Best Choice In Jomtien
This reviewer strives to assess fairly and objectively across the full spectrum of scores and I am not afraid to be constructively critical where this is warranted. I find that my readers value and rely on this. The Venue is a small boutique hotel of a 3* grade however it delivers consistently to a 5* standard within its category. I have been staying for many years and have yet to find any significant criticism. The hotel is ably managed by Manager David and Assistant Manager, Chris. The new owner, Andy, strikes me as objective and progressive and, together, the management team provide a welcoming and clean environment that is both comfortable and friendly. The Venue is located within the Jomtien Complex and is perfectly situated to access a wide variety of dining and entertainment options. It is a 10 minute walk from the beach and the Baht Bus into Pattaya (fare 10 Baht) operates from the entrance of the complex. There is an inviting entrance to the hotel that can be accessed by steps or ramp. Once inside it isn't immediately apparent where to go however the bar is to the left and is staffed until midnight. There is always member of management available in the office during daytime hours. After midnight there is a security member of staff (Kim) on the ground floor. All staff are welcoming. There is a small indoor swimming pool. At the time of my visit, the name signage of "The Venue" had the "The" word not lit up. There are currently 3 categories of rooms available which, broadly speaking, offer similar facilities, but of differant sizes. All are attractive and I have always found them to be comfortable. The beds now benefit from duvets and that makes a high difference. The airconditioning is very effective and fairly quiet and there is good natural light. There is ample storage space and a safe in each room. Bed linen and towels are changed daily and the room is cleaned. There is a bathroom with shower leading off from the bedroom. The showers may not be the most powerful however they are perfectly adequate. Olay is responsible for room cleaning and he does an excellent job with his small team of helpers. He is very friendly. I had a differant room to usual on this particular visit and this was located at the back of the hotel. I learned very quickly that this was a much quieter part of the hotel (it is important to remember that The Jomtien Complex is a very active social area) and I couldn't hear a sound after retiring. I slept like a lamb. The bar is open until midnight and food is served on a very pleasant balcony from 09:00 until 17:00 (currently 14:00 on Tuesdays). All items are freshly prepared and are of a really good quality. Prices are very fair. The Venue also provides a cabaret 6 nights per week. This has to be the best show, not only in the Jomtien area, but in Pattaya as a whole. There is no cover charge and drinks are very fairly priced when you consider that the entertainment lasts for approximately 2 hours (there is an additional 30 minute "midnight" show currently on Wednesday and Fridays). The 15 or so performers are very talented and incredibly skilled. There is good engagement with the audience, however this is not at all intrusive. I visit a lot of hotels and I will have to say that The Venue is a firm favourite. To me, it is grounded and very real and this is the quality that I like. Simply put, this is the only place I would consider staying in Pattaya.