Resort Krabi Chada Resort

I loved the room’s old-world feel, with antique Chinese-influenced furniture and doorware. My room had pool access and a partial mountain view, which was stunning. I stayed at Chada for five days and had a positive experience overall. The staff were wonderful and friendly, and tried hard to help, though service could be slow. Breakfast tasted good but didn’t have the greatest variety. The location is very convenient, about 20 minutes down the road from Ao Nang beach. That distance makes the hotel quieter, while it’s still close to a 7-11, good eateries, and massage spas. The interior isn’t on par with modern design, so you’ll appreciate the room if you like that older style.

The location is the strongest point. It’s on the main Krabi Ao Nang beach strip, around a 7-10 minute walk to the beach, right among restaurants, massage places, and bars. Though tucked on a hill, the hotel is quiet amid all the bustle. Mountain views are nice, and upper floors look out to sea. Rooms are large, with pool views and reasonably clean bathrooms. Breakfast was hearty and tasty, despite the grimy room it was served in. The pool is large and rectangular, and the price was good compared with other nearby hotels. I stayed two nights alone, mainly to dive in the Phi Phi Islands Archipelago. This three-star property has potential, but it feels as if management has stopped investing and is milking it, catering to package tour guests who need somewhere to eat, shower, and sleep. The hotel has clearly seen better days: the furniture is old, the wall lamp was nearly broken, and the bedsheets didn’t match. The breakfast area was grimy, and the reception fans were unbelievably dirty. When I asked to speak with the duty manager about the fans, his first response felt intimidating, as if I shouldn’t complain. Staff generally didn’t greet or smile, which felt very unlike Thailand. I was also asked to pay for water, which could easily be complimentary. There’s even a rooftop pool amid tropical greenery, but that area needs maintenance. Keep expectations low and get a good price, and it can serve as a base for exploring this beautiful region. Don’t expect customer service, and you won’t be too disappointed.

The staff were supportive, and breakfast was an okay continental spread. The rooms have a lovely mountain view, and some open straight onto the shared pool, which is a nice extra. Beds are comfortable, though the old wooden frames squeak annoyingly whenever you move.

The room smelled, and the furniture was old. I also had a serious concern about security: by mistake, I tried another room and my key card opened it. On 27 Jan at about 12:30 AM, I needed help because maintenance had taken my adapter the night before after an electrical problem. The night staff member was extremely rude and unhelpful. She kept saying she didn't know instead of checking, even though my phone was down to 4 percent. She raised her voice, told me to leave, took my photo, and discussed the matter with another guest. The service and communication were poor, and I didn't feel safe. I'd rather stay at a budget hotel. Avoid.