Bangkok: Big John's Backpacker Hostel Restaurant & Internet cafe (Hotel)

0.3 business
Entrance to rooms in Laneway

Address: 161/7-9 sukhumvit road soi 55 (thonglor soi 9) , Bangkok 10110, Thailand
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Lonely Planet review

  • Austin Bush
  • Lonely Planet author
The sign saying 'free vegemite with breakfast' says it all. This is the latest incarnation of a great Australian-run hostel, one of very few budget options located in downtown Sukhumvit, far from the Khao San ghetto. In contrast with its wannabe-Beverly Hills neighbourhood, Big John's has a genuine backpacker vibe.

Run by a consummate Aussie (Big John himself), it offers cheap sleeps and a friendly hostel atmosphere. Don't expect to run into much Thai culture here: the place is designed to appeal to the homesick descendants of the British Empire with Sunday roasts, 24-hour breakfasts, Aussie beers and John's now-famous pies. Major international sports events and crazy drink specials draw crowds. The dorms consist of several (good quality) single mattresses spread out around a large room; other rooms sleep one to four people. All are clean and great value, with proper comforters (doonas). There are common areas, pool tables and an internet cafe so it's a good place to meet other travellers. 'Thong Lor' (Sukhumvit Soi 55) is a trendy, expat-rich soi known for its fancy restaurants, shops and bars. It's far from the usual sightseeing spots but the Skytrain can whisk you quickly westwards to Siam.

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Atmosphere: Backpacker - Basic and Busy

Credit cards acceptedVisa, Mastercard