Le Viman Resort

Guests -- mostly couples and a few families -- enter the hotel's grounds via large carved wooden doors, and are greeted by a tropical hideaway, far removed from Pattaya's city clamor. The ambience is like stepping into a private residential compound, as the hotel lacks many of the trappings of other properties in the area -- there's no loud music, no massive throngs of tourists, no busy public areas. The look throughout is a modern take on traditional Thai, with several intricate lotus carvings and hanging light fixtures adding a bit of understated visual flair. The hotel is contained in a walled manicured garden, complete with two hot tubs, a fish pond, and two swimming pools, one which includes a slide to keep children entertained. There is a basic compact fitness facility on-site which overlooks the hotel pool, and a massage room. As many guests simply come here to unplug from the chaos in Bangkok or elsewhere, there are plenty of lounge chairs next to the hotel's pools for relaxation -- one of which has a bar for those needing a little extra help unwinding.

The hotel is located in the Phra Tamnak Hill area of Pattaya, a mostly residential part of town. The busy street outside of the hotel has a few restaurants and a 7-11, but other than that there is nothing of note within walking distance, and guests will need a car or to hire taxis or tuk-tuks to reach their destination. Walking Street, an area of bars and notorious nightlife, is a 10-minute tuk-tuk ride from the hotel, and the Pattaya Floating Market, one of the largest in the country, is 15 minutes away by road. The city's famous drag cabarets, Alcazar's and Tiffany's, are a 20-minute drive, and Central Festival, a massive shopping mall, is 15 minutes away by cab or car. It takes about 10 minutes to reach Jomtien Beach by tuk-tuk, which is more laid back than Pattaya Beach. Utapao-Rayong-Pattaya Airport is the closest, about 50 minutes away by road, and Bangkok is a two-hour drive from the hotel. 

While the vibe at the hotel is akin to a home-like boutique stay, the rooms are fairly plain and straightforward. The look is clean and contemporary, with white or taupe walls, dark wood veneer furniture (some of which is a little banged up), and simple plush love seats or chairs in earth tones. There are some attractive Thai design elements as well, including Buddha carvings and gold sunburst sculptures. These are apartment-style units, and many rooms have separate bedrooms. They are spacious, and start at 45 square meters of space (484 square feet). All have kitchenettes with refrigerators, small electric ranges, espresso makers, electric kettles, and microwaves plus dishware and utensils. All rooms include free Wi-Fi, toiletries, air-conditioning, safes, and flat-screen TVs with cable channels. There are also balconies or terraces with ample furniture looking onto the hotel's handsome grounds. Villas feature even more contemporary furniture that's in better shape and luxe details, like attractive bedding and high-end sound systems. Bathroom design varies, but all are contemporary and on the smaller side, with stand-up showers and console sinks. Toiletries and towels are provided.

While it isn't nearly as large as the resorts lining Pattaya's coast, the hotel tries to cater for most guest needs in house, and has two relaxing pools surrounded by tropical landscaping and flowers. Both pools have jetted tubs, and the Villa Pool features a small waterslide that's a great addition for anyone traveling with kids. The Villa Pool also has a poolside bar. However, there is no food service on site. The fitness facility is fine for a basic workout, but it's essentially a small room that's crowded with less-than-new machinery and few options. On-site massages, motorcycle or car hire, luggage storage, and laundry services can be arranged through reception. Board games and_ petanque_ balls are also available for anyone looking to pass the time. Wi-Fi is free throughout the resort and there is on-site parking.