Opened: Dec 15, 2009

Overview: Despite the name, the only thing that relates Hotel des Artists Pai to its sister in Khao Yai is its owners. So while Khao Yai is very colonial, this is a vernacular wooden house. Not only is it cute, it’s perfectly located, right in the town center, by the river, a few steps from the walking street.

The design: This nearly one-century old wooden house was picked up and set onto an one-story high concrete extension. There are now a total of 14 rooms, with four overlooking the Pai river. Designed by the same people who did Let’s Sea in Hua Hin, the décor is a combination of Yunnan Chinese, Thai Yai and lanna touches with lots of authentic vintage furniture.

Food and Beverage: Café d’tists serves breakfast, simple dishes as well as drinks. But, hey, this a Pai, all you need is a glass of Sangsom with coke to be in heaven.

The good: The perfect location gets you the best of both worlds. While you can enjoy the lively vibes of the walking street, just a few steps inside takes you to the garden, dipping your feet into an artificial hot spring at the terrace, watching the Pai river. As the winter weather is deadly cold sometimes, we love the electric mattress available for every room.

The bad: The house on the second floor is not ideal for those who cannot do things quietly. If you’re a screamer, book on the first floor.