Reviews - a challenge for Hotels and for Guests
Kim Waddoup
Blogger, Travel Writer, Food Critic, Mystery Guest/Shopper, Hotel/Restaurant/Spa Reviewer
Writing hotel and food reviews used to be the realm of a few professionals. Now with a cacophony of portals pushing for opinions, it has become harder to read through the superlatives and hyperbole for a realistic evaluation.
?I used to write detailed reviews of between 1,500-2,500 words but fear that, with the dearth of information available online, it has become a challenge to maintains the readers attention. Hence a new style of accurately realistic reviews under 500 words.
?I would very much appreciate any comments or suggestions on this new style. Are such reviews positive or negative for a hotel/restaurant?
Ao Prao Resort, Koh Samet - Classic Thai Island Charisma
First impressions were excellent! Exclusive welcome facility at the port including free, covered parking, transport to the private speed boat with meet & greet on the island and efficient transfer to the resort. Do remember that there is a National Park Fee of THB.200 to be paid as you arrive!
The plentiful staff were excellent, always friendly, attentive and smiling. Check-in was effortless and complimented by cold towels and a charming welcome drink. The property is a traditional, beachcomber resort style located on the scenic bay with a ‘driftwood’ character. If you have booked a Hillside Deluxe be prepared for some good exercise with many stairs.
Our room was of good proportions in a colonial/wood décor, quiet and efficient air-conditioning, day bed in the window and comfortable balcony looking towards the sea. King size bed was large with a firm yet comfortable mattress. High thread-count sheets with a choice of firm and softer pillows. The bed linen was fresh, well presented without any creases.
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The bathroom was clean and functional. Excellent hot & cold water pressure in the glass panelled shower with superior amenities. Towels were large, soft and without signs of wear.?
Breakfast is a full buffet (despite the few guests) with a variety to suit all tastes. Our first dinner was on the beachfront veranda of the Breeze restaurant with its unpretentious style and ocean breeze. Two menus were offered, and we enjoyed excellent authentic Thai food on our first night. Again, attentive and friendly service. The hotel does have a reasonable wine list, but should you prefer to bring your own, please note the THB.500 corkage!?
During the day there are two recreational pools and the splendour of the Ao Prao beach with sun loungers scattered under the shade of the palm trees. Excellent quality beach towels.
There are three resorts on Ao Prao beach and two belong to the same company offering an extended choice of dining options. On our second evening we chose the Buz Coco Club at the Le Vimarn resort, a relaxed, up-beat restaurant with a choice of casual seating. The menu is a good attempt at up-scale Isaan cuisine but was surpassed by the delicacies at the traditional Breeze.
Conclusion: Sensibly priced for the level of comfort that we received. Enchanting location with just 3 resorts on the beach. Quiet on weekdays and probably livelier at weekends. An excellent choice for a romantic beach getaway and under 3 hours from Bangkok. The shore facility and private speedboat transfer is a big plus. Not luxurious but classic Thai beach hospitality. Highly recommended!