the afternoon you WILL NOT be charged for stowing your gear, as you might find will be the norm in other places. We are the longest running hostel in Bangkok, We know what you need to know to make your experience a full and happy one. Come join our ever growing family, You won't be displeased. Thai New Year starts tomorrow, 3 days of water madness, unimaginable if you have never seen it. Try googling "Song kran youtube" to get the smallest of Ideal. Till I see you- Enjoy your 80 yrs.... I am. soi1david

100%

11th stay at Soi 1 hostel. This should speak for itself, but really this is the perfect hostel. The location is perfect regardless of whether you want to enjoy the city, fly in/out of the airport, or go on pub crawls. The owner, Dave, is full of helpful information and has plastered every wall with incredible tips. The place is priced just right to keep out the hippies, and is just worn enough to keep out the superficial tourists. Facilities are clean and this is a great place to meet new folks

Owner Comment (Show)
lol " superficial "tourist" LOL This man knows the difference between a Tourist and a Traveler. We welcome both but will always have a admiration for the "Travelers". Travel is the most educating thing you can do in this world. I recommend you see as much as you can of it, Before there is a 7-11and Mcdonalds on every corner of this globalized world. Travel on my friend. Thanks for your review mate. You know we love ya Vin.

77%

This was our first time in Bangkok but the place seemed pretty good for the price..not in the main backpacker area but it is close to a busy street and shops and a 15 min walk from the boat which takes you right into town. The staff are friendly though and they are there 24 hours.

  • Novice Nomad
  • 31 Mar 2012
  • Anonymous
  • Canada
  • Couple 25-30
  • (2 reviews)

Owner Comment (Show)
Open 24 hrs. many flights arrive late in the night (1-2am), we are one of the very few hostels that is open 24hrs a day with a manned reception, so Late night check-in is Never a problem. Get here and we will get you "There" Doiee

77%

Nice clean hostel out of the kho-san road area. heard the owner normally puts on pub crawls but he was away on holiday. staff were helpful but the bus to siem reap was expensive, shop around to get it cheaper. Rooms dont have locks but there is 24 hr security and free lockers available

  • Globetrotter
  • 15 Mar 2012
  • Anonymous
  • England
  • (Gender undisclosed)
  • (21 reviews)


77%

A bit pricier than some other places I found but really good atmosphere. I was starting off my Thai trip here and wanted to get some good advice starting off. The staff were great and pointed me in the right direction.

  • Novice Nomad
  • 11 Mar 2012
  • Anonymous
  • Ireland
  • Male 25-30
  • (2 reviews)

Owner Comment (Show)
Glad our experience and knowledge were helpful for you, that's what we feature. READERS: Give us an ideal of what you like and we'll help by suggesting possibilities that you can choose from. with on the ground info --fastest, cheapest, how to get there etc..-We're good at it. But then again we think we're good dancers also. Come and see.

93%

Soi 1 was by far the best hostel I\'ve stayed at yet

  • Novice Nomad
  • 11 Mar 2012
  • Anonymous
  • (Country undisclosed)
  • (Gender undisclosed)

Owner Comment (Show)
Me too, and I've stayed at many already. ;) Ta.

83%

A really fun place to stay especially if travelling on your own. Easy to make friends. The staff is very helpful on giving directions and have a lot of knowledge about Bangkok and the areas surrounding the hostel.


100%

I love this hostel, fun and friendly, perfect if you are a lone traveller. Will definitely be coming back!


90%

The location is great with the walking distance to Siam MRT. The staff was friendly and the room and bathroom looked really clean. It's great value for money.

  • Avid Traveller
  • 01 Mar 2012
  • fredmanders
  • Netherlands
  • Male 25-30
  • (10 reviews)


90%

Great place to meet people and party. Go to the deals section and check the bar crawl. You won't be disappointed!


73%

Good location for embassy needs which is what we wanted. Only problem was the adjoining room had to walk through our room which ment we couldn't lock our door. Dave was a good laugh and took us out to all the good bars. Great restaurant round the corner too!

  • Novice Nomad
  • 31 Jan 2012
  • Anonymous
  • England
  • (Gender undisclosed)
  • (5 reviews)

Owner Comment (Show)
Giving a 2 for security was a bit harsh, You lost nothing here, You were never accosted or felt threatened, In fact you had a good time here with us in and out of the hostel. We are secure, 24 hr manned reception. CCTV Cameras on Entry, CCTV Cameras on Lockers and CCTV Cameras on long term storage. Lockers are so close to the 24 manned desk that my knee is touching them as I write this. 6+ yrs here and we have had no problems with safety or security

97%

Friendly and helpful staff and very clean hostel! Absolutely recommendable!!!


100%

Just enjoyed my tenth stay here since 2008. Stay here if you want to enjoy Bangkok. Fantastic location and staff, with all of Bangkok within striking distance. Run by Dave, a legend amongst SE Asian backpackers. Great pub crawls, full of information for Thailand/Laos/Cambodia, and pool table/tv/netbooks for hire. Great for single travellers, safe/storage available, and comfortable beds with A/C. You are making a mistake if you stay elsewhere. Great restaurants, food stalls, and local street bars

Owner Comment (Show)
Thanks for the review my well traveled friend. I can remember when you first came, Great group we had then, Now that I think on it, We've had a great group in at each of your appearances. Till Next time, Cheers Soi1david P.S. If you have your own Wi-Fi access- Then you have free 24 Wi-Fi. Works in all dorms. 24 hr reception. No Curfew. Random Late night street tours.rrr

100%

I was recommended this place by a friend and having just been there I would recommend it to others! The owner Dave is a legend - likely to be out partying as much as anyone half his age! The staff were kind and informative. The lockers are right in front of the reception desk. It's on a quiet street, so no disturbance when you finally want to sleep. It's close enough to some interesting areas though, and it's near to the Phloen Chit Skytrain Station. Soi One is where I'll stay upon my return! :)

  • Novice Nomad
  • 21 Jan 2012
  • Anonymous
  • England
  • Male 25-30
  • (6 reviews)

Owner Comment (Show)
I sleep when I blink... Word of mouth mate - nothing is better! Thank-you . Enjoy!

87%

This hostel is awesome if you are looking to both party and see the sights of bangkok. It is not located on the infamous Koh sahn road so is quiet enough away from the party scene but is so close to the sky train for transport. The suburb is great for shopping, eating and partying too. Dave and the staff are great and know the ins and outs of what should be done in bangkok. First time in thailand and I would definitely come back to this

  • Novice Nomad
  • 28 Dec 2011
  • Anonymous
  • Australia
  • Female 18-24
  • (1 review)

Owner Comment (Show)
Go Aussie Go! Thanks for the review lov. The longest running and 1st "Proper" Hostel in Thailand In a Top location with answers to any questions you have. ( If you ask a question we haven't answered before, Bells and whistles go off. >disclaimer = Not really). Social environment for social people. Our Motto- Seize the world before the world seizes You!

97%

The best place to stay over when backpacking in Bangkok. Dave is the owner and an excellent adviser - I promise you, you need that in Bangkok!

  • Novice Nomad
  • 27 Dec 2011
  • Anonymous
  • South Africa
  • Couple 18-24
  • (2 reviews)

Owner Comment (Show)
Excellent, You're a good sport mate. Stay here, we take care, We give options, We whisper in your ear when you might be "on the wrong path". Experienced? Yes .. We've made all the mistakes already, lol, But, as a very Brilliant man once said "It's better to have something to remember than nothing to regret..." Cheers!



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