Reviews by KohChangOnline.com

In 2003 the Hillside Hotel opened with very little acclaim as most visitors ignored it in preference of resorts that were on beaches.  It's at located in the southern end of Whitesands but lies on the inland side of the road.  There are sea views if you happen to check into a second floor room facing the road of which there are only a handful.  But the majority of the large, well appointed rooms do have  views of the jungle clad hills and open out over the usually empty pool area at the back of the hotel. 

It appears as though the owners have learnt from last year's mistake of over-pricing the rooms so now, at under 3,000 Baht/night in the high season it's not a bad deal for what it is, which is a comfortable new 3 star that you could happily leave your Mum at and she'd be well looked after and pampered no end in the excellent spa.  I'd say it was a good choice though, in case your beachfront choice is full during the high season. 

In the second quarter of 2006, it's sister hotel the 'Chang Buri Resort & Spa' will be opening on the opposite side of the road offering far more luxurious, not to mention expensive, accommodation.  Guests on this side of the road stay in luxury villas where no expense has been spared, note the liberal use of teak wood, small private pools etc. 

Location wise, for both resorts, it's no problem to arrange stuff as there are tour agencies, car & bike hire places on your doorstep.  It's a 5-10 minute walk down the road to reach a good stretch of sand as the shoreline outside Chang Buri comprises more of stones than sand. In the opposite direction, after a 30 second stroll you'll be met with a selection of neon lit roadside beer bars populated by comely young Thai maidens all vying for your wallet's attention.