OK, so I got to RAL, had one night's sleep and breakfast, and now posting from their computers. Quick first impressions -

1. I like the location. Perhaps some would want to be a little closer to the main street, but I like the peace and quiet provided by the extra distance. Still walking distance, but good to be away from road/train noise and there seem to be no "massage women" congregating in front.

2. The place must have been good at one point, but does look tired now. I would say "adequate" is the right word. Not an automatic repeater next time. However, it cost only $30 or so, including breakfast, and all the basics like air-conditioning and hot water etc did work fine in my room.

3. The breakfast was supposed to be from 7AM. I wandered in at what I thought was 8AM and was thoroughly underwhelmed by what was out. They were still setting up and it looked much better by 8:15. Also, people started arriving only at 8:30. While that could be explained by an overly busy "night life". Later it turned out that the entire city of BKK was running one hour late. OK, so I had messed up when setting my watch to BKK time in the plane.

4. As I said, this place is just fine, but not to the extent of inspiring loyalty. Next time I could look at other options. I also realize that hotels are easy to find in BKK. So, if unsure, you might book just one night to have a place to set luggage down, and manage the rest after getting here; then you can see the place and the rooms before deciding.