Patong Premier, Phuket

Independant Review

Introduction

The most remarkable thing about this mid-range hotel is the effort expended by the architects to give it an authentically Asian ambience. The entrance is a large portico built from antique bricks, flanked by a pair of grinning terra cotta dragons and backed by a koi carp pond. Delicate and elegant statuary half-hidden behind tropical foliage competes for the eye’s attention with larger pieces, such as the large goddess spouting water next to the pool. Appropriately for Patong, the goddess statue is bare breasted and as broad-shouldered as the transsexual singers and dancers who perform nightly at Patong’s Simon Cabaret. The medium-sized pool is shaded by frangipani trees, whose fallen petals decorate and perfume the water and ground below them.   

Decor

Attention to detail and style, combined with competitive pricing, account for the remarkable popularity of this hotel. It is no surprise that the resort is usually full in high season. What is remarkable, indeed almost unique, is that the hotel is often full in the low season as well. This travel journalist has reviewed 60 hotels over the last month, and this is the only one that has been full.

Accommodation

The rooms are on the small side and can not be described as being in immaculate condition, but will displease only recently impoverished travelers who are used to better. The décor concentrates on pastel hues which pleasingly complement the real wood floors and furniture. The downstairs rooms have direct pool access, but are the worst-preserved rooms in the hotel - dark and somewhat dinghy. The rooms upstairs are recommended in preference, as they are in better condition, and have airier, lighter feels to them.

Restaurant

The restaurant in this competent hotel serves only reasonable Western breakfast, but good Thai food.

Prices

We offer a 5% discount on the hotel website's prices. In addition, we offer the following free benefits:

• Discounted taxis and tramsfers.
• You will be able to take advantage of unlimited travel advice before arrival – we know southern Thailand intimately and so can organize all your accommodation, travel, sports and activities. This personalized and customized service comes at no extra cost to you – we get our commissions from hotels and activity/transport providers, not from you.

Hotel website: www.patongpremiergroup.com. Click here for holiday packages, here for other destinations.

Andaman Sky, Co., Ltd, 23/8 Moo 2, Ao Nang, Thailand