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When we decided to visit Phuket, we knew we wanted to explore a few different areas to see where we’d fall in love with the island the most. So, we kicked off our adventure on the southwest coast at the beautiful Kata Beach. It’s located just south of the famous Patong Beach, but it has a more laid-back feel. Kata Beach offers that perfect mix of soft white sand, crystal-clear water, and just enough action to keep things fun without being overwhelming.
But we didn’t stop there! Our exploration continued up the coast to Bang Tao Beach, located on Phuket’s western side. This beach is a complete change of pace—calm, upscale, and stretching for miles. It’s known for its luxury resorts and peaceful vibe, making it a great spot if you’re looking to relax in style.
During our trip, we stayed at three different hotels, but here’s the kicker—we stayed at one of them for free for a month and a half! Yep, you read that right. We scored over a month of free accommodation. Curious how we pulled it off? Keep reading, and I’ll share all the details on how we managed that incredible stay happen!
Hilton Garden Inn Phuket Bang Tao
As we pulled up to the Hilton Garden Inn Phuket Bang Tao, excitement filled the air. Not only was this a brand-new location waiting to be explored, but we were also about to enjoy a month and a half of free stay—what a treat!
From the moment we stepped into the lobby, we were greeted with a wave of positivity from the staff. Their warm smiles and friendly hellos instantly made us feel at home. And let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing welcome drink after a long day of travel, especially on those hot Phuket days. It truly makes all the difference!
Check-in was a breeze since we had done it in advance. Hilton offers a fantastic option where you can select your room through their app, allowing you to reserve your preferred floor and room type ahead of time. We took advantage of this, and upon check-in, we were escorted to our room.
Our room featured a beautiful forest view, and the big plus was that the window could be opened to let in some fresh air. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and we always have the best sleep when we stay at a Hilton. The pillows there are the best we’ve encountered so far—I only wish all hotels had Hilton pillows! They were wonderfully soft, which is quite unusual for Thailand, where most hotels have hard beds.
The room had a clean and welcoming aroma, a good desk for working, and great internet. The bathroom was equipped with excellent amenities that Hilton never disappoints with. I especially appreciated the razor blades, which not many hotels offer, and their conditioner is simply the best!
Before I dive into the countless hours we spent by the pool, let me share how we managed to enjoy a month and a half of free stays at this fantastic hotel. Initially, we booked for just 10 days, but everything about the place captivated us—the perfect location, the serene atmosphere, and its proximity to the beach. So, we extended our stay by two weeks, and before we knew it, we were there for a month and a half! Our travel hacking strategies paid off, allowing us to maximize benefits and save money on accommodations and flights. Over the years, we’ve enjoyed over two years of free stays, not just at Hilton, but at numerous hotels worldwide.
Double the Pools, Double the Fun: Two Gorgeous Pools Await You
The hotel features two stunning pools to suit every mood. One pool is longer, perfect for swimming laps and getting some exercise. You’ll find plenty of sun loungers and poolside beds, complete with umbrellas to provide shade when you need a break from the sun.
The second pool is specifically designed for relaxation, featuring pool beds submerged in the water and offering breathtaking mountain views. This serene setting creates the ideal atmosphere to unwind and soak up the sun. Whether you’re looking to lounge with a good book or enjoy a refreshing swim, these pools are the perfect spots to embrace the tropical surroundings.
And don’t forget about the pool bar! It’s the perfect spot to grab refreshing drinks and light snacks while you soak up the sun. Whether you’re in the mood for a tropical cocktail, a refreshing smoothie, or a quick bite, the pool bar adds a delightful touch to your poolside experience.
Experience the Buzz of Boat Avenue: Dining, Shopping, and Nightlife!
The hotel is conveniently located near Boat Avenue, a vibrant hub filled with bustling restaurants, cozy cafés, and lively night markets. You’ll find everything you need just a short stroll away, from delightful eateries to grocery shops. If you’re not in the mood to walk, the hotel offers a fantastic shuttle service that can whisk you to Boat Avenue for an evening of fun and take you back after dinner. It’s a convenient and hassle-free way to explore the area while ensuring you have a memorable night out!
Laguna Beach: Dining, Relaxation, and Beautiful Sunsets
Let’s not forget that the complimentary shuttle also takes you to Laguna Beach, where you can witness stunning sunsets and enjoy a variety of beachside restaurants and bars. The beach itself is beautiful, perfect for swimming or taking leisurely strolls along the shore. Whether you’re looking to relax with a cocktail in hand or dip your toes in the water, Laguna Beach offers a perfect escape!
Peach Hill Resort Phuket
Peach Hill Resort Phuket is located on the southwestern side of the island, near the beautiful Kata Beach, offering convenient access to both Kata and Karon beaches—two of Phuket’s most popular destinations. It’s about an hour and 15 minutes from Phuket International Airport. If you have time to explore multiple locations in Phuket, a great strategy would be to start on the southwestern side, where you can enjoy the lively beach scene, and gradually make your way north toward the airport, making your travel more cost-effective and efficient.
Upon arrival, we were immediately greeted by the warm and welcoming staff, who promptly helped us with our suitcases and offered us a refreshing butterfly pea cold tea as a welcome drink. After traveling in the humid heat of Southeast Asia, a cool drink like this is always a much-appreciated gesture and makes such a big difference. While the check-in process took a bit longer than expected, the staff’s friendliness and attentiveness made the wait feel more pleasant. It’s those small touches that really enhance the stay!
The hotel has two separate buildings, and the one on the street is a bit further from the main area, so the staff shuttles you back and forth in a hotel buggy—always a fun little ride. We quickly found out that one of the buildings is older, while the other is more modern. Let’s just say, based on what we overheard during breakfast, the folks staying in the older building weren’t exactly thrilled with their accommodations. Luckily for us, we were placed in the new building, and our room was spotless. The bathroom was stocked with all the essentials, which is always a nice touch. The bed was on the firm side, but after six months of traveling around Thailand, you kind of get used to it. One of the best features? The room had a desk, which we absolutely loved—it made it easy to catch up on work without feeling cramped.
We had a lovely garden view from our room, which made for a perfect spot to enjoy morning or afternoon tea. It was peaceful and serene, a little escape in itself. But come late evening, the mosquitos definitely made their presence known. If you’ve been to Thailand before, you’ll know that the mosquitos here have no mercy—they don’t care if you’re covered in repellent or not, they’ll still find you! It’s not the hotel’s fault, of course; these persistent little guys are everywhere. Just something to keep in mind if you’re planning a longer stay outside in the evenings.
The hotel is spread out over a massive space, and we discovered three beautiful pools during our stay. Although we were told there were five, we only managed to find three, but they were clean, refreshing, and a great way to unwind after a long walk or a day at the beach. The property itself is situated on a hill, which adds to its charm but can be a bit challenging to navigate, especially for those with mobility issues. Reaching the lobby involves some uphill walking, so that’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering staying here.
We absolutely loved lounging by the pool, soaking up the sun, and enjoying some afternoon snacks. The water was crystal clear, warm, and incredibly refreshing—just what we needed after a day of exploring. There’s something so relaxing about taking a dip, then kicking back with a drink and a bite to eat as the day fades into the evening. The pool bar quickly became one of our favorite spots, especially with their incredible smoothies.
Our booking included breakfast, and I must say, it was a delightful way to kick off each day. The buffet offered a nice variety of dishes to cater to different tastes, ensuring there was something for everyone. The breakfast area was spacious, with plenty of tables both indoors and outside, allowing you to choose your preferred spot while savoring your meal.
One dish we particularly enjoyed was the Pad Thai—it was beautifully prepared and quickly became a favorite of ours!
The hotel features a gym that quickly became one of my favorite places to visit before breakfast. It was surprisingly quiet, with hardly anyone else using the space, which was a definite plus. While it may be small, it had everything I needed for a good workout. From weights to cardio machines, I found it to be a convenient spot to get energized before diving into the day’s adventures.
The Sis Kata Phuket Hotel
The Sis Kata Phuket Hotel is conveniently located about an hour away from Phuket International Airport and just a short walk from Kata Beach and the famous Kata View Point. This modern hotel stands out for its incredible sea views and vibrant atmosphere. Unlike many hotels in Thailand, The Sis Kata hosts a variety of live events, regularly inviting local bands and singers to entertain guests, which adds a fun and lively energy to your stay.
The hotel grounds are simply stunning—beautifully maintained and filled with lush tropical gardens brimming with vibrant flowers. We were especially impressed by how clean and serene the entire property was, offering a perfect blend of nature and modern luxury. It’s one of those places where you can relax by the pool, enjoy live music, and still feel close to the beach and local attractions.
As soon as our taxi pulled up in front of The Sis Kata Phuket Hotel, the staff was quick to greet us, rushing to open the door with warm smiles and cheerful welcomes. Their friendliness was contagious, setting the tone for what was to come. After handing over our passports, we were seated in a comfortable lounge area where we were offered refreshing pineapple juice and cold towels—just what we needed to cool off after the long journey.
They also brought out some delicious welcome cookies. Maybe it was because we were exhausted and hungry from the trip, but they really hit the spot! Although the check-in took a little longer since we had arrived before the official time, we didn’t mind at all. It gave us a chance to relax, unwind, and soak in the laid-back tropical vibes of the hotel.
We booked a room with a spa bath on the balcony, and it turned out to be a fantastic addition to our stay. After long days of exploring and adventures, soaking in the spa bath was absolutely worth the extra money. Imagine sitting in a warm, bubbling spa bath, surrounded by the sounds of tropical birds—pure paradise! If you’re debating whether to splurge on the spa bath, our recommendation is simple: go for it. There’s nothing quite like sipping a smoothie while relaxing in a bath under the open sky.
The bed was comfortable, and the bathroom had everything we needed. We were also pleased to find a large desk situated right behind the bed—something we always look for in a room. Whether it’s for catching up on work or simply having extra space for organizing, that desk made our stay even more convenient. And, of course, the four pillows on the bed guaranteed a cozy and restful stay!
The breakfast at The Sis Kata was hands down one of the best we’ve had during our travels in Thailand. It truly had it all—anything you could think of was there. They even had a fresh honeycomb dripping with honey, and let me tell you, the honey was to die for! I think I gained a few pounds during our stay because I couldn’t resist anything—it was all amazing. And I don’t say that lightly; it really was outstanding! There were separate stations for everything: eggs and omelets, pancakes, soups, and more. They had a variety of breads, an impressive selection of sweets, and even served tea, coffee, and smoothies right at your table. Breakfast was an experience in itself!
The pool was absolutely stunning, overlooking Kata Beach with breathtaking views. The best part? During our stay, it was almost always empty, making it feel like our own private oasis. We loved swimming and relaxing in peace, with the gorgeous scenery adding to the experience. The grounds of the hotel were equally impressive, full of beautiful tropical flowers that made every corner of the property feel lush and vibrant. It was the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway.
During our stay at The Sis Kata, the hotel hosted a few live bands and singers during sunset and into the late evening. These were unforgettable nights. One evening, they even had fireworks, and the band’s performance was incredible. It felt like a scene from a dream! If you want to experience it, head over to our YouTube vlog to see the whole episode. The hotel went all out, serving free wine, popcorn, and snacks during the events. There’s truly no party like The Sis Hotel’s parties—they know how to make every night magical!
