Bangkok's BEST Kept Secret? Centre Point Plus Hotel Pratunam!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to spill the REAL tea on Bangkok's "BEST Kept Secret," the Centre Point Plus Hotel Pratunam. Forget the glossy brochures, I'm here to give you the unvarnished truth, the good, the bad, and the gloriously messy. And trust me, it's a lot more interesting than another perfectly posed sunset photo.
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First Impressions (and the Arrival Chaos)
Okay, let's be real. Landing in Bangkok is like being thrown into a washing machine full of delicious smells and overwhelming chaos. The airport transfer (yes, they offer it, blessedly) was smooth enough, but the second you step out of that air-conditioned bubble… whew! Humidity hits you like a warm, sticky hug. Finding the hotel amidst the Pratunam market madness was a bit of an adventure. (Pro Tip: Download a map before you arrive. Your phone will thank you.)
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag, but Mostly Good!
This is where things get interesting. Centre Point Plus claims to be accessible. And, for the most part, they deliver. The elevators were a lifesaver, especially after battling those insane markets. The public areas seemed okay for wheelchairs although I didn't personally use one there. The rooms available are big, and I'd imagine a wheelchair could navigate most of them. However, I didn’t see any ramps around the pool area. This really needs to be fixed. It needs more than just elevators to truly claim a well-rounded accessibility profile.
The Rooms: Your Personal Sanctuary (Maybe with a Few Quirks)
Alright, the rooms. Spacious? Absolutely. Clean? Generally. Comfortable? Yes, and you can't beat the giant bed. But here's where the "warts and all" part comes in. I had a room on a high floor – which was fabulous for quiet, views and it had blackout curtains. Yay!! – but the air conditioning unit sounded like a jet engine taking off. It only got slightly better when I asked to have it looked into. (And by slightly, I mean, it went from "jet engine" to "mild airplane engine.") That said, the free Wi-Fi was blazing fast, streaming some movies was a godsend after a sweaty day exploring. Free bottled water? Always a win. Those little touches make a difference, people. Oh, and the bathroom? Clean, large, and had a bathtub. That's a win in my book.
I should mention something: The housekeeping staff were AMAZING. They’re quick, thorough, and always made sure I had fresh towels and everything I needed.
Amenities: So Much To Do, So Little Time (and I was lazy!)
- Pool with View (the highlight!): Okay, I'm going to gush. The rooftop pool is gorgeous. Seriously, swim with a view of the glittering Bangkok skyline? Yes, please! It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of haggling in the markets. Plus there's a poolside bar where to get a drink. It’s very close for the pool staff. I could watch the sunset from the swimming pool! Utter bliss. I went there every single day, sometimes twice.
- Fitness Center: I have to be honest, I gave the gym a miss. After all the street food? Let's just say my "fitness" was mostly limited to the walk to the pool.
- Spa/Sauna: I did NOT go to the spa. I was a bad reviewer. I regret this. It's on the list for next time!
- Restaurants: Here's the deal: The hotel has several restaurants. The international cuisine in the restaurant was pretty good, especially the breakfast buffet. Asian breakfast, Western breakfast, all the options. I'm not a buffet person, so I appreciated the a la carte option, and the coffee was decent. The coffee shop was perfect for people-watching and a quick bite.
- Dining and Drinking: Drinks at the poolside bar, a la carte menu with some familiar Asian and Western favorites, and oh my, the desserts! My diet took a holiday in Bangkok.
- Things To Do: Well, I spent my days exploring! The markets (Pratunam Market is right there!), the temples, the floating markets (a taxi ride away), the street food – Bangkok is a sensory overload in the best way.
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Safe and Sound (Mostly)
Okay, COVID times and all that. Centre Point takes it seriously. They had the standard stuff: hand sanitizer everywhere, staff masked up, and seemed to be cleaning everything constantly. They’re also on top of the hygiene certification. I loved that they even offered room sanitization opt-out available. I felt pretty safe there. The fire extinguishers and smoke detectors were nice to see.
Dining and Drinking - The Good, The Meh, and the Street Food Delights
- Breakfast Buffet: Oh, the buffet. Everything you could possibly want. The usual suspects. I wasn’t a huge fan of the coffee (but hey, it's a buffet!).
- Room Service: Yes, they have it. 24-hour room service. The ultimate indulgence, really. Especially after a long day.
- Poolside Bar: Yes! This is the best! Happy Hour. Cocktails with a view. Perfect.
Services and Conveniences: Covered, pretty much!
Concierge? On hand. Laundry service? Check. Currency exchange? Yep. Daily housekeeping? They’re relentless (and good!). The elevators were essential. There's everything you need but not exactly the most personable or friendly place I've ever stayed in.
For The Kids (I didn't have any!):
They have a babysitting service. They are family/child friendly, and they have a kids menu. I saw some families there, seemingly enjoying themselves.
Getting Around: A Taxi, a TukTuk, or a BTS
- Airport Transfer: Definitely use the airport transfer! It's easier.
- Taxi Service: Readily available.
- Car Park: Car park [free of charge] are available here.
The Verdict: Is Centre Point Plus Pratunam Really a "Best Kept Secret"?
Honestly? It's good. It's a solid choice, especially if you're looking for a comfortable base in a central location. It's not perfect (that damn jet engine!), but it's comfortable, clean, and offers a good balance of amenities and value. It's not the sexiest hotel in Bangkok, but, well, sometimes, the best kept secrets are the ones that are just good.
My Recommendation (for YOU):
Book it! If you need a comfortable hotel that is easy to get you around Bangkok. If you want a room safe for a family with children, or you desire a beautiful swimming pool. Centre Point Plus Pratunam has got you. You won't be disappointed.
Final Touches and Emotional Reactions (because, why not?):
- What I loved: The pool. The location. The super comfy bed. The breakfast.
- What I could live without: The jet engine AC and even though the staff were efficient, but not exactly warm.
- Would I go back?: Yep. Absolutely.
- My Score: 8/10. Solid!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because we're not just planning a trip, we're living it. This isn't some perfectly curated Instagram feed. This is your inside look at me, probably sweating its way through the Bangkok heat, navigating the glorious chaos, and occasionally crying into a plate of Pad Thai (because, let's be honest, travel can be both amazing and utterly overwhelming). We're staying at the Centre Point Plus Hotel Pratunam, by the way. Don’t judge me, it’s what the budget allowed!
Bangkok Boogie: A Pratunam Pilgrimage (and Possible Meltdown)
Day 1: Arrival - A Symphony of Stink and Smiles (and the Jet Lag God)
- Morning (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM): Arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Oh dear god, the humidity! I literally stepped off the plane and felt like I’d walked into a giant, warm, fragrant (and slightly pungent) hug. Actually, maybe the hug was from the jet lag. Everything moved in slow motion. Managed to (mostly) navigate customs and found the official taxi kiosk. First win!
- Morning (8:00 AM – 9:00 AM): The taxi ride to the hotel. This is where the chaos truly begins. Traffic in Bangkok, people. Traffic. We're talking a symphony of horns, scooters weaving through like angry bees, and a general disregard for lane markings. I spent most of the ride in a mild state of panic/fascination. The driver kept smiling at me – either because he was amused by my wide eyes or because he was trying to subtly signal he was lost. Either way, it’s an experience.
- Morning (9:00 AM – 10:00 AM): Check-in at Centre Point Plus. Smooth process, thankfully. The lobby is thankfully super air-conditioned! Room is decent, nothing fancy, but clean. Praise the heavens for air conditioning! Collapse on the bed. Seriously, I’m pretty sure I could sleep for a week.
- Mid-day (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Attempt to eat something. Ugh, the food court at the hotel. I wanted to be adventurous. I really did. But the smells… they were intense. And not always in a good way. Settled for a chicken and rice dish that tasted suspiciously like… chicken and rice. Regret. (But hey, sustenance is sustenance).
- Afternoon (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM): First tentative steps into Pratunam Market. Oh. My. God. It’s a sensory overload. Stalls overflowing with clothes, shoes (mostly knock-offs, let's be real), bags, trinkets… EVERYTHING. The air is thick with the scent of fried food, sweat, and… something else I can't quite identify (maybe fish sauce?). I get completely lost within 5 minutes. Buy a ridiculously cheap pair of sunglasses that immediately break. I’m pretty sure I was just swindled. I love it!
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM): Recover from the market at the hotel pool. Oh, the pool. Lifesaver! The sun is blazing, but at least there's a cool breeze. Stare vacantly at the city skyline, trying to remember if I’ve packed sunscreen.
- Evening (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM): Dinner. I decide to be brave and venture out of the hotel. Found a little street food stall. Ordered Pad Thai from a lady who probably hasn't slept in a week. It was amazing. Absolutely, unequivocally amazing. I almost hugged her. The food and the culture around is what Bangkok is about. You have to try it!
- Evening (8:00 PM – 9:00 PM): Attempt to stay awake long enough to see the sunset. Fail miserably. Crash into bed, fully clothed, and dream of… well, probably Pad Thai.
- Late Night (9:00 PM-Whenever): Wakes up due to jet lag. Can't sleep. Gets on the internet. Researches things to do tomorrow. Feels overwhelmed. Considers ordering room service. Decides against it. (I'm on a budget!) Watches a Thai soap opera (with no idea what's going on) until exhaustion finally kicks in.
Day 2: Temples, Tuks-Tuks, and the Art of Negotiating (Or, My Attempt at Bargaining Like a Boss)
- Morning (8:00 AM – 9:00 AM): Wake up, feeling slightly less like a zombie. Breakfast at the hotel (it’s included!). I take some of the rice soup and the toast.
- Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Visit Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn). Ah, the beauty! The scale! The intricate tile work! I spend far too long taking photos. The boat ride across the Chao Phraya River is a nice break from the craziness. Briefly consider becoming a monk but realize that the constant heat and humidity will be the end of me. I end up buying an iced coffee, too much caffeine for my jet lagged body, and stumble back to my boat.
- Mid-day (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM): Lunch. Try to eat something different. Fail again. More street food, I should probably try to be adventurous. Found a small place with a bunch of locals. Sign language my way through ordering a noodle soup. Success! It's delicious and affordable.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Now, the Tuk-Tuk experience. Here’s where things get… interesting. I wave one down, negotiate a ridiculously low price to go to the Grand Palace. He tells me I need to visit this custom made jewellery shop first. This is clearly a scam. But, okay, sure. Let’s go. He zooms me through the city. The wind whips through my hair. The traffic is insane. I’m slightly terrified, slightly exhilarated. When we get to the shop I politely decline his offer.
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM): Grand Palace. The crowds are HUGE. It's magnificent; gold everywhere. I get distracted by the fact people are walking around in shorts and tank tops. (I should have packed better!). I buy a ridiculously large bottle of water and a fan.
- Evening (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM): Dinner. Find a rooftop restaurant (after much trekking). It's a bit pricey, but the view is spectacular. Watch the sunset over the city. Feel a moment of pure, unadulterated bliss.
- Evening (8:00 PM – 10:00 PM): Attempt to buy something in the night market. Try my hand at bargaining for a souvenir. Fail miserably. Realize I am incapable of negotiating. Spend twice what I should have on a cheap tee shirt.
- Late Night (10:00 PM Onward): Back to the hotel pool for a midnight swim. The city lights twinkle around me. Bliss. Then someone blasts loud music. Then I go back to my room. I watch a Thai soap opera and drift off to sleep.
Day 3: Shopping, Spas, and Saying Farewell… (with a Heavy Heart?)
- Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Shopping at MBK Center. This place is giant! It's a labyrinth. I get lost… again! Buy more souvenirs, a new phone case, and a pair of shoes that will probably fall apart in a week. Shopping is exhausting!
- Mid-day (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM): Lunch at a mall food court. Comfort food overload.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Massage! Found a little spa near the hotel. A traditional Thai massage. Oh. My. God. Pure heaven. My muscles are putty. I feel like a new person. (Well, except for the slight lingering feeling of being beaten with a rubber hose, but hey, it’s worth it!).
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM): Last-minute souvenir shopping. More negotiating failures.
- Evening (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM): Farewell dinner. Trying a fancy restaurant. The food is delicious. I enjoy my last moments in Bangkok.
- Evening (8:00 PM – 9:00 PM): Pack. Realize that I have accumulated a LOT of stuff.
- Late Night (9:00 PM Onward): A last walk around Pratunam. Soak it all in. The people, the smells, the sounds… the sheer, glorious chaos. Feel a pang of sadness that I'm leaving.
- Final Thoughts: Wake up early. Take a taxi to the airport. Get on the plane. Say goodbye to Bangkok. I will be back!
This itinerary is a suggestion, really. Don'
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Centre Point Plus Hotel Pratunam: Bangkok's (Almost) Best-Kept Secret? Let's Spill the Tea!
So, what's *actually* the deal with Centre Point Plus Pratunam? Is it really all sunshine and roses?
Alright, alright, let's be real. Centre Point Plus in Pratunam, Bangkok? It's… well, it's complicated. The online hype is WILD, like everyone's whispering, "Oh my god, don't tell *anyone* about this place!" And I get it. On paper, it *sounds* incredible. Pool, location, shopping paradise at your fingertips... But, and this is a BIG but, it’s not perfect. It’s got its quirks, like a grumpy cat and a sugar rush had a baby in the heart of Bangkok.
First, the location is GOLD. Seriously. Pratunam Market? BAM. RIGHT THERE. You can literally stumble out of the hotel into a shopping frenzy. I'm talking knock-off designer bags, mountains of t-shirts, enough fake Ray-Bans to blind a small army... It’s overwhelming, in the best possible way. I remember my first time, barely able to keep my eyes open from jet lag, and *bam* – I was bargaining for a silk scarf at 7 AM. Pure madness. Amazing, but madness.
But the “plus” they put in the name? More like “pluses and minuses,” am I right? The pool? Lovely. But sometimes… a little crowded with kids with *serious* splash-zone ambitions. Also, the breakfast buffet? It exists. Let’s just say it's not a gourmet experience, *per se*. I once saw a pigeon trying to sneak a croissant. I feel like that sums it up.
Okay, location is key. But how's the room situation? Are we talking palatial suites, or… slightly dingy shoeboxes? Spill!
The rooms... Oh, the rooms! They’re... a mixed bag. I've stayed in a couple. One time, a really nice one with a fantastic view, overlooking the bustling market below. Felt like I was a secret agent observing the chaos (minus the cool gadgets, sadly). It was spacious, clean, and surprisingly quiet considering its proximity to EVERYTHING. I loved it! Seriously, I wanted to stay there forever. I even considered redecorating… in my *head*, because, you know, not *my* room.
Then there was another time… a slightly smaller room. No view, but okayish. The aircon sounded like a dying vacuum cleaner. I swear, I needed earplugs, and I’m usually not a sensitive sleeper. The carpet? Let’s just say it had seen better days. It felt like it had absorbed the history of a thousand Pratunam shopping trips. And the lighting? Dim. So dim, I could barely see to brush my teeth. (Okay, maybe I'm being dramatic, but still...). So, yeah, quality control is… inconsistent. But for the location, I'd probably deal with it again.
Pro-tip: Definitely try to request a higher-floor room. Trust me.
Is the staff friendly? Because a grumpy hotel staff can kill the whole vibe.
Okay, THIS is a big one. And the answer is... it varies. Some staff members are total sweethearts. Like, genuinely helpful, always smiling, ready to offer advice about the best places to eat (and, believe me, that’s crucial). They are absolute gems and I want to adopt them all. They even gave me a free bottle of water once when I looked particularly frazzled after shopping – bless them.
Others… well, let’s just say the level of friendliness fluctuates. Some seemed a bit… preoccupied. Like they were dealing with some serious hotel-related drama that I wasn't privy to. Not *rude*, exactly, but not exactly effusive either. I’ve noticed this in many hotels, the staff working in very busy hotel can be tired! Don’t hold it against them, it's a tough game. And after all, Bangkok is a busy city! But generally, I found them to be *okay*. Not amazing, not awful. Average-ish, which isn’t terrible, I guess.
The dreaded breakfast buffet. Tell me the TRUTH. Is it worth it?
The breakfast buffet. Ugh. This is where things get… messy. Honestly? If you're expecting a Michelin-star dining experience, lower those expectations, *fast*. Think… functional. Think… a solid base to get you going before you hit the shopping streets. There's an egg station (sometimes with a long queue), some toast, some fruit (varying degrees of fresh), some… well, let's just say "international" options.
The coffee? Weak. Very, very weak. I needed like, five cups to feel remotely human. The juice? Probably from concentrate. And those pastries? Well, let’s just say they weren't exactly Parisian patisserie quality. But, and this is important, IT’S THERE. You won't starve. And listen, after a night of spicy Thai food and maybe a few Singhas, you’ll probably shovel anything into your mouth. So, is it *worth* it? Probably, for convenience. Is it *delicious*? Debatable. I'd give it a solid 5/10. Bring your own coffee.
Okay, so the good, the bad… overall, is it worth the hype? Would you go back?
Alright, the verdict. The big question. Would I go back? Yup. Despite the slightly dodgy aircon, the hit-or-miss staff, and the mediocre breakfast, I would. Why? Because the location is unbeatable. You are *literally* in the heart of the action. You can shop till you drop, eat incredible street food, and explore the city from a super convenient base. And honestly, the price is usually pretty good for what you get.
It’s not a luxury hotel. It’s not the Ritz. It’s Centre Point Plus Pratunam. It’s a bit rough around the edges, a bit chaotic, and a whole lot of… well, *Bangkok*. And that’s part of its charm. If you're looking for a super-slick, perfectly polished experience, maybe look elsewhere. But if you're after a practical, well-located hotel that’s perfect for exploring the city, shopping till you drop, and experiencing the glorious, messy, wonderful chaos that is Bangkok? Then, yeah. I’d recommend it. Just remember to bring your own coffee and maybe some earplugs. You'll thank me later.
