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Seeking advice and feedback regarding a hostel in Thailand

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Jenny Thompson started this discussion 6 years 3 months ago

I currently live in Canada and am considering a huge move to Thailand. I have found an opportunity there that is of great interest. I could rent out a private home right beside the hostel that is currently empty but furnished and ready, linens and towels and some other small things required. There are 20 large rooms suitable for 3 bunks in each, with a bar, 10 large private double or queen rooms and 6 two bedroom suites with kitchenettes. I am not interested in a "party" hostel although there is a bar and drinking would be permitted. I would like it to be welcoming to everyone, including families.

I am trying to figure out everything, most of all is this feasible (being successful) in Patong. Would I need a partner or could I do it alone with staff, how many staff would be required, what rates to charge? What is the best way to advertise and get the best return, what rates to charge, what booking system is the best.... I have an extensive customer service/ social services background, have worked in a motel cleaning many years ago, was an accommodations coordinator and host family for international students coming here to learn English and am so excited by this but I also overwhelmed.... Rent is $8,000. CAD/ month but negotiable and they require 3 months security but are willing to offer 2 free months rent as I get established and accept bookings. There is still some painting that owner is going to do, including the pool getting resurfaced, and that is the reason.

So much to consider....where to begin? Looking forward to chatting with some of you and learning with and from you all. Please feel free to post here or email me at jen1204ca@yahooca Cheers! Jenny

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John Moriarty

6 years

Hi Jenny,

Great to hear of a new hostel adventure.

First thing first is of course be very careful setting up in a country that is not your own. I am sure you have taken this in to account but I guess there is a lot that might not be known coming from another country in regards regulations/customs/corruption etc.

I don't really know anything about hostels in Thailand but maybe do a search for some hostels your size/style in Thailand and see if you can find workers/owners on linkedin/Hostelmanagement facebook and get in touch for more info.

It might be good to get a local partner but again this could be tricky as someone being local could take advantage of you.

I guess firstly in regards staff you want to figure out if you are going for 24hr reception.From the size you talk about I would go for 24 hour reception but it will come down to costs. Also will you live on site or not. i would recommend strongly not to as you will burn out. So if you have 24 hour staff you would prob only need one person on reception maybe from 12 to 8. Then figure out busy times during the day where maybe you could assist the receptionist for check outs bookins or make it as seamless as possible. Then you have cleaners. Work out how long each bed rooms takes to clean and by occupancy you should get an idea of hours to clean the hostel at different levels and multiply by hourly wage expected. Dont forget holiday pay and taxes to get your hourly pay out.

Just wondering was it a hostel before? If it was why did it not succeed?

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AnilD

6 years

Hi Jenny,

Please contact me at [email protected]. I already have a hostel in Thailand and running very successfully. My Hostel website is www.DwivediLuxuryHostels.com.

Thanks

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