Just returned from 4 weeks in Thailand, 13 nights of which was at the Pattaya Sheraton, my third visit to this hotel since August 2005.

We booked the two bedroom villa, which although not the cheapest accomodation in town comes with a large living room, two double bedrooms, private pool, sala and private butler.

The villa had state of the art everything. Bose surround sound, plasma TVs. Real "home from home", but a much better view, right on the beach.

The food throughout the hotel is overseen by a seriously focused french chef, Olivier. Fresh, original, unpretencious cooking that wouldn't be out of place in a Michelin starred London restaurant.

We had some great parties, inviting up to 12 friends over for cocktails or dinner. Total professionalism was the order of the day. Whether a serious "proper" business dinner , or a "lose the plot" night with half a dozen new friends in the pool at 1am (it IS Pattaya you know), the staff coped beautifully.

The hotel itself has a great pool for laps, spa and all the usual stuff you expect in 5 star Thai hotels. What sets this place apart is its genuine sense of hospitality, with staff that are learning to think for themselves and obviously enjoy working there.

We're quite demanding. At 1100US / night I guess we should be. But its the biggest bargain in Thailand.

I've already booked for next New Year and Christmas!!