The short version
Dusit is a civic and ceremonial district rather than a conventional expat neighbourhood. Broad avenues, government compounds, royal landmarks, schools and old residential pockets create a calmer, more formal version of central Bangkok. It suits someone who values proximity to the old city and can live with fewer obvious nightlife and shopping options.
What living here means
The district’s identity is concentrated around the Dusit Palace area, the zoo and the avenues running towards Ratchawat and Thewet. Ratchawat is the more useful everyday pocket, with a strong local food culture and a reason to leave the flat. The monumental avenues can be pleasant to cycle or walk early, but heat, traffic and security arrangements change the experience during official events.
Getting around
Dusit has historically relied on buses, taxis and river piers. The Blue Line stations around Bang Sue, Bang Phlat and the old city serve its edges rather than every residential street. This is a place where a short distance on the map can be a long walk. A bicycle or motorbike taxi is often more useful than assuming the nearest station is comfortably walkable.
The choice
Dusit works for a resident who wants quiet evenings, local institutions and easy access to the old city. It is less convincing for someone who wants a ready made international social life or a building full of facilities. I would rent on the Ratchawat or Thewet side after testing the morning route, not on the strength of a palace photograph.