Hotel Villa Mandi Golf Resort

The pools were a highlight, with two outdoor options, one heated, and a lifeguard on duty. There’s also a free daily bus to the beach and Siam Waterpark, including free entry, with a return trip. Breakfast costs extra but has plenty of choice. There’s a shop and launderette on site, too. It’s about a 25 minute walk into town, so keep that in mind for evenings out. The rooms were clean and spacious, and the staff friendly. Hand soap was supplied, though shower gel would have been useful. Self-catering is possible but the kitchen equipment is quite limited: cutlery and a very basic tin opener were provided, but it needs scissors, a bread knife, washing-up liquid and sponges.

The family rooms are lovely, and because the place isn’t crowded it was easy to use the pool, dining room and gym. Staff were friendly, from housekeeping and reception to the grounds team. It’s well placed near two big towns, the beach, water park and hospital. A really nice place.

We wanted a relaxed week away from the busy main area, and knew it would mean a walk into town. The walk was easy, and taxis back were cheap enough, including if you went a bit farther. The hotel was clean throughout and we didn’t have any bug problems. There wasn’t much noise from the rest of the hotel, but the football pitch was loud until late on our first night and again early the next morning. Sadly it happened every day. I wish I’d asked to move, but once we’d settled in I didn’t want the hassle. Our room was lovely and big, with two bedrooms. One child slept on the sofa bed because the kids wanted separate rooms, and we also had a large balcony. We only used the room kitchen fridge to keep water cold. The food was fine and fresh, though the all-inclusive selection was small. There was always something to eat and we ate well, but they often ran out of items by 8pm. We ate out four times during the week for a change. The heated pool was a must for us, and the kids loved being allowed floats and balls. Our booking included a couple of days at the water park. The hotel bus left at 10.15 and came back from the park at 5.30. It was great not to queue for a taxi or public bus when the park got so busy after 5. The same bus service stopped at the beach. Big thanks to the entertainment team. My youngest loved the daytime activities and mini disco, especially the warm, friendly woman whose name I didn’t catch.

The play area in the inner courtyard makes it easy to keep an eye on the young ones. There are also two pools, one heated, which was especially nice on cooler days. I was there in a quieter season and had no trouble finding a free sunbed. I was genuinely surprised by the breakfast and dinner buffet. There was a huge range of food, and you could ask for grilled meat as well. Special mention to the Cuban chef, whose omelettes were delicious.