MASON Hotel in Pattaya: A Gem in the Design Hotels™ Portfolio
When it comes to planning my travels, selecting the perfect hotel is paramount. I’m not one for the ordinary; I seek extraordinary experiences that captivate and delight. My preferred search begins on the websites of renowned hotel alliances such as Relais & Châteaux, Leading Hotels of the World, SLH (Small Luxury Hotels of the World), and Design Hotels™. Recently, I’ve found myself drawn to Design Hotels™, which proclaims to be the world’s most stylish design hotel alliance. The unique philosophy they advocate is simple yet compelling: “No design, no listing.”
Among the array of fascinating properties in Design Hotels™’s portfolio, one that has captured my heart is the MASON Hotel in Pattaya. Nestled on the serene Na Jomtien Beach, this boutique hotel represents the epitome of luxury, design, and tranquility. Not wanting to miss out on this gem, I recently visited MASON during a combined work and leisure trip to Thailand.
Travel Convenience and Itinerary
Traveling from Hangzhou to Bangkok is a mere 4.5-hour flight, making it entirely feasible for a short yet fulfilling getaway. While visiting Bangkok for business, I decided to spend an extra two nights in Pattaya, taking full advantage of the proximity – just a 1.5-hour drive from Suvarnabhumi Airport. This strategic travel plan provided a balanced itinerary: two nights in Pattaya for relaxation and two nights in Bangkok to complete my work commitments, making for a rejuvenating five-day, four-night retreat.
An Oasis of Tranquility in Pattaya
Upon arriving in Pattaya, I began my stay at the MASON Hotel, which was featured on Design Hotels™. It truly lived up to its reputation. With only 35 private villas, MASON promises an intimate and exclusive retreat. As confirmed by various social media posts shared during my stay., this serene haven attracts many Thai celebrities
MASON’s unique architecture is an awe-inspiring fusion of stone and art. Designed to resemble modern cave-like structures, the hotel is meticulously embedded in the hillside, creating a seamless blend with its natural surroundings. This design ethos, coupled with a variety of stunning viewing platforms crafted from diverse elevations, offers an unparalleled sensory experience.
Spectacular Scenery and Relaxation
The most arresting feature of MASON is its spectacular sea views. Thanks to the hotel’s thoughtful sloping design, guests can enjoy expansive ocean vistas from most public areas and villas. The breathtaking infinity pool, with its seamless horizon, provides a perfect setting to unwind and soak in the panoramic views.
The ambiance at MASON exudes a relaxed and easy-going vibe, a refreshing contrast to the usual hustle and bustle of Pattaya. The picturesque sunsets and evening glows are nothing short of magical, offering moments of tranquility and beauty, even during the rainy season, when the skies often clear up during the daytime.
Staying at MASON means indulging in villa accommodations, each equipped with a private pool. My choice was the Duplex Supreme Pool Villa, spanning 154 square meters over two levels. Adorned with a sleek concrete style and a stone-themed interior design, the villa provided a perfect blend of modern aesthetics and comfort.
The villa’s layout is thoughtfully segmented into independent spaces for the bedroom, living room, walk-in closet, and bathroom, ensuring absolute privacy and relaxation. At a rate of around 2000+ Thai Baht per night, the value for money is exceptional, considering the luxurious amenities and exclusive ambiance provided.
Of course, a private pool experience wouldn’t be complete without a floating breakfast, which MASON aptly offers. For an additional 1500 Baht, guests can enjoy their breakfast or afternoon tea in the private pool or even at the public infinity pool, capturing picturesque moments that are perfect for sharing on social media.
Culinary Delights
Dining at MASON is a delightful experience in itself. The all-day dining restaurant, ZILA serves breakfast buffet-style anda la carte options, providing a wide selection of dishes to cater to diverse palates. A word to the wise: if dining outdoors, be mindful of the local birds that might steal a bite of your meal when you’re not looking!
For lunch, Zila Street Bistro & Bar offers delectable Thai cuisine. The four dishes I tried, including salmon, cod, prawns, and the delightful mango sticky rice, were incredibly reasonably priced at only around 2000 Baht, demonstrating excellent value for hotel dining.
Dinner at KROK-A-CAFÉ is a scenic affair by the infinity pool. With prices so reasonable, enjoying a sumptuous meal while watching the sunset becomes an unforgettable experience. A large pork knuckle, dessert, and a drink cost less than 1000 Baht (~200 RMB), offering a blend of taste and value.
Activities and Amenities
Despite its boutique size, MASON offers a plethora of activities to keep guests engaged. Free sunrise yoga sessions by the beach provide a serene start to the day, while various non-motorized water activities are available for a leisurely exploration of the ocean. These activities enhance the overall experience, ensuring guests have ample opportunities to relax and rejuvenate.
The BEACHSIDE BAR, opening every evening, becomes a hotspot for mingling and enjoying the cool sea breeze with a refreshing cocktail in hand.
Impeccable Service
MASON’s service deserves a special mention. The hotel prioritizes Chinese bookings, ensuring smooth communication and tailored services for Chinese guests. A dedicated Chinese-speaking staff member at the front desk facilitates seamless interactions and addresses any needs swiftly and efficiently.
In conclusion, the MASON Hotel in Pattaya exemplifies what it means to offer an extraordinary experience. With its stunning design, exceptional views, luxurious accommodations, delectable cuisine, and numerous activities, it solves the common travel woes of monotony and mediocrity. For those seeking a unique destination that promises both peace and inspiration, MASON is undoubtedly a remarkable choice. So, next time you plan a trip to Thailand, let the MASON Hotel in Pattaya be your serene escape.
