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The rooms are big at the beachfront Amari Emerald Cove on Koh Chang.
Koh Chang on the Gulf of Thailand caters to all with its mountains, wildlife, underwater attractions, beaches, culture and tasty cuisine.
Once the domain of backpackers, it’s gradually moved upmarket, particularly since the opening of Trat Airport in 2003, with fancier hotels and lots of luxurious guesthouses.
Koh Chang nevertheless retains a reasonable mix of budget and posh tourism. The variety of accommodation runs from Bt300-a-night beachfront bungalows to Bt10,000 suites in five-star hotels.
In between is the Amari Emerald Cove on bustling Klong Prao Beach, where you can get fun and relaxation rolled into one at affordable prices.
The four-star Emerald Cove has 165 rooms, all with views of either the sea or mountains and contemporary Thai decor.
The rooms differ in size but have similar amenities. The smallest, the 55-square-metre Superior, has a spacious private balcony. Dressed in wood and marble, they’re homey and friendly with a touch of luxury. You get a tea-and-coffee maker, satellite TV, a safe and a separate shower and bathtub.
The 56-square-metre Deluxe rooms add views of the garden, pool and sea from their big balconies, plus DVD players and a sofa in the living area.
The 106-square-metre Suites boast stunning sunset views over the gulf, a vast living area and a private terrace, as well as in-room Wi-fi for a fee.
The rooms are all in three-storey buildings that leave room for panoramic vistas and the fresh sea breeze. There are sun decks and umbrellas scattered around the 50-metre lap pool. The beach is a stone’s throw away, with drinks trotted down to you from the hotel pool bar.
Need a bit more action? The hotel’s Activity Centre can arrange day-trips, sightseeing, elephant rides and jaunts to the lovely waterfalls, plus dive outings.
The hotel is within walking distance to souvenir shops and restaurants. Families with small children will appreciate the babysitting service, cots and kids’ fun zone, with its own pool.
AT A GLANCE
High points: Within walking distance of town, on the beach, spacious guestrooms and a big lap pool. The property is compact, so it’s easy to get around.
Low point: The food isn’t very impressive.
Find it: Khlong Prao Beach, Koh Chang, Trat
Pay for it: Contact the hotel for the best prices.
Browse it: www.Amari.com
Phone it: (039) 552 000