SAii Phi Phi Island Village

SAii Phi Phi Island Village: A Comprehensive Review of this Michelin Key Selected Tropical Paradise

Nestled amidst the lush landscapes and pristine turquoise waters of Loh Ba Gao Bay on Phi Phi Don Island, SAii Phi Phi Island Village stands out as a luxurious and eco-conscious retreat. As a Michelin Key Selected property, it promises an exceptional experience, delivering on its serene ambiance and attentive service, making it a highly recommended destination for those seeking a tranquil escape in the Andaman Sea.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

SAii Phi Phi Island Village consistently garners excellent feedback, with an overall rating of 8.7 out of 10 based on over 6,800 reviews. Guests frequently describe it as a "tropical paradise" and a "beautiful getaway". The general sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its stunning natural setting, top-notch amenities, and the ability to offer both relaxation and adventure. Many express a strong desire to return, with some calling it "The best resort I've been to".

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud several aspects of SAii Phi Phi Island Village:

• Location & Scenery: The resort's secluded beachfront location on an 800-meter stretch of white sand, framed by jungle cliffs and coral reefs, is a major draw. The crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life are frequently praised.
• Design & Ambiance: The resort is designed to resemble a traditional Thai village, with stilted villas and thatched roofs blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. It covers a vast area (over 170 rai), providing a spacious and uncrowded feel.
• Amenities: The property boasts two inviting pool complexes: a tranquil infinity pool for adults and an all-ages pool with fountains, a waterslide, and a swim-up bar. A full-service spa, fitness center, and a unique Marine Discovery Centre emphasizing environmental ethos are also highly valued.
• Service: The attentive, friendly, and helpful staff receive consistent commendation, going "above and beyond" to ensure a wonderful vacation. The convenience of ordering services and food through a dedicated app is also appreciated.

3. Room Quality

The accommodations at SAii Phi Phi Island Village are described as comfortable, spacious, and thoughtfully designed with a focus on natural materials. Options range from Deluxe Garden and Sea View Bungalows to more luxurious Hillside Pool Villas and Beachfront Junior Suites.

• Comfort: Rooms feature plush bedding, bathtubs, and rain showers, contributing to a sense of relaxation. Many bungalows offer large, comfortable king-size beds and private terraces with lounge chairs, providing ample space to unwind.
• Design: Accommodations blend rustic charm with modern comforts, featuring stylish furnishings, air conditioning, satellite TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, and minibars. Reviewers have been particularly impressed by spacious bathrooms and dressing rooms. The eco-friendly coconut-extract hygiene products are also a popular detail.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at SAii Phi Phi Island Village is generally highly praised for its variety, quality, and often surprisingly affordable prices for an island resort.

• Breakfast: The buffet breakfast at Api Restaurant & Bar is frequently highlighted as "fantastic" and "superb," offering a huge selection of Asian and European dishes, fresh fruits, and live cooking stations to satisfy diverse palates.
• Restaurant Quality: The resort offers several dining options. Ruan Thai, with its traditional Thai architecture and hillside location offering sea views, is a favorite for authentic Thai cuisine, including highlights like spicy papaya salad, khao soi, and mango sticky rice. The Beach House Grill & Chill is ideal for relaxed lunches and dinners by the sea, serving grilled specialties, fresh seafood, and Western options like pizza. Guests also appreciate the availability of an app for ordering food and water.
• Affordability: Despite being on an island, some guests found the food prices to be reasonable, partly due to the presence of local villages with alternative dining options nearby.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff at SAii Phi Phi Island Village consistently receive exceptional marks. Guests describe them as "incredibly attentive, friendly, and bend over backwards to ensure you have a wonderful vacation".

• Hospitality: Staff members are noted for their genuine happiness and willingness to assist with any request, from room service to local information. The efficiency of service, with requests like an ironing board being delivered instantly via the hotel app, is frequently mentioned.
• Check-in/Check-out: While overall service is excellent, some guests have noted that the check-in process can occasionally be slow.

6. Location & Accessibility

SAii Phi Phi Island Village is located on Ko Phi Phi Don in Loh Ba Gao Bay, offering a secluded and serene environment away from the bustling main town of Ton Sai.

• Seclusion: The resort's location provides a "world away" feeling, ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.
• Transport: Reaching the resort primarily involves boat transfers. SAii Phi Phi Island Village offers its own speedboats for transfers from Phuket, which are generally smooth and well-coordinated. From Tonsai Pier, a 15-minute taxi boat (longtail boat) ride is required to reach the resort's bay. The resort also offers shuttle services for accessibility, though some guests mention the hotel transport to the main town can be infrequent and costly if not planned.
• Local Area: While the immediate vicinity is peaceful, the resort is connected to a small local village that provides alternative dining options. Attractions like Laem Tong Beach, Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint, and excursions to Maya Bay are easily accessible by boat trips departing directly from the resort beach.

7. Value & Pricing

SAii Phi Phi Island Village is considered a luxury experience, and its pricing reflects this, yet many guests find it to be of "exceptional value for money" given the level of comfort, amenities, and overall experience.

• Price Range: Average room prices can range from approximately $215 to $488 per night, though deals can be found for lower rates.
• Worth the Cost: Guests feel the investment is justified by the stunning location, high-quality facilities, excellent service, and the memorable, relaxing escape it provides.

8. Common Complaints

While reviews are overwhelmingly positive, a few recurring issues or minor criticisms have been noted:

• Gym Facilities: The fitness center, while available, is described as small, basic, and often hot and humid despite air conditioning, not quite meeting the standards of a 5-star accommodation for some guests.
• Check-in Delays: A few guests have experienced slow check-in processes.
• Non-Motorized Water Sports: Some found the non-motorized water sports options, such as kayaks without backrests, to be less than ideal.
• Food Labeling for Dietary Needs: A concern was raised by Muslim guests regarding the lack of clear labeling for alcohol content in some food and desserts at the buffet, despite halal meat being indicated.
• Stray Cats: One review mentioned a "large number of stray cats" at the resort, which was a point of concern for a guest who noted the resort's eco-friendly promotions.
• Distance from Main Village (for families with young kids): While generally praised for its seclusion, some families with young children found the distance from the main Phi Phi village to be a drawback if seeking more activities and entertainment outside the resort. The lack of a formal kids' club has also been mentioned by families seeking guaranteed adult-only downtime.

In conclusion, SAii Phi Phi Island Village delivers on its promise of a luxurious and tranquil island getaway, consistently delighting guests with its breathtaking setting, elegant accommodations, diverse dining, and outstanding service. While minor areas for improvement exist, the overall experience solidifies its reputation as a premier destination in the stunning Phi Phi Islands.

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