Originally Posted by
margarita girl
I will be going to Phuket for either 3 or 5 nights in Sept (depending on whether my YVR-BKK upgrade clears). I have been to Le Meridien Phuket Beach and Westin Siray Bay many years ago and was not impressed by either of them. I've also been to the JW Khao Lak which I quite liked but it's too far away. I'd prefer something which isn't so far from the airport.
I will be travelling solo and have been to Phuket before, so am happy to stay put at the hotel and enjoy the beach and the pool. I definitely want a full service hotel. Will probably stay on points, especially if I'm there for 5 nights. Options include Naka Island, Marriott Merlin Beach and the Renaissance (or possibly the InterContinental Phuket). Thoughts/recommendations would be greatly appreciated.
Originally Posted by
Kacee
It can be pretty wet that time of year.
I write live from my upgraded Ocean View suite at the Marriott Merlin Beach. Third time staying here off season (May ‘23, April ‘24, now). Third time being upgraded to the Ocean suite. It rained all the time first stay, rained all night last night, but this is the view this morning.
I awake to this agreeable view at the Marriott Merlin Beach.
As an elite I prefer this resort to the nearby Le Meridien. They make an effort with nice welcome amenities including a branded beach bag this time and elite drinks on Wednesday evening in the lobby. There’s a new chef who has elevated the dining and it was fine before so we’re very happy on our all inclusive rate (~THB10,000 a night including all F&B). Don’t know about using points here but the cash rate is good. Beware if using points at Naka Island because I believe they dump you in the purpose built block and not in one of the pool villas that is the primary reason for staying there. Here, you’re five minutes from Patong but you could be hours away on a private beach. I’m always surprised this resort doesn’t get more love on here but maybe if you stay in peak season and the few suites are full of paying guests and the pools are full of baying children then you have a different experience but it’s a very well managed hotel and has become our second favourite Bonvoy property in Thailand. Praise indeed.