Many people think of Patong as a tourist-crazy, party zone of Phuket. Well, it is, but there are places in Patong that don’t give off such vibes. Patong Merlin Hotel is one of them.
We recently got to stay a few days at this chilled-out, old-school resort that made us wish we could extend our trip to Phuket. Sadly, we couldn’t.
Tucked between mountains and the ocean, here’s why we think you should also consider staying at Paton Merlin Hotel next time you’re in Phuket.
4 Massive Pools
The first thing you notice after exploring the hotel are four gigantic swimming pools spread across the property.
Just for you guys, I got permission to go to the roof of the hotel (where only the staff is allowed) to show you this panoramic view. Immediately, you can see two swimming pools. The other two are a bit more hidden.
The cool thing is that there is a swimming pool for everyone. Each one has their own little character.
First up is the main pool in front of the lobby. This is where people go for a proper swim or to just hang around. It is quite open with very little shade, so a perfect place to get a tan.
Then a few meters ahead is what I call the “happening” pool. This is where everyone comes to have fun. Although another multipurpose pool, it has more appealing to the eye. It’s where you really want to hang out all day. At least I did.
There is also a waterfall and a small cave. This is a pretty cool feature at this pool. You can stand under the waterfall or go inside the cave. It’s great for pictures.
Another awesome thing is that there is a bar located inside the pool where guests can enjoy food and drinks. From 3 pm – 4 pm, there is an even a happy hour (buy 1 get 1) on a decent selection of cocktails, beers, and soft drinks. See why I love this pool?
The other two pools are a bit more secluded. If you want your privacy, you go here. One was located right in front of our hotel wing (left image) and the other further up nearer to the beach (right image).
Happy Hours
The happy hour doesn’t apply to the swimming pool at Patong Merlin Hotel. There are 3 different happy hours throughout the day. One is at the pool the bar in the early evening. Second happy hour is at the hotel bar and another at the restaurant later in the evening.
What a way to spend the day buzzed out of your mind…if that is something you want to do or have the time. I wouldn’t judge if you do.
Also, although not available on the happy hour menu, I would highly recommend their promotional signature drinks featuring Mekhong, a Thai spirit. Each drink is THB 180+. I tired the Mekhong Thai Sabai (lime juice, sugar syrup, and Thai sweet basil) and full moon (peach liqueur, syrup, and energy drink). Both were excellent and refreshing.
Food Heaven
Apart from the main restaurant, which serves one of the best breakfast in town, you can find food everywhere at the hotel.
For example, each pool has a small bar or cafe close by where you can order food. At the “happening” pool they had a pretty sweet deal for combo sets. Lots of options starting at just THB 250+.
The most interesting food-related offering is the daily themed promotion at the garden between the main pool and the “happening” pool. For from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm every day you can find something unique and exciting. From live cooking stations to food carts, here is what was happening the week we were there:
In case you can’t read properly, over on the top left it says “Light lunch, live cooking on wheels at poolside”. Mon & Sat is chicken shwarma. Tue is burger galore. Wed is a pizza-making day. Thursday is all about pancakes, waffles, and corndog. Friday – Panini/sandwiches and on Sundays they serve Thai fried noodles and rice. This massive menu is definitely life!
Extra: Minutes away from Patong Beach
You don’t have to be stuck in the hotel. Luckily, the beach is just a few minutes walk. You literally go through the property and voila the beach is right across the road.
Another extra: minutes away from everything else in Patong
While sure there are lots of other places to stay in Patong, at Patong Merlin Hotel it feels like you are both part of it and secluded at the same time. Everything is so close by, all walking distance. Restaurants, bars, clubs and day activities.
One of our favorite thing to do was walk all the way to Bangla road via beach road and walk back along the second road. There were plenty of things to see, do and eat along the way.
You can also walk in any direction to find vendors selling attractions or excursions in and around the island.
Best place in Patong to stay great location and very friendly staff
Can’t say I disagree. It gives you that isolation but also not far from all the happenings of Patong.