Koh Chang's Hidden Paradise: Resolution Resort Awaits!
Koh Chang's Hidden Paradise: Resolution Resort Awaits! - A Review (and my brain dump)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I’m about to spill the tea – or, you know, the Chang beer – on Resolution Resort. They call it a Hidden Paradise, and… well, let’s just say they're not completely lying. This isn't your sterile, perfectly-curated hotel review; it's a messy, honest, and hopefully, helpful account of my stay. Prepare for rambles, opinions, and the occasional emotional outburst. You've been warned.
Accessibility: The Good, The “Meh,” And The Hopeful
Okay, first things first. Accessibility. This is important, and frankly, it's where Resolution Resort gets a few points deducted right off the bat. While they do boast some Facilities for disabled guests, the information is… vague. I poked around, and while there's an Elevator, and I suspect some of the rooms are more accessible than others, you absolutely need to call and clarify your specific needs BEFORE you book. This isn’t a resort that's fully built for universal access; they're working on it, but it's definitely a work in progress. They're clearly trying, which I appreciate, but don't expect a fully-wheelchair-friendly experience throughout the entire property. Car park [free of charge] is a definite plus.
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Protected, Even if the Ants Were Persistent
Let's be real, safety is crucial right now. Resolution Resort gets major kudos for stepping up their game. They’ve clearly prioritized Cleanliness and safety measures, and I felt genuinely well-protected. The Anti-viral cleaning products were in use, and I saw staff diligently Daily disinfection in common areas. There was Hand sanitizer everywhere! Staff trained in safety protocol seemed on point, and the whole place felt… you know… clean. And that's HUGE. The Room sanitization didn't happen in my room, but they offered it, so points for choice. And don't get me started on the presence of First aid kit and Doctor/nurse on call - it brings some relief.
The Food, Glorious Food (and occasional food-related mishaps)
Okay, the food situation. This is where things get… interesting. Let's break it down:
Dining, drinking, and snacking: They have a bunch of options! Restaurants, a Poolside bar, a Snack bar, and Room service [24-hour]!
Breakfast: Okay, the Breakfast [buffet] was… decent. You got your eggs, your bacon (sometimes), your fruit. Nothing mind-blowing, but definitely edible. The Asian breakfast was a highlight, though! Seriously, the congee was a lifesaver on a few hungover mornings. You can also have them bring Breakfast in room, which I highly recommend for those lazy days. There was even a Breakfast takeaway service, though I wouldn’t recommend it as the food would probably suffer.
Restaurants: Asian cuisine in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, and Vegetarian restaurant options are all available, depending on the day. I had some truly delicious Pad Thai at the main restaurant, and the cocktails were strong. Too strong, perhaps, on one memorable evening… (I’ll elaborate later). Coffee/tea in restaurant was plentiful, which is essential for me.
The Not-So-Perfect: Okay, here's a confession. One morning, I may have left a half-eaten croissant on my table. And when I returned, the table was swarming with ants. It wasn't the resort's fault, really (my bad!), but it reminded me to keep things tidy.
Ways to Relax: Pampering Me, Slowly
This is where Resolution Resort truly shines. They have a fantastic array of relaxation options.
- Spa/sauna: Oh, the spa! Let's just say I lived there. The Spa, the Sauna, the Steamroom… pure bliss. Book a massage. Seriously. Treat yourself. My tension from the flight was obliterated by the skillful hands of one of their masseuses. The Body scrub and Body wrap services looked tempting too, but I ran out of time (or, you know, money).
- Swimming pool, Swimming pool [outdoor], Pool with view: The pools are gorgeous, particularly the one with the ocean view. I spent hours lounging by the pool, sipping cocktails from the Poolside bar and just… existing. Pure. Relaxation.
- Fitness center, Gym/fitness: They have a fitness center with the usual treadmills and weights if you are feeling the need to work off the previously mentioned cocktails or the great breakfast.
- Foot bath: After walking around for some hours, I can almost guarantee you'd appreciate a foot bath.
Things to Do: Beyond the Beach
Resolution Resort isn't just about lounging (although, let's be honest, that's a huge part of the appeal). They offer a decent selection of activities. Things to do are available and they can arrange for you.
Services and Conveniences: Hit or Miss
- The Good: Air conditioning in public area helps with the humidity. Contactless check-in/out was a nice touch. The Daily housekeeping was efficient. Luggage storage was helpful. They even had Business facilities if you must work.
- The "Meh": The Convenience store was small. Cash withdrawal was available, which is essential, but the Laundry service was a bit pricey.
My Absolute Favorite Experience: The Sunset Cocktail Mishap
Okay, I mentioned a memorable evening earlier, right? It involves a sunset, a cocktail, and a sudden, uncontrollable urge to dance. I’d spent the day lounging by the pool, feeling utterly blissed out. I'd already enjoyed a magnificent Happy hour, so I decided to catch the sunset - from the pool bar! I had ordered a "Chang Island Breeze" - highly recommended, but beware of its potency! I watched the sky explode with color, the sound of the ocean blending with the ambient music. Then, two Mojitos and a couple of glasses of wine later… I’m suddenly dancing with a complete stranger near the Smoking area. My inhibitions had clearly departed. The next morning was… hazy. But the memory? Priceless.
For the Kids: Is it Family-Friendly?
They have some Family/child friendly. Kids facilities exist, but I didn't see massive amounts of activities for the little ones. Babysitting service is a bonus. So, it’s probably a decent option for families, but maybe not the perfect family resort.
The Rooms: Cozy, but Check Your Expectations
The rooms are… comfortable. Not luxury-level, but clean and well-appointed. They had all the essentials, Air conditioning, Free bottled water, Internet access – wireless, Mini bar, and a Balcony with a view… The Shower was fine. A Desk and Laptop workspace was great. Non-smoking rooms are available and I'd suggest requesting one.
SEO Keywords – The Key Takeaways:
- Koh Chang Resort: This is a good base keyword.
- Resolution Resort Koh Chang: Their name is crucial.
- Koh Chang Hotels, Koh Chang Accommodation: Important for broader searches.
- Spa Resort Koh Chang: Captures the spa focus.
- Pool view resort Koh Chang: Focus on the pool and view.
- Accessible Koh Chang: A key search term for those with disabilities.
- Clean hotel Koh Chang: With current travel concerns.
The Imperfections? They Make it Real.
Look, Resolution Resort isn’t perfect. The food at the buffet might be a tad predictable. The accessibility could be improved. But honestly? That's part of its charm. It's not a soulless, corporate machine. It's a place where you can relax, de-stress, and maybe, just maybe, dance a little too enthusiastically at sunset.
The Verdict: Should You Book?
Absolutely, if you're looking for a relaxing getaway, and if you're okay with a slightly less-than-perfect, but genuinely charming, experience. If you're looking for peace and quiet, a good spa, and decent food, this is your place. AND, yes, I would definitely go back.
My Recommendation: Book it! (But ask about accessibility if you have specific needs!).
P.S. I think the resort could do with a better sign. It's tucked away, and I nearly missed it. Oh, and I also forgot, the Internet access – wireless worked perfectly almost all the time, which is amazing.
P.P.S. Don't forget to tip the staff! They're
Escape to Paradise: Element Miami Brickell's Luxury Awaits!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into my Koh Chang, Thailand adventure. And trust me, it wasn't exactly the picture-perfect Instagram feed you’d expect. It was… well, a messy, hilarious, sweaty, and utterly unforgettable experience. Here's the blow-by-blow, warts and all:
Day 1: Arrival – Tropical Bliss? More Like Tropical Chaos!
- Morning (like, WAY morning, thanks to that red-eye from Bangkok): Landed at Trat airport, a charming little place that somehow smelled faintly of coconut and desperation. (Okay, maybe just the coconut, but the feeling was real after that flight). Pre-booked a transfer to Resolution Resort. The internet said it was “luxury,” "secluded, and a true gem." We'll see about that. My expectations are already plummeting.
- The Ride of Doom: The transfer van. Oh, the van. The driver was lovely, bless his heart, but the roads? They could give a rollercoaster a run for its money. Imagine yourself bouncing, swerving, and wondering if you'll arrive in one piece. (Spoiler alert: I did! Just slightly green around the gills). The views were stunning, even if I spent most of the time clinging to the seat.
- Afternoon at Resolution Resort: Okay, here’s where things get real. “Luxury” is pushing it. “Quaint” is perhaps more accurate, and I mean that in the most endearing way possible. It's not sterile perfection; it has character! Our bungalow? Cozy. The air conditioning? A temperamental beast that decided to take a nap for a few hours. The "private balcony" overlooked…well…a bunch of lush, green foliage and the occasional gecko. (Greeted the first gecko with a friendly wave but still, it was a shock!)
- The Pool Debacle: Decided to hit the pool. Needed to wash off the travel grime and the near-death experience in the van. The pool was beautiful, right? Crystal clear, and blue? Well, it was a tad crowded. A large group of boisterous tourists who seemed to think synchronized swimming was an Olympic sport commandeered the entire place. My attempts at a peaceful swim became a competition of dodgeball with pool noodles. Defeated, I retreated to my not-so-cold room.
- Evening: Dinner at the resort restaurant. Pad Thai, naturally. It was… passable. Nothing to write home about, but edible. Though, I will say, the setting was gorgeous. The sun setting over the ocean, a gentle breeze, and the distant sound of waves. I felt the first, real spark of the magic of the island.
Day 2: Beach Day – Sun, Sand, and Unexpected Angst
- Morning: White Sand Dreams & Reality: Time to hit the beach! White Sands Beach, to be exact. It's BEAUTIFUL. Like, postcard-worthy. The sand felt like powdered sugar under my feet. The ocean? Warm and inviting. I dove in, grinning like an idiot.
- The Sunscreen Fail: But then… the sun. Oh, the sun! Remember how they say to slather on sunscreen? Yeah, well, I “thought” I had. Turns out, "half-hearted application" is not a technique. I spent the rest of the day resembling a cooked lobster. The beach bliss was swiftly turning into sunburn agony.
- Afternoon: Massage & the Dark Side of Paradise: Seeking refuge from the sun and the pain; a massage. Found a little place offering massages and a lovely lady who understood my distress. She worked wonders on my aching muscles, but the real magic was the mental reset. And I needed it because I had been thinking recently about my work and past mistakes. It was all very nice and relaxing
- Evening: Dinner and Regret: Dinner at a beachside shack. Fresh seafood, the sound of waves, the sky full of stars. I overate. I always do. And with my sunburn, this brought on complete misery, and made me wish I were back in my air-conditioned room.
Day 3: Exploring – Elephants, Markets, and My Inner Child
- Morning: Elephant Encounter: Booked an ethical elephant sanctuary visit. This was what I was most looking forward to. I loved the idea of seeing these majestic creatures in a responsible environment. It was amazing! I got to feed the elephants, wash them in the river, and learn about their rescue stories. Happy tears were shed—happy tears, people! I highly recommend experiences that are ethical.
- Afternoon: Lost in the Market Maze: Hired a scooter (which was a slight mistake, considering my driving skills are… questionable). The roads, again, were an adventure. After a bumpy journey, I found myself at a local market. A sensory overload! Colors, smells, and sounds assaulted my senses. Haggling for souvenirs turned into a competitive sport. I probably overpaid for a sing-song monkey and some incense, but I don't care!
- Evening: Fire Show & a Deep Breath: Watched a fire show on the beach. Mesmerizing. Absolutely breathtaking. The skill, the music, the sheer danger… it was captivating. I sat there, letting the rhythm of the waves and the crackling of the fire ease my mind. Taking it all in. I was truly here.
Day 4: Waterfall Adventure & Last-Day Blues
- Morning: Waterfalls and Wet Clothes: Visited Klong Plu Waterfall. The hike was gorgeous, even if my shoes were a bit slippery. The waterfall itself? Stunning. I took a dip in the cool water and giggled like a child. It was truly freeing to let go. Unfortunately, my phone fell out of my pocket while I was in the waterfall. My heart sank. I rushed out to recover it, but it was no use. It was gone, lost in the currents. Lesson learned.
- Afternoon: Packing Panic & Reflections:
- Packing My Bags: The dreaded task. I'm not a light packer. Never have been. So, getting everything back into my suitcase was a Tetris game of epic proportions.
- The Farewell Dinner: Dinner at a slightly nicer restaurant. I ordered my favourite Thai dish and sat there, looking out at the ocean. I really wished I had the chance to see my other experiences again
- Evening: Goodbye, Koh Chang: The final moments. The salty air, the sound of the waves, this time with my own thoughts buzzing in my head. What memories to hold on to, what I had learned, and what I needed to change about myself. I felt, for the first time, I could breathe. The whole experience wasn't perfect, and it wasn't always easy, but it was real. And that, my friends, is all that matters.
Final Thoughts:
Koh Chang? It's not just a vacation. To me, this was another step in finding myself. It was a reminder that sometimes, the most beautiful moments come from the messiest of experiences. And I'm already planning my return. Just need to find a better sunscreen, a more resilient phone, and maybe, just maybe, a little bit more patience with myself.
Escape to Paradise: BreakFree Beachpoint's Gold Coast Bliss!
Koh Chang's Hidden Paradise: Real Talk About Resolution Resort (And Let's Be Honest, It's Complicated!)
Okay, Spill the Tea: Is Resolution Resort REALLY a "Hidden Paradise?"
Ugh, "hidden paradise." Marketing, right? Let's be real. It's lovely, sure. Beautiful beach, stunning sunsets. But "hidden"? Nah. You can find it on Google Maps without too much trouble. More like a "slightly-out-of-the-way-but-still-easily-accessible-haven". And that's already a mouthful! Honestly? It *feels* hidden once you're there. Like, everyone else disappears, and it's just you, the sand, and the crashing waves. Which, for a stressed-out human like me… is pretty close.
But it's not flawless. More on that later. Let's just say my initial "Ooooh, paradise!" turned into more of a "Hmm, paradise… with some quirks…" after a couple of days.
The Rooms: Are They Instagram-Worthy or… Just Rooms?
Alright, the rooms. Okay, so, the beachfront bungalows? Yes. Instagram-worthy. Think, breezy, white-washed wood, a balcony practically ON the sand. Absolutely gorgeous. I spent a embarrassing amount of time just staring at the view BEFORE I even unpacked. Seriously, pure bliss. Waking up to the sound of the ocean, feeling the salty air… that's the dream, folks.
But I heard whispers about the garden rooms. And okay, maybe the whispers were right. They were… further from the beach. Not *bad*, just… not beachfront. And I'm a beachfront kind of girl, so, yeah. Level of satisfaction: Depends on the room you get! Ask for beachfront… and hope you get it!
The Beach: Is It Actually Swimmable? And the Sand?
YES! The beach is fantastic. Soft, white sand. Crystal-clear water. Swimmable, definitely. I spent HOURS just bobbing around, feeling like I was floating in a giant, turquoise bathtub. And there are these gentle waves, perfect for… well, I tried to surf (badly), but mostly just letting the water lull you into a peaceful sleep. Seriously, the beach is a major selling point.
However… (here comes the "but"!)… you know, you always have to watch out for rocks or strong currents. And sometimes the sand gets a little… well, it has a few bits of seaweed, a few shells… you know… the ocean being the ocean! It's not *pristine manicure* perfect, but it's real, natural, and gorgeous. I’ve seen prettier beaches, but not one with this much atmosphere! This is Koh Chang, not some fake photo op!
Food, Glorious Food! What's the Grub Like?
Okay, the food is… a bit of a rollercoaster. The restaurant at the resort? Lovely setting, right on the beach. Romantic, candlelit dinners… yeah. But quality? Sometimes a hit, sometimes a miss. I had a Pad Thai that was amazing, another that was… meh. The seafood? Generally good. The breakfast buffet? Don't expect miracles, but there's enough to get you going. The coffee? Okay, but I'm a coffee snob, so take that with a grain of salt (or maybe a double shot).
Now, here’s the thing: there are other restaurants nearby. And I'm told they're good. But I was lazy. I liked the convenience of eating at the resort. Which led to a few minor food-related disappointments. Lesson learned: venture out. Although, honestly, walking away from the beach? Hard! So, yeah… food: mostly fine, with the potential for amazing. Mostly.
Activities: Beyond Just Lounging Around, What's There To Do?
Well, you could easily spend your entire time just… lounging around. And honestly, I'm not judging. I did a considerable amount of lounging. Beach, book, cocktail… repeat. That was a huge part of the charm!
But! If you want more: There’s snorkeling! I took a boat trip one day, and the coral was beautiful. I swear I saw a Nemo-esque fish! Very exciting. You can kayak. You can get a massage (yes, please!). There wasn't much in the way of, like, planned activities or tours directly from the resort. But that’s actually a good thing: it meant no pressure. It felt much more like an escape. If you want to explore the island, you'll have to organize that stuff yourself (or ask the lovely people at reception... who are super helpful!).
The Staff: Angels or Just Nice?
The staff? Honestly, lovely. Super friendly, always smiling, helpful. They spoke good English (Thank goodness!) and seemed genuinely interested in making sure you were having a good time. There was this one woman at the restaurant, always laughing. Actually, I *think* she was also the one cleaning the rooms and helping at the front desk. She was amazing… a true multi-tasker! They were patient with my terrible attempts at speaking Thai.
Of course, you know, no place is perfect. Sometimes service was a little slow. But hey, you’re on island time, right? It’s a small price to pay for being utterly relaxed and stress-free.
Mosquitoes: A Real Danger or Overblown?
Okay, mosquitoes. They're a thing. Let's not sugarcoat it. It's a tropical island, after all. Bring bug spray. *Really* bring bug spray. Apply it constantly (especially in the evening). Even if you think, "Oh, I'm fine," apply more. Seriously. I got bitten. A few times. My fault entirely. I thought, "I'm immune!" (I'm not). I'm still itching!
The resort *does* have mosquito nets in the rooms. Use them! And if you're spending a lot of time on the balcony at dusk… well, you've been warned. Pack extra spray. And maybe some itch cream. Lesson learned. Seriously. Mosquitoes: the one bad thing about paradise. Almost.
Would I Go Back? The Ultimate Verdict...
Honestly? Yes. Absolutely. Despite the occasional mediocre meal and the mosquito bites, I'd go back in a heartbeat. The beach is incredible. The sunsets were jaw-dropping. The feeling of utter relaxation… priceless.
It's not perfect. It's notStay Collective
