On a recent visit to Ko Lanta I wanted to stay for a few nights in Sala Dan, the main town on the island and the location of the port where most boats arrive and depart Ko Lanta. The Heart Inn is a budget hotel, but it’s pleasant enough and has a good location.
Rooms
The Heart Inn is a low-rise four-storey hotel with 28 rooms. I opted for the Rose Room which was the cheapest available (800 Baht per night). The air-conditioned room was spacious and the bed was clean and very comfortable. The room included a big desk and chair as well as ample storage space for bags and clothes. The inclusion in the room of a small refrigerator was another handy feature and the in-room Wi-Fi (complimentary) was fast and efficient so was another added bonus. On the negative side, there was a problem with the sliding door which led to the small outdoor balcony. Opening and closing the door was difficult and it would not open fully. I was only there for a few nights so it didn’t bother me, but the bathroom was more of a disappointment and in need of a proper clean. I think that some of the rooms are rented out on a monthly basis and I would guess that my room had recently been vacated by a long-stay visitor. Reading other reviews, the hotel is often commended for the cleanliness of the rooms so I may just have been unlucky with the bathroom. Either way, for a 2 night stay and the price I paid the overall standard was certainly reasonable.
Food
The price of my room included vouchers for breakfast in the small cafe/restaurant adjoining the hotel, but the food was nothing to write home about with a very limited selection for guests. That said, when you pay 800 Baht a night for a room, breakfast isn’t usually included so I wasn’t complaining. For the record, I had scrambled egg, a bit of toast, a small glass of fruit juice and coffee.
Facilities and Staff
From the cleaning ladies through to the receptionists, the staff at the hotel were all very friendly and helpful. Facilities at the Heart Inn are limited, but there is an internet/computer service in the lobby, a laundry service and the hotel can also arrange tours and transfers.
Location
The Heart Inn is located in Sala Dan very close to the main market area and just over 5 minutes’ walk away from the port where most ferries and boats dock. It’s easy to catch a motorbike taxi or songthaew to other areas of Ko Lanta and there is no reason why Sala Dan can’t be used as a base to explore the island. There is a beach a few minutes’ walk away from the hotel, although it isn’t a very attractive beach by Ko Lanta standards. Everything you are likely to need you will find in Sala Dan with some good restaurants and pleasant low-key bars as well as the usual roadside stalls and convenience stores.
Summary
The Heart Inn is a decent Ko Lanta hotel which I’d certainly consider staying at again. For the price paid, the facilities were generally good and the location was ideal for me. If you want to be right on the beach this isn’t the hotel for you, but if you are looking for a base to explore the island or are just in Ko Lanta for a few nights, then the Sala Dan area and the Heart Inn is an option. I booked online one week in advance of my trip using Agoda and paid 800 Baht per night for a twin room including breakfast.
Marks (out of 10): 7
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