In recent times, it would seem some people with large amounts of financial backing are putting money into expensive buildings in the Khao San Road area. There are rumours of an attempt at turning it into a pricey tourist area as opposed to the run-down, smelly, cramped, and entirely lovable backpacker haven it is today, and has been for a long while. Yes, it is a tourist trap and it's already more expensive than many other parts of Bangkok, but progress will happen. Just look at Phuket.