Botanica Khao Yai Resort

Don't let the negative reviews put you off. We were a bit worried too, but after three nights I'd happily recommend this hotel to anyone. It looks like it was refurbished recently, which made the stay feel fresh. Waking up to the view from our room was amazing, and the branded toiletries were high quality. Breakfast was decent. Restaurants, cafes, an evening market, convenience stores, and the national park entrance are nearby.

The room in building A on the fifth floor was decent and clean, the AC worked well, and the staff were friendly and quick to help. Breakfast was okay too. The rest of the property badly needs attention. The long road in is dark in places and full of potholes. Public areas need a serious clean and renovation, and the main pool was filthy, with algae, dust layered on the bottom, and missing tiles across much of it. They should close it for maintenance instead of letting people swim. With damaged, stained ceilings, cobwebs, and worn ironwork everywhere, the hotel felt almost abandoned.

Nature surrounds you throughout the grounds, and the views are especially stunning if you get a room on the fifth or sixth floor. The mattresses are a little firm, though I still found them comfortable. The restaurant is on the pricier, higher-quality end of the spectrum. Great hotel, and the staff are great too.

We spent Christmas Eve here and I was quite happy with the stay. The fresh air and the view were a real plus, and there was plenty of parking underground on the G Floor. Breakfast had a good range of choices, and the staff were very friendly and helpful. We also enjoyed the food at Tempo, especially for the price.