Address: 136/275-276 Moo 4, Saiyuan – Kata Road, Rawai Sub-District, Muang District, Phuket 83130 Thailand

https://goo.gl/maps/AP79FQHAFrL4Q1is8

I made it to Saturdays, such a cool name for a hotel as I think of really relaxing and unwinding vibes reminiscent of the weekend. Anyway, the first thing that stood out to me was their high ceilings in the lobby and how both receptionists were seated on high chairs which made it seem like I was in a Wizengamot trial. Check-in was a breeze and a down-payment was necessary.

It was the first time having a receptionist guide me to my room so we made a quick hop on the elevator to my Saturday’s Residence. She showed me the WIFI password and I asked her why there was no door on the balcony with the tub (more on that later). After putting stuff away and sanitizing, I started to make my way around what would be my space for the next couple days so let’s get into it.

The vibe at this residence for me screamed bachelor pad. They utilize dark and complimentary colors which also give (dare I say it) an amatory vibe. The bedroom for example, sets the tone with an inviting full bed covered with nothing but a white duvet and pillows. It offers a stark contrast to the surrounding walls consumed in shadows even amidst the intimate lighting. 

Synopsis: Saturdays Residence by Brown Starling is a serviced apartment hotel in that it comes with a kitchen complete with pots, a microwave, large refrigerator plus stove and guests have the option of utilizing a washing machine. Room is complete with a full-size bed, closet, large living room, balcony, clothes rack area and bathroom. 

 

If I thought the bedroom set the tone, then the tub on the balcony set the mood. I asked the receptionist about the door to block the tub from prying eyes. When inside the living room I thought there was a sliding “one way mirror” door but to my surprise there was no door or barrier between the balcony and tub. She said this is a feature of Saturdays, I nodded and she smiled. 

You know, I’d have tried out the tub but unfortunately, I did not have the essential tools I needed. If you aren’t shy, then the surrounding palm trees are there to help shield you from view. Additionally, you could also do without the lights on the balcony. At nights the pool below lights up and you could be out there listening to some music. while soaking in a warm, bubble optional bath. Beware of mosquitoes, however. It all stops being chill or romantic once pests get in the way. If I could suggest one thing, it would be to have a mesh out there to prevent bugs from ruining the mood.

I wanted to unwind and play some music but the Wi-Fi would not connect to the TV. A quick phone call to reception, and they invited their resident IT technician, who successfully solved the issue. Afterwards, I punked out on jams and proceeded to do laundry. I bought laundry detergent from the Saturdays Shop and if you need bubble bath solution, they also sell it.

However, I made a big mistake. I did my laundry and you wouldn’t believe the lint present on my clothes. It was as if pocket-sized Dementors had infiltrated the washer, leaving behind their dark, linty presence on everything. It definitely left me feeling unhappy and now my second suggestion would be for management to clean the washers.

Unless it’s a sunny day, hanging your garments outside on the balcony won’t dry them quickly enough and the machine is not a washer/dryer combination. After the wash cycle yielded such linty results, which also discolored some of my whites, I realized even if this option existed-I’d not have used it. Additionally, guests have the option of using the laundry service.

I didn’t use the kitchen much, except for the microwave and fridge, as Saturdays offers an all-breakfast menu from 7:30-17:00. When I wanted to order food on Grab (taxi and delivery app), I found that there were no available couriers to take my order. This was a similar situation to being at Panwaburi Beachfront Resort- Does Paddling A Kayak Make Panwaburi Beachfront Resort, Attractive? Now, without further ado…the Pros and Cons of Saturdays Residence.

The Pros

• Staff was both friendly and helpful

• Bicycle Service is free from 7:00-18:00

• Peaceful ambience

• Gym has lots of natural light coming in with pool view just below

• Massage Room is open from 9AM-9PM. Reserve an hour in advance

• Check out at 12. If guests want to check out late, the hotel asks they give ample notice for this depends on room availability

• Clean bathroom-large enough shower for two 😉 (Would have preferred a brighter light in the bathroom but I guess it goes against the vibe here)

The Cons

• Residence is a bit out of the way from many restaurants

• Would have preferred more than breakfast items on the menu at the restaurant. I assume if one chose an apart-hotel then it would be prudent to believe guests would prefer to cook. Obviously, this wasn’t the case for me.

• Smelled cigarette smoke. I deduced a previous guest smoked inside as the hotel is a non-smoking property. Unsure why the smell of cigarette smoke was so concentrated in the cabinet below the kitchen sink. 

• Residents must buy their own bubble bath. I understand buying your own laundry detergent but it would have been nice having bubble bath already there in the room.

• Unclean washing machine

My time at Saturday’s Residence was a mix of highs and lows. From the unique tub on the balcony to the peaceful ambience, there were certainly aspects to appreciate. However, the issues with the Wi-Fi, laundry, and dining options were notable drawbacks. I hope that sharing my experience has provided you with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision about staying at Saturday’s Residence. I trust this article has offered you the information you need to make the most of your travels towards. As usual, let me know what you think. Leave a comment in the box below.