Freedom Kata

Being close to the beach was the only real plus. The rooms weren't in good condition, and the doorknobs were loose. Service was very bad, and there was nobody at reception.

The scooter rental was hassle free, and we had no trouble with the bike. We spent 8 nights here and would stay again when we return to Phuket. The hotel was tidy and clean, the staff friendly, and the bed was comfortable. Our room had a good bathroom and a private balcony. It's right above a 7/11 and close to Kata Beach and other beaches, but set far enough from the action for a quiet stay. Very good value for money.

The staff were kind and helpful, and this is a livable option if you're after a budget hotel. But we had two rooms, and neither bathroom door could be locked. Try dealing with that with a toddler. The bedding smelled, and the duvet was torn. There's no lift, and the stairs have unusually tall steps.

We spent 30 days in Thailand and stayed at many hotels. This is the one I wouldn't recommend to anyone. It felt more like a prison than freedom. At check-in, the man handling us didn't say hello or welcome. He just stared at us strangely and did his job, which made me uncomfortable. I was afraid to touch things in the room because it was old and everything already seemed broken. There are strict rules, with a 500 baht daily charge if guests leave electrical appliances on. Stains on towels, sheets, blankets, or pillows cost 100 baht per item, and damage to anything in the room, including the TV, glass, kettle, table, chairs, or bathroom equipment, can mean a fine of 100-1500 baht. Towels, sheets, blanket covers, and pillow covers are changed every 3 days. Guests also have to take their shoes off at the entrance.