Raya Buri Resort

We stayed for three nights and enjoyed the peaceful, fairly remote setting. The views are lovely, and the friendly staff were always nearby if we needed anything. Our room was spacious and clean, though quite dated. Shops and restaurants are about a 10 minute drive away. Breakfast and the restaurant food were delicious. Prices were a little higher than I expected, but that made sense for a remote mid-high level luxury resort around the reservoir, and we ate there several times. Free water sports and activity equipment was fun to use. A couple of things stood out: the TV was ancient, though I kind of liked the nostalgic big back TV look, and the bathroom window was actually a square net that didn’t keep bugs out. One night an army of ants came in. The in-room information also says outside food and drink can’t be consumed on site, which seems silly when the restaurant shuts around 930/10, I think.

We had a great time, though the size of the rooms and limits on room service made the price feel a bit high. Room service costs extra and has time restrictions, which felt limiting. The cafe closes at 5 pm, so we didn’t get to try it, and better hours would help in such an isolated spot. Breakfast could use more options too. We managed with bread and eggs, but there were lots of local dishes and not many international ones for tourists and guests. Dinner at the restaurant was very tasty, probably the best meal we had in Thailand. The barman was so friendly and warm, and we had great conversations with him. The resort is calm and away from the crowds. Our rooms had amazing views; we chose uninterrupted lake views, though the others looked great too. The balconies let you get into the water, but the water isn’t super clean. Rooms aren’t very big, though the views help. There are lots of free water activities, including a mini water park and kayaking, plus paid options like jet ski and boating, which is great when there isn’t much around.

The staff were pleasant to deal with, especially the two men in the restaurant during the afternoon and evening, who helped me order. I had a pleasant two-night stay, and the AC worked well, the bathroom had good water pressure and hot water, and they left two bottles of water each day. The bedding was reasonable apart from the mattress, but the rooms and furniture felt dated and could use refreshing. The resort itself also seemed tired, with upkeep needed in rooms and common areas. As a farang, I was disappointed that the TV had just one English channel, France News. The walls are thin, so I could hear the neighbors talking. I was also annoyed when the lady at the Cafe said some menu items could only be ordered and eaten there, while other items had to be eaten in the restaurant. Thanks to all the staff.

A favorite dinner stop of mine when I’m out boating. The staff are friendly, and both the western dishes and usual Thai food are tasty. There’s plenty to choose from, including pork chops, chicken steaks, pizzas, pastas and seafood.