Mrs LoM and I stayed at the Plaza on the 17th Jan when we had to unexepectedly check out early from the Sheraton Pattaya (the property was fully booked and no check-out extension was available) with a 3am departure from BKK. I had a bad experience the last time around at this property but it was the cheapest BKK Starwood on the day of my stay (booked the day before) and I was also looking for Meridien stays for the current 4 free night offer.

We also had a 2x19 suite and I was very impressed. Apart from the kitchen it was a much better layout than my Conrad Residence Suite over Xmas and a nicer design than the SGS (my favourite BKK Starwood) albeit without the extra full bathroom. The beds are however uncomfortably hard.

We spent a litttle time around the pool, which was pleasant although I was quite surprised at the relatively compact design of the pool area. I ordered a frozen grape juice which took forever to arrive (I subsequently found out this was caused by squeezing the juice fresh from grapes, they had to go to the kitchen to obtain). Our drinks were comped by the manager.

The lounge space and design is very nice (I said this on our last visit also). The food selection is not the best but the drinks menu is very comprehensive. Free wi-fi is also useful. IMHO this is one of the nicest hotel lounges I have ever spent time in.

All in we were very pleasantly surprised and would certainly consider staying here again. It is not as good as the SGS and lacks the warmth of the Westin, but is a very good option close to the centre of town. I suspect this property may suffer however as the new Starwood properties come on line in BKK.