Pattaya, Thailand
LK Empress
One word...POSH! When we were planning our first trip to Thailand, specifically the city of Pattaya, we had no real idea of what we were looking for as far as a hotel was concerned. There were hundreds of hotels for us to choose from and we were just amazed by the pricing (in a good way). The prices ranged from as low as $8 per night to a couple hundred depending on various types of accommodation. Thankfully in Pattaya (and the rest of Thailand), the majority of hotels are much cheaper than American and international chain hotel prices on average. The international chain hotels (Hilton, Holiday Inn, Grande Centre, etc.) were asking top dollar for their rooms with an understanding that many tourists feel more secure staying in a hotel from a brand they recognize.
One word...POSH! When we were planning our first trip to Thailand, specifically the city of Pattaya, we had no real idea of what we were looking for as far as a hotel was concerned. There were hundreds of hotels for us to choose from and we were just amazed by the pricing (in a good way). The prices ranged from as low as $8 per night to a couple hundred depending on various types of accommodation. Thankfully in Pattaya (and the rest of Thailand), the majority of hotels are much cheaper than American and international chain hotel prices on average. The international chain hotels (Hilton, Holiday Inn, Grande Centre, etc.) were asking top dollar for their rooms with an understanding that many tourists feel more secure staying in a hotel from a brand they recognize.
We began researching heavily on Agoda.com and looked over many hotels from local chains and independent establishments. Over a period of several weeks, we tagged several possibilities. During our research, we were coming across 4 star rooms with a wide variety of amenities that were less than $50.00 a night. For this trip we wanted to pay a bit more for beach front access. Also, we had heard that Walking Street in Pattaya was famous for night life, so we wanted to have a hotel near that location. After much debate among the Travel Caesars, we decided on LK Empress. This hotel is rated 4 stars, and it is just across the street from the beach. The rooms are very upscale looking, with Victorian style furniture and gold highlights across the room. The distance to Walking Street was walkable, but it is a cheap an easy ride from the front of the hotel to the entry of the street by Baht Bus.
|
Overall the location is in the heart of the action with local massage streets nearby, easy beach access, easy access to Walking Street by Baht Bus, and plenty of dining options nearby. We personally liked the Jacuzzi tubs in the rooms which were a nice addition to an overall posh looking establishment. The rooms show some age, but for the price and location, this hotel is definitely a winner in our book. In terms of the desk staff, we were always greeted by the staff when entering and leaving the hotel. They seemed willing to help with all questions and also have local contacts for various activities if needed.
Near reception you will find a booth with activities for the local area, island of Koh Larn, and in the waters off Pattaya. A word of warning regarding this booth. We signed up for 2 of the activities (paragliding and a Koh Larn boat trip with activities). The travel caesars were not impressed with these activities in terms of the guides and what was included. We recommend the hotel, but not the activities that are sold near reception.
Near reception you will find a booth with activities for the local area, island of Koh Larn, and in the waters off Pattaya. A word of warning regarding this booth. We signed up for 2 of the activities (paragliding and a Koh Larn boat trip with activities). The travel caesars were not impressed with these activities in terms of the guides and what was included. We recommend the hotel, but not the activities that are sold near reception.
PROS:
CONS:
- High quality rooms with many amenities.
- Room was clean with fresh bedding and towels.
- Large room and bathroom.
- Bathroom had a Jacuzzi tub and large walk-in shower.
- Room had a key-code safe for valuables.
- 2 water bottles were given complimentary every day.
- Microwave and fridge were included
- Some nice views on upper levels facing the correct direction
- Included breakfast provided in some packages was nice and a good start to the day
- Front desk and hotel staff were very helpful and friendly
CONS:
- Furniture and overall room are showing signs of age
- Bathrooms vary on state of repair and signs of age
- Air conditioning units are built into the ceiling area. Causes condensation water issues in ceiling if units are left on for long periods during hot days (experienced by 1 Travel Caesar)
- Jacuzzi tubs sometimes have issues with functionality and are a bit difficult to operate
So for the final verdict, looking at this hotel overall, we would give it a thumbs up. For what this hotel offers, if you can get it booked for under $60 per night with breakfast included, we would recommend it. The recommendation is due to its great location, overall image of opulence that the room provides, great hotel staff, and low price per day.