Claiming the rudest experience in Bangkok might sound like a long stretch, but I think the Royal Rattanakosin could give anywhere a run for its money.
Now being aware of the tough libel laws in Thailand I will qualify this. I had one lady shout and berate me while being extremely rude. Therefore this article is not about the rudest hotel, as many of the staff were nice. It is though explaining what happened and that is the rudest I have ever been treated in Bangkok.
What the Royal Rattanakosin Hotel?
The Royal Rattanakosin Hotel has seen better days. Located in the heart of Bangkok, just a stone’s throw from the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, this hotel was once a popular choice for visitors looking to immerse themselves in Thailand’s rich history. Established in the early 20th century, it originally catered to dignitaries and travelers, but over the years, its glory has faded.
Today, the hotel offers basic amenities and comfortable accommodations, but it lacks the modern touches that many travelers expect. The decor is a bit dated, and while it retains some historical significance, it’s clear that the hotel is in need of refurbishment to keep up with the competition in the bustling area.
Despite its age, the Royal Rattanakosin is still a convenient base for exploring Bangkok’s historic sites. The surrounding streets are filled with vibrant street food stalls, offering everything from spicy papaya salad to savory noodle dishes. While it may not be the luxury option it once was, the hotel’s location makes it a practical choice for budget travelers keen on experiencing Bangkok’s cultural heart.
And I have stayed here before and enjoyed it, not put off by the numerous freelancers and homeless people calling the outside home. Not least because it gave access to the Khao San Road. I was thus not expecting what happened.
Rudeness as the Royal Rattanakosin Hotel?
I will explain what happened as verbatim as I can. On check in I was told I did not have a balcony to which I replied “I booked a balcony”. The staff then decided to not only argue that I had not, but more amusingly argued that the hotel had no balconies. This is very false as I have and did on this occasion have a balcony. In fact I was once told to get off the balcony as the King was driving past.
The next argument involved a deposit, something that is so antiquated it is not true. I explained that I did not have enough cash in Thai Baht, but could use my card, or leave my passport. She grunted passport at me, to which I asked if I could give my other passport. I have two and needed one to book a train ticket the next day. At this point she was loudly saying stuff in Thai obviously about me, before agreeing to change the passport.
I was then handed a form and told “YOU SIGN” I began to read the form only to have her keep repeating even ruder “YOU SIGN”, to which I replied that not only would I like to read it, but had my balcony been fixed. Again I was screamed at as she said it had. A key was thrown at me she spoke to the bell boy and then screamed something obviously about me under her breath, but at deafening levels.
I duly turned round and asked if she had something to say to me before she again cackled and wailed as I walked away.
This was honestly the rudest I have been treated quite literally anywhere in the world. I personally feel that this gave not only the hotel a bad name, but really questions the whole land of smiles thing..
Yes it is cheap here, but there are much better hotels for the same price, as well as cheaper in the nearby area.
Were there any plus points?
Om check out the lady was nicer (a different lady) than on check in. This is not saying much though. I also had to pay 10 baht per bag to leave my bags there. Not that big a deal, but something that is usually free.
Do not let this put you off of Thailand, but come here with realistic expectations. Yes people smile, but things are not always good here.