Dusit Laguna

Hi,

We are spending a week at the Dusit Laguna, Phuket and then 2 weeks at the Anantara Hua Hin. Has anyone stayed at the Dusit Laguna? Any good tips, restaurants, shopping, day trips etc. How was the hotel?

Dusit Laguna

Hello,

I start by mentioning that we will be going to the Dusit Laguna for the fifth time in 6 years (we went to Hua Hin in2005 in the aftermath of the tsunami) at the end of January! If this shows a favourable bias it is.

We loved the Dusit the first time we set foot in it, for a number of reasons:

* Bang Tao beach is one of the finest beaches in Phuket, long uncrowded with fine sand and clear water.

*Dusit is part of the Laguna complex with five hotels with signing privileges in restaurants of the other hotels (some 30) and free, frequent transportation by boat or bus.

*Within the Laguna complex the Dusit has by far the longest beach frontage, with spacious lawns.

Although the accomodation is modern and comfortable the hotel has more more of a Thai atmosphere in it%26#39;s public areas than many others.

* it is steps away from the Canal Village a pleasant shopping area.

You can get advice on day trips, book them as well as taxis in two small agencies right on the beach facing the hotel (cheaper than the hotel organised ones ).

Patong is only 30 minutes by car/taxi if you want to enjoy the hustle and bustle of Phuket%26#39;s main tourist centre. You%26#39;ll then enjoy getting back!

As to restaurants the Dusit has one of the best Thai restaurants on the island (Ruen Thai) and a good Italian restaurant recently refurbished.These, like the other hotel restaurants are relatively expensive.

For cheaper (but good) food try:

Inland, but near: ';Tatonka';, ';Black Cat';

On the beach: ';Lotus';

These places will arrange free transport from/to the hotel if you call to reserve.

Try the very pleasant al fresco dinner at the ';Albatros'; in Canal Village at a reasonable cost.

Hope you%26#39;ll enjoy it!