Paradox Resort Phuket

The penthouse pool villa was an absolutely huge apartment, with a small plunge pool on the top level. The room was clean and well kept. Breakfast had great options, and all the staff were lovely and helpful. The resort is in a great spot on Karon Beach, opposite the beach and close to shops and restaurants, which is handy for picking up supplies. I’d recommend it.

There’s a nice adult pool, a small pool slide that was fun, and a beautiful evening bar. The food was very good, with a lovely breakfast buffet and tons of options. Service was excellent at check-in, the bar, and breakfast. The room had satellite TV, though I had to ask for a luggage rack. There’s valet service, but no direct beach access. The beach is across the street, and it was a long walk down a path from my room, which was very far away. The hotel wasn’t flooded with families. I wish someone had offered me an upgrade to one of the residence bungalows.

The resort seems more suited to families. We were unhappy with how strict and policing the staff’s approach felt. Someone came by every few minutes to tell us not to do this or that, including about smoking or playing music beside an empty pool when nobody else was there. I don’t understand why staff are directed to enforce the rules so strictly. At check-in, we were given a different villa type, far from both reception and the pool. When we asked reception, we were told the villas were full. Check the booking against the room type you’re given.

The beach bar area linked to the hotel was our one disappointment. We found it loud and brash, and out of keeping with the refined feel of the rest of the hotel. A calmer atmosphere there might improve it and influence the rest of Karon Beach. The hotel itself is a quiet oasis in a lively beach resort, set among beautiful gardens. We had an excellent sea view, though it was often too hot to sit on the balcony, so we enjoyed it from the well air-conditioned room. The pool area is lovely, with plenty of loungers and umbrellas, a pool bar, and just-right water temperature. We also used the excellent, well-equipped gym. Breakfast had a huge range of choices and was excellent quality.