This was my first trip to Thailand and I stayed at Kelly Hotel Jan 23-29 2012. I was meeting up with friends, who unfortunately left booking rooms too late and had to stay elsewhere, closer to Bangla Road. I was met at the airport late at night by the wonderful driver , Koice, which I had pre-arranged through the hotel. Koice was a most competent driver and I felt comfortable immediately. Coincidentally, Koice picked up my friends 3 days later and phoned me at Kelly's to tell me she had my friends in her car. This led to an easy connection with my friends, who subsequently complained about the noise at their hotel. Not the case at Kelly's. From the first morning, I felt welcomed into this "home". Dan and Tan exude warmth and hospitality. Well, Tan exudes warmth. I instantly connected with Dan. He is my kinda guy. Dan is open and honest and loves to talk about "real" people and life experiences. His many years in the hospitality field are evident. I miss my morning chats with Dan over his personally prepared breakfast. I stayed at several other hotels later on this trip that included "free" breakfast and they were worth exactly what I paid for them. I would rather pay for a decent meal than have cold eggs and warm bread for toast. Rooms were large and well maintained. The woman who took care of housekeeping was a delight, even though there was a language barrier. I enjoyed her warm smile and her lovely children. Regarding the walk to the mall, beach, Bangla Road. I walked it daily, often returning late at night. I never felt unsafe. Roads are lit and there is always some action going on. Although I did not partake of any of the hotel's organized tours, they were available and well done from comments I heard. Dan will fill you in on the "inside scoop" of Thailand, the culture and mores. This is a great hotel (more like a home) for like-minded people who want to experience an intimacy not provided at larger chains. I miss you Dan! This was the best introduction to Thailand I could possibly have had. I would return to Kelly in a heartbeat as long as Dan owns it.
- Kellys Hotel Patong
