Review of Rayavadee- SHA Extra Plus 5*

Summary: At times feels like a 5 star resort (e. G. At the spa or at breakfast that is complimentary in the higher class), however, we found it overpriced and not meeting 5 star standard. What we like: — location — climate — less mosquitos than we expected (they do a lot of spraying that helps) — great with kids, yet no disturbing kids — spa — freshness and quality of food, especially at the Thai restaurant and breakfast near the pool — friendly and kind service What we don't like: — heavily overpriced for what you get compared to other 5* resorts or other options nearby — not everything is 5 star, the resort is 25 years old and in need of renovation. Doesn't meet today's standards. — staff's English is generally very poor, they can converse in very basic English but do not understand special requests (which is expected at 5*) — food is good, however, all the seafood is overcooked (at all their restaurants) — our worst experience was dinner at the Grotto restaurant, which costs THB3300 per person plus drinks plus taxes (7%) plus service charge (10%). All seafood was overcooked and massively overpriced. — after several days of requesting to fix the air-conditioning in our room, we were told you can't actually regulate the temperature. There is just really cold or warm. — as others indicated in reviews, the noise from all the boats is really bad. We hope local authorities will action on that. — when you eat at the beach restaurants, you breathe in all the smog (diesel) from the many boats We would likely not come back. An alternative that is similar in price is the Ritz Carlton, downside is they don't have a beach but the beach here at Rayavadee is packed with day tourists, so nowhere near paradise feeling. We recommend coming to see the views just like others do as a day trip, or come and stay for 2-3 nights only and eat at the nearby restaurants for a quarter of the price and also authentic food.