Overall, the Sandalay resort is a relatively...
Overall, the Sandalay resort is a relatively good place to stay in Pattaya, mainly due to its superb location - it's a stone's throw from the beach and is right in the centre of things.
It is somewhat a hotel of contrasts, though, as certain parts of the hotel seem to be significantly older, and therefore more drab, than others. The most noticeable contrast is between the *superb* open air restaurant that extends out from the front of the hotel onto the main beach road, providing a lovely view of the beach and the sea, and that of the hotel itself. The hotel is rather dated and could certainly do with being overhauled by whoever created the aforementioned 'Red Step' restaurant.
Despite the rather bleak looking rooms, they are certainly value for money, especially when you consider the amount of space you are given. However, there are some rather bizarre furnishing, such as oddly oddly-sized shower curtains, a mish-mash of floor tiling throughout and a general lack of functionality. In addition, the balconies are strictly standing room only - unless you happen to have a baby chair with you, in which case you might just be able to sit down (as long as you are abnormally small).
Everything about the service is very standard, certainly lacking any of the professionalism of a 5-star establishment, which is to be expected. Both my partner and I can speak Thai, so there were no communication problems and the staff seemed to be able to converse happily and accurately in English, so I wouldn't anticipate any significant problems in this respect.
All in all, the hotel is just okay, although I must reiterate the fact that the restaurant is wonderful, with sumptuous food (Thai and Western), a plentiful and varied breakfast and well-balanced and creative cocktails (not to mention one or two 'house specials', which are worth the extra few baht.
In conclusion, I most likely will not stay there again, but I'll definitely be eating in the restaurant next time I am in Pattaya!
