Bangkok's Hidden Gem: Praso @ Ratchada12 Hotel - Unbelievable!
Praso @ Ratchada12: Bangkok's "Unbelievable!" Hotel? Seriously? (My Honest Take)
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because I just got back from Praso @ Ratchada12 and… well, let's just say "unbelievable" is a loaded word. Is it truly unbelievable? Let's dive in, shall we? I'm not just going to list the amenities like some robot. I'm going to tell you how it felt. We're getting messy, folks. This is real.
Accessibility: (Oh boy, where do we start?)
So, accessibility. This is one of those tricky areas that can make or break a hotel. Praso says they have "facilities for disabled guests," which is a good start. The elevator is definitely a win. I didn't personally need any specific accessibility features, but I did spot some CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property, which is always reassuring for everyone. The front desk is manned 24-hours. That's good.
Pro Tip: If you do have specific accessibility needs, CALL THEM. Don't just rely on the website. Get the assurance you need before you book. Don't be shy, ask all the questions you need!
On-Site Delights (Food, Glorious Food)
Okay, food. This is where things got interesting. Praso claims a lot, they have restaurants, a Poolside bar, a Coffee Shop, and even a Snack bar. They have multiple of options from Asian breakfast to Western breakfast and international cuisine, its amazing! Now, let’s be honest, I’m a buffet kind of gal. I’m all about the variety! And Praso delivers on buffet! There's a Breakfast [buffet] and Buffet in restaurant!. It's a good thing to have! I did enjoy my Coffee/tea in restaurant in the morning. I did appreciate that they had Bottle of water and Bottle of water that were free. Room service [24-hour] is a godsend after a long day of navigating Bangkok.
My Foodie Anecdote: One evening, I ordered room service. (Because, hey, I was tired.) I ordered a salad and a soup. It arrived quicker than expected, and the presentation was actually delightful. (I'm a sucker for a nice presentation.) But the salad? It was… generous. Like, a salad for a small army. I couldn't finish it, which, for me, is rare. I'm not complaining, just observing!
Relaxation & Rejuvenation (Spaaaaa Time!)
Alright, let's talk pampering. The Swimming pool [outdoor] is stunning. Seriously. I took pics. It's long and inviting, and the Pool with view is… well, it's a view. There's also a Fitness center I think. I didn't make it, mainly because I was too busy eating and relaxing. I saw some people using the Gym/fitness, they looked happy, so that's good. They have a Sauna and a Spa. I really want to go to, Spa/sauna is what I needed. I will try it next time! I did a Foot bath and I'm not going to lie, I needed it. My feet are the most overworked part of my body. It was heavenly.
My Whirlwind Spa Story: I managed to squeeze in a massage. (Necessity, people, necessity.) The massage was divine. Seriously. I drifted. I woke up feeling like a new person. Then, while blissfully relaxed, I tried to use the Steamroom, but I was so sleepy again, that I wanted to sit and talk to the staff, they were very patient and kind. I think I took up too much of their time!
Cleanliness, Safety, and COVID-19 Protocols (Let's Address the Elephant in the Room)
This is a big one, especially post-pandemic, right? Praso appears to take this seriously. They tout Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Rooms sanitized between stays. They also have Hand sanitizer readily available and Staff trained in safety protocol. I saw Staff trained in safety protocol. They are also prepared with First aid kit.
My Take: I felt safe. They had Safe dining setup, which is a good thing. I did not see them using Professional-grade sanitizing services or Sterilizing equipment, so take that with a grain of salt. I'm not a germaphobe, but I appreciate the effort.
Dining, Drinking & Snacking (More Food!)
Okay, my favorite section. I mentioned the breakfast buffet (bless). They also have Happy hour, which is vital. The Bar is well-stocked. They also have Desserts in restaurant, which is more vital. The food, it was what you would expect when going out to eat at a hotel. It wasn't bad, it wasn't amazing. It was a good middle ground.
Services and Conveniences (The Little Extras)
Air conditioning in public area? Check. Concierge? Check. Daily housekeeping? Double-check! The Laundry service was a lifesaver, too! I also appreciated the convenience of the Car park [free of charge]. These little things can make a big difference, you know? The Elevator made getting around a breeze.
My "Convenience" Moment: I needed to send something (a postcard, a letter, some ridiculous souvenir). The Doorman and the Concierge were super helpful in getting it sorted. They definitely weren't annoyed by my request, which, again, is a win.
Rooms – The Nitty Gritty
I'm going to be straight with you, my room was nice. Not mind-blowing, but nice. There was an Air conditioning, which is essential in Bangkok. There was Free bottled water. Free Wi-Fi (in the room, praise be!). They also have Internet access – wireless, I do not know about the Internet access – LAN. The Bathtub was lovely, especially after a long day. And the Blackout curtains? Game changer. There was a Coffee/tea maker and I drank a-lot of tea. I did not see any Additional toilet or Alarm clock,
My Room Reveal:
I chose a Non-smoking room. It was a decent size, the bed was comfy (extra long!), and the Seating area was a nice touch. The Bathrobes were fluffy. (I'm a sucker for a good bathrobe.) The Shower was adequate. The Balcony was a lovely addition; I could sip my morning coffee with a good view.
Things to Do (Beyond the Hotel Walls)
Praso itself is located in a great area. If you've not visited the Shrine, I would recommend going. It's close to public transport. I did not think the Car park [on-site] that I had originally thought I was going to use, I loved the Taxi service!
For the Kids (Family Fun!)
I didn't bring any kids, but they have Babysitting service, Kids facilities, and Kids meal. Looks like a family-friendly place!
Getting Around (The Logistics)
Airport transfer available? Yes! Car park [free of charge]? Yes! Taxi service? Yes! I used all three; it was easy peasy. They also have Car power charging station!
The Verdict: Unbelievable? Maybe Not, But Definitely Good.
So, is Praso @ Ratchada12 "unbelievable?" Well, maybe that's a slight exaggeration. It's not a five-star luxury palace. It's a solid, well-maintained hotel with great amenities, friendly staff, and a fantastic location. It's clean, safe, and comfortable, and the food is decent. The massage was truly unbelievable, though!
My Honest Opinion: I'd recommend it. Would I go back? Absolutely.
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Okay, buckle up, buttercups. This isn't your sanitized, perfectly-planned travel itinerary. This is a brutally honest, gloriously messy, and probably slightly rambling account of my time at the Praso @ Ratchada12 Hotel in Bangkok. Prepare for emotional whiplash and maybe a little bit of existential dread.
BANGKOK BLUES & BEAUTIFUL CHAOS: A PRASO @ RATCHADA12 DIARY
(Pre-Trip Anxiety - AKA the "Oh God, I'm Actually Going" Phase)
- Days Before: Packing. Always a disaster. I swear, I've got more luggage than sense. Currently wrestling with the eternal question: Do I REALLY need four pairs of white sneakers? The answer, probably a resounding YES. Also, Googling "Bangkok scams" for the 700th time. Suddenly, I'm convinced the tuk-tuk driver is a mob boss in disguise.
(Day 1: Arrival & the "Aircon Apocalypse")
- Morning (Getting There is Half the Battle… Right?): Flight was… a flight. Baby screaming the entire time. My noise-canceling headphones were my best friend and my therapist. Bangkok air is already hitting me like a humid wall. That initial blast of heat? Brutal.
- Afternoon (Praso Check-In & First Impressions): Arrived at Praso @ Ratchada12. Okay, the lobby IS pretty. Modern, clean lines, that generic soothing music playing. I'd seen the pictures online, but was still hoping for something more… vibrant. The staff? Super polite, maybe too polite. Like, are they judging my sweat-soaked t-shirt? Probably. Checked into my room – actually a decent size! Score. The air conditioning kicks in, and… it's a roaring beast. Sounds like a jet engine. My first thought? "I'm never leaving this room."
- Evening (Food, Glorious Food & Initial Panic): The aircon is still a beast, but hey, I can't complain, I like it cold! I venture out, because I HAVE to eat. OMG, the food! The street food is an assault on the senses in the best possible way. Pad Thai for the win – oily, delicious, perfect. Wandering around, completely and utterly lost, fueled by sugar and adrenaline. The first real moment of panic? Lost my visa. Thankfully, it was in a pocket I forgot I had. Disaster averted!
(Day 2: The City of a Thousand Temples & A Sudden Revelation About Ice Cream)
- Morning (Temple Time & Tourist Traps): Temples! Wow, these are GORGEOUS. Wat Arun – the Temple of Dawn – is stunning. The crowds? Less stunning. I nearly lost my phone in the jostling. Found a quiet spot, sat down, and felt… a tiny bit of peace. Maybe I am going to enjoy this trip. Tried haggling for a scarf, failed miserably. My bartering skills are clearly rusty.
- Afternoon (Shopping & Street Smarts): Went to a massive mall. Overwhelming. Needed air conditioning. Found it. Felt better. Thought about buying a new white sneaker. Didn't do it. Felt proud of myself.
- Evening (Ice Cream & Sudden Joy): And then… the ice cream. I found this tiny little stall selling coconut ice cream served in a coconut shell. It was… transcendent. Suddenly, everything was amazing. Problem solved? No, but for about 30 minutes, the world was a perfect, sugary paradise. This experience may have been my favorite, I wanted to replicate it the next day.
(Day 3: A Day of Errands, Massages, and Mild Disappointment.)
- Morning (The Dreaded Errands): I just need a SIM card for my phone and a pack of those mosquito coils. How hard could this be? Turns out, VERY hard. Navigating the local markets, trying to speak a few words of Thai, getting increasingly frustrated with my terrible sense of direction.
- Afternoon (Thai Massage & Muscle Knots): Okay, the massage. I was expecting blissful relaxation. What I got was a full-body workout followed by something that felt as though someone was trying to untie my knots with a garden hose. It was effective? Yeah. Enjoyable? Debatable. I was left feeling tender but good.
- Evening (Dinner, Disappointment & The Aircon Returns): Found a highly-rated restaurant. The food? Mediocre. The service? Slow. The ambiance? Non-existent. I think I even let out an audible sigh when my pad thai came. In my room, the aircon is on full blast, still a monster.
(Day 4: Farewell, Bangkok (and the Mosquitoes))
- Morning (Last Bites & Bitter-Sweet Departure): Had a final breakfast of mango sticky rice at a local eatery. It was glorious. Sat and watched the city wake up, feeling a pang of sadness. I'm leaving!
- Afternoon (Packing, Again, & Reflection): Packing is the worst part. This time, I had more than before. My white sneakers? At least 7 pairs. The memories of Bangkok? Priceless.
- Evening (Airport & the Unexpected): Getting to the airport was an adventure in itself. Traffic, confusion, a near-miss with a rogue motorbike… classic Bangkok. Looking back? It wasn't perfect. It was messy, exhausting, and sometimes completely overwhelming. And yet… I'm already planning my return.
Final Thoughts on Praso @ Ratchada12:
- The Good: Clean rooms. Decent location (once you figure out the MRT). Friendly staff, though sometimes a bit robotic. That aircon, it’s a life saver.
- The Bad: The aircon. Seriously, it could wake the dead.
- The Ugly: My inability to barter. And the occasional mosquito. Not the fault of the hotel, but still…
Overall Verdict: Bangkok is a chaotic, beautiful, often frustrating, and utterly unforgettable experience. And Praso @ Ratchada12? A good place to crash while you're navigating it. I'm going to need another vacation to recover from this one. Probably to a place with no air conditioner! Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to collapse on my bed.
7 Days in Auto Heaven: Jingjiang's Fuhai New World Terminal!
Praso @ Ratchada12: The Unbelievable Truth (And Slightly Messy Reality)
Okay, so you've heard the hype. Praso @ Ratchada12? "Unbelievable!" they say. Well, buckle up, because I'm about to tell you the *real* story, warts and all. Prepare for honesty, opinions, and maybe a few tangents. Don't say I didn't warn you.
Is Praso REALLY as amazing as everyone claims? My Instagram is demanding answers!
Alright, alright, settle down, Insta-stalkers! "Amazing" is subjective, right? Let's just say... it's more nuanced than a filtered sunset. The LOCATION? Bang on! Right near the MRT (Subway) - perfect for me because I'm a total navigation klutz in Bangkok. I mean, I once spent an hour trying to hail a Tuk-Tuk *facing the wrong direction*. True story. So, being train-adjacent was a HUGE win. No more taxi-induced meltdowns! But 'amazing'? Hmmm... Let's dive in.
What's the deal with the rooms? Photos look, uh, *immaculate*.
Okay, the rooms. They *are* cute. Think minimalist chic, think "I could totally live here... if I was organized." (Spoiler: I'm not.) I booked a "Deluxe Room" (fancy, right?). The bed? Heavenly. Seriously, I sunk in like I'd reached nirvana after a week of dodging motos. The shower? Excellent pressure, crucial for a Bangkok heatwave. Now, the "imperfection"... that glorious, sunshine-soaked window let in a BIT too much sunshine. I'm talking *wake-up-at-dawn* level brightness. Bring an eye mask, trust me. And maybe earplugs. The street noise can be... spirited.
Food! Tell me about the food! Breakfast, lunch, snacks... I need the details!
Breakfast: Included. Hooray! The usual suspects: toast, eggs (cooked to order!), some sad-looking fruit, and coffee that, let's be honest, tasted like lukewarm brown water. HOWEVER! The little Thai dishes they offered? AMAZING! Seriously, I went back for seconds *every* morning. Tiny bowls of fragrant rice porridge, spicy curries with perfectly cooked vegetables, and the sweetest mango sticky rice. That mango sticky rice alone justifies the entire stay, okay? Lunch and snacks? Explore! Ratchada is a food paradise. Street food abounds - try everything! Just... maybe bring some Pepto-Bismol, just in case. Lesson learned the hard way, let's just say. And, seriously, the mango sticky rice.
Is the staff friendly? I'm a nervous traveller and need hand-holding.
Okay, the staff. They *try*. Generally, yes, friendly. But "hand-holding"? Depends. English proficiency varies. Expect some cheerful smiles and a lot of pointing. Sometimes you'll wish you'd brushed up on your Thai, other times you will feel like a royal guest, it really varies. One time I (accidentally) ordered a whole fried fish for breakfast. Miscommunication is part of the charm, I'd say! A HUGE plus; they have a 24-hour reception. Once, I woke up at 3 am convinced I was dying, and they got me a taxi to a hospital (turns out it was just bad Pad Thai. Sorry, Praso!). They were angels, truly. But the fish... still haunts my dreams. Mostly in the best way.
What's near the hotel? Can I walk anywhere?
Walkable? Well... kinda. You're close to the MRT, which is gold. You can EASILY hop on the train and go anywhere. Walkability within the immediate vicinity is... less exciting. There are small shops, massage places (thank GOD), and a few restaurants. But, let's be real, Bangkok is not a walking city. The heat! The traffic! Just embrace the cheap taxis and the incredibly efficient public transit. Trust me. You'll thank me later.
Would you stay there again? Be honest!
Okay, this is the big one. Would I? Hmm. Yes. With caveats. The location is killer. The rooms are pleasant. The staff, generally, were helpful. The breakfast, particularly that mango sticky rice, was transcendent. But... There's a certain... "rustic" vibe, let's call it, that may not appeal to everyone. The noise, the slightly uneven service... But honestly? For the price? Absolutely. I'd stay again. I'd just pack a sleep mask, earplugs, a phrasebook, and a healthy dose of adventure. And maybe, just maybe, another trip for that mango sticky rice. I am still craving it.
Okay, the one thing that truly stuck in your craw?
This is where it gets personal. The elevator. Or, more accurately, the *lack* of an elevator in part of the hotel. My room was only on the third floor. But when I arrived, I discovered a very... winding staircase which I had to haul my giant suitcase up. No offer of help. None. Now, I am not the fittest person, not by a long shot. After a solid minute of struggling with my 20kg beast, I was soaked in sweat, panting like an asthmatic bulldog, and pretty close to tears. I'm pretty certain I saw a cleaning lady trying (and failing miserably) to stifle a giggle. I almost refused to go up. I seriously considered sleeping in the lobby on the sofa (which, incidentally, looked surprisingly comfortable). Seriously, PRASO! ELEVATORS! Or at least a porter! Or ANYTHING!. It's a good hotel, but that staircase? I still have nightmares. Let me just say, if you have mobility issues, or a suitcase that weighs more than a small child, request a room on the ground floor.
Final Verdict: Is Praso @ Ratchada12 "Unbelievable?"
"Unbelievable"? Not in the sense of, "This is the most perfect place on Earth!" But unbelievable in the sense of, "Wow, for the price, and the convenience, and the *mango sticky rice* this really worked out!" It's a solid choice. A GOOD choice. Just go in with realistic expectations, a sense of humor, and a willingness to embrace the beautiful mess that is Bangkok. And maybe, bring your own fish. Just kidding. (Mostly.)
