A quick and convenient getaway from Bangkok

Ratchaburi or Radree if you're down with the locals, may be considered a secondary tourism province, but the central province, which is less than two hours' drive from Bangkok, offers much more than its famous dragon jars.

Enter Centara Life Wisma Hotel Ratchaburi as a base for your exploration, with a central location that affords guests convenient access to many attractions.

The 69 rooms across four floors in the city hotel are categorised into five categories, with the entry-level being 24m² Superior and the top-tier sole unit being the 72m² Premier Suite. Most rooms don't have private balconies, except for the Junior Suite type, but you can't expect much of a city view, given the hotel's low-rise setup.

Having said that, the almost full-height windows generously let natural light in to light up the rooms. Ratchaburi's rich Chinese influence and legacy show up on pillowcases with dragon jar and Chinese porcelain motifs, as well as a pair of golden-dragon-and-phoenix cups above the mini-bar.

While Terra Bar & Cafe serves as the only on-site restaurant, several local food shophouses are within easy reach from Wisma, including a one-minute walk to Lan Mai, which claims to have been selling its famous pork satay for 100 years.

However, do make a point of having lunch or dinner at Terra, if you want authentic local flavours such as Massaman with black tofu (Ratchaburi's delicacy) or Shrimp and pineapple salad. Next to Terra's main dining zone, there's a glasshouse where you can enjoy a garden view and live music on selected evenings.

Ratchaburi first-timers should check out Koi Kee Old Market, which is located on Voradech Road next to Mae Khlong River, and is a four-minute drive from the hotel. Here, you can expect many street food stalls and a promenade for a nice stroll.

Across from the stalls lies The Old Town Ratchaburi aka Talat Ton 1 for a hipper vibe and photo ops. There are many cool shophouse cafes and restaurants in the area.

Still on the same road is d Kunst Art Space and Cafe, which has been whimsically transformed from a wooden house that's more than 100 years old. It's a must-stop for lovers of affordable coffee and a good vibe. Enjoy colouring pictures for free.