4 Day break in Bang Saphan / Bang Krut

[Terry]

Got back yesterday from a short break down South with Mrs. T and our two boys.

As a guide to those who wish to do something similar I thought I would share the experience.

We wanted a getaway - not too expensive (Which it can become with two young lads in tow) for the family as we have not had a break together for many years. Swimming pool was a must have, and of course on the beach.

Running the fishing park with me away in smelly Delhi and finishing a new bungalow had taken its toll on Mrs. T who was definitely up for a break..............so...............

Realising that taking a break during the low season will often lead to slower service (It should not - but does - due to lower staff levels etc) this is what we found.

1) We originally booked at Sunrise Resort in Bang Saphan. Three days two nights at THB 1500 / night including breakfast for all of us. Reasonable low season price & ideal for the kids.
When we arrived we were pleasantly greeted and given a glass of cold water before being shown to our bungalow. Unfortunately when we got got to it, it was clear that it had not been occupied for some time and had a musty smell to it with a very thick layer of dust everywhere. When the boys turned on the TV (as they do) to watch the infamous Cartoon Network - the TV did not have the channel (Despite saying UBC Platinum) on their website............We were shown another bungalow and it was much the same story. So, rather than unpack and regret it we decided to move on.
2) We moved on and checked in to the Coral Resort. Family room at THB 3,260 / night. Room was nice, clean and comfortable. Good breakfast and good choice of food. Great pool but limited TV.
However on the first morning we awoke to the most foul smelling water .........apparently a big problem in the area at this time of year when the water table is low and awaiting the rains.
When I suggested that they could treat the water supply in the bungalows just as well as the huge system to clean the pool water .....I got no answer so we checked out after breakfast.
I am absolutely sure that with a normal clean water supply this is a fine reasonably priced hotel. It seems a shame that they could not go the final hurdle and do something about what is a recurring problem.
3) Went up the coast to Bang Krut and checked in to the Rachawadee Resort. Two adjoining bungalows at THB 3,600 / night total including breakfast. Good food, good service, pleasant pool (a bit over chlorinated) superb beach and simple but elegant accommodation. Service was a bit slow, but this was due to low staff numbers. Again I think that when in full flow this is a great little resort.

I am sure that all three places in high season would be a better proposition - and so would the prices if you know what I mean.

Overall a good break and Bang Krut as a location has to be better although there is more 'life' in Bang Saphan.

In the end you pays yer money and you take yer choice!

Anyway - a good break

[PeteC]

Good info Terry. See the 'Whale Shark' thread in News as you may actually have been there in Ban Krut when it happened?

Tell me though, how jai laun did you get during/after # 1 and #2 above...or where you a good Thai and bite your tongue? Pete

[Terry]

Yep it must have been but saw no sign of it whilst there - would like to have seen it.

I learned many years ago to control my temper - being in Engineering Project Management most of my life and working internationally, I have had to adjust to many cultures.

Yes I was quite pissed off (Mrs.T more than I), but when you've waited for a break for some time and are forced to take it when you can get time - you have to make it ok.

I could have said a lot more than I did - but I always speak as I find - always have, always do , always will I guess........

[buksida]

Good report, sorry to hear you didn't have much luck with the accommodation in BS - it is a far cry from Hua Hin. Next time have a look at this place which has only just opened:

http://www.bangsaphanguide.com/palm-gardens.php