Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 08 4728 6064;
www.phanganparagon.com
; bungalows 2500-15,000B; )
A tiny hideaway
with seven rooms, the Paragon has decor that incorporates stylistic elements from ancient
Khmer, India and Thailand, without forfeiting any modern amenities. The 'royal bed-
room' deserves a special mention - apparently the canopied bed was imported from Kash-
mir.
Hat Yao & Hat Son
One of the busier beaches along the west coast, Hat Yao sports a swimmable beach, nu-
merous resorts and a few extra services such as ATMs and convenience stores. Hat Son is
a quiet, much smaller beach that feels like a big secret.
Tantawan Bungalows
( 0 7734 9108;
www.tantawanbungalow.com
; Hat Son; bungalows 600-1200B; )
This charming teak
nest, tucked among jungle fronds, is dripping with clinking chandeliers made from peach
coral and khaki-coloured seashells. It had changed management and big changes were
planned when we passed.
BUNGALOW
$
BUNGALOW
$
High Life
( 0 7734 9114;
www.highlifebungalow.com
;
Hat Yao; fan bungalows 500B, air-con bungalows 800-2200B;
)
We can't decide what's more conspicuous: the dramatic ocean views from the infinity-
edged swimming pool, or the blatant double entendre in the resort's name. True to its
moniker, the 25 bungalows, of various shapes and sizes, sit on a palmed outcropping of
granite soaring high above the cerulean sea.
Shiralea
( 08 0719 9256;
www.shiralea.com
; Hat Yao; bungalows 600-1000B; )
The fresh-faced poolside
bungalows here are simple but the ambience, with an onsite bar with draught beer, is con-
vivial. It's about 100m away from the beach and it fills up every few weeks with Contiki
student tour groups.
BUNGALOW
$
Haad Son Resort & Restaurant
( 0 7734 9104;
www.haadson.info
; Hat Son; bungalows 1000-8000B; )
There's a mixed bag
of rooms here from big, older wooden bungalows with terraces on the hillside to brand-
new polished cement suites and rooms along the beachfront. The secluded beach setting is
RESORT
$$
