Shin Sane Guest House

Shin Sane is an institution. It's been around since 1970. It was the first Guest house to open in Mae Salong, and it's still going strong. I stayed here the first time in the early 90's. Back in the days, there were just the wooden hostel building. They have stayed on top of the game ever since, and these days there's also a modern guest house block and some cute looking Bungalows with thatched roof. Of some pot luck, I got almost the same room as last time, above the arch over the road facing the morning market. Nostalgica. The old rooms are remarkably well looked after, very clean and upgraded with good lighting and electricity outlets, perfectly fine for budget backpackers. The common bathrooms are spacious and clean. If you need more, go for the new rooms. Staff speak English, transport information is provided (and it leaves right outside the door). The WiFi is superb. There is an outdoor sitting area and cold drinks are for sale. It's a very well run place.

Perfect budget spot if you want to explore the town on foot. The location is a major win - you've got the morning market right there, plus restaurants and a 7/11 nearby. The room is basic but clean, exactly what you'd expect for the price. Nothing fancy, just honest value for your money. A big plus is all the helpful info they provide - maps and guides about getting around town and local attractions.

The staff was very nice. The room was spacious. It even has a hair drier and extra sheet for the cold nights. Next to the market, walking distance to eating places (Yunnan noodles is amazing, and the place we see from the guesthouse is great too) and across a laundromat. We enjoyed playing table football as well. They’re the first guesthouse in Mae Salong.

I’m not going to lie, this place isn’t the same without Mr Ho (RIP to the sweetest most generous host) Mr Ho was the heart and soul of this property. The main wooden house where the rooms with shared bathrooms are located, is the house his parents built. Luckily his siblings decided to keep this economical gem open to guests and local employee, Mr Akha remains at the helm of the front desk, as he was always the face of the place. The rooms in the wooden house (with shared bathrooms) are a little more costly than recent years (around $8 a night) but the bathrooms are renovated and incredibly clean and there’s hot water. The beds are comfy and the linen is crisp and clean. Prices are going up in Thailand and in this town but the prices offered here remain reasonable for quality offered. I love this place, both the rooms located in the wooden house (Yeap the walls are thin) and the recently built cabanas. Shin Sane and the place next door, Little Home, remain my two favourite places to stay at Doi Mae Salong Nok

Shin Sane is still a favorite place to stay in Soi Mae Salong Nok. Safe, fair prices, clean and great location. Rooms with shared bathroom are basic but clean. Bath towels and linen are 5 star hotel quality crisp and clean. Shared bathrooms are large and clean. Liquid soap and shampoo are available. Prices are unfortunately going up in this region but both Shin Sane and Little Home (next door) are keeping prices reasonable esp for long term visits. Cottages are also a great deal with en suite large bathrooms and small private terrace. There’s a desk and a small unit to hang up a few clothes Mr Ahua keeps things simple and pleasant.