The Sands Khao Lak by Katathani Resort

We were at *The Sands Khao Lak* for two weeks as a couple in November 2025. It was our first trip to Asia (we usually book beach vacations as all-inclusive). We were aware that Asia is different; however, our expectations for a hotel in this segment were unfortunately not met in many respects. For us, the hotel does not meet a 4 to 4.5-star level. Arrival & Check-in We arrived in the morning and were greeted with a welcome drink (tea). Although there was not much going on at the hotel at that time, the check-in took relatively long. After about an hour of waiting, our room was ready for occupancy (originally it was stated: check-in from 3 PM). Room: The room itself was modernly furnished and of an acceptable size, but not as large as one might expect from, for example, the Caribbean. The minibar had fresh water in glass bottles every day. Unfortunately, a Nespresso machine (or comparable) was not available. However, we noticed technical deficiencies and a lack of communication: Defective bathroom door: The sliding door to the bathroom was defective, which severely limited privacy. Hidden hairdryer: The hairdryer was hidden under a special flap. Only after asking the staff three or four times were we finally given an explanation. A big plus, however, was the hotel app, through which one could easily reorder items like sewing kits or shower caps – it worked great. Dining & Prices We intentionally booked only breakfast. We found the hotel prices for the dinner buffet (about $30 per person plus drinks) to be completely excessive. The drink prices at the hotel are generally very high as well. The breakfast: Unfortunately, it was a disappointment for us and not good. The selection was very limited, as the room for the buffet is simply too small. Every day there was the same thing. The quality of the fruit was poor (tasted like nothing) and the juices were catastrophic. TIP: better to get fresh fruit from the surrounding street vendors **Culinary alternative outside:** Right outside the door, you can find excellent food. A dinner outside, including appetizers, cost about €10 per person, while drinks (beer/cocktails) were around €3. Quality and taste were excellent everywhere. Pools, beach & entertainment Unfortunately, due to a lot of rain, we could only use the pool facilities a little. Family pool: A large pool with slides, which is correspondingly lively. Unfortunately, this is located right next to the breakfast area for adults. Since there are far too few loungers here, many families resorted to the other pools. Relax & sea pool: The design of the pool near the sea is beautiful and modern. However, the water was far too cold – even in sunshine, the temperature would not have been inviting. The loungers are very close together here, and there are too few sun umbrellas. Additionally, you cannot lie directly on the sandy beach. The lounging areas are located in the grass, which was extremely muddy after the heavy rainfalls. A smaller relaxation pool is directly adjacent to this area. **Entertainment for a fee: On the way to the restaurant, one had to pass by the stands of the entertainers. Here, games like balloon throwing for children were offered – but only for an extra charge. We found it outrageous that additional money was charged for the hotel's own "entertainment." Fitness center (gym) The equipment is generally okay with a good mix of cardio and strength machines. However, cleaning was usually done right during the "rush hour," and the water dispenser was often empty. Location & Conclusion The location of the hotel is very good. One can easily reach many great restaurants and dining options on foot. **Conclusion:** For us, the price-performance ratio at the hotel (even just with breakfast) was not satisfactory. For the future, we have learned: In Asia, we would either choose a purely all-inclusive resort (if affordable) or go directly for a vacation rental or a small boutique hotel with its own kitchenette.

Fab resort with friendly staff especially Jimmy/Blue/Jasmine/Armmy- all staff are so welcoming and friendly, always there to help you no matter what. Fab room with pool suite. Cleanliness very high. Good location. We will be back.

Another time of bliss, this is our second but not the last. It has a adult only accommodation, pool and breakfast areas but very kid friendly with their area. Food is A1, service excellant roomsspacious. Our first time was for a wedding which was perfect this time as a holiday. From reveption, Honey, to the main dinning room Ammey, to the pool boys. Total rela ation.