Pon 1 Hotel

I paid an extra THB 550 to move to a “VIP” room after being unhappy with the first one, but the bathroom in the new room was wet too. I had to return to reception, where they apologized and said housekeeping would dry it. The first bathroom had a soaking wet floor, tiles, and toilet seat, with the lid left open. I’d waited 10-15 minutes after checking in just after 2 PM because the room was still being cleaned and the housekeeper said they were waiting for towels. When I finally went in, she apologized and said she hadn’t had time to dry things because I’d arrived. At THB 1000 a night, I wasn’t expecting luxury, just a clean room that was ready. This stay was a letdown, and there are much better places in town for the same price. My first and last time here.

I booked and paid for 3 rooms, but the employees first said I had only reserved 2. When I was about to show them proof, they just went ahead with 3 without even looking. Check-in was an hour late despite the 14:00 time, and both the service and room preparation were really slow. Bad experience. I won’t come back.

The cafe/restaurant attached to the hotel, apparently run by the same owners, draws local diners, so the lobby often has a lively feel even though the little lane itself seems tucked away. It’s only a short walk from the main road, and there’s plenty happening along those roads, while the hotel sits far enough off them to avoid the noise. It’s actually well connected for getting around on foot. Wiiya at reception is always smiling and very helpful, a lovely example of Thai friendliness and hospitality. I had a room with a window. As far as I could tell, the rooms without windows still have a small balcony. For the price, the room has a lot going for it: a small balcony, flatscreen TV, desk and chair, two outlets by each bedside, great AC, and a mini fridge. The bathroom has been renovated, and the fairly new hot water system worked perfectly. They provide drinking water daily, and the hotel branded amenities give things a slightly more premium feel. Wifi was decent at about 60 down and 40 up, and reliable. The rooms are spacious and updated with a modern look. The hotel itself is older, with white and grey paint over the decor, but that helps it feel like more than you paid for. At this price, comparable hotels usually involve compromises, but I didn’t feel I had to make them here. A pleasant surprise, and it left me with a warm impression of this nice town.

Handy location, kind service, and worth what it costs!