Having decided to stay in the old city as a change on our last visit we booked at Parasol Inn based on their site, price, its central location within the old city and being within easy walking distance of some good restaurants, most of the main temples and even the main night market at the bottom of Loi Kroh Road on the Ping River. It is also right in the centre of the Sunday Walking Street Market. We stayed for seven nights and were reasonably comfortable with some pros although there were some cons as well.
We had booked an Ancient Parasol Room based on reviews on line of the normal rooms being stuffy and having no windows. The room was air-conditioned, had a queen size bed, a TV and a window that looked onto the street although the view was partially blocked by overhead wires. This is however common in Thailand. The décor was as advertised however the room and specifically the shower areas are looking a little tired and could do with some refreshment, also for instance the towels and shower mats were frayed and need replacing. We also enjoy having a night time drink or two while catching up on the news etc. and this was not feasible without lying or sitting on the bed (at right angles to the TV) as the seating provided are low stools and not chairs and very uncomfortable. We also had problems with the TV as the reception was very poor. We often ended up sitting downstairs either in the reception area or at a table on the restaurant deck to have our night caps. At least the free Wi-Fi connection was strong and the speed was adequate. There is also no lift and although not a problem for us this would be an issue for someone who has mobility issues.
On the positive side the position is great and prices are reasonable. The food at the adjacent restaurant was very good even if the free breakfast was a little limited. I can recommend any of the Thai dishes they were all very good the Khao Soi being my favourite.
The front desk was always manned by very friendly staff who were very helpful in arranging transport, tours, a rental scooter etc. The room was serviced daily.
One problem we encountered which is not a fault of Parasol Inn is we had gone out on the Sunday on the scooter and on returning that evening found all the normal routes closed for the walking street. We tried to find an alternative route but even with a Tuk Tuk drivers guidance were unable to do so and ended up parking outside the old city and walking down to the market. If you think this may happen to you get Parasol Inn to indicate a route on a map of how to get to Parasol Inn when the Sunday Market is active.
Well positioned with lots of potential and great staff, but there were some issues for us as indicated so Parasol Inn loses one star from what would have been four stars. We are not sure if we would stay here again there are possibly better options in Loi Kroh Road such as Raming Lodge we would however visit the restaurant again.