Piraya Resort & Spa , Phuket  

If I could have given this a 7 I would have. This is a charming place and located near to Phuket Airport (15/20 min and about 400 baht for a taxi) We were surprised as we hadn't expected the high standard of this accommodation. Its rural setting is beside a beautiful sandy beach, looking out on to the Andaman Sea. You can not swim in the sea at this point, but no worry as there are 3 swimming pools that are more than first class. Our room was very spacious, as was the bathroom. The balcony had chairs and table and looked over one of the swimming pool. Large Swimming Towels are also provided. The free Wi-fi was a god send, as so many hotels in Thailand haven't got the massage yet, that travellers don't like to be charged high prices for using their notebooks. Night life was quite here as we were out of season, but the new Holiday Inn being built next door may change that. The complimentary bus to Phuket Festival Centre was useful and the tour around the Island from the Hotel is really worthwhile. (about 800 baht per head for 8 hours in a comfortable car) We also arranged a trip to Phi Phi Island from the Hotel at the cost of 3,500 for 2 (including Lunch and snorkeling on Monkey Island). Once again to be recommended, with a 7.00am start from the hotel and a return by about 6.00pm this was a full day. Nothing was too much trouble for the staff. If you have an activity programme where you are out for most days, then this is a great place to come back to, just to unwind. We are pleased we chose this hotel, which we nearly didn't as there were no reviews. If you choose it, you won't be disappointed.