Apsara Beachfront Resort Hotel and Villa

The hotel's quiet, remote setting is exactly what we loved about Apsara. We booked several trips through the hotel; they were high quality, with much better food and vehicles than I've had on earlier trips to Thailand, though a bit more expensive. Most guests seemed to be English or English-speaking, unlike many other places in Thailand that seem dominated by Russian guests. There's everything you'd want for a holiday, and we enjoyed it so much that we're returning next month.

The welcome was so warm, with Thai tea and a warm face cloth while I checked in. I booked directly with the hotel and communication was great. My deluxe room was well equipped, the beach was superb, the food lovely, and staff were great throughout. I've stayed in lots of hotels and worked in the hotel industry, but this one is far better than the 4* hotel where I worked back in the UK. As a solo traveller, I'd feel completely safe here in the future. I'm 56 now. I loved it so much that I'll definitely return. It's the best hotel I've ever stayed in.

We wanted somewhere to unwind after several weeks travelling through Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand, before heading home, and spent several days at Apsara Beachfront Resort and Villa. Our villa had a private pool accessible from both rooms, a shared central living area and an outdoor shower. It's across a small lagoon from the hotel, but tuk tuks are available whenever you want a lift to or from the villa. The resort has the pools and bars you'd expect, plus miles and miles of beach just steps away. Being a few kilometres from Khao Lak town makes it quiet and tranquil, though getting into town means using a car, scooter or pick-up truck taxi. We rented a scooter and liked having the freedom to come and go. The hotel also offers water sports and surf gear for residents to use free of charge, and it was always in use. Families with young kids may want more water slides and the like. For a more adult group, it's an excellent spot to put your feet up and enjoy the good life.

We chose the villa side for our honeymoon in March, and even though this review is massively delayed, I still feel like I left a piece of my heart here. From the first day to the last, it was incredible. The setting, atmosphere, staff and all the little touches made it so special. I've stayed in a lot of hotels, but nothing like this; it makes everywhere else feel second-rate. It's truly the best hotel I've ever stayed in. We nearly booked the Maldives instead, and I have zero regrets about choosing this place. I'll definitely, definitely be back. If you're thinking of booking, just do it. You won't regret it.