I have just checked into the Le Meridien Phuket. I was expecting a rather dated and tired hotel and am pleasantly surprised to find that this is not the case.

As many have highlighted, Platinum recognization is very good with the dedicated check-in counter, welcome drink and towel, free breakfast, fruit basket etc.

I informed the hotel ahead of time that we are celebrating our wedding anniversary and got a lovely surprise when we got into the room. There was a pretty decoration on the bed made of towels and rose petals. We also got a complimentary chocolate cake for the occasion.

My only disappointment so far is the room upgrade. Again despite the SPG website showing at least 2 types of suite availability, we were only upgraded to a poolview deluxe room, although I consider the room to be nice with a good view of the entire pool. I have attained Platinum several times over the years through the hard way and find it extremely disappointing that a suite upgrade never materializes.