We stayed here for 3 nights in January 2012.

Being a tourist hotspot, quality accommodation in Ao Nang tends to be costly especially during Dec – Feb holiday peak. Thanks to Agoda, we paid about 100USD per night of standard room stay (comes with ABF) which I consider reasonable as compared to other similar scale resorts in the vicinity. Frankly, I was not expecting much from Peace Laguna, especially after an unpleasant experience with another resort in the same area just 3 months ago. The recent negative reviews did not help much too.

First Impression

Tucked away the quiet corner of a busy street, Peace Laguna turns out to be a delightful experience. A small lake resides at the heart of the resort provides a serene atmosphere for guests. Resort staff was warm and check in took only 5 minutes upon presenting our booking voucher. Cold drinks were served promptly while we waited. After check in was completed, a hotel staff then directed us personally to our room.

As we walked pass the reception area, we were also informed that the hotel provides free tea and coffee together with snacks for guests daily between 4-5pm. Indulging in a nice cup of coffee at the lobby with the picturesque backdrop of the nearby mountains is an excellent way to read a book or chill out with fellow travelers.

Our Room

Hurray, we got a free upgrade to a top floor superior room with impressive Mountain View. We noted that there are 3 superior blocks but only 1 block has elevator facility. Unfortunately, my block does not have elevator facility but NO BIG DEAL, its only 3 storey and the view is certainly worth the climb.

The contemporary styled room is huge enough for 3 guests. It comes with living room area with a small kitchen area (no cooking facilities), 1 single bed, 1 king size bed, a huge bathroom with bathtub and a balcony. I am slightly disappointed that only basic supplies of toiletries were provided – shower cap, cotton bud, shower foam, shampoo and soap. I would expect bedroom slippers and toothbrush for a 4 stars resort. Mattress is hard too, as pointed out in other reviews but NO BIG DEAL TOO as I was too tired after each fun filled day and I had no problems falling asleep. A plus point would be the abundance of electrical sockets meaning I could boil water, blow dry my hair and charge my handphone at the same time. Lovely.

Food and Lounge

I have only tried the complimentary American breakfast buffet at the restaurant overlooking the mountain. Food tends to be secondary in this wonderful ambience. Spread lacks wow factor but is acceptable for the hotel scale. Aside usual egg station and good choice of eggs, there are standard fare such as cereals, pancakes, and some thai food selection.

It is worthy to note that the resort lounge feature live band every evening. I could actually enjoy the music from the comfort of my room since it is located close to the main block. Lovely.

Summary

I bet most of you were confused by the mixed reviews of this hotel. I guess it boils down to which room you are staying and setting right expectation. Peace Laguna is one of the older establishment in the area so it means that décor may seems dated to some. Nonetheless, the warm service attitude of the staff sure make up for its shortcoming.

Also, there is indeed a short cut to beach area which is a plus point. If you are staying in cottages, it will be about 5 minutes walk away. If you are staying in superior or standard block, it will be about 10-15 minutes walk. However, staying at the cottage could also mean a good 10 minutes walk to the main block.


Tips
1. If you need laundry service, there’s a tailor shop right outside resort main entrance which cost 35baht per kilo which is much cheaper than resort’s charge.
2. Do check out monkey trail via short cut to beach area. The monkey are friendly and fun to watch.