Author: Kayla Lourens

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Fairmont Quasar Istanbul – Unparalleled Luxury and Exceptional Service

Fairmont Quasar Istanbul is perfectly situated in the heart of Istanbul, offering breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and easy access to both the European and Asian sides of the city. The hotel is conveniently located near the tourist attractions, shopping districts, and business centers, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers.

The service at Fairmont Quasar Istanbul is exceptional. From the moment I arrived, the staff was warm, welcoming, and attentive to every detail. The concierge team was particularly helpful, providing excellent recommendations for local attractions and dining options. Housekeeping did a superb job of maintaining the room, and the overall level of hospitality made me feel valued as a guest.

The rooms and suites at Fairmont Quasar Istanbul are a blend of modern luxury and traditional elegance. My room was spacious, impeccably clean, and beautifully decorated with contemporary furnishings. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the floor-to-ceiling windows offered stunning views of the city skyline. The bathroom was equally impressive, featuring a bathtub, a rain shower, and high-end toiletries.

The hotel provides a variety of facilities to ensure a luxurious and relaxing stay. The Fairmont Spa is a sanctuary of relaxation and was one of the highlights of my hotel stay. The fitness center is well-equipped with Technogym equipment. This may be the best hotel gym I have ever experienced.

Another highlight of the hotel is the Ukiyo Outdoor Pool on the fifth floor, offering panoramic Bosphorus views. This area is perfect for relaxation, with comfortable loungers and excellent service.

The hotel has a variety of dining options, each offering a different culinary experience. The buffet breakfast served at the main restaurant was exceptional. It was a lavish spread, offering a selection of both local Turkish delicacies and international favorites. The live cooking stations served made-to-order omelets, eggs your way as well as pancakes, and they also offered an à la carte hot breakfast menu with my favourite dish being the Eggs Benedict.

On the fifth floor is the Ukiyo Restaurant featuring Japanese cuisine, sushi, poke bowls, dim sum and views of the Bosphorus.

My stay at Fairmont Quasar Istanbul was exceptional in every way. The luxurious accommodations, fantastic facilities, and impeccable service combined to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re visiting Istanbul for business or leisure, I highly recommend Fairmont Quasar Istanbul for a stay that is both comfortable and memorable.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

To book your stay, visit their website: www.fairmont.com/istanbul

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Taskonaklar Hotel & Restaurant – A Unique Cappadocia Experience

I recently had the pleasure of staying at Taskonaklar Hotel & Restaurant in the enchanting region of Cappadocia, and it was an experience that surpassed all my expectations.

Taskonaklar Hotel’s location is perfect for exploring the wonders of Cappadocia. It is situated close to major attractions such as the Göreme Open Air Museum and the Uchisar Castle. The hotel also offers hot air balloon rides, which provide a stunning aerial view of the surreal landscape.

The staff at Taskonaklar Hotel were incredibly warm and attentive. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with genuine hospitality. The front office staff were considerate, accommodating, and always ready with helpful suggestions for making the most of my stay in Cappadocia.

The hotel’s unique architecture is a blend of traditional stone structures and modern amenities. The rooms are carved into the rock formations, providing an authentic cave experience without compromising on comfort.

I stayed in one of their Suites with a terrace, which was spacious and beautifully appointed with rustic stone walls, elegant furnishings, and thoughtful details that reflected the local heritage. The room featured a cozy fireplace, a luxurious double bed, and a private terrace with breathtaking views of the valley. The terrace was a lovely spot to unwind, offering a relaxing ambiance and spectacular views.

The hotel’s restaurant is a culinary gem. Breakfast on Moniq Restaurant’s terrace was a daily highlight, featuring a generous spread of pastries, fruits, cheeses, and traditional dishes. Dinner was equally impressive, with a menu that highlights the flavors of the region. Dining in a cave, enjoying dishes like meatballs and meze platters, was a culinary experience to cherish.

The hotel offers a range of amenities that cater to both relaxation and adventure. The cozy lounge areas, complete with fireplaces, are perfect for unwinding with a book or enjoying a glass of wine. For those seeking adventure, the hotel can arrange activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and guided tours of the region’s captivating sites. The outdoor terraces and gardens are perfect for unwinding and taking in the panoramic views.

Staying at Taskonaklar Hotel & Restaurant was an unforgettable experience. The combination of luxurious accommodations, exceptional service, and the enchanting Cappadocian landscape made it a perfect retreat. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or an adventurous holiday, Taskonaklar Hotel & Restaurant is the ideal choice.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

To book your stay, visit their website: taskonaklar.com

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Jaci’s Lodges – An Authentic Safari Getaway

Jaci’s Lodges is a family owned and run safari lodge located within Madikwe Game Reserve about a 4-hour drive from Johannesburg. The reserve is home to a variety of impressive wildlife including the Big 5.

The lodge is owned by Jan and Jaci van Heteren who, alongside their team, ensure an authentic experience with outstanding hospitality.

Jaci’s Lodges is an excellent choice for families, or couples, offering a variety of room types and facilities.

Jaci’s Lodges comprises of two separate lodges about a kilometer apart from each other. The safari lodge is ideal for families, and the tree lodge is adults-only. The property also has suites that can host up to 8 guests.

The staff made me feel right at home as soon as I arrived. The lodge has such a homely and cozy feel throughout and the staff were eager to make our stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

Upon arrival we were offered a refreshing towel and cold beverage, as well as a reusable water bottle to be used throughout our stay.

I stayed at Jaci’s Tree Lodge in one of their eight treehouse suites. The suite was spacious, uniquely decorated, and surrounded by the natural environment. The rooms don’t have keys, which makes the stay authentic and makes you feel immersed in nature. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and had electric blankets, which is perfect for the cold winter nights. The suite had a beautiful bathtub and double vanity, as well as a huge outdoor shower.

Each morning there were sounds of hyenas and hippos in the distance waking me up, so no need for an alarm. We got a wake-up call at 6:30am each morning for the 7am game drive and were served coffee and snacks before heading off on the morning drive.

The dining experience at Jaci’s Lodges was exceptional. Our meals were served in different areas each day, breakfast at the boma area, lunch at Tlou Deck and dinner at the cozy indoor dining venue. We had a full English breakfast each morning to fuel us for the activity filled days. My favourite lunch was at the Tlou Deck overlooking the watering hole, we had the most delicious pork tacos and a local wine to pair. There were elephants at the watering hole during our entire lunch and it was just the most relaxing setting. The dinner menus were creative, and the chef certainly exceeded my expectations.

The first night we had Impala Shank which was really something different and my first-time eating Impala. The second night I had the most delicious chicken roulade, and my partner had the lamb rack which he thoroughly enjoyed (as it’s his favourite dish!). This last dinner was also so special because the staff set up the Tlou Deck for us even though it’s winter, but they put mushroom heaters next to our table and gave us blankets and we just had the best dinner experience.

The Terrapin hide is the most impressive spot at the lodge. This unique, submerged hide is accessed via an underwater tunnel and provides you with the opportunity to observe wildlife up close, right at water level. This is the perfect place for photographers to capture once-in-a-lifetime shots. You can sit in the hide for hours watching the animals in their natural habitat. We saw a herd of elephants up close, as well as a crocodile swimming in the water near the hide. There were also giraffes, bucks, zebras and birds visiting the watering hole during the day.

The hide is in my opinion the highlight of the lodge and a truly memorable and immersive experience.  

The swimming pool is a great place to relax and take a dip between activities. There is also the comfortable lounge area and bar which has a fireplace, perfect for winter days. The lodge also offers a small curio shop with beautiful local crafts and souvenirs.

There is a relaxing river walk between Jaci’s Safari Lodge and Jaci’s Tree Lodge and is a lovely activity for after breakfast. During my walk, I encountered monkeys and antelopes, as well as the most beautiful blue birds.

The lodge offered daily morning and afternoon game drives within the impressive Madikwe Game Reserve. We made sure to attend every game drive as there is always something new to see on each drive. Peter was our dedicated safari guide, and he is extremely knowledgeable on the reserve, and he loves astronomy. Peter has been in the industry for about 30 years so we were comfortable that he would make our drives memorable. He played educational games with us during sunset hour on the safari which was interactive and fun. I appreciated his enthusiasm.

During our game drives, we saw two male rhinos, wildebeest, elephants and giraffes. We also saw a herd of about a hundred buffalo at a watering hole which was impressive. On the second day we encountered three lions up close, it was an exhilarating feeling being so close to these wild animals.

On our last afternoon safari, we had an incredible sighting of three cheetah brothers. Our guide told us that it is rare to see cheetahs like we did on the open plains. There were also two rhinos nearby who tried chasing the cheetahs away, it was very entertaining to watch up close. It was the highlight of all our game drives, and truly a special sighting.

This unique destination offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, adventure, and authentic African charm.

Thank you to the staff for making my stay so special, thanks to Manny at the front office, Zandile and Kea in the dining areas, Russell the chef, and Peter our guide.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards representative, Kayla Lourens

To book your stay at Jaci’s Lodges, visit their website: www.jacislodges.co.za

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Pondoro Game Lodge – A luxury bush holiday with excellent hospitality

Pondoro Game Lodge is set on the banks of the Olifants River in Balule Private Game Reserve inside the greater Kruger National Park.

The lodge is family-owned by Lize and Robbie and offers only 8 rooms, ensuring exclusivity and personalized service for every guest.

They provide exceptional service, delicious food, and breathtaking natural surroundings. It Is the best way to experience the African bush.

The lodge really felt intimate, and the staff made me feel at home as soon as I arrived. The staff had genuine smiles that lit up the whole room.

I stayed in the “Buffalo” Suite, and it was nothing short of spectacular. The suite had a thatched roof, beautiful décor, and best of all, sweeping views of the Olifant’s River and surrounding wild. The owners perfectly blended African furnishings and modern amenities to create a comfortable and memorable stay.

The suite did not have any fencing, so you are completely in nature. We were offered handmade bracelets as a welcome gift, they were made by their housekeeper Sindile (what a sweet touch). We were also gifted a lovely bottle of red wine upon arrival. The suite was spacious, and the king bed had the perfect view. The bathroom had a big open shower and a bathtub which also boasted views of the outdoors. On the outside deck there was a shower, and the main feature, the rock bathtub overlooking the river.

The deck was the perfect place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the surrounding nature. Every day I saw elephants bathing in the river, and monkeys swinging from the trees. The hippos also made sure I knew they were there with their loud noises coming from the river.

The meals were brilliant, offering international cuisine with a South African touch. The lodge’s extensive wine list has won international awards, and their staff will recommend the best wines for each meal. I particularly liked the Stellenzicht Shiraz.

For breakfast each morning, I had their signature iced coffee, some seasonal fruit and the eggs benedict. The breakfast is a la carte and has a great variety of hot and cold dishes.

For lunch they offered a set menu which changed daily, and in addition to that, they offered a ‘high tea’ station with drinks and snacks to enjoy after the main lunch meal.

For our first night we had dinner on the riverbank, with sounds of hippos in the background. It was quite a scary experience, but the staff made it so much fun. They performed an African dance and sang a few songs for us to start the evening. The ostrich fillet was tasty and of course it was paired with a lovely Pinotage wine.

My favourite meal was our last dinner which was a beef fillet steak with a to-die-for mustard sauce. Another special meal was the venison potjie which was served in such a unique way and tasted fantastic. The intimate setting of the dining area added to the overall charm of the lodge.

The staff went over and above for my partner’s 30th birthday. They provided a special dinner table decorated with balloons and baked him a delicious chocolate cake.

A special thank you to Yvonne and Patricia for your generous hospitality, and Percy in the kitchen for the wonderful food that you prepared for us.

The romantic picnic at their treehouse hide was one of the highlights of our trip. The staff arranged a picnic lunch on the day of my partner’s birthday. Our guide drove us to this unique spot, which overlooked a watering hole, and we were left on our own to enjoy our special meal. A herd of elephants were enjoying the dam water to cool off on the hot summer day. The picnic feast was truly delightful.

The lodge offered daily morning and evening game drives with their experienced and passionate tracker and guide. On each drive we saw something different. We saw a pride of roaring lions which was thrilling. The best sighting was watching a leopard and its two cubs. The female leopard was eating its recent kill, and the babies were playing nearby under a tree. We watched them for hours, it was fascinating. We also saw a black rhino which is very rare. During our 3-night stay, we saw the entire Big Five, some Hyenas and Wild Dogs, and of course many Giraffes and Zebras. Every game drive offered a chance to witness the incredible diversity of South Africa’s wildlife.

Rul the guide and Shedrick the tracker are super knowledgeable and I thank them for giving us the best authentic safari experience.

The lodge has an in-house spa offering massage treatments to rejuvenate you after a morning game drive. You can also take a dip in their infinity pool which is tucked in between trees and surrounded by sounds of birds. You also could participate in a guided bush walk nearby the lodge if you are interested in tracking animals and gaining information from the experienced tracker.

I would recommend this lodge for a honeymoon, a romantic getaway or anyone wanting to experience a luxury safari.

My stay was nothing short of remarkable, offering an unparalleled safari experience that exceeded all expectations.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

To book your stay at Pondoro Game Lodge, visit their website: www.pondoro.co.za

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Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa

A sanctuary in the city of Johannesburg

This unique property is located in Sandton which is a popular shopping and culinary destination.

It is the perfect place for a weekend staycation, it’s great for romantic getaways and ideal for international travellers visiting Johannesburg.

I had the pleasure of staying at Fairlawns for three nights and I must say it’s a hidden gem in Johannesburg. The hotel exceeded all my expectations, and I would absolutely recommend this property to anyone visiting Johannesburg.

Upon arrival, I was greeted by the warm and friendly staff members who made me feel at home from the moment I stepped into the elegant reception. Check in was easy and after being offered a welcome drink, the porter assisted us to our suite.

You don’t feel like you are in Johannesburg when you are at Fairlawns. Clearly the hotel has put a lot of effort into the upkeep of the property. The hotel’s grounds provide a serene backdrop for a leisurely stroll through the property.

My suite was located on the first floor in a manor house style building and had a view of the surrounding landscaped gardens. The entire area just made me feel at peace and totally relaxed.

The room was generously spacious and exuded luxury and elegance. The attention to detail was evident in every aspect of the design, from the plush bedding to the tastefully chosen décor.

The bathroom had a big bathtub and a comfortable double vanity with all the necessary amenities. The housekeeping staff ensured that the room was spotlessly clean and offered us Wedgewood nougat as part of their turndown service every night. We also received a Wedgewood nougat gift upon arrival which was a lovely touch.

The spring weather was such a pleasure in Johannesburg, we opened our large bedroom windows in the morning for a fresh morning breeze and the sun shining in. Birds chirping and the sound of nature is the best way to wake up.

One can stroll around the property which has multiple seating areas and different gardens. The property has so many Instagram-worthy spots and is ideal for photoshoots.

The main hotel pool is located in the centre of the property and is the perfect place to relax in summer.

One of the highlights of my stay was the dining experience at Fairlawns Hotel’s on-site restaurant called Amuse-Bouche. The menu had a variety of tantalizing dishes with both local and international flavours. Each meal was a masterpiece, visually pleasing and with the taste to match. The restaurant also has a wine list which pairs brilliantly with the menu. The waiter offered us some of his recommendations and was enthusiastic and had great knowledge of the menu. The Beef Bourguignon Soup was my favorite dish.

Breakfast at Fairlawns was a lavish affair. They offer a buffet-style breakfast inside with a variety of fruits, cold cuts, pastries, and juices. You can also order a hot breakfast from their a la carte menu. During my stay we had amazing weather so each morning we sat outside at a table overlooking the grounds.

The setup has such a welcoming atmosphere and it’s the perfect way to start your day. I had the eggs benedict, which was done perfectly, and my friend had the avocado toast as a smaller option. The F&B manager Brenden checked in on us each morning and was so friendly and helpful.

I fell in love with the spa at Fairlawns. This is arguably one of the best spas in Johannesburg in my opinion. The spa has been designed with a Balinese style creating a tranquil ambience and makes you feel like you are in a tropical paradise. I would definitely recommend a spa day to anyone who is in Johannesburg and wanting a treat.

Before my treatment, the therapist assisted me to the spa facilities and offered me a drink and snack from their refreshments table in the reception area. The spa pool and jacuzzi was a great place to relax before a treatment. They also have a steam room, relaxation room and outdoor seating areas.

I indulged in a 60-minute aroma oil massage and Mpho, the spa therapist, left me feeling rejuvenated and ready to take on the world.

Throughout my stay, the staff went above and beyond to ensure my comfort. They always had a smile on their faces and made me feel like a valued guest.

Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway, a business trip, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa is the perfect choice. I can’t wait to return!

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens

To book your stay at Fairlawns, visit their website: fairlawns.co.za

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O’Two Hotel – the perfect city escape…

O’Two is a new luxury boutique hotel situated in Cape Town, South Africa. The hotel offers breathtaking views of Cape Town’s Mouille Point area and offers panoramic views of Table Mountain and surrounds.

Upon arrival, my partner and I were served with a glass of champagne and received a small gift bag containing masks, sanitizer, and Lindt chocolates.

The friendly porter assisted us to their penthouse suite on the 7th floor and explained all the amenities to us. The suite had two interleading rooms, both offering a bathroom, lounge, terrace, and kitchenette.

The design of the suite was stunning, such attention to detail, the scented candles, unique décor, and an amazing view from our balcony.

We also received a chilled bottle of Moet & Chandon Champagne and strawberries, what a treat!

The smart TV had DSTV Now and Netflix, so we were thoroughly entertained throughout our three-night stay. We also ordered delicious pizzas from the in-room dining menu and enjoyed the fully stocked mini fridge and tea station.

O’ Two Hotel boasts a beautiful rooftop pool with sun loungers which is the perfect place to enjoy a summer’s day in Cape Town! There is a view of the ocean and on the opposite side a view of Table Mountain.

The hotel is located close to the city center offering numerous restaurants and bars. The V&A Waterfront and famous Cape Town attractions are all just a short taxi ride away.

Thank you O’Two for your amazing hospitality, I will always remember this trip.

Reviewed by World Luxury Hotel Award Representative Kayla Lourens

To book your city escape at O’Two Hotel:https://www.otwo.co.za/

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A beach escape on Dubai’s Arabian Coast…

The Movenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach is located in Dubai’s lively seaside district called Jumeirah Beach residence, footsteps away from the warm Arabian ocean. The street is filled with award winning restaurants, shops and some of the best bars in the world.
What an ideal location, we were able to walk everywhere, the Dubai Marina Mall is the perfect place for shopping. In the marina was countless yachts which offered dinner cruises and tours.


We stayed in two executive rooms located on the 22nd floor of the hotel, overlooking the beautiful Jumeirah Beach. We were welcomed in our room with a display of homemade chocolates and a great bottle of wine. The duty manager personally escorted us to our rooms and showed us their facilities. We had exclusive access to the hotel’s executive lounge which offered complimentary high tea and evening drinks daily.


Breakfast was delicious, we had a special breakfast in the executive lounge every morning which was private, and we could sit outside with a great view of the beach. The staff greeted us by name and were very friendly and helpful.The swimming pool was great, and the barman made the tastiest cocktails. There was also a staff member who provided us with towels and umbrellas on the beach which was very convenient.

There are also a variety of restaurants to choose from and they have their own pizzeria, so you can order homemade pizza any time of the day.
In the lobby there was a café that offered ice cream and delicious coffee, there was also a souvenir shop which had the most beautiful gifts to purchase.
This hotel is one of the best addresses to stay in Dubai and will guarantee and unforgettable stay full of entertainment.

Reviewed by Kayla Lourens- World Luxury Hotel Awards representative.

To visit this beautiful hotel click on the link below

www.movenpick.com/en/middle-east/uae/dubai/hotel-dubai-jumeirah-beach/overview/

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Escape to the heart of Dubai…

Nassima Royal Hotel is located in the heart of Dubai, very close to many of Dubai’s top attractions. There are also many shops and restaurants within walking distance, including the Dubai Metro.

What an unforgettable stay, the architecture of the hotel is beautiful, and the service was exceptional throughout our stay.

We stayed in two executive rooms on the 45th floor which had amazing views of Dubai. The rooms were spacious, each had a big bath overlooking Dubai. The amenities in the room were great and they provided the most comfortable bath robes and towels.

The swimming pool was one of the best I’ve ever seen, it overlooks the Persian Gulf and many high-rise buildings. The pool bar had the most delicious cocktails and pizzas and the lounge chairs were very comfortable.

There were numerous restaurants and bars in the hotel which had a big variety of food. The breakfast was delicious, the chef made the best eggs benedict I’ve ever had. The staff were friendly and gave world class service.

The concierge staff were very knowledgeable and assisted us with booking our restaurants and excursions. For our transportation they offered us their hotel car which was so comfortable and stylish.

This hotel is definitely on my list of top hotels in Dubai and is a must visit hotel when in the city. Truly great hospitality.

Reviewed By Kayla Lourens- World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative

To book follow the link below

nassimaroyalhotel.com

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A once in a lifetime experience in the bustling city of Bangkok…

The InterContinental Bangkok hotel is in the centre of Bangkok and public transport makes everything easily accessible. There are several shopping malls within walking distance of the striking hotel.

The lobby was beautiful, there was a huge crystal chandelier hanging from the ceiling and the staff were all professionally dressed and friendly. Check in was smooth and we were offered a complimentary welcome drink in their lounge area.

We stayed in a double Grande Deluxe room which had a great view of Bangkok. The bed was extremely comfortable, and the shower was wonderfully spacious.

View from our room

The swimming pool was on the 37th floor overlooking all the tall buildings of Bangkok. This was a great experience! There was also a pool bar with a wide selection of fresh juices and smoothies that can be enjoyed in the pool.

Breakfast was delicious, there was a huge selection of food, from Indian to Asian. The staff were attentive and knew me by name which made my stay more personal.

The hotel was gracious enough to send a delicious dessert up to my room on the night of my birthday which I really appreciated. Throughout my stay the staff also addressed me by name which made me feel so special.

InterContinental Bangkok is situated perfectly in the middle of the city and they provide excellent service, within a beautiful luxury hotel. I would recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Bangkok.

To book this exquisite hotel follow the link to their website –bangkok.intercontinental.com

Reviewed by Kayla Lourens- World Luxury Hotel Awards representative

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Relaxation and wonderful Thai hospitality at the Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas…

The Grand Mercure Phuket Patong Resort & Villas is situated in the centre of the busy town of Patong in Phuket. The hotel is within walking distance of the beach,shops and restaurants.

We received a Thai purple drink and a filled pastry with purple icing on top as a welcome treat and a cold towel to fight off the heat. We felt very welcome and all the staff were friendly.

We stayed two nights in a one-bedroom pool villa, which was gorgeous! A beautiful bath and a big lounge area. Our private splash pool was so great, and the pool chair was very comfortable.

There is a high tea lounge for VIP guests which offers complimentary beverages and snacks every day from 11:00am to 17:00pm which was delicious.

The swimming pool was heated and there were many poolside chairs available.  Most of the ground floor pool facing rooms are adjacent to the swimming pool so guests can just jump in from their terrace. The pool bar had daily specials on their cocktails which guests can enjoy on the chairs inside the pool.

The buffet breakfast was delicious, there was an Asian corner as well as an assortment of Indian and western food.

There was even sushi for breakfast and also a stand where you could make your own iced coffee or chocolate milk which was great.

Our entire stay including the amazing staff made our trip unforgettable. I would definitely recommend this hotel to anyone who plans on visiting Phuket.

To book this magnificent property or get more details follow the link below

http://grandmercurephuketpatong.com

 

Reviewed by Kayla Lourens – World Luxury Hotel Awards Representative