I was planning on staying at the Merlin Beach Resort in October but it seems as though they may be fully booked. I am considering the Le Meridien instead, can anyone tell me what it is like and especially in comparision to Merlin. Other suggestions are welcome. I do prefer a balcony with an ocean view and beach access if possible. Thanks in advance.
Michelle

(normally), I can honestly say I think this one sucks. It is also away from everything, so you have to get a cab / tuk tuk to go anywhere. You know, for me, the absolute best beach in Phuket which gives you shopping, bars, fairly hawker free beach loungers, etc. is Kata Noi (North Kata)

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I agree with Mark totally. The Kata Thani on Kata Noi beach ticks all the boxes. I stay at the Kata Beach hotel as it is a bit cheaper but the Kata Thani is the quality property of this area. I think that Kata Noi means "little Kata" , not north Kata (no Mark, I am not picking a fight) and it is actually south of the main Kata area.

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Thank you for the replies. I was originally trying to book 10 nights at the Katathani and then 12 at the Merlin. If I can book the Katathani I would then like to book something in Patong just in case I prefer it to Kata. I never get bored in Patong and am concerned that it might be a bit too quiet in Kata ? The only thing I know about Kata is Mom Tris restaurant. So I still have to decide about Patong. All help greatly appreciated. Thanks. Michelle

Hi Michelle, Why not book the Kata Thani for 10 nights and leave the second half open. You wont have any trouble finding accomadation in Patong for the second half of Oct and you can scout around and find something you like the look of. You can compare the walk in rate with whats on offer on the internet and then see if one of the local travel agents can do any better. If you fall in love with Kata like I have,then you can opt to stay there. You could even scoot over to Phi Phi or Ao nang if you want to try something different. The only thing that Patong offers that the other spots dont have as much of is the seedier element and nightclubs that stay open all night. You will find plenty of shops and restaraunts and massage and casual bars in Kata. I spent 3 weeks there and didn't have to eat or drink at the same place twice. We normally hire a jeep so we can get around the Island, but only venture into Patong to see a show or go to the Boxing or the night market.

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Hi Shanek,

Thank you for the advice. I have booked the Katathani for 10 nights, 2 for 1 offer and booked the Merlin Beach Resort for 12 nights also 2 for 1 offer. At least I know that I like the Merlin but now have the opportunity to try somewhere else a bit different. I hope that I don't like the Katathani so much that I want to stay longer and give the Merlin a miss !! Anyway it will be a good opportunity for comparison.

Thanks a lot

Michelle