Baan Laimai Beach Resort & Spa

The Baan Laimai Beach Resort is a sprawling property comprising eight six-story modern buildings. There's not much distinguishing the architecture or decor throughout, and the high ceilings, vast open spaces, and mostly white color scheme lend a cold, barren feeling to the property. Open-air hallways painted white and with wood railings have some unsavory views of dilapidated buildings, and sewage and garbage smells tend to waft through. However, there are some comfortable places for guests to gather and relax, including the lobby's poolside deck and faux grass seating areas, which have plush beige couches with orange and yellow cushions and an attractive assortment of wood and woven chairs and tables. The grounds are nicely landscaped with tropical plants and palm trees and the stone pathways and wood decks lend an easygoing vibe. The property tends to be noisy, both from the street scene nearby and the on-site entertainment, which includes live music until late at night. 

The resort is situated across the road from the beach, just a few minutes' walk away. The neighborhood immediately surrounding the property includes numerous bars, shops, restaurants, and food carts -- this highly touristed area is pedestrian-friendly and usually busy. The popular Jungceylon shopping mall is about 15 minutes away on foot, and Wat Chalong Temple is a 25-minute drive. The airport is about a 45-minute drive. 

Decor is earthy and simple, featuring wood floors and trim, cream-colored walls, white bedding, and subtly patterned curtains. Wood and white wicker furnishings are accented with homey touches such as oil paintings of flowers and embroidered pillows. Some Deluxe Rooms lead out to a private, grassy terrace dotted with lounge chairs, while others have direct access to the pool. All rooms are air-conditioned and have minibars, safes, electric kettles, and flat-screen TVs. Bathrooms come standard with toiletries, bathtubs, and separate walk-in showers. 

The gigantic pool is lined with palm trees and lounge chairs, and offers a separate kids' area and a hot tub, as well as a swim-up bar area -- the SXY SX Pool Bar -- with deck seating. Live performances by the hotel's own band are held around the pool and can go until late at night -- a boon for some, and a pain for others. The fitness center is a good size and offers several cardio machines, but it's oddly located right off the lobby, and has no wall separating it from the guests walking past. Likewise, the kids' club is off the main lobby area, and it feels sterile, despite its colorful decor. The Laimai Courtyard Restaurant serves Thai and international dishes at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There's also a seafood stand on-site, which tends to get busy. Wi-Fi is free but can be slow.