The Pier Koh Phangan

Bed bugs. I woke up covered in itchy bumps, so I'm not happy. The room itself was otherwise good, with a comfy bed, working air con, and hot water. The shower pressure was aggressively high, but at least I got clean.

The location was good, but I left significantly disappointed. The room was tiny and had nothing in it, no TV, fridge, or any other amenities. When I asked the clerk about it, they just shrugged me off. I've never had customer service this poor in Thailand. I've come at least four times a year for five years, staying a total of 4-6 months annually, and this is the worst place I've stayed yet. There were swarms of mosquitoes in the room. I had to buy plug ins and sprays, then lather us in crème before bed to keep them away. For what I paid, it was a real letdown. I've stayed in 4-5 star places for half the price. I've never left a bad review before and hope I never have to again.

I booked one week and stayed three. The setting is AMAZING. From the little house, you can look over the ocean and forest while lying in a hammock. Pure bliss. The mattresses were super comfortable, the shower basic but good, and the surrounding nature is hard to beat. There are cabins with airco, but you pay extra, as you do at any hotel in Thailand. If you're too cheap for that 'luxury', don't complain about it. The cleaning ladies and reception staff aren't very fluent in English, but every day they waved or said good morning. When I asked to have my cabin cleaned, they were happy to do it. I honestly don't know what more people expect in terms of friendliness. I don't understand the bad reviews!

The insects were there every day, despite us trying to plug the holes: huge millipedes, ants, and beetles. It made sleeping really uncomfortable, and a cheap room can have basic amenities without being dirty. Backpackers and budget travelers deserve better than bugs in their space. I was very disappointed. The location was convenient for the night market and restaurants, and the staff were friendly enough. They helped us hire a motorbike to get to the other side of the island. The room price was reasonable for us, especially since we're used to dorms. The hotel beach isn't good for sunbathing or swimming, and the better beaches are on the island's other side. If you're going to the full moon party, stay on that side too, otherwise taxi fares are quite high.