The Niran Grand Hotel

The pool looked like it hadn't been cleaned in ages, with debris and cigarette butts in the water. I can't see how anyone could swim in it. The hotel itself is very old, with worn and damaged interiors, and the staff didn't speak English or respond to requests. This was easily the worst hotel I've stayed at near Bangkok. I travel often and have diamond status with Agoda, which allows early check-in and late check-out. Even so, they charged me a late fee for leaving at 1pm, something no other hotel has done to me on my travels.

For this price, it's a real bargain, and the team is super friendly. The pool is hard to beat in Bangkok for a place in this category. I don't get the bad feedback. If you're expecting five-star luxury at this price, that's an issue with your expectations, not the hotel.

The room was in bad shape, despite the clean, polished photos on Agoda that convinced me to book. The hotel felt old and dirty, with a bad smell and an atmosphere I didn't like. Check-in and check-out at the front desk both took a long time, and the staff weren't friendly. It really didn't meet what I'd expected.

It's a safe place, with good rooms and service. Just be aware that they follow the rules strictly. I was asleep and checked out at 1:00 o'clock, one hour after the 12 AM checkout time, and they charged me for half a day. Everything here is paid for. The only water included is two bottles a day, 400 ml each.