The Sports Lounge

I went in to watch football, but the bar was nearly empty because alcohol was banned that night. The woman working there asked what I wanted to drink before I could even look at the menu. My partner was in the toilet, so I don’t understand why she was rushing me. It felt like they didn’t want customers there.

The owner is a lovely diamond of a geezer, and he helped make the evening feel warm and comfortable. There are loads of screens, with little labels showing what’s on each one, a good idea if you’re there for English Premier League football. Prices are reasonable and the staff are very attentive. I’d go again.

The location puts you right among the activity and markets, so some noise is to be expected. I was tired every day and it didn’t bother me much. My room felt spacious until another guest showed me his, which was even bigger, despite us both being on our own. Having someone join you is allowed at no extra charge. The management seems more focused on the bar than on conventional room service. They moved me to an upper floor, apparently because someone wanted a lower one, but should have offered something to make up for my ride up four floors. Water pressure wasn’t great, and my previous Pattaya hotel had managed to improve that. The washroom and stairwell could use some work, and the toilet seat cover should be changed. The bath gel bottles have tiny openings that make the gel hard to get out. Room 11’s door also doesn’t close properly, though the lock socket just needs a small adjustment.

The food has been good over the years I’ve eaten here, especially the great value breakfast and Sunday roast. Service is quick and the staff are always efficient. The inside has changed, though. The lounge with its comfy seats and low tables, where you could relax with a drink and watch sport on the big screens, is gone. Now it’s restaurant tables and chairs, so it feels more like a restaurant than a bar and lounge.