Just thought I'd let you know I decided to break the ol' piggy bank and splurge on something posh. It was apparently impossible to find a hotel that fit my criteria within the budget I had first planned. Too bad I have to travel during high season. Anyway, am going with a jungle view room at Marina Phuket. They quoted me US$216 per room night. At least the setting seems special, cottages up on the hillside overlooking the sea, and the rooms look beautiful. Hopefully, the experience turns out to be worth the money. Hope you had better luck with your search for a replacement hotel.