The Pho Thong Phuket

The location was the one good thing for me. It’s in Old Phuket, away from the bustle, with a nearby bus stop for an easy trip to the airport. There’s no lift, and staff won’t help carry heavy luggage. Before 12pm there’s no receptionist, no way to arrange an early check-in, and nobody answers the phone. The room had nowhere to organise or store belongings: no cupboards, drawers, bedside table, table, or chair. The kettle didn’t work and they didn’t fix it. A light was also broken. A technician came in while we were out without our permission, then left the room dirty and dusty. There’s no “Do Not Disturb” or “Make my room” option. They do as they please.

The room was spacious and pleasant, and we were right by Sunday Night Market street and most of the restaurants we wanted to try. The staff were nice. The cleaning lady was especially kind: she brought us fresh toilet paper and water bottles when she saw us heading out while she cleaned the room next door. The shower curtain was useful, though the bathroom had no hangers, which was inconvenient, and the mattress was quite stiff. There was a small oddity with payment. We paid one night at a time, in advance. For one night, the receptionist said we’d get the receipt the next day, and we did. On the first night, though, we got that night’s receipt on the spot. All in all, a very pleasant stay!

The hotel and rooms have a modern, clean Portuguese-style look, and Phuket old town is just a three-minute walk away. There’s a flat-screen TV that always shows an English-speaking movie. They provide a mini fridge, kettle, cups, and free coffee and water every day. I’d definitely book again!

Everything was as expected, and the air-conditioning worked well. Perfectly functional, with a great location.