This hotel is a corker!
28 May 2008
Just got back from an amazing stay in Phuket at the Centara Villas. I loved everything about the place and that's why I go back again and again (twice this year already!).
The hotel is fairly small which is great. You get to know all the staff and they look after you wonderfully. They are so friendly and accommodating. Nothign is too much trouble.
The hotel consists of individual bungalows dotted all over the hillside looking out over Karen beach and the bay. Fantastic views. The bungalows are surrounded by tropical gardens and the place really feels exotic. It's only a 10 minute tuk tuk ride into Patong, but feels like a secluded hideaway.
There are two swimming pools on different levels, both set into the hillside, with great views over the bay. There are also restaurants on different levels with views looking out over the beach and sea. Lovely Thai and European food, all served with a smile. It is known as the Land of Smiles and the staff at Centara Villas so not dissappoint.
There is also a spa and lots of garden space with loungers if you want to get awy from the pools and find your own corner of paradise. There's even a hammock hanging between the coconut palms.
Even though the hotel is on a hill, thoughfully they operate golf buggies which ferry people up and down if you don't fancy the steps (there are a lot of steps so may not be ideal for the elderly, very young children or anyone with a disability. there are also steps to access the beach).
A wonderful thing happens, once you been the the hotel once. When you come back you will find a lovely welcome message with your name spelt out in petals on your bed. Where else do you get that!
I would definately recommend it. It's great value and absolutely beautiful. A real find amongst all the commercialism of Phuket.
Tim, London
Mature Couple (36+)