Patong Blue - Hostel

My experience was awful. The rooms didn't look like the photos and were so cramped I couldn't open my luggage on the floor. Water wouldn't drain properly from the sink, and the towels were dirty. There was no wand wash or bottled water, and the rooms need heavy renovation. The location was another downside. Apart from a 7/11, there wasn't anything good nearby, and the beach was about 1.5km away. At check-in they demanded either my passport or 1000 baht. Even a 3-star hotel shouldn't ask for that.

The location, a little back from the main beach road, made for a quieter, more relaxing stay. Night markets are only a few minutes away on foot, with small Thai restaurants and street stalls around. There's a 7 Eleven and a laundry right outside, which is handy. The hotel is well managed by an Italian man who takes an interest in guests and is helpful. Staff are welcoming, and you enter through the TUTTO BENE Italian restaurant, which gives the place a relaxed feel. Rooms have opening windows, small balconies, a large fridge, TV, clothes hanging space, and a small safe. The linen was clean and mostly new, the mattresses were firm and comfortable, and the WIFI worked reliably on the different floors. Daily cleaning and upkeep were good, and card access separates and secures the hotel from the restaurant. Good value for money.

I stayed for 18 days and had a fantastic time. The pizza shop downstairs was a highlight, seriously delicious, and the staff there were great. Hotel staff were always friendly, greeting me warmly whenever I came or went. The owner Salvatore was really nice and made an effort to make me feel welcome. I'd definitely recommend staying here.

There were stains on the walls, and the place felt low-level overall. The manager/owner, an Italian man around 45 years old, was rude and unprofessional. After leaving, I tried to contact the hotel the same way I had before arriving, but got no response. They'd already got their money. Even a cheaper hotel should have some standards.