The AGATE Pattaya Boutique Resort

I had a great week at The Agate, and the team really gives the hotel its lovely character. Before the stay, I emailed with questions and changed my travel dates a couple of times. Ms Suraksa was a delight to deal with: her replies were fast and informative, and she was patient and kind every time. That made a great first impression, since communication matters when you're choosing a room. I arrived around 6:30pm on a Tuesday and Peter greeted me warmly at the lobby counter. He was a gem, always smiling, friendly, and good humored whenever I saw him. Another gentleman at reception, whose name I didn't get, was just as enjoyable to deal with and had a great sense of humor. The housekeeping ladies were professional, caring, bubbly, and did a wonderful job keeping my room tidy. The room was clean and spacious, with coffee, tea, and water provided daily. The bar fridge was on the small side, and a larger one for bigger bottles would be great. The air-conditioner was powerful. Electricity works with a card, and there's one per room. Wi-Fi was strong during my stay and reconnected automatically when I came back into the hotel after the first connection. On the first day, the bathroom water was only lukewarm. I called reception, and a technician was on it within five minutes and fixed it soon after. The service was impeccable. And the bed? Loved it, I slept amazingly. My one gripe was the TV. I couldn't find interesting channels, and a Smart TV would be a welcome upgrade because I do love my Netflix. I didn't try the pools, but they looked inviting. The one outside my room had a waterfall, fountains, lounge chairs, and a poolside bar. Dongtan beach is a short walk away, as are lively nightlife, excellent restaurants, and wonderful street food. 7/11 and Tops are around the corner, with plenty of ATMS and easy transport nearby. I thoroughly enjoyed the stay and I'm counting the 11 weeks until my next Agate holiday in May.

The buffet breakfast was a big disappointment. The selection was very poor, about what I'd expect at a low budget hotel, and a fancy hotel should offer much more. For a breakfast with better variety, I'd suggest going 100m up the road to the Zing Resort instead.

There's a simple breakfast spread, and a few restaurants are within walking distance. The hotel is in the LGBT area, with pubs and massage centres nearby. The property is well maintained, but the room's air conditioning is too old to control.

I've stayed here a few times, and the service impresses me every time. The staff are courteous and helpful, remember guests while respecting privacy, and I really can't fault the hotel. Rooms are spacious and clean, with new linen and towels. I love the sitting bench in the shower. It's right in Jomtien complex but away from the noise, and the beach is a five-minute walk. Undoubtedly the best in jomtien.