Luxury

Best Places To Stay In Phuket For Every Budget

June 4, 2017 by admin 20 Comments

Phuket is so popular with honeymooners, adventure seekers and those just after chilling out in a beautiful destination. Since exploring the island, I wanted to share tips on the best places to stay in Phuket. So, if you’re looking for where to stay in Phuket, this is for you. Covering hotels in all budgets. Finding where to stay on the island isn’t too difficult as there are plenty of choices available. From luxury hotels in Phuket to budget accommodation and plenty more even more frugal budgets in addition to tips on best place to stay in Phuket for island hopping.

When planning our trip we looked at what activities and tours were available. With this in mind, the next item to consider was where to stay in Phuket. I wanted to explore the island as much as possible. From the beautiful beaches down to the old towns and markets. Phuket is renowned for to markets, as well as surrounding islands and bays close to Phuket so I wanted a must of that as possible on our Thailand itinerary. The planned tours in Phuket meant that we would be visiting various corners of Phuket Island. You can check out my adventures on the tours on my blog posts on Thailand.

Accessibility to some of these tours on various corners of the island of Phuket meant that we really needed to pay particular attention when looking at where to stay in Phuket as that determined how much we would be paying for the tour and how long it takes to get to the tour departure point. Most boat tours have designated starting points at particular marinas on the Phuket Island.

To make this easier and accessible to visit surrounding islands in Phuket we would need to be mindful of which hotels to stay at. If your tour starts off at a marina in the north of the island and your hotel is all the way in the south, you will be charged a bit more for the tour to compensate for the distance to pick you up on the other side of the island. While exploring Phuket we stayed at 3 different hotels not really because of the tours but for accessibility to nightlife, tours, as well as wanting some quiet time away from tourist crowds.

Ikon Hotel was one of three beautiful hotels we sampled during our visit to this popular and beautiful part of Thailand. You can read about our stay further below.

Where Should I Stay In Phuket?

Where you stay in Phuket will very much depend on your accommodation budget, preferred accommodation style, planned activities, and tours in Phuket. So to help make your decision slightly easier I have split the hotel recommendations below by the best areas to stay in Phuket, these are mainly split by Phuket beaches where the majority of hotels and villas are built around.

Also, during our stay in Phuket we stayed at 3 properties, Ikon Hotel (mid-lux) below, Gold Diggers Resort (budget) and Renaissance Phuket (Luxury) so don’t necessarily have to stay in one places. Feel free to explore and stay in hotels, private villas or apartments depending on your itinerary in Phuket and budget. One category that I haven’t captured below are hostels in Phuket but you can read reviews and get the latest prices for hostels here.

Where To Stay in Phuket For Honeymoon?

Like above where you stay in Phuket for your honeymoon will very much depend on your budget and style of accommodation you prefer. If you are up for something private I would highly recommend seeking out one of the many beautiful villas with private pools in Phuket, which are perfect for honeymooners. They also come in a varied budget. We sampled a little bit of luxury at Renaissance Phuket which I blogged about. This was a private villa with our own little pool.

This is a resort hotel with miles or beautiful quiet beaches that you only get to share with a few people holidaying at the resort. The beauty of the resort is that it is big with many accommodation options and you get all the amenities and facilities of a resort but you also have private villas with private pool perfect for honeymooners wanting a little privacy. So below you will also find options for apartment, villas, and resorts in a range of budgets to help you make your decision.

Where Is The Best Area To Stay in Phuket?

This will depend on where you want to be right on the beach, up on the mountain with views on to bays and beaches or want to be near towns and markets within walking distance to museums and other activities.

The lists below give you an intro into each of the areas to stay in Phuket allowing you to decide whether you want to be near lively places like Patong Beach or in the quiet and serene surrounding of Mai Khao Beach or near the town with markets, restaurants and town feel like Phuket Town. Click here to check out some of Phuket’s best beachfront resorts and hotels.

Map Of Phuket Beaches

Below is a map of Phuket Beaches which should help give you an idea of where the hotels below are located.

Map of beaches in phuket - best areas to stay in Phuket map

Map Via PHG

Best Places To Stay In Phuket

When looking tours and where to stay in Phuket I would highly recommend you look at the tours you want to do to factor in time spent on tour buses before you get to the starting point of the tour. If you are all the way at one end of Phuket and the tour starts on the other end then you will have to be the first to be collected, this could be at 6.30am or 7am.

The closer you stay to where the tour starts the later your collection and the cheaper your tour price to factor in the distance, time and fuel to get to you. For example tours for Phang Nga Bay leave from the North of Phuket so if you are staying in Rawai you may need to factor in at least an hour in your journey to get to the start of the tour which means you will be first to be collected around 6.30am.

Below you will find hotel recommendations on where to stay in Phuket.

Where to stay in Phuket - where to stay for couples

Best Places To Stay on Patong Beach In Phuket |Patong Beach Hotels

Patong Beach is the most well-known part of Phuket, partly due to its lovely Bangla Road. One of best places to stay is Patong Beach in Phuket as it has a dense concentration of bars and clubs and is the island’s primary nightlife destination.

This is surrounded by a large number of hotels, ranging from budget guesthouses to small resorts leading to Phuket’s busiest beach. There are also a number of excellent restaurants, countless shops, several cultural attractions and various activities to enjoy in the area.

Patong offers the best places to stay in Phuket for nightlife. Below you will find places to stay in Patong Phuket in very budget.

Top Budget Hotels on Patong Beach

Hello Yaya Residence – With only a 2-minute walk from Patong Beach, rooms also enjoy private balconies.
The SR Residence – 800 meters from Jungceylon Shopping Center and not too far from the shores of the beach.
Simple Boutique Sea Breeze – A 2-minute walk from Patong Beach and clean comfortable rooms.
Phunara Residence – A well sought after hotel with only a minute’s walk from Patong Beach and Junceylon Shopping Center

Mid-Range Hotels on Patong Beach

A Casa Di Luca – Located in Patong and only a kilometer from the popular Bangla Road. Features and outdoor pool and most rooms have a private balcony.
Hotel Sole – is 300 meters from the city centre. It is a 5-minute walk from Jungceylon Shopping Centre and a 10-minute walk from Patong Beach.
Kokotel Phuket Patong – located within walking distance of Patong Beach and nightlife spot, Kokotel Phuket Patong offers air-conditioned rooms with a balcony, a rooftop swimming pool, and a restaurant offering fresh seafood.
Sunset View Bay – overlooking Patong and providing sea views in the distance, Sunset View Bay also provides free private parking.

Luxury Hotels on Patong Beach

Mai House Patong Hill – Located on the hill leading to Patong, Mai House Patong Hill offers modern accommodation, an outdoor pool.
Nap Patong – A 10-minute walk from Bangla Road, The Nap Patong offers luxurious accommodation and pool.
Ramada Phuket Deevana Patong – Featuring an outdoor pool as well as a sauna, the modern Ramada Phuket Deevana Patong is located 1.2 km from Bangla Road and 1.15 km from Jungceylon Shopping Centre.
Holiday Inn Express Beach Central – Holiday Inn Express Phuket Patong Beach Central is located across from Patong Beach. It offers smoking and non-smoking rooms with a private balcony and iPod docking station.

Villas and Apartments on Patong Beach

BYD Lofts and Serviced Apartments – Just a 5-minute walk from Patong Beach, BYD Lofts offers stylish serviced apartments surrounded by shopping and nightlife options. Also features a rooftop pool.
Le Versace Residence – offers accommodation in Patong Beach. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar and restaurant. Free private parking is available on site.
The Unity Patong – Located in Patong and 500 meters from the beach area, The Unity Patong offers an outdoor infinity pool and a fitness center.
Phuket Villa Patong Apartment – Set in Patong Beach, 400 meters from Jungceylon Shopping Center, 500 meters from Patong Boxing Stadium and 600 meters from Bangla Road, Phuket Villa Patong 1 bedroom Spacious Apartment provides.

Best Places To Stay On Karon Beach In Phuket | Karon Beach Hotels

Karon Beach is the third longest beach on the island and has attracted a number of large, sprawling resorts with designs which blend well with the surrounding nature. This gives a lot of Karon quite a relaxed air. You are also not too far from the lively nightlife and entertainment center that is Patong Beach.

Karon is sometimes called ‘Patong’s little sister’. This makes Karon a great place for people who want to have a nightlife, shopping, and various attractions, but don’t necessarily want it right on their doorstep.

Top Budget Hotels on Karon Beach

Here you will find best and cheapest places to stay in Phuket on Karon Beach.

Mellow Space Boutique Rooms – Just a 5-minute walk to Karon Beach, rooms features air-conditioned rooms. Kata Beach and Patong Beach are a 10-minute drive away.
Pension Zum Ross – Located in the heart of Karon Beach, rooms features air-conditioning. Front desk, luggage storage facilities and free Wi-Fi in all areas.
Karon Bay Inn – Set in Karon Beach, 500 meters from Karon Temple Wat Suvarnkiri, Karon Bay Inn has a bar. Popular points of interest nearby include Karon Night Market and Karon Roundabout.
Paradise Inn – Paradise Inn is conveniently situated in the center of Karon’s entertainment area and a 5-minute walk from the beach.

Mid-Range Hotels on Karon Beach

Baan Sailom Hotel – Located along Karon Beach, Baan Sailom Hotel features comfortable rooms with a private balcony and an outdoor pool.
Manohra Cozy Resort – Surrounded by tropical gardens, Manohra Cozy Resort is located within 2 km from both Karon and Kata Beach. It offers a daily free shuttle to Karon Beach and free Wi-Fi.
Best Western Phuket Ocean Resort – Situated 200 metres from beautiful Karon Beach, Best Western Phuket features 3 outdoor pools set in tropical landscapes. Featuring stunning ocean views, it has a beachfront restaurant and spa.
Grand Sunset Hotel – Only 50 metres from Karon Beach and a 15-minute drive from vibrant Patong, Sunset Hotel provides beautiful accommodation with free Wi-Fi and private balconies. It has a spa and a pool.

Luxury Hotels on Karon Beach

Pacific Club Resort – Perched upon a hilltop and only a 10-minute walk from Karon Beach, the uniquely-designed boutique Pacific Club Resort offers spectacular views and spacious accommodation with private balcony.
Avista Grande By Sofitel – Featuring a terrace and a restaurant, Avista Grande Phuket Karon is located in Karon Beach.
Hotel IKON – Situated on a hillside, Hotel IKON Phuket offers spacious rooms with free WiFi and views of Karon Beach and surrounding greenery. It features massages, an outdoor pool and free parking.(This is where we stayed. A more detailed review below.)
Novotel Phuket – Novotel Phuket Karon Beach Resort And Spa boasts 3 outdoor pools, a spa and a 24-hour fitness centre. It offers rooms with a private balcony.

Villas and Apartments on Karon Beach

Sea and Sky By Alegher Kata – offers comfy accommodation set within 1.6 km to the beaches of Karon and Kata. Guests have free access to the gym and two infinity pools.
Karon Hill Apartments 2 – A few minutes’ walk from the beach, Karon Hill Apartment 2 offers self-catering accommodation with free WiFi and access to a communal outdoor pool.
Karon View Apartments – A luxury apartment and only 400 metres from Karon Beach. It offers a two-bedroom apartment with a kitchen.
Karon Butterfly Residence – Located on top of a hill in Karon Beach, Karon Butterfly Residence offers a terrace with sea views and a large outdoor pool.

Best Places To Stay In Kata Phuket | Kata Beach Hotels

The range of attractions around Kata Beach makes it a pretty good all-rounder as a holiday destination. Its beach is long and lively and is a particular favourite with surfers (from May to November) and student divers (there’s a cool reef to explore between the beach and Pu Island).

The nightlife here is fun, but not too raucous. There are several great restaurants to choose from as well as shops, viewpoints and fun activities. It offers fun for all the family, making it a particularly popular destination for young couples travelling with children.

Top Budget Hotels In Kata Beach

Here you will find best and cheapest places to stay in Phuket on Kata Beach.

Glitter House – Located only 700 meters away from Dino Park Mini Golf and 1.9 km from Kata Noi Beach, Glitter House offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and free parking.
We Love Kata – We Love Kata is a 10-minute walk from Kata Beach. It offers air-conditioned rooms with a balcony and free Wi-Fi.
Garden Home Kata – A 5-minute ride from the white sands of Kata Beach, Garden Home Kata features cosy accommodation surrounded by the lush tropical greenery.
Hotel Kata Hill Sea View – Less than a 5-minute walk from Kata Beach, Hotel Kata Hill Sea View features free WiFi throughout. Boasting an outdoor swimming pool, it provides a bar and free public parking on site.

Mid-Range Hotels In Kata Beach

Ban Elephant Blanc – Offering a tropical garden, private bungalows, a 10-minute walk from Kata Beach. The property also has an outdoor pool.
Two Chefs Inn – Located just 900 metres from Kata Noi Beach, Two Chefs Inn offers air-conditioned rooms with a balcony overlooking the beach.
The Blue Pearl Kata Hotel – Offering an outdoor pool and a buffet restaurant, The Blue Pearl is 300 metres from Kata Beach. There is public parking available on a location nearby.
Must Sea Boutique Hotel – A 5-minute walk to the beautiful Kata Beach, and offers stylish and comfortable rooms. This boutique hotel is a 10-minute walk to Karon Beach. Guests can relax in an outdoor swimming pool.

Luxury Hotels In Kata Beach

Nook Dee Boutique Resort – Located about 640 metres from Kata Noi Beach, Nook Dee Kata Beach is a Thai-style boutique hotel offering an outdoor pool, spa and wellness centre and a restaurant.
Sugar Marina Resort – Decorated in a nautical theme, Sugar Marina Resort – SURF – Comes complete with an outdoor pool, guests can work out in a fitness centre.
The Yama Hotel – Offering an outdoor pool swimming pool and a fitness centre, The Yama Hotel Phuket is a 5-minute drive from Kata beachfront. It offers an on-site restaurant and a bar.
Novotel Kata Avista Resort and Spa – Located on Kata Beach, Novotel Phuket Kata Avista Resort and Spa is set among green hills and offers sweeping sea views. The luxurious accommodation features spacious rooms with a balcony or terrace.

Villas and Apartments In Kata Beach

The Beach By Glitter House – Offering an outdoor pool and a restaurant,The beach by Glitter House is located in Kata Beach. It features modern suites with air conditioning and free WiFi access in public areas.
Luxury Apartment Karon Kata – an 8-minute walk from Dino Park Mini Golf and 3 km from Kata Noi Beach.
Kata Top View by Lofty – An outdoor swimming pool and a garden are offered at Kata Top View by Lofty, which is set in Kata Beach, 2.2 km away from Kata Noi Beach and 2.3 km away from Dino Park Mini Golf.
Mountain Seaview Luxury Apartments – Nestled up a hill surrounded by tropical forest, Mountain Seaview Luxury Apartments free WiFi access in all areas and barbecue facilities. A family rooms are also available.

Kamala Beach Hotels

The long, curved expanse of Kamala Beach and the little town behind it are just a short distance from Patong, but is practically the polar opposite. Far from being a hive of activity and nightlife but offers good places to stay Phuket airport in addition to Patong.

Kamala is popular with retirees for its quiet atmosphere, relaxed pace and abundance of spas, villas and quality hotels. It has a very subdued nightlife, which mostly caters to those seeking a pleasant time instead of high-energy partying. The area best caters to those who are in no rush, want to take it easy, and are quite happy for lazing on the quiet beach to be the day’s most strenuous activity.

Top Budget Hotels In Kamala Beach

Here you will find best and cheapest places to stay in Phuket on Kamala Beach.

The Umbrella House – The Umbrella House is set in Kamala, a 8-minute walk from the beach and 1.1 km from Phuket FantaSea.
The Mareeya Place – Only 30 metres from Kamala Beach, also a restaurant on site.
At Kamala Hotel – is situated 50 metres from Kamala Beach. It offers modern air-conditioned rooms with a private balcony. Sightseeing trips can be organised at the tour desk on on site.
Ice Kamala Beach Hotel – is located 30-metres from Kamala Beach. It offers spacious rooms with a balcony . Guests also enjoy free parking.

Mid-Range Hotels In Kamala Beach

Dengs Kamala Resort – Set at the beachfront with panoramic sea views, Dengs Kamala Resort offers spacious accommodation located in Kamala Beach. Delectable seafood platters can be sampled at the on-site restaurant.
Peter Kamala Guesthouse – is a 5-minute walk form Kamala Beach. It offers air-conditioned rooms, and is equipped with a tour desk, laundry service and outdoor pool.
The Regent Resort Phuket Kamala Beach – is located in Kamala Bay, a stroll from Kamala Beach. It features an outdoor pool and modern rooms with air conditioning.

Luxury Hotels In Kamala Beach

Kamala Resortel – Located within 700 metres of Phuket FantaSea in Kamala Beach, Kamala Resotel features an outdoor swimming pool and a shared lounge, as well as free WiFi throughout the property.
Glam Habitat – Offering a year-round outdoor pool, barbecue and sun terrace, Glam Habitat is located in Kamala Beach, 300 metres from Phuket FantaSea.
Novotel Phuket Kamala Beach – Located on Kamala Beach, Novotel Phuket Kamala Beach is a 3-minute drive from Phuket FantaSea.
Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort – Offering an outdoor infinity pool, Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort is situated up a steep hillside overlooking Kamala Bay at the southern tip of Kamala Beach.

Villas and Apartments In Kamala Beach

Villa Cassiopiea – Complete with a garden and a terrace, Villa Cassopiea is set in Kamala Beach, 1.4 km from Phuket FantaSea and a 16-minute walk from Big C Market Kamala.
Kyerra Villa By Lofty – Featuring a private pool, Kyerra Villa by Lofty is a detached villa set in Kamala Beach. The property is 600 metres from Phuket FantaSea and features views of the pool.
Tian Blue Villa – Featuring a private infinity rooftop pool, sun terrace and garden, Tian Blue Villa offers a balcony overlooking the sea.
The Seahore Kamala Service Apartment – The Seashore Kamala Service Apartment is located within a 5-minute walk from Kamala Beach and a 15-minute walk from Phuket FantaSea.

Phuket Town Hotels

The provincial capital and largest urban area of the island, Phuket Town’s narrow streets are filled with great restaurants, boutique shops and unique attractions. Below you will find the best places to stay in Phuket town. This is the ideal location for people who want every day of their holiday to be different; filled with new discoveries and new experiences.

The town has absorbed many aspects of the varying cultures which have called it home over the centuries, making it also place of beautiful historic designs and features. Being the hub of local life, Phuket Town is probably the best place to get the “real Thailand” experience on the island and there are regular local markets to explore.

Top Budget Hotels In Phuket Town

Here you will find best and cheapest places to stay in Phuket on Karon Beach.

Ritsurin Boutique Hotel – 400 metres from Thai Hua Museum, Ritsurin Boutique Hotel is located in Phuket Town and features air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi.
Surachet at 257 Boutique House – Located in Phuket Town, within 400 metres of Thai Hua Museum and a 5-minute walk of Chinpracha House, Surachet at 257 Boutique House offers accommodation with a shared lounge.
Hop Inn Phuket – features air-conditioned accommodation in Phuket Town. The property is located 2.2 km from Thai Hua Museum, 2.3 km from Chinpracha House and 2.3 km from Old Phuket Town.
Chinotel – Chinotel provides rooms with modern décor, a 30-minute drive from Patong Beach. Offering free WiFi, it is a 10-minute walk from the fresh market and various dining options.

Mid-Range Hotels In Phuket Beach

The Besavana Phuket – is a hotel set in Old Phuket Town. Thai Hua Museum is 90 metres away and Chinpracha House is a 3-minute walk from the hotel.
Xinlor House – Situated in Phuket Town, within 100 metres of Thai Hua Museum and a 3-minute walk of Chinpracha House, Xinlor House provides accommodation with a terrace.
The Memory at On On Hotel – Located in the heart of Phuket Old Town, The Memory at On On Hotel provides comfortable private and dormitory rooms.
The Malika Hotel – Set in Phuket Town, 1.2 km from Old Phuket Town, The Malika Hotel features air-conditioned accommodation and free bikes.

Luxury Hotels In Phuket Town

Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel – Housed in a charming colonial building, a stroll from Phuket Old Town, Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel offers beautiful boutique accommodation with private balcony and views.
Blu Monkey Hub and Hotel – Boasting free bikes, Blu Monkey Hub and Hotel is set in Phuket Town, 700 metres from Old Phuket Town. Among the various facilities are a garden, a shared lounge, as well as a bar.
Novotel Phuket Phokeethra – Located in the heart of Phuket Town, Novotel Phuket Phokeethra offers an outdoor swimming pool and 180 stylish rooms and suites.
Little Nyonya Hotel – an outdoor swimming pool, garden, a terrace and on-site dining in Phuket Town. This 4-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, room service.

Villas and Apartments In Phuket Town

CA Residence – Located in Phuket Town, CA Residence offers outdoor pool and a fitness centre. This self-catering accommodation features free Wi-Fi.
Modern Thai Suites Hotel – Offering an outdoor pool and a restaurant, Modern Thai Suites Hotel is located in Phuket Town.
The BASE Downtown By Favstay – Situated in Phuket Town, near Central Festival Phuket, Chao Fah Variety Market and King Power Phuket Complex, The BASE Downtown By Favstay guests can enjoy a fitness centre.

Rawai Beach Hotels

Rawai Beach is at the south-eastern tip of Phuket Island. Historically the very first tourist beach of Phuket, it somehow retained its local touch with the sea gypsy village and the many long-tail boats belonging to local fishermen anchored along its 2.5km length. The departure port for island-hopping to Coral and Racha islands, the atmosphere of Rawai is really tranquil compared to that of Patong.

With only a few shops and nightlife options, the resort town nevertheless hosts a few great beachside restaurants. The accommodation scene of Rawai features a wide range of hotels and resorts from budget to five-star.

Top Budget Hotels In Rawai Beach

Baan Sabai – Baan Sabai is conveniently located within a 5-minute drive from the sandy Nai Harn Beach with free shuttle service provided by the hotel.
Purimas Resort – Boasting a garden, terrace, and free WiFi, Purimas Resortel is located in Rawai Beach, 2.8 km from Nai Harn Beach.
Huga Place – This newly built Hotel Huga Place offers stylish and modern accommodation. It is just a 45-minute drive away from Phuket International Airport.
Putterhouse – is located in Phuket Town, 1.77 km from Chalong Pier and 1.85 from Phuket Shooting Range. This property offers air-conditioned rooms and a free parking space.

Mid-Range Hotels In Rawai Beach

Vivi Boutique Room – Vivi Boutique room is a 10-minute drive from Rawai Beach. It offers modern air-conditioned rooms with balcony and free Wi-Fi. The hotel is equipped with a pool and airport shuttle.
Smile Residence – Featuring free WiFi and an outdoor pool, Smile Residence offers accommodation in Rawai Beach. The property is located about a 10-minute drive to Nai Harn, Kata and Karon beaches.
The Idol Boutique Resort and Villa – A 5-minute drive from Naiharn Beach, The Idol Boutique Resort & Villa offers spacious studios with a fully equipped kitchen. This hotel features an outdoor swimming pool and a bar .
The Windmill Phuket Hotel – Boasting an outdoor pool and a restaurant, The Windmill Phuket Hotel is located in Rawai. It is just a 2-minute walk from Yanui Beach and about 800 metres from Promthep Cape.

Villas and Apartments In Rawai Beach

Rawai Ya Nui Villas – is situated 400 metres from Rawai Beach and about 1 km from Ya Nui Beach. The villas are located in a secure estate with a 24-hour security system and daily maid services.
Apartments in The Title Resort Rawai – Situated in Rawai Beach, Apartments in The Title Resort Rawai offers a year-round outdoor pool and sauna. Free private parking is available on site.
Villa Alia – Villa Alia offers a two-bedroom villa with private pool and free WiFi. The villa provides shuttle and laundry services at additional cost.
Saturdays Residence – offers modern and spacious suites, along with an outdoor swimming pool. Free WiFi is available. It is a 10-minute drive from Nai Harn Beach and the Rawai Beach area.

Other Beach Towns In Phuket

Mai Khao Beach – it is the island’s most northern and most peaceful beach, good for long and languorous seaside strolls. You’ll not find resort after resort here but rather a healthy distance between each. This is where Renaissance Hotel is located and where we stayed.

Surin Beach – Surin’s clear waters are good for snorkeling or kayaking. Boogie boarding and surfing are also popular activities.

Renaissance Resort Hotel

Where To Stay In Phuket | Our Stay at Ikon Hotel

Our stay at Ikon Hotel was the third and last hotel we stayed at on Phuket island. It was a fairly new hotel at the time of our visit, having opened only a few months before. I loved that it was across from a few shops and restaurants. There was a massage place across the road where we spent most evenings to get a massage before bed as we grew accustomed from our trip in Cambodia the week before.

There were also a couple of bars that do live music most evenings as well as a few restaurants. Rooms were clean and I was immediately sold on views. Its also a short walk to Karon Beach.

Best place to stay in phuket | Phuket Hotels | Where To Stay In Phuket

Get From Phuket Airport To Hotels

Most hotels will provide shuttles but for further details check the bottom of my post on things to do in Phuket which provides more details on available transport options to Phuket and from the airport.

So have you been to Phuket, yet? Any other hotels you would add to the list of where to stay in Phuket?

More on Thailand:

Enjoyed It? Pin It

Venice On A Budget | 5 Travel Tips For A Weekend Venice on a Budget

April 16, 2017 by admin 5 Comments

Just like London, many don’t believe you can do Venice on a budget so I thought I would provide Venice travel tips to help you live largely and spend less in Venice. We are going to be talking Venice budget accommodation, Venice budget restaurants, and everything in between to helo you get around and where to stay while doing Venice on a budget!

This is a city that has inspired many other cities around the world to create floating cities. From London’s Little Venice to Venice of the North, a term that is now used to reference many cities around the globe including Russia’s St Petersburg which I will be sharing soon.

Also See:

5 Travel Tips For A Weekend Venice on a Budget

As I have visited Venice a couple of times now I thought I would share tips on how to visit Venice on a budget. With all the luxury on offer in this floating city, one would think visiting Venice on a budget would be impossible. It isn’t! You can enjoy your Venice itinerary without expending an absolute fortune. There are so many ways to cut costs on your visit to Venice so that you can spend your money on things that matter most to you, what that is a splurge on a luxury hotel in Venice or opting for a fine dining experience in Venice.

Whatever it is, there is a way to save money on your trip. These include cruising the Grand Canal on budget-friendly Vaporetto(waterbus), walking the alleys on foot instead of using Venice taxis, although I do have a tip onhow you can save money on Venice taxis here. Below are 5 insider tips on visiting Venice, an Italian gem on a budget.

1. Use Waterbuses in Venice

Venice offers the option of taxis and Vaporetto – waterbuses. Taxis can be can be quite expensive and more so if you intend on using them as your main transportation. Waterbuses offer an inexpensive way to get around the city. Tip: Before you arrive in Venice download AVM Venezia official app(Android & iTunes). You can buy your tickets and have them to hand on your phone. You can buy 1, 2, 3 and 7-day tickets as well as buying tickets for 75 minutes for the waterbuses at 7.50 Euros.

These work in a similar way as London’s Oyster or Hong Kong’s Octopus but use a barcode that you scan just before boarding the waterbus on the machines at the entrances of the stops. You can also buy multiple tickets on the apps you don’t have to download several apps on other phones if traveling with others. We used my boyfriend’s app to buy both our tickets, which meant we already had tickets from the moment we arrived as well as the occasional taxi. I will share tips on how to save money on the taxis in the next Venice post.

Exploring Venice needn’t blow the bank balance, hopefully, the tips below offer an insight on how to explore Venice without spending a lot of many. A weekend in Venice in photos below.

My jacket is by Very | Belt isVersace | Bag is Celine

2. Explore Venice on Foot

After your initial arrival into Venice, you have the option of getting around by the waterbuses or seeing Venice on foot. I have found opting for exploring on footway better. You will see more of Venice than you will on the waterbuses. Venice is inter-connected by hundreds of bridges so this means you can see all those beautiful little gems hidden within the floating city that only your feet can get as some of the waterways are too narrow for the waterbuses.

The only other mode of transportation that gets around these narrow waterways are Gondolas and smaller boats. That in itself would be a costly way to explore this small city via Gondola. So put on a comfortable pair of shoes, put the map away and let Venice reveal itself to you. Having explored the main interconnected islands on foot you can also check outboat tours of Murano, Burano, and Torcello which start from about £18. There are also tours that combine a walking tour and a gondola ride.

3. Avoid expensive private Gondola rides and take a group ride

If you want to see the city by Gondola, if you are a group then it works out a lot cheap as you can split costs. If you are a couple and don’t mind sharing you can opt to buy advance tickets for a Gondola ride with others. Most Gondola platforms around Venice offer group rides but may have to wait until they have enough people to get on the Gondolas. Also, note that the prices for Gondolas changes in the evening but the benefit is that there are less people on Grand Canal so a little peaceful riding.

4. Buy Local Food In Venice – Food Budget

Eating in Venice can be ridiculously expensive. Venice on a budget food options are plenty, you just have to think outside of the box so to speak. This also doesn’t guarantee you will have quality for the money you are spending. Cafes and restaurants near tourist hotspots like Rialto Bridge or San Marco Square are super expensive for what is on offer. Unless you are visiting a place that comes highly recommended, I would highly recommend finding places hidden within inner Venice. The quality is usually better because they try harder to produce good food as it means they get more footfall with reviews and good reputation. It’s also a lot cheaper.

If exploring on foot also opt for taking away. There are supermarkets around the city offering an inexpensive option for those wanting to do Venice on a budget, especially if you are staying in an apartment in Venice. You can have a quick shop and make your own lunches or breakfast instead of eating out. We booked Airbnb when we visited Venice so we opted to use the supermarket to buy food, which meant we made our own food and enough to keep us going for lunches.

I also had access to Italian cafes serving great coffee right outside our apartment. To get the most of food in Venice you can also check out Food Tours in Venice that will take you around and sample food in Venice. Deciding where to eat in Venice is super is as there are plenty of places but just make sure it’s not in an overly touristy area as they charge more than they ought to.

5. Stay Local and Rent An Apartment In Venice

Don’t feel you have to stay in the center of Venice and there are certainly hotels and apartments in all budgets from luxury to Venice budget hotels. We looked around for hotels but as this year has been filled with so much travel for work, I have found Airbnb a lot more appealing for my style of travel at the moment. I do switch between hotels and Airbnb though. Don’t feel you have to stay near San Marco or Rialto Bridge to feel the essence of Venice.

Venice is not so big that you have to stay so close to the hot spots. Our booking was for a place hidden deep in the alleys of Venice, it seemed that way when we walked to try and find it but after we found it and saw the view from one of our windows(image below with rooftops and the Campanile in the background) we realised just how close we still were to the sights. We were also a short walk to Libra Alta – the famous bookshop. Rialto Bridge was also only about 30 minutes walk.

The point is, don’t feel you have to blow hundreds of Euros on an expensive hotel bill just so you can stay on the edge of the Grand Canal. Especially if you are going to spend most of your stay exploring. For Venice Italy accommodation budget options and to compare hotel prices in Venice click here. You can also use Airbnb, whether rental the whole apartment or renting a room. You can save £30 via this Airbnb link when you sign up. If you are still hungry for more tips on this beautiful city then check out Nicola’s comprehensive guide to Venice.

Tours In Venice

There are plenty of cool tours in Venice to choose from. Below you can check out Get Your Guide for tours. From walking tours to hop on hop off tours. Check out this review of the Venice boat tour.

Also See:

Pin For Later

Venice on a Budget | 5 Travel Tips For A Weekend Venice on a Budget

Thailand Travel Guide & Essentials Packing List – What To Pack For Thailand

September 20, 2016 by admin 27 Comments

What To Pack For Thailand - Thailand Travel Guide & Essentials

My Thailand travel guide at last! It’s not every day you wake up and have the beach all to yourselves, unless you are in, maybe Phuket. This little Thai island is just paradise! I wish I could have stayed forever. I guess in a way I now understand why people stay on and live in Thailand. Below are some of my tips on Thailand travel in addition to what to pack for Thailand. You could certainly live there and not miss any “Western comforts”. You want shopping, Bangkok is filled with shopping malls from designer boutiques to purse-friendly stores. When it comes to the weather, let’s just say the London summers are blown right out of the water!

After doing the James Bond Tour and the Ko Phi Phi Tour, we wanted a little break from any activities and just lounge about like the world had stopped spinning for a while. Mai Khao beach where Renaissance Resort and Spa is located is simply Paradise. Even better in the morning for sunrise, as the beach is all yours to enjoy on your own with a loved one by your side. What makes Mai Khao Beach is its 11km-long straight beach, much of which is still undeveloped apart from JW Marriott Phuket Resort, the airport which sits at the top of the northwestern coast. This means that you can walk for miles and miles and not see a soul other than maybe one or two joggers from the resort.

I shared a couple more picture of our private villa at Renaissance. If need a short break from the activities on the island I would highly recommend a bit of rest and relaxation at Renaissance, if for this beautiful stretch of the beach alone! I have posted a couple of posts on Thailand which include tips and tricks on tours that we did in Thailand. In this post I thought I would provide you a little help when booking for a trip to Thailand. As far a what to pack for Thailand, getting there and getting around, including where to stay in Thailand whether heading to Phuket, Chiang Mai or Bangkok. Read on below for more.

Also See:

What To Pack For Thailand - Beach Essentials - Phuket

What To Pack For Thailand - Phuket Guide and Beach Essentials

Getting To Thailand | How To Get Around Thailand?

Getting around Thailand is super easy. Flights from Thailands major cities like Bangkok are easy, frequent and cheap connecting to other Thai cities, islands and international destinations too. We flew in from Bangkok to Phuket having arrived from Siem Reap, then flew out from Phuket to Kuala Lumpur all using AirAsia which has plenty of cheap flights and make traveling around Asia cheap and easy. One of few sites you can compare flight prices that include Asia’s cheap carries is Kayak.

If you are traveling from major cities in Europe or more specifically London like we were, the best flight prices from the UK tend to be from the end of May. You can compare prices on Momondo, Kayak orExpedia. For details of getting around Thailand see below:

Buses Extensive and affordable for travel between towns.
Air Cheap and frequent domestic connections on budget airlines.
Trains Slow but scenic between Bangkok, the north, the northeast and the south.
Car & motorcycle Easy to hire for local touring.
Local transport Shared and chartered taxis and motorcycles are widely available.

[easy-image-collage id=2810]

Women’s Summer Essentials – What To Pack For Thailand (Packing List)

Sun Hat.
Skincare and sunscreen.
Beach swimwear.
Lightweight sandals.
Beach Coverups.
Converter.
Summer Midi/Maxi dress.
Lightweight towel.
Lightweight walking shoes.
Beach bag.
Waterproof phone case.
Sunglasses.

What To Pack For Thailand - Phuket Beach Resort

Beach Cover-Ups

I love packing a range of cover-ups from embellished kaftans that are easy to pair up with leggings to head into town to beach bumming. I also pack beach skirts and sarongs too.

Swimwear

Whether a one piece is your thing or you prefer a two-piece always get something that flatters your body shape. I love the range on ASOS as they do a cool range for plus sizes and those a bigger bust and there is something for everyone one. Other places with a wide range include Nordstrom and Net-A-Porter.

Beach and Summer Hats

Packing Skincare | Beauty and Skin Care Perfect For Beach Holidays

Whether you are packing for a summer or winter vacation skincare has to be somewhere at the top of the list as a change of weather will be something that will affect the appearance of your skin. Whether you are a lover of Clinique, Olay, Clarins, Dermalogi, Estee Lauder, Dior cosmentics, you need to consider packing suitable skincare for your vacation whether that is to cater to sunny weather or cold temperatures.

Men’s Packing List For Thailand | Summer Vacation Packing List

sun hat
Polo shirts and a couple of plain T-shirts
Lightweight Beach towel
Pairs of plain smart casual shorts
Pair of walking shoes
At least one or 2 smart shirts and trousers for evening enterainment requiring a bit more than beach clothes.
lightweight jersey sweatshirt for cold evenings
Pair of boxers and thin socks per day of trip
Pair of trainers or walking shoes.
Lightweight summer shoes / if necessary (sandals, flip-flops or espadrilles)
Pairs of multifunction swimshorts that can be worn in the gym
Pair of sports socks

Thailand Travel Guide & Essentials Packing List For Men - What To Pack For Thailand #packingtips #traveltips #asia #phuket #bangkok

Thailand Travel Guide & Essentials Packing List For Women & Men - What To Pack For Thailand #packingtips #traveltips #asia #phuket #bangkok

Thailand Beach Essentials | Women's packing List for Thailand

Men’s Skin Care Kit

A change in weather can play havoc on the skin for both men and women. There are plenty of cosmetic brands that now do amazing skincare products for men. It’s not just women that need to care for their skin, men too. So don’t forget to pack something to moisturise your skin as well as suncare.

Men’s Summer / Beach Hats

In addition to packing sunscreen, packing sun hats is just as important.

Packing List for Men - Thailand Vacation

What To Pack For Thailand - Thailand Beach Hotels

Thailand Packing List and Essentials

Thailand is amazing, with perfect beaches and relaxing environment that you will most likely spend most days in beachwear. If you forget to pack some items, you can easily find most of what you need in Thailand — especially Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.

Now, get out there and have fun exploring the beaches, food, temples, and all the wonderful people that make Thailand such a wonderful destination to travel to! Regardless of the time of year, when traveling to Thailand you should make sure you pack the following in addition to your usual travel essentials:

Bathing suits.
Beach Cover-ups.
Kindle (load up on favourite books)
Summer Sandals.
Sarong or quick dry towel.
Light Jacket.
Waterproof Mobile Case.
Bug spray.
Sunscreen.
Converter
Walking / Hiking shoes.
Dry sacs
A sweater or sweatshirt for chilly evenings.
Maxi and Midi Summer dresses

For anything that you forget to pack, you can always buy in Thailand as the country provides amazing shopping experiences in addition to the beautiful beaches and Thailand tours and activities.

The Best Tours In Thailand

There are plenty of tours in all major cities and islands in Thailand. Whether you want to do a bike tour, island hopping, temple run, visit elephant sanctuary or any manner of adventure there is something for everyone. Check out Trip Advisor’s Viator Tours or Get Your Guide Tours to compare reviews and tours. Some of the best tours in Thailand are:

Phuket to Phi Phi Island Hopping.
Floating Markets of Damnoen Saduak Cruise Day Trip from Bangkok.
Phang Nga Bay Day Trip from Phuket by Speedboat.
Hong by Starlight Including Sea Cave Kayaking and Loy Krathong Floating from Phuket.
Bangkok Dinner Cruise on the Chao Phraya River.
Chiang Rai Day Trip from Chiang Mai City.
Bangkok’s Grand Palace Complex and Wat Phra Kaew Tour.
Phang Nga Bay Deluxe Tour to James Bond and Hong Island from Phuket.
Ayutthaya Day Trip from Bangkok

Where to Stay In Thailand?

Thailand has some of the most amazing resorts, villas, apartments, hotels, and budget options like hostels. I have post about some of the places we stayed at in Thailand on the blog. Whether you are you are hunting for hotels and hostels in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Phuket, there is plenty in every budget from luxury to budget. Also check out Booking, Agoda and Trivago to read views and compare prices.

Booking.com

More on Thailand:

Liked It? Pin, Tweet Share!

Thailand Travel Guide & Essentials Packing List For Women - What To Pack For Thailand #packingtips #traveltips #asia #phuket #bangkok

The Best Paris Hotels With Balcony Views Of The Eiffel Tower

September 15, 2016 by admin 73 Comments

Finding Paris hotels with balcony views of Eiffel Tower is up there on the to-do list for anyone planning a romantic trip to Paris.

Heading to Paris for a romantic trip and looking for cool hotels with balconies in Paris? Then this is right up your street. Imagine a Parisian breakfast on the balcony… Finding the perfect hotels with view of Eiffel Tower from balcony easy with the hotels below.

Usually, I complain about not visiting Paris as much as I should considering its only an hour and a half on the Eurostar.

This year I have managed to rack up quite a few trips to the popular capital. One memorable trip from the visits was a weekend visit and a hotel on Champs Elysées, just before I left for Australia.

Nothing beats an apartment with a view of the Eiffel Tower, but even better is having a Paris hotel with a view of the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, in addition to having two lovely Parisian balconies all to ourselves.

Paris Hotels With Views of Eiffel Tower [and Arc de Triomphe] | hotels with the view of the eiffel tower

Also See

Finding A Paris Hotel Room With View Of Eiffel Tower

While planning our Parisian getaway we searched for hotels with Eiffel tower view balcony and we scored a bonus with a view of Arc de Triomphe.

While trying to get all that work-life balance business in check. During our visit explored a view places I have already shared with you guys; the Colours of La Defence, Printemps Rooftop, Louis Vuitton Foundation and Palais Royal.

For our weekend getaway, we checked into Radisson Blu on Champs Elysées which came with a cool balcony view of Eiffel Tower. A perfect example of hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower view and balcony. Located in the former headquarters of Louis Vuitton. This boutique hotel is the perfect spot for a weekend in the city.

The staff are super friendly, recommending places to see and where to eat. The location also makes it perfect in that you have incredible choices for places to eat and explore as it’s all working distance and the fact that the station is only a few meters from the hotel. So continue reading for more on how to grab yourself a Paris hotel overlooking Eiffel Tower.

Top Paris Hotels With Balcony Views Of Eiffel Tower

Below you will find the most perfect hotel with balcony in Paris within every budget. From 5 star hotels in Paris with Eiffel tower view do to budget accommodation in Paris with view of Eiffel tower.

Budget Paris Hotels with Eiffel Tower View Balcony

Imagine sipping coffee with an Eiffel Tower balcony view. With such a wide range of Parisian hotels to pick from you can easily have booking your into on of the cool hotels in Paris with Eiffel tower view and balcony. Below are a couple within a budget range odd hotels in Paris still offing amazing views of the City of Light.

Hotel Du Lion– Located in the south of Paris within a short walk to Denfert-Rochereau Square and Metro Station. With some rooms on the upper floor overlooking Paris and some of them also feature a balcony. Hotel Du Lion provides daily buffet breakfast, either served in the breakfast room or in the comfort of your own room. Denfert-Rochereau Metro and RER Station provides direct access to Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, Montparnasse Station and Orly and Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airports.

Luxelthe – Located in the heart of Paris’s Montmartre district, just 100 yards from the Pigalle Metro station and a great option for a hotel with balcony in Paris. Guest room at the Luxelthe have a private bathroom, and some also feature balconies. The Sacre-Cœur Basilica is less than a 10-minute walk from the Luxelthe hotel and the Moulin Rouge is just 550 yards away.

Hotel De La Herse d’Or– A small hotel located in a beautiful area of Paris. Nice location and very friendly staff, really helpful. The room are nicely decorated with a Parisian flair. Hotel De La Herse d’Or is located in the historic Marais district of Paris, 200 yards from Place de la Bastille and a 20-minute walk from Notre Dame Cathedral and the Pompidou Centre, with Place des Vosges only a 2-minute walk away. Additional services include luggage storage. The closest Metro Station is Bastille, 200 yards from the hotel.

Top Paris Hotels With A Balcony | hotels with eiffel tower view balcony

Top Paris Hotels With A Balcony | hotels with view of eiffel tower from balcony

Mid-range Priced Hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower View and Balcony

Below you will not only find hotels near Eiffel Tower with balcony but hotels that come with a room with Eiffel Tower view so you can see the twinkling lights of the Eiffel Tower from your balcony. Below are hotels in Paris with view of Eiffel Tower and all offering a bit of luxury without breaking the bank.

Hotel Parc Saint Servin – Esprit de France – A 4-star hotel located in the Latin Quarter of Paris and plenty of Eiffel Tower view rooms to choose from. With St Michel metro station only a 3-minute walk from the hotel provides easy access to Montparnasse, the Louvre and more. Rooms are elegantly decorated with some featuring a private terrace.

Edouard 7 Paris Opera – centrally located in Paris and offers luxury accommodation a 3-minute walk from Opéra Garnier. Some rooms have a private balcony. The hotel is located a 5-minute walk from Place Vendome, luxury stores and Galeries Lafayette department store. The Opéra Metro Station is 200 yards away which provides access to sights like Le Louvre.

Hotel Baume – Located in the center of Paris. Hôtel Baume is only a 150 yards from the Luxembourg Garden and 350 yards from Odéon Metro Station. This hotel is a 13-minute walk from Notre-Dame Cathedral and 900 yards from the Sainte-Chapelle. Perfectly located from Paris attractions.

Hotel Yllen Eiffel – Located a 25-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower. The hotel is in the heart of Paris’ 15th arrondissement, in front of Volontaires Metro Station and provides access to the capital’s sights such as the Sacré Coeur, the Champs de Mars and Place de la Concorde. The péripherique is also only 8 minutes away with parking is possible nearby.

Relais Saint Jacques – Another one of great Paris hotels with views of the Eiffel Tower. Relais Saint Jacques is located in the heart of the lively Latin Quarter, on the edge of the Luxembourg Gardens. It offers a peaceful setting with comfortable and spacious that are individually decorated. With some rooms featuring views of the leafy Rue de l’Abbé or the famous Panthéon. The hotel is just a 20-minute walk from the cafés and shops in Saint-Germain des Prés and Montparnasse. Notre Dame Cathedral is also only a 15 minutes walk.

Golden Tulip Bercy Gare de Lyon 209– Among cool hotels with Eiffel Tower view from room. Located in the 12th district in Paris, only yards from Bercy Train Station. Superior Rooms have a Nespresso coffee machine and a balcony. Set in a lively area of Cour St Emilion, with its bars and restaurants. The hotel also provides parking space but is also a mile away from Gare de Lyon Train, while Dugommier Metro Station can be reached within 1 minute by walk.

Paris Hotels With Views of Eiffel Tower | Top Paris Hotels With A Balcony | paris hotel with eiffel tower view balcony

Paris Hotels With Views of Eiffel Tower | paris hotel room with view of eiffel tower | hotels near eiffel tower with balcony

Luxury Paris Hotels With Eiffel Tower View Balcony

If looking for a Paris hotel room with view of Eiffel Tower well look no further. This time we have a cool list of 5 star hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower view.

Le Roch Hotel & Spa – Located only 500 yards from Tuileries Gardens. Among cool Paris hotels with balcony views. Most hotel rooms have a balcony but all rooms feature city views. There are plenty of bars, cafes, and restaurants near the hotel if you tire of dining at the hotel’s onsite restaurant. There is also a sun terrace with views of the city.

Hotel Barriere Le Fouquet’s – Located on Champs-Elysees and George V Avenue. Among 5 star hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower view and also features a spa and sauna for those perfect relaxing treats in the city of light. There are two restaurants and 3 bars on site, rooms were decorated by famous designers. Many of the rooms have a balcony looking onto Champs Elysees and the hotel’s interior garden.

Park Hyatt Paris Vendome – A luxury 5 star Paris hotel with Eiffel Tower view balcony. It has plenty of tourist sites within a minute’s walk from the hotel, places like Opera Garnier. This is one of the best Paris hotels with view of Eiffel Tower. Rooms are elegantly decorated and come with floor to ceiling windows with street or courtyard views. Most rooms also come with a balcony.

Mandarin Oriental Paris – This 1930s palace hotel is located in a historic building. Comes with an indoor landscaped garden, spa, and is oozing in Parisian elegance with each room uniquely designed and most rooms and suites come with a beautiful terrace and panoramic views of Paris.

Hotel Champs Elysees Plaza – A luxurious hotel located on Champs Elysees with spacious rooms. The hotel comes with a spa and restaurants with plenty of Parisian stores like Galleries Lafayette and Printemps nearby. One of the best 5 star hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower view. Guests can enjoy rooms with Paris street view from their balcony in addition to the hotel’s own library.

Hotel Napoleon Paris– Located a short walk from Arc de Triomphe also within a short train ride to the business district of La Defense. If you love a bit of retail therapy, you also have popular brands like Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, H&M, and Cartier. Rooms are beautifully decorated and look out onto Paris from the famous Parisian balconies.

Paris Hotels With Views of Eiffel Tower | Top Paris Hotels With A Balcony | hotel with view of eiffel tower from room

Paris Hotels With Views of Eiffel Tower [and Arc de Triomphe] | hotels with eiffel tower view balcony | accommodation in paris with view of eiffel tower

Paris Hotels With Views of Eiffel Tower Top Paris Hotels With A Balcony | 5 star hotel paris view eiffel tower

Top Tips On Things To Do on Champs Elysées

Shopping: Radisson Blu Hotel is ideally located near Paris’ famous Shopping arrondissement

Paris Sightseeing: Arc de Triomphe is a few meters, Louvre and Musee d’Orsay and Eiffel Tower are also a short walk from the hotel.

Eating: The hotel is in the city’s golden triangle so cafes and restaurants are in abundance.

Our Hotel: When we booked our stay I was keen to find hotels on Champs Elysees as we wanted to be centrally located in a few places we planned on visiting. Most of which were within walking distance.

Its among Paris hotels with the best views as you get both the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, without breaking the bank.

Below I have also shared a couple of Paris hotels with a balcony and featuring those beautiful views of Paris that we all hope to have when we are in the city of light.

Paris Hotels With Views of Eiffel Tower [and Arc de Triomphe] | hotels with views of eiffel tower paris

Paris Hotels With Views of Eiffel Tower [and Arc de Triomphe] | 5 star hotels in paris with eiffel tower view

Paris Hotels With Views of Eiffel Tower [and Arc de Triomphe] | hotels with eiffel tower view from room

Paris Hotels With Views of Eiffel Tower [and Arc de Triomphe] | hotels in paris with view of eiffel tower

Paris Hotels With Views of Eiffel Tower [and Arc de Triomphe] | hotels with a view of eiffel tower paris

Paris Hotels With Views of Eiffel Tower [and Arc de Triomphe] | best paris hotels with view of eiffel tower

Paris Hotels With Views of Eiffel Tower [and Arc de Triomphe] | hotels with balconies in paris

More On Paris And Europe:

There you have it, the best hotels with a view of the Eiffel Tower in Paris to inspire romantic evenings in the City of Light. So have you stayed at any of the above Paris hotels with a balcony?

Pin For Later

The Best Paris Hotels With Balcony Views Of The Eiffel Tower - Perfect Paris hotels with balconies . #paris #france #hotels #romance #cityoflight #europe #travel

The Best Paris Hotels With Balcony Views Of The Eiffel Tower - The perfect Parisian stays with balconies. #paris #france #hotels #romance #cityoflight #europe #travel

Mandarin Oriental Hotel KLCC | Where To Stay In Kuala Lumpur

April 27, 2016 by admin 7 Comments

Petronas Twin Towers are Kuala Lumpur’s most famous landmarks in Malaysia, if not the whole of Southeast Asia. When I was planning our visit to Kuala Lumpur I was also on the hunt for hotels in Kuala Lumpur city center as almost everything that I planned was close if not within the main part of the city center.

We checked into Mandarin Oriental in Kuala Lumpur, which not only sits pretty with views of Malaysia’s business district but comes with a bonus of being right next to Petronas Towers and the ridiculously HUGE Suria KLCC shopping mall. The location makes it some much easier to get started on the list of things to do in Kuala Lumpur as KLCC and Petronas Tower Bridge Tour Experience are right at your door!

The luxury hotel boasts 10 restaurants serving up Japanese, Chinese, Italian, Spanish and other international cuisines. Gastronomy to the max! Kuala Lumpur is already a multi-cultural city but I love that the hotel is already offering you a piece of the world in all its international flavours without even having to leave the premises.

With all the city’s tourist sights we had on the cards, first on the list was a bit of R&R on the rooftop’s infinity pool. Considering we had just spent a few days temple running through Cambodia’s Angkorian Temples, it was time to relax by the pool with a cocktail before exploring began. A few days ago I also shared some pictures from our culinary tour through Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown.

She's A Fan! - Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur

Budget – Wise

Obviously, Mandarin Oriental is in the luxury category so expect to pay a premium for that, but it was well worth every penny or dollar that we paid. We had a room that was looking out to Petronas Towers, again those rooms charge a bit more. Others not facing the towers are slightly less. I will be posting more on the hotel. It was a birthday treat so totally justified, I guess. For a list of hotels in Kuala Lumpur head over to this list of hotels in KL.

Location Location Location

Location of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Kuala Lumpur doesn’t get any better! You are bang in the middle of it all. If you are after a hotel near KLCC then this is the place for you! Firstly you have the 10 restaurants inside the hotel, then the major Suria Mall within Petronas Towers next door. You have stores from luxury to sensibly priced stores. So from your Gucci, Fendi, Chanel to H&M and all the gadgets shops like the Microsoft, Samsung and Apple stores. I couldn’t resist, I managed to come back to London with a gold and shiny Samsung A8. Exclusive to Asia, so I feel pretty chuffed that only a few people in the UK might have it. The hotel is perfectly located with plenty of sights are your finger tips. Also, perfect for anyone short on time but wanting to get the most out of your stay. You won’t have to go very far to see the sights.

Things to see and do in Kuala Lumpur

I posted a couple of things to see and do in Kuala Lumpur to inspire your itinerary in Kuala Lumpur. Also, make sure you check out the Batu Caves and definitely don’t miss out on the nightlife in China town and grab drinks at the city’s helipad pad.

Yes, the helipad turns into a bar at night and you and in full 360-degree views of Kuala Lumpur and the beautiful Petronas Towers that are right next to Mandarin Hotel. For tours check out Get Your Guide on additional things to see and do in Kuala Lumpur and beyond.

Swimsuit is by Figleaves(blow), Hat and yellow cover-up(now sold out) by ASOS

Search For Hotels Near KLCC

Booking.com

Pin For Later

Sailing Santorini | The Best Catamaran Tours In Santorini

November 18, 2015 by admin 17 Comments

If you are heading to Santorini, then a catamaran tour in Santorini is a must! I am still dreaming about sailing Greek islands from our recent visit to Santorini. I am not sure about you, but the current weather situation in London has me wishing I was somewhere sunny. Luckily, I still have more pictures from sunny escapes over the summer.

One being my trip to Greece in July which saw my sister, one of her closest friends and I visit Greece, passing through Athens before ticking off a bucket list item of sailing Greek islands by way of beach hopping around beaches and caldera sailing tour of Santorini.

As popular as Santorini is for weekend getaways, Santorini honeymoons, beach vacations in Santorini for the guys and the girl’s getaway, it’s also small enough to get lost and have moments of peace and quiet without hordes of tourists on your path. Leaving London in search of sun, sea, and sand we were three girls hungry for shots of serotonin and what better place to dose up than sailing Greek islands in and around the island of Santorini?!

Also See:

Sailing Greek Islands | Sailing Around Santorini

Sailing volcano tour of Santorini beaches packed with volcanic minerals, from red sand beaches, black sand, white sand and your usual golden sand beaches.

Santorini beaches have it all! The coolest way to beach hop, of course, is by way of a Santorini sailing tour. There are several options when it comes to sailing Greek islands and the tours available. The choice simply depends on your budget and comfort requirements.

You will have a choice between larger boats that cater to 50-100 on board, sunset sailing tours Santorini catamarans for between 6-36 people per boat.

These usually come inclusive of the pick-up from your hotel, food on board, stops at some of the beaches for a swim as well as a stop by the hot springs for a swim around the volcano. You may also have time to climb the volcano.

Sailing Greek Islands | sailing tours in Santorini

catamaran tours in santorini | Sailing Around Santorini

Catamaran tours in Santorini prices range from 50-60 Euros for the larger boats with more people on board, about 90-150 Euros for the catamaran with between 6-36 people.

You can also charter the boats with friends for a little over 850 Euros, which provides more flexibility on where around the Island you visit, although, our group, we had flexibility on where we went and how long we stayed there before moving on.

While this option was suitable when we chartered a boat in Malta, this time around sailing the Greek islands, we opted for sailing tours in Santorini where the catamaran with numbers are limited to about 10 people, also choosing one with all adults on board.

The beauty of these tours is that you get to see most if not all of Santorini’s coolest beaches without crowds, your own chef on-board to serve up a seafood feast and while everyone is huddled up in Oia for the sunset, you get to see that sun go down at sea. An absolutely spectacular view!

The Best Catamaran Tours In Santorini | Sailing Tours in Santorini

Sailing Greek Islands |catamaran tours in santorini

For sailing Greek islands or sailing around Santorini or even chartering a boat to for sailing Greek Islands then check out sailing excursions here, here and here.

I preferred the ones with smaller groups but there are larger boat cruises too. There are various other tours and activities available on the island. From wine tasting, sea kayaking, paddleboarding to photography sessions. For more details on activities available check here.

Sailing Greek Islands | sailing tours from santorini

Sailing Greek Islands | sunset sailing tours santorini

Catamaran Sailing Tours In Santorini | best sailing tours santorini

Sailing Greek Islands | best sailing tours santorini

Sailing Greek Islands | santorini greece sailing tours

Sailing Greek Islands | caldera sailing tour santorini

Sailing Greek Islands | sailboat tours in santorini

Sailing Greek Islands | sailing tours santorini

Watching The Sun Go Down In Santorini

So you never miss a post, be sure to follow on

BLOGLOVIN +

Like this post? Share or Pin It For Later

A Livingstone Island Tour on Victoria Falls + A Dip In The Devil’s Swimming Pool

November 18, 2014 by admin 41 Comments

“So lovely, it must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight” – David Livingstone

With many beautiful national parks in Zambia, another one to add to your list is Victoria Falls National Park. This is where you will also find Victoria Falls and Livingstone Island on the Zambezi River which is pictured below. We took to the Livingstone Island tour run by Tongabei Safaris. We got to visit via Livingstone Island Tour which comes with lunch and Livingstone Island high tea on Victoria Fall. I have shared a couple of posts on my trip to Africa, covering Zambia, Botswana, and Namibia. In this post, I will be sharing my explorations of Livingstone Island on Victoria Falls, our dip into the Devil’s Pool on Victoria Falls and also cover Victoria Falls hotel accommodation options such as the amazing Royal Livingstone hotel.

Although the first known Europeans to visit Zambia were the Portuguese, it is thought that David Livingstone was the first Brit to explore the Zambezi River (and gaze upon the Victoria Falls), which gives life to Mosi-oa-Tunya. This translates to The Smoke that Thunders. You might know this as Victoria Falls, renamed by David Livingstone in 1855 in honor of Queen Victoria as he stood on what is now known as Livingstone Island. In high season you wouldn’t be able to stand here as it is completely submerged in sheets of water.

Most Zambians and Zimbabweans still use its original name and Zimbabwe went as far as officially renaming the falls back to “Mosi-oa-Tunya” last year. Also, contrary to what a lot of people are taught, David Livingstone DEFINITELY DID NOT discover Victoria Falls. Zambian’s already knew about Victoria Falls so they didn’t have to wait for a European person to come and discover what was already in their backyard. The fact that it already had a Zambian name tells you something. As a Zambian, I find this insulting…but that’s a post for another time.

Boat Arrival For The Livingstone Island Tour

Your experience on the island starts off with a boat ride from the Royal Livingstone Hotel and onto the island. For a little extra treat, my boyfriend and I had the boat to ourselves for the trip! Well, in addition to the skipper and our guide of course. As we arrived on the island we could see the smoke created by the falling sheets of water on the other side. Victoria Falls is known to be the largest sheet of falling water with a width of 1708 meters, twice the size of Niagara Falls and more than twice that of the Horseshoe Falls. Victoria Falls is only rivaled by that of the Argentinian Iguazu Falls. We were met with drinks when we arrived on Livingstone Island.

Experience Livingstone Island Tour & Devils Pool On Victoria Falls

Getting up close and personal with Victoria Falls is the only way to experience it. To do this you have to get on the Livingstone Island for the ultimate experience of The Smoke that Thunders. Not many Victoria Falls hotel options offer tours or access to Livingstone Island. As we were staying at Tongabezi who manage the island we booked in for a little afternoon adventure to take a dip in the Devil’s Pool. If you are a lover of adventure, a dip into the Devils swimming pool. Before the Devil’s Pool, which I will be telling you about in the next post, we had a tour of the falls with a touch of history on the local people and how David Livingstone was introduced to the falls by the people lived on the land.

Exploring Livingstone Island can only be done during Victoria Falls dry season. You dont necessarily need to visit only in the dry season but for this tour and Victoria Falls Pool(Devil’s Pool), you can only do these activities when the water levels on Victoria Falls are low and safe enough for the activity. If you can see the falls in both high and low season then I would definitely recommend it, but even more so if you can get on the island for a close and personal encounter. I will share a list of Victoria Fall hotels options below with close proximity to Victoria Falls. Having not been around here since childhood it was great to bring my boyfriend here to witness this beautiful natural wonder. Even better, that he was crazy enough to dive into the devil’s pool with me. Below are my shots of experiencing the Smoke That Thunders. This is another experience offered by only a handful of Victoria Falls hotel accommodations near the waterfall.

A Livingstone Island Tour on Victoria Falls | Livingstone Island Hightea

Best time to visit the Victoria Falls and Livingstone Island | Victoria Falls Dry Season

Main to visit during Victoria Falls dry season as this means the water is low enough to explore Livingstone Island and Victoria Falls Pool. I would still very much recommend visiting in both the dry and wet season. During the rainy season, which starts from December to April, Victoria Falls can be experienced at its fullest with East and West cataract cascading with water that sprays from Zambia all the way onto the the Zimbabwean side. The spray is visible a good 30 miles away. If you visit in the dry(July to September) season you will have the opportunity to stand on Livingstone Island and take on the Devil’s Pool if a little African adventure is what you seek.

Another beautiful sight you can witness on the Zambezi is Victoria Falls during the lunar rainbow, check out Tonagbezi for more details. This happens during the three nights around the full moon. At full moon, these beautiful rainbows appear over Victoria Falls. Below are the dates for the 2015 full moon appearance.

Full moon dates 2015:

Monday, 5 January

Wednesday, 4 February

Thursday, 5 March

Saturday, 4 April

Monday, 4 May

Tuesday, 2 June

Thursday, 2 July

Friday, 31 July

Saturday, 29 August

Monday, 28 September

Tuesday, 27 October

Wednesday, 25 November

Friday, 25 December

Victoria Falls Hotel Options | Exploring Livingstone Island on Victoria Falls

Livingstone Island Lunch

After much exploring of Livingstone Island and dipping into Victoria Falls pool, you are provided with an opportunity to sit, chill and mingle with the other people on the Livingstone Island tour while a Livingstone Island lunch is served.

A Livingstone Island Tour on Victoria Falls | Livingstone Island Lunch

Livingstone Island Hightea | Exploring Livingstone Island on Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls Hotel Options | Where to Stay In Livingstone

Livingstone has many places to choose from and covering every budget from backpackers budget to luxe accommodation. From camping, glamping, luxury tents, lodges and hotels but in the main town, on the Zambezi and near and with views of Victoria Falls. Three that I have personally experienced are below. You can also read about my stay at Tongabezi here.

Victoria Falls Hotel | Maramba River Lodge

Maramba River Lodge offers 3 different types of accommodation; luxury tents, chalets and camping sites. The surroundings overlook the river where you can spot elephants, hippos and crocodiles which come to find on the river right by lounging decks.

Victoria Falls Hotel | Tongabezi Lodge

Tongabezi is nestled in the shadows of Mosi-oa-Tunya national park. Tongabezi has few luxury and intimate lodges with beautiful views of the Zambezi and wildlife. Of all the Victoria Falls hotel options, it offers up an amazing selection of activities such as a romantic dinner on a floating table on the Zambezi. Lunch on Livingstone Island, game drives and more. I had one of the most memorable times here.

Victoria Falls Hotel | Royal Livingstone Hotel

Among the most luxurious Victoria Falls hotel options. This place offers an indulgent experience that transports one to a bygone Victorian-era Africa. Beautiful surroundings where you can see the Smoke That Thunders; Victoria Falls, from the lounging decks and from the pool but if I had to choose, I would do Tonagbezi as there is a certain exclusivity about the place and that fact that you have privacy in your own little lodge with private views of the river and from your lodge terrace you can see wildlife. The hotel grounds here also have wildlife that roams the grounds such as Zebra and impalas. Whether you are staying at the Royal Livingstone Hotel or not you cannot leave the town without trying out the afternoon tea served in the tea room at The Royal Livingstone, its thought to be a must-do when at the Victoria Falls.

Additional Victoria Falls Hotel Options

Below are a few more options of hotels available in the region. These cover both Zambia and Zimbabwe and include both budget and luxury hotels in Victoria Falls.

Ilala Lodge Hotel: a beautiful luxury Victoria Falls hotel located within an 8-minute walk of the Victoria Falls. Comes with expansive gardens and borders the Victoria Falls National Park.

Victoria Falls River Lodge: Victoria Falls River Lodge is situated within the North East area of the Zambezi National Park, 8.1 miles from the majestic Victoria Falls. This beautiful Victoria Falls hotel is surrounded by lush flora, the lodge offers scenic views of the Zambezi River.

Shearwater’s Explorer Village: Situated in Victoria Falls, Shearwater’s Explorers Village is 550 yards from Victoria Falls Information Centre and offers beautiful chalets at budget prices.

Victoria Falls Safari Suites: Situated in Victoria Falls, a 2-minute walk from Swimming hole, Victoria Falls Hotel Safari Suites are a 6-minute walk from Victoria Falls Safari Spa. It offers free shuttles services and organises tours for guests.

Royal Chundu: A balcony with beautiful river views is offered in all units. The Victoria Falls hotel and lodge offers a year-round outdoor pool. Offers many activities including fishing.

For more Victoria Falls hotel option check out this list of hotels in Livingstone with close proximity to Victoria Falls. Some with a view of Victoria Falls mist all views of the Zambezi. If you want to see Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwean side then check out this list of Victoria Falls hotel options from the Zimbabwean side.

Pin For Later

Livingstone Island Tour Victoria Falls in Zambia

Intercontinental | Capital Pleasures In Lusaka

October 20, 2014 by admin 6 Comments

There is a certain allure to the notion of traveling in Africa with many associating Africa with just safaris, but there is more to this continent than just exploring national parks in search of the big five. While a safari was certainly on our itinerary, we were going to be exploring the capital’s hot spots first before the big 5. To really experience a destination you have to meet the locals, check out their hangouts and that was the main plan for the first few days in the country. Thats exactly what I had in mind for my travel partner.

Arriving right in the middle of the hot Zambian summer(and month of independence day celebrations – hence the flags) we were immediately welcomed with a cool breeze from the whispers of water flowing from the fountains as we stepped out of the car onto the entrance of Intercontinental. I planned a 17-day trip around Southern Africa which would cover Zambia, Botswana, and Namibia and involving several modes of transportation. This was also going to be the first time my boyfriend was visiting my home country as the first part of this year was dedicated to introducing me to his home country in Israel, which we explored in much of April. With our journey through southern African starting in Lusaka, Zambia’s capital I opted to book us into Intercontinental Hotel.

For me Intercontinental equals an understated luxury, comfort and excellent service. First opened in Brazil in 1946 by Panama Airways and quickly launched an international brand spanning the globe with an impressive guest list such as Louis Armstrong to Princess Grace. As we entered the light-filled lobby and beautifully decorated with a mix of African and European decor we were met with drinks at check-in. What better way to welcome guest in this hot and dry season. We planned on doing a round trip through southern Africa and returning to Zambia before heading back to London, so the hotel was going to be our base for the round trip. It’s located close enough to the Manda Hill and Arcades shopping malls if you are in need of a little retail therapy and want to venture out for food outside the comforts of the hotel’s 2 restaurants, cafe and bars.

The main airport is also not to far, which came in handy when we opted for a local Flight to Livingstone to check out the Victoria Falls, instead of the coach or self-drive(four hours drive vs one hour flight). The hotel staff were always attentive and on hand in arranging transportation and anything else to we needed to make our stay comfortable – when my brothers were not available to chauffeur us around town. During the day we escaped the confines of air conditioning and ventured out into some 30 plus degrees Celsius in order introducing my boyfriend to the art of haggling in true African style at Kabwata Cultural Village(post to come), as well as visiting some of the schools I went to as a kid, meeting some of my extended family who still live in the capital before heading into the malls to cool off at the countless cafes on offer.

The idea of ticking off several must sees and do’s on a travel wish list is what I do best as I love the planning and coordination that comes with planning such an adventure, introducing the mister to the city and immersing him in Lusaka’s capital pleasures that more accessible from a centrally located hotel. Look out for a post on a the visit to Kabwata Cultural Village and the sunset cruise on Kafue River which is close enough to do as a day trip. With a packed itinerary and the sheer convenience of being able to lounge by the poolside and plan the remaining of our African adventure one could certainly get used to this!…

This is a first of many posts to come on the exploration of Southern Africa. Below are some of the shots from our stay at Intercontinental Hotel. For a full list of hotels and budget options in Lusaka, check out this list of hotels in the capital.

Spitbank Fort Sunday Lunch In the Middle Of The Sea

May 8, 2014 by admin 32 Comments

A day trip for a Spitbank For Sunday lunch is a must when checking out Portsmouth. The shores of Southsea on Portsea Island can be somewhat chameleonic. Being part of the UK it does not escape from the ever-changing weather, its the transporting views on a beautiful coastline that stretches of for miles that I immediately fell in love with back in 2003. I guess you can say it was love at first sight. The following year I moved to Portsmouth on Portsea Island, South coast of England.

On long summer days, I could easily spend the day out on the seafront watching sailboats play catch with the wind, ferries transporting islanders to Calais in France or watch cruise liners pass through with passengers hoping for a short break from cabin fever. The beauty that comes with living so close to the seaside and a break from the concrete jungle of London life is what inspired the move to Portsmouth. On this weekend, we were heading out for a Spitbank Fort day trip.

Spitbank Fort Sunday Lunch In the Middle of the Sea | Spitbank Fort | how far is spitbank fort from portsmouth

Spitbank Fort | how far is spitbank fort from portsmouth

Spitbank Fort Sunday Lunch In the Middle of the Sea

Day Trip For Spitbank Fort Sunday Lunch

My visit back to Portsmouth this time was for a Spitbank Fort Sunday lunch date which is not far from Portsmouth. Not many people know about this place. On the coastline of Portsea Island lies the secrets of The Solent. I got to spend the day exploring one of the secrets. Spitbank Fort is one of four forts that was originally constructed to defend the British from Napoleon’s army in the 18th century.

Days of fighting have long gone and these abandoned forts have now been renovated, with one turned into a museum, one is solely owned, with the other two turned into luxury hotels. One of which is the Spitbank Fort and the other twice as big, opening its doors this Autumn. This beautiful man-made island caters to many events as well from Spitbank Fort afternoon teas, lunch to having a Spitbank Fort wedding or weekend stay. For Spitbank Fort room rates, rooms and hotels in near Spitbank Fort click here.

For those wondering just how Spitbank Fort is from Portsmouth. One can only get to the forts by Spitbank Fort boat, so transportation was from the Royal Clarence Marina on Gosport. Floating passed the beautiful Spinnaker tower and sailors no doubt testing out their boats in readiness for Cowes week this coming summer. With a tricky entry onto the fort due to rough seas, on arrival, we were met with glasses of wine and canapes.

Then a tour of the fort with a little historical detail of the living conditions of the soldiers that guarded the seas within the fort. You cannot help but admire the old generation for building such a fantastic structure in the sea, with the little the technology they had compared to what we can achieve today, and it still stands today. There is so much history within the walls.

Spitbank Fort Activities and Sunday Lunch

Touring Spitbank Fort and watching ferries and speedboats sail passed we had worked up an appetite, so it was time to retreat to the dining room for Spitbank Fort lunch served with a side of Spit water! An interesting name for sure, but I assure you it’s not literal. There is a spring running 401 feet beneath the fort so you can quench your thirst with Spitbank (shortened to Spit) water, freshly bottled on site too. With conversations effortlessly flowing with other guests at the table and dessert beautifully caressing each and every taste bud, you could be forgiven for your mind drifting off into a dreamy state filled with all things sweet and nice.

Spitbank Fort was beautifully transformed from a neglected sea fort to one that has a luxurious coziness to it with a mix of a nautical theme and some original furniture items for its hay day. A relaxing lounge, recreation room, outdoor heated pool with stunning sea views, a fire pit to cozy up to and a bar to toast the night away you would wish never to leave the fort.

After much needed Sunday rest and relaxation on Spitbank Fort, it was time to head home and leave the overnight guest to enjoy their humble aboard. The secret is now out of the bag. If you have not head of the forts on The Solent then you need get your fingers busy on Google so you can get you and your special someone over to Spitbank Fort stat! You will thank me for it. In the meantime some pictures from my exploration of the fort…

Spitbank Fort Rooms and Rates

This is one luxurious island hotel. Surrounded by peace and quiet on the Solent as you wake up to beautiful views. There are only 8 rooms so if you want to stay on Spotbank Fort, make sure you are booking well in advance is advisable. For Spitbank Fort rates, reviews and Spitbank Fort special offers check out Expedia.