Hemingways Silk Hotel

Looking every bit a typical high-rise hotel, the exterior of the Hemingways Silk Hotel has clean lines, and glass balconies peppered with assorted small green shrubs to make the architecture look more interesting. The lobby is small with a marble desk for greeting guests and a few seating areas. It's mostly just a place to check in and out of, and not a hang out. Though the majority of guests here seem to be on holiday, this hotel also works for business travelers since it's close to most of the downtown area. Keep in mind that there are three Hemingways hotels in Patong (this is the newest of the three) and it's easy for taxi drivers to get confused. The multiple hotels are all owned by the same person, however, so guests can charge meals and other expenses at the related hotels back to their room, which can be convenient. 

Situated in the entertainment district, but just enough off the main street that noise is minimized, this hotel is in a great location for exploring Patong on foot. Though it's farther from the beach than some other area hotels (about 15 minutes), it's only about a five-minute walk to Bangla Road -- the epicenter of Patong nightlife -- for those who are ready to check out the party scene. Also nearby are several Muy Thai boxing arenas, Jungceylon Shopping Centre, and the Bazaan Fresh Market. There is a convenience store at the end of the block for any essentials (or to avoid minibar prices). It's about 45-minutes from Phuket International, but this hotel group has its own bus and will organize transport to and from the airport.

The 71 rooms at the Hemingways Silk Hotel have everything guests need for a comfortable stay…especially considering the super discounted price. Each is simply decorated with dark brown curtains, bronze throw pillows, and gray walls. Rooms aren't huge, but the space is used well so they feel spacious. Nice touches like wine glasses, figurines, and potted plants also make the rooms look more inviting. Modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, DVD players, free Wi-Fi, and stocked minibars are standard. Extra perks like free bottled water, robes, slippers, and umbrellas, are included. The bathrooms are showers-only but have modern fixtures and are spotless; toiletries are pretty standard and mostly in wall-mounted dispensers. Many rooms have furnished balconies and all rooms have individual climate controls to keep things cool.

The rooftop pool, while small, is a highlight of this property and the adjacent bar -- known as The View Bar -- is extremely popular for offering terrific drinks poolside or in the lounge area. On the ground floor is the Jazz Bar and Restaurant. Although there is no free breakfast, a good selection is served for a fee, and the restaurant remains open all day with a menu that features Thai specialties. There are a couple of computers in the lobby where guests can check their emails and Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. Staff at the 24-hour front desk is happy to print off documents or boarding passes as needed.