3.5 Stars First, let me say that I enjoyed my stay at The Royal Paradise Hotel & Spa, and I would likely stay there again. It's in a great location, just minutes away from Walking Street and several excellent restaurants and bars. The hotel itself is gorgeous and well maintained. It's in the middle of a remodel, which I feel will add to its esthetics once it's complete. I can't go on with the review without mentioning an upsetting incident during check-in. I arrived at the hotel around 13:30 (check-in is at 14:00) and was told my room wasn't ready. I had booked one of the luxury suites on a high floor so I understood that it's very possible previous guests might have requested late check-out. No problem. I went to the bar and grabbed a drink. At 13:55, I returned to the front desk and was told my room would be ready in five minutes, right at 14:00. I thought that was odd, but I waited. At 14:00, I was told my room still wasn't ready, but I could opt for another room close to the elevator, instead of my corner suite. I told them I didn't want to be near the elevator because I'm a light sleeper and the noise would bother me. I was then offered a corner suite but on a lower floor, which I accepted. I got to the room and laid down for a nap and within minutes was interrupted by the sound of construction. They had placed me across the hall from the area of the hotel being remodeled. This after I had just told them loud noises would bother me. I went back downstairs and voiced my complaint and was told that my original room was now ready, nearly an hour after check-in, and I could relocate, which I did. On the grand scheme of things, this wasn't a big deal, but all that moving about, especially since I was handling my own luggage, was an irritant after four flights and nearly 36 hours of traveling. Fortunately, the room I was ultimately assigned was luxurious, airy, and comfy with a nice view of both the beach and the city. I was awoken daily by the sun creeping over the hills in the horizon and indeed did feel like I was in paradise. The bed was soft and the linen downy. I slept very good at night. The service staff at the bar, spa, and pool was the complete opposite of the experience I had during check in. The folks working the inside bar were especially friendly and attentive. I had a question about the spice used in one of the dishes and they went to the kitchen to bring me back a small sample to taste. I really wish more hotels showed this level of hospitality. It's becoming a lost amenity. The pool is charming and looked well maintained. The hotel has two, but I only used the lower (larger) one. It seemed especially kid-friendly with small built-in slides and waterfalls. There is a poolside spa area for guests who want a midday massage, but may not want to go to the dedicated on-site spa. (I did opt for a formal massage and was not disappointed!) One thing I found curious regarding the pool was that they required me to "check out" a pool towel by signing a paper and to ensure I returned the towel at the end of the day. I've never been asked to do this and it felt odd. Maybe the hotel has a problem with guests not returning the towels? They are also stringent on not bringing in outside food and drinks. I would purchase a drink from the inside bar (because I liked the staff there) and they would have to give me a bottle sleeve to show the outside bar staff that I had purchased my drink on-site. It all seemed fairly restrictive. If The Royal Paradise Hotel & Spa could just tighten a few things up, it could have easily earned five stars from me. But I would give it another chance the next time I'm in Phuket. If the price is right, I would say check it out.