WHAT’S IT LIKE? You wouldn’t be faulted for thinking you had arrived in Miami – or stepped onboard a cruise liner. The design details and furnishings all conjure an aquatic theme, from the icy-white walls to the fish-shaped swimming pool. The lobby multi-functions as the reception area, living room and lounge. The check-in counter doubles up as a bar, which is a clever touch.
dusitD2 is the boutique tier of the Thai chain, Dusit International and has two properties in the portfolio, this one in Pattaya and the other in Chiang Mai.
WHERE IS IT? Occupying a very prominent downtown location, the hotel is minutes away from the beach and enormous CentralFestival Pattaya Beach mall that provides visitors the big-city shopping experience – if they need it.
ROOM FACILITIES Studio Suites are delightfully spacious, especially if you arrive solo. The sitting area even has a small bar. The king-size bed directly faces the balcony which is unusual. Round Jacuzzi-style tubs are provided. Broadband internet connection was never a problem.
RESTAURANTS AND BARS SEA Restaurant is for all-day dining. The hotel has three bars, Deep Bar, Pool Bar and Sunset Lounge. Our favourite was the rooftop Sunset Lounge where we made it our habit to go up at 5.30pm and watch the day dramatically slip into evening.
BUSINESS AND MEETING FACILITIES A meeting space, measuring 166sqm, can be divided into two. SEA Restaurant has an upper area that can be cordoned off for cocktails.
LEISURE FACILITIES D’Spa boasts five treatment rooms. The fish-shaped pool is good for lengthy laps and the small gym is well equipped.
Fact File
HOW MANY ROOMS? 72 guestrooms and suites
ROOM HIGHLIGHTS A cruise ship ambience is faithfully reproduced in the rooms and reflected in the use of cool whites, creams and nautical blue. The rugs are supposed to remind one of icebergs. Internet connection was always swift and never faltered.
PRICE Online weekend rates in mid-May start from US$84.70 nightly in a Deluxe King Room.
CONTACT www.dusit.com
VERDICT A true design gem, which makes it stand out from all the traditional resort products found in Pattaya at the moment.
Margie T Logarta
