Krabi Cha-Da Resort

The room had pool access and a partial mountain view, and it was stunning. I stayed at Chada for five days and came away with a positive impression. The antique Chinese style furniture and door hardware gave it an old charm that I loved, though the interior isn’t up to modern standards. Staff were wonderful and friendly, and did what they could to help, but service could be slow. Breakfast choices were limited, though the food tasted good. It’s convenient for 7-11, eateries, and massage spas. Ao Nang beach is about 20 minutes down the road, which makes the hotel quieter while still keeping it close to those places.

The best thing here is the location. You’re right in the middle of the Krabi Ao Nang beach strip, with restaurants, massage places, and bars around, though it’s still a 7-10 minute walk to the beach. The hotel sits on a hill, so it has a quiet spot amid all the bustle. Mountain views are nice, and upper floors can see the sea. Rooms are large, with pool views and reasonably clean bathrooms. Breakfast was hearty and tasty despite the grimy breakfast room. There’s a large rectangular pool, and the price is good compared with nearby hotels. I stayed two nights while traveling solo, mainly to dive in the Phi Phi Islands Archipelago. This is a three-star property with potential, but it seems the owners have stopped investing and management may be milking it. It feels set up for package tour guests who just need to eat, shower, and sleep. Service was very poor, although the restaurant staff were decent. The hotel has clearly seen better days. 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 complained about the fans and asked for the duty manager, his first response felt intimidating, as if to say, “How dare you complain.” Staff generally didn’t greet or smile, which felt very unlike Thailand. They also charged 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 mountain views are great, and some rooms open straight onto the shared pool. Rooms and beds are good, but the old wooden bed frames squeak annoyingly with even a small movement. The continental breakfast is complimentary and tastes okay. Staff are supportive and good.

Very bad experience. Around 12:30 AM on 27 Jan, the female night staff member was extremely rude and unhelpful. Maintenance had taken my adapter the previous night because of an electrical issue, but she just kept saying “I don’t know” and wouldn’t check or help. My phone was at 4 percent, and she made no effort. She raised her voice, told me to leave, took my photo, and discussed the problem with another guest. Completely unprofessional. There’s also a serious security issue: I tried the wrong room by mistake, and my key card opened it. The furniture is old, and the room smells. Poor service and communication, and it didn’t feel safe. I’d rather stay in a budget hotel. Avoid.