Little Wandering Wren’s Good Hotel Guide

For memorable stays around the world.

I am so happy to present to you our 2023 Good Hotel Guide. As requested by readers wanting a comprehensive list of the fabulous stays featured on my Little Wandering Wren Instagram travels. I hope you enjoy my ultimate guide.  So drumroll, please! Here is a recap of seventy staycations in 2022 across S-E Asia, Europe, North America, and Australia.

These range from uber-luxurious hotels and resorts to camping in a cow paddock in Somerset with drop toilets. From Air BnBs to guest houses, inns, and pubs, there is something for everyone and all budgets here. Use the table of contents to head direct to the stay or country of interest.

Scroll to the end to find our top 10 most memorable hotel stays of 2022 – perhaps some will surprise you.

Becoming a Thailand Staycation Queen

Table of Contents

Becoming a Thailand Staycation Queen 2020-2021

But first maybe some background as to how and why I became a “Staycation Queen”

Unable to leave Thailand during the pandemic, we decided early on to support our local hotels and resorts. Without international tourists, hotels were desperate for guests and we enjoyed incredible bargains. On offer were five-star luxury hotels and resorts at never before seen prices, in a country used to 40 million tourists per year, devoid of visitors.

Whilst many expats sought ways to help local communities or donated money to help feed local Thai people, our model was different. We knew that every bed we slept in, every meal that we ate, and every suitcase that was carried, was a job for someone. Each employee was quite likely supporting an extended family.

We occasionally received hosted stays which I accepted as part of building my Little Wandering Wren portfolio and we instead donated money to local Phuket charities. 97% of my first 100 Thailand stays were fully funded by ourselves, Mr Wren remained employed when many lost jobs or were on reduced salaries.

Little Wandering Wren Miami Hotel Bangkok

Photo Credit: Shot by Char (Miami Hotel Bangkok)

International Travel returns in 2022

By the time the New Year’s Eve fireworks of 2022 had settled, we’d already returned to overseas travel.  Family reunions were important following a family bereavement in the UK.

In 2022 we traveled from Thailand to Indonesia and Malaysia, the European Summer was spent reconnecting with the UK and wandering southern France. With sports firmly back, a side trip to the US Open Tennis was enjoyed. The year ended in Australia enjoying Western Australia and at home in Victoria and cricket at the MCG!

The Wanderings.

Most of my 214 nights staying in hotels and resorts in 2022 were in the 4/5-star luxury hotel and resort market in Asia which remains affordable compared with Europe,  America, and Australia.

In Europe and Australia, where we are often traveling with family we will rent apartments, houses, and cottages. In total, we booked 49 stays. Below you will find plenty of bed and breakfast options, quaint inns, and pubs.

𝐉𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 ~ UK 🇬🇧, Thailand 🇹🇭⁣

Wonderful Winchcombe, Gloucestershire 🇬🇧

This 3 beds, 2-bathroom pretty cottage is set over three floors in Winchcombe, Cotswolds. Highly recommended in this Cotswold town with history and charm, famous for walkers, Sudeley Castle, and great for pubs! Postmasters Lodging with Sykes Holiday Cottages.

Sykes Cottages: Postmaster's Lodging Sitting room Winchcombe

Sykes Cottages: Postmaster’s Lodging Winchcombe

Beautiful Bath, Air BnB 🇬🇧

This Air BNB (since removed from listings) offered a charming Georgian Townhouse in the cute backstreets of Widecombe with 4 beds, and 2 bathrooms. Just a 5 min walk over the river to the centre of the World Heritage Georgian City of Bath. Do not miss Bath on any UK tour!

Bath Air BNB

Cassia Phuket, Bang Tao Beach, Phuket, Southern Thailand 🇹🇭

Loved the stylish accommodation offered for my 24-hour quarantine stay beautiful light-filled duplex apartment overlooking the laguna. Cassia is a great fun, good-value stay option in Phuket. See more on my Cassia Instagram post Cassia room tour video.

Cassia, Bang Tao Beach, Phuket

𝐅𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 ~ Thailand 🇹🇭⁣

Aleenta Pranburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Western Thailand 🇹🇭

We return to this peaceful beachside boutique hotel in Pranburi, 30 mins south of Hua Hin. As featured in Best trips for solo female travel. We love this quiet beach area, the great food, and the hammocks overlooking the sea. See more on my Aleenta Instagram post.

Aleenta Pranburi

Aleenta Pranburi

Aleenta Phang Nga Resort, Southern Thailand 🇹🇭

These award-winning luxurious villas & pretty frangipani gardens are a hidden jewel on the Andaman Sea. ⁣The Natai beach area is unbelievably gorgeous. They say you can wander for 10 km along its unspoiled sands. You won’t be worried by jet skies or bothered by hawkers either. It feels secluded and exclusive. Phang Nga is a great choice for those who want a quieter holiday than the nearby Phuket Island. See more on my Aleenta Phang Nga post.

Aleenta Phang Nga

Aleenta Phang Nga

J W Marriot Phuket Mai Khao 🇹🇭

The pool area is extensive with its infinity views over Mai Khao beach and heaps of water sports on offer. The activities were excellent I especially loved the yoga & stretch classes. We cycled around the nearby lake, it is magic ⁣at sunset with plenty of birds. You will love a wander in their huge grounds, breakfast is a highlight, one of the best around. You must try their signature French toast! See more on my J W Marriot Phuket  Instagram post. ⁣

J W Marriott Phuket Mai Khao

J W Marriott Phuket Mai Khao

⁣Katathong Golf Resort & Spa, Phang Nga, Southern Thailand 🇹🇭

Do you know you can stay at some golf resorts the accommodation is often reasonably priced and with million-dollar views.’ See more on my Katathong Instagram posts and Valley of Dreams.

Katathong Golf and Spa

Katathong Golf Resort and Spa

The Hot Spring Beach Resort & Spa, Phang Nga, Southern Thailand 🇹🇭

The big draw is the on-site 𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐡𝐨𝐭 𝐬𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬. They have 10 room types here. Our 𝐃𝐞𝐥𝐮𝐱𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐚 𝐕𝐢𝐞𝐰 rooms were large, clean, comfortable, and well-priced for our golf trip.  The rooms close to the pool are the ones to book if you can.⁣ See more on my Hot Spring Beach Resort Instagram post.

The Hot Springs Resort Phang Nga

The Hot Springs Resort Phang Nga

Chava Resort Surin Beach, Phuket 🇹🇭

I spent 67 nights here between Jan and October in a two-bedroom apartment on a long-term lease. Highly recommended for anyone wanting a longer stay in the Surin beach area. Chava has a great position opposite one of the nicest beaches in Phuket, a wonderful swimming pool area, fabulous staff, a cafe, and a thoroughly nice community of people who stay here. Loved it! See more in my Chava Instagram posts and Chava Surin Beach.The Chava Resort, Phuket

𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 ~ UK 🇬🇧⁣

Tree House Villas Koh Yai, Phang Nga, Southern Thailand, 🇹🇭

On the northern tip of 𝐊𝐨𝐡 𝐘𝐚𝐨 𝐍𝐨𝐢 between 𝐏𝐡𝐮𝐤𝐞𝐭 and 𝐊𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐢, a spectacular 40 mins speedboat ride. ⁣
One of our all-time most memorable island stays. We loved being at one with nature and the feeling of seclusion and serenity here.⁣ See more on my Instagram post here and video here.

Tree House Villas Koh Yai

Tree House Villas Koh Yai

Lincoln Air BnB, Lincolnshire 🇬🇧

Here’s looking at you Lincoln. We were here for a wedding and took this freshly decorated house with an easy walk to the medieval Lincoln Cathedral and the 11th-century Castle. We enjoyed Lincoln, a historic place for a weekend away.

Lincoln Air BnB

𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 ~ Thailand 🇹🇭 ⁣

Outrigger Surin Beach Resort, Phuket 🇹🇭

Outrigger Surin Beach

Outrigger Surin Beach Resort

The newly renovated and rebranded Outrigger at Surin Beach caught my attention and was the perfect place for my ‘Test and Go’ return to Thailand. These were the days of 24-hour hotel quarantine on arrival. Had a great stay! See more on my Outrigger Surin Beach Instagram post and Outrigger room tour.

Check out my full review of their fabulous Nalu Bar and Grill Restaurant.

Mida Grand Resort, Phuket 🇹🇭

New, big, and bold 𝐌𝐈𝐃𝐀 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞 is up high overlooking 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧 & 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐚𝐨 beaches. Brand new apartment style rooms – this is a 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐥. If you like everything shiny, shiny & your towels as new as they come check this out. Super comfy beds, plenty of swimming pool choices & even a pool on the roof with panoramic views of mountains & beaches. You will need some form of transport. More on my Instagram Mida Grande Resort Phuket.

Mida Grande Phuket

Mida Grande Phuket

Amora Beach Resort Phuket 🇹🇭

The hotel was in the middle of a major renovation which is why it was so well-priced at Bang Tao beach. It has a good location but I would want to see it finished before I returned.

Arinara Resort, Phuket 🇹🇭

The excitement of Arinara was meeting Thailand’s returning package holidaymakers, brought in by the tour company Tui. This hotel was a really good choice for families. This area of Bang Tao beach is popular for a reason and this resort offers large rooms and plenty of activities.

Arinara Resort Phuket

Arinara Resort

Thavorn Beach Village Resort, Phuket 🇹🇭

This was a delightful stay for my 150th Thailand Staycation, since Feb 2020. An affordable resort with broad appeal. A unique resort where guests feel as valued as the environment. The secluded Nakalay beach & reef⁣, lovely Thai-style large rooms with baths on the balcony and sea views. See more on my Instagram Thavorn Beach Village Resort and Thavorn room tour video.

Thavorn Beach Village Resort

Thavorn Beach Village Resort

Eden Beach Resort & Spa Khao Lak, Phang Nga Southern Thailand 🇹🇭

I’m a massive fan of the Khao Lak area, the beaches are less developed than in Phuket. We choose this hotel to be close to our boat tour to Similan Islands. Nice room, lovely beach, good breakfast. Very happy with our stay.

Eden Beach Resort & Spa Khao Lak

Eden Beach Resort & Spa Khao Lak

Miami Hotel Bangkok 🇹🇭

This hotel dates back to the Vietnam War. I absolutely loved this quirky, different boutique hotel and we stayed twice in 2022. The hotel has undergone a major renovation.  The signature rooms are charming with their unusual design details.  Located on Sukhumvit Soi 13 close to Nana BTS⁣. Great value and fun. I used it for my photoshoot! See more on my Instagram post and video.

Miami Hotel Bangkok

Miami Hotel Bangkok

Ramada by Wyndham Sukhumvit 48, Bangkok 🇹🇭

This is an attractive stay for the budget-conscious traveler looking for a new hotel. The large rooms, and service-orientated staff, are conveniently placed for On Nut BTS and BITEC. Kafeology and Morning Glory restaurant are drawcards in their own right. #hostedbyWyndham. See more on my Instagram Wyndham Sukhumvit 48 post and Wyndham Sukhumvit 48 room tour.

Full blog post and staycation review: Ramada by Wyndham Sukhumvit 48.

Ramada by Wyndham Sukhumvit 48

Ramada by Wyndham Sukhumvit 48

Ramada By Wyndham Bangkok Sukhumvit 87 🇹🇭

Duplex rooms, a stunning rooftop garden with panoramic city views, and Pesto Italian restaurant are sure to please. The mixed-use condo building is designed to make living easy and relaxing, for both hotel guests and residents. See more on my Instagram Wyndham Bangkok Sukhumvit 87 room tour and IG post here. #hostedbyWyndham

Full blog post and staycation review: Ramada By Wyndham Bangkok Sukhumvit 87.

Ramada by Wyndham Bangkok Sukhumvit 87

Ramada by Wyndham Bangkok Sukhumvit 87

Wyndham Bangkok Queen Convention Centre 🇹🇭

For those of us who love hotel wows, you will enjoy the city skyline view from the rooftop infinity pool, Do not miss the cocktails and the fabulous setting of the little-known Falcon Secret Bar,  or the charming Marie Guimar restaurant. I found the spacious rooms had everything needed for a great stay. See more on my IG posts Wyndham Bangkok Queen Convention Centre and more here. #hostedbyWyndham

Full blog post and staycation review: Wyndham Bangkok Queen Convention Centre.

Wyndham Bangkok Queen Convention Centre

Wyndham Bangkok Queen Convention Centre

Wyndham Garden Bangkok Sukhumvit 42 🇹🇭

Those of us who love a modern Japanese-inspired hotel will feel very much at home here, either for a few days or a long stay in the hotel’s well-equipped duplex apartments. See more on my Instagram Wyndham Garden Bangkok 42 post and Wyndham Garden room tour vdeo. #hostedbyWyndham

Full blog post and staycation review: Wyndham Garden Bangkok Sukhumvit 42.

Wyndham Garden Bangkok Sukhumvit 42

Wyndham Garden Bangkok Sukhumvit 42

The Cotton Saladaeng Hotel, Bangkok

A good choice for those looking for a budget hotel in Sathorn. I like this area of Bangkok and enjoy being close to Lumpini Park. Great breakfast is served next door at Toby’s restaurant, a renown brunch and coffee restaurant in Bangkok.

On the blog: Mahanakhon Skywalk Bangkok

Mahanakhon Skywalk

Mahanakhon Skywalk

Amari Don Muang Airport, Bangkok

With an easy walk to Don Muang airport, this is the best choice for wanting to stay as close as possible to the airport. Access to the airport is via a walkway with airport trolleys provided.

Amari Don Muang Airport

Amari Don Muang Airport

𝐌𝐚𝐲 ~ Bali 🇮🇩, Thailand 🇹🇭, UK 🇬🇧⁣

On why I wanted to return to Bali as soon as I could see Eat, Pray, Love back to Bali.

The Pavilions Bali, Indonesia 🇮🇩

I stayed in the Honeymoon Suite a stunning secluded villa with a private pool. Loved the grounds, yoga, and in-house spa all a short walk to Sanur beach. Calm, elegant, fabulous staff, everything was perfect.  See more on my Instagram The Pavilions post and room tour.

The Pavilions Bali

The Pavilions Bali

Ubud Village Resort, Bali, Indonesia 🇮🇩

Bali you still know how to impress! This resort is in a lovely setting on the outskirts of Ubud and my pool villa was incredible. See more on my Instagram post here and video here.

Ubud Village Resort

Ubud Village Resort

Cendara Village resort, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia 🇮🇩

Budget stay in the heart of Ubud, who said I was a posh princess? Lots of charm in this hotel. See more on my Instagram post.

Sidemen rice fields

Sidemen rice fields

Cepik Villa Sidemen, Bali, Indonesia 🇮🇩

This was a Bali Bucket list stay for me, a beautiful traditional Balinese room in a tropical away from it all location in the rural community of Sidemen. A simple hotel with glamourous romantic rooms in a spectacular rice field setting on the outskirts of the village. ⁣The open-air dining room has scenic views with great food. ⁣Friendly staff who go out of their way to make sure everyone has a great time.⁣ See more on my Instagram post here and video.

Cepik Villa Sidemen

Cepik Villa Sidemen

Amnaya Resort Nusa Dua, Bail, Indonesia 🇮🇩

For a bargain stay at a hotel that really knows how to go the extra mile, this resort was tops! ⁣Lovely suite room⁣, swimming pool area⁣, and helpful staff. See more on my Instagram Amnaya Resort post and Amnaya Resort room tour video.

Amnaya Resort Nusa Dua

Amnaya Resort Nusa Dua

Revivo Wellness Resort, Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia 🇮🇩

Revivo is spread across three hectares of teak tree forest this is a lavish stay with immersive wellness programs. My villa was very special and my wellness retreat had a great impact on my overall well-being. More on my Instagram Revivo Wellness Resort post here and room tour video.

Full blog post and staycation review: Revivo Wellness Resort, Bali, and Why your next trip should be a Wellness Retreat. 

Revivo Wellness Resort Bali

Revivo Wellness Resort Bali

Kantary Beach Khao Lak, Phang Nga, Southern Thailand 🇹🇭

Booked this hotel after enjoying other hotels in the brand, Cape Panwa, Kantary Bay Phuket, and Cape Nidra Hua Hin. I like their design and style! Great standard of hotel villas and suites on a tranquil, pristine beach in Phang Nga with modern beachfront accommodation. We were there during torrential rain and didn’t see the resort at its best so must go back!

Kantary Beach Khao Lak

Kantary Beach Khao Lak

Dhevan Dara Beach Villa Kuiburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Western Thailand 🇹🇭

A good choice for a stop-off on our road trip from Phuket to Bangkok. We enjoyed this Polynesian-style accommodation on the beach. Lovely suite room with kitchenette, spa bath, and day bed. Their large infinity pool overlooks the beach. Top choice if you are in the area.

Dhevan Dara Kuiburi Thailand

Dhevan Dara, Kuiburi, Prachap Khiri Khan, Thailand

Laksasubha Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Western Thailand 🇹🇭

This beachfront hotel on one of the nicest parts of Hua Hin beach offers clean, simple, and comfy rooms. The public areas are lovely, I enjoyed beach wanders and breakfast overlooking the beach.

Laksasubha Hua Hin

Laksasubha Hua Hin

Pullman Grande Sukhumvit Bangkok 🇹🇭

This was the first time we saw a Bangkok hotel really busy! They were offering some fabulous promotions, a grand foyer area, and a stylish, good value-for-money stay in the heart of Bangkok.

Bangkok City of Angels

Rose and Crown Pub Stoke Newington, London🇬🇧

Comfortable and affordable with a fabulous breakfast in a historic pub. We loved our simple room with an en-suite. It was an exciting time to be in London with the Queens Platinum Jubilee celebrations and all the summer events such as Superbloom. We will definitely return. See more on my Rose and Crown Instagram post. 

On the Blog: wandering Superbloom at The Tower of London and the Royal Academy of the Arts Summer Exhibition.

Superbloom at The Tower of London

Superbloom at The Tower of London

𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐞 ~ UK 🇬🇧 ⁣

Macdonald Windsor Hotel, Windsor, Berkshire 🇬🇧

We had no idea at the time how memorable this stay would be, staying opposite Windsor Castle in the week of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, nor that a few weeks later she would be no longer with us. Lovely rooms, in a fabulous central location. See more on my Instagram post here.

Macdonald Windsor UK

Macdonald Windsor, UK

Goodlake Barns Shellingford, Oxfordshire 🇬🇧

Stay Cotswold offer 5 luxury self-catering barns in a picturesque Oxfordshire village, in the Vale of the White Horse. Well equipped, a super place for our family reunions, our second stay this year.

Wandering The Ridgeway, Oxfordshire

Wandering The Ridgeway, Oxfordshire

Pembrokeshire, Wales 🇬🇧

Another Air BnB cottage suited us well for our family reunion holiday. Pembrokeshire was a great choice for walking. A land of mountains, valleys, and rivers. There are five areas of outstanding natural beauty and three National Parks. See more on my Instagram post.

Pembrokeshire, UK

Pembrokeshire, UK

Harthill Hall, Bakewell, Derbyshire 🇬🇧

We booked directly for a fabulous girls’ weekend away. Hartwell Hall offers different size cottages, we stayed in Manner’s apartment. Harthill Hall dates from the 16th century and is redolent with history, with stone-flagged floors, oak beams, and ancient carved oak doors.⁣ We enjoyed wandering the peaceful countryside & pretty villages around Bakewell. ⁣See more on my Instagram post Harthill Hall.

Harthill Manor Peak District

Harthill Manor Peak District

Glastonbury Festival, Somerset 🇬🇧

Six nights volunteering and camping at Glastonbury Festival. Yes, that’s a life of drop loos and if you’re lucky a composting toilet, a far cry from my usual 5-star luxury hotels. But totally worth it at the UK’s largest Performing Arts Festival watching Diana Ross, Sir Paul McCartney, and others perform on the legendary Pyramid Stage. Definitely one of the most memorable stays of the year. It’s virtually impossible to buy a ticket, volunteering is the way to go!

Full blog post: Everything glitters at Glastonbury.

Camping at Glastonbury

My tent at Glastonbury

𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 ~ UK 🇬🇧 ⁣

Corinthia London, 🇬🇧

Best ever central London location in Whitehall nearby St James, Green & Hyde parks. Large rooms, with uber-luxurious bathrooms⁣. I love a TV at the end of the bath. don’t you? One of my most memorable breakfasts.⁣ Do not miss one of London’s best Afternoon Tea experiences either.⁣ Incredible ESPA Life at Corinthia, one of London’s top Spas. See more on my Instagram post Corinthia London.

Full blog post and staycation review: Hotel Review Corinthia London.

Corinthia London Bathroom

Corinthia London

Lansdowne Club, Mayfair, London 🇬🇧

The location and the Art Deco period features impress. The building offers fabulous sports, yoga, and even an indoor swimming pool, rooms for meetings, and wonderful meals. This is a private members club.  See more on my Instagram post  Lansdowne Club.

Full blog post and staycation review: Stay Review Lansdowne Club.

The Lansdowne Club, Mayfair, UK

The Lansdowne Club, Mayfair, UK

Jurys Inn Cheltenham, Gloucestershire 🇬🇧

For a cheap and cheerful stay on the outskirts of the beautiful spa town of Cheltenham.  A simple bed for a night or two for a summer break in Cheltenham. We enjoyed both the countryside wanders and the lovely town with great shopping, and the theatre. The hotel was booked through TravelZoo which offers exclusive deals to members.

Cheltenham Spa, UK in bloom

Cheltenham Spa, UK in bloom

The Quy Mill Hotel and Spa, Cambridge, 🇬🇧

Another TravelZoo bargain break close to Cambridge. The hotel had a spa and indoor swimming pool. I really liked the breakfast!

Wandering Cambridge

Wandering Cambridge

The Swan Hotel & Spa Lavenham, Suffolk 🇬🇧

The Hartest room was one of those impromptu stays having seen how enchanting the half-timbered medieval cottages are in this quaint Suffolk village. Used as a Harry Potter film location, our stay in Lavenham was way too short! For more see my Instagram post The Swan Hotel and My Life be like Lavenham, Suffolk.

The Swan Hotel & Spa Lavenham

The Swan Hotel & Spa Lavenham

Broom Hall Country Hotel, Thetford, Norfolk, 🇬🇧

Up a windy driveway is a charming victorian country house hotel.  All the rooms are different and named after birds, including a Wren room. The huge Woodpecker Superior Suite room was delightful with its garden views and stylish bathroom.  Breakfast in the garden after the friendly local Park Run was great. Highly recommended.

Broom Hall Country Hotel

Broom Hall Country Hotel, Norfolk UK

The Ormond at Tetbury, Gloucestershire, 🇬🇧

This charming 17th-century coaching Inn was a perfect Cotswold break. Our upgraded room was fabulous, the hotel was quaint and we loved the central location in Tetbury. We visited the nearby Westonbirt Arboretum which was a gem of a place for a wander.  Another booking via TravelZoo and a highlight. More found on my Instagram post The Ormond.

The Ormond Tetbury

The Ormond Tetbury

Creed Lane Studio Apartments – part of Leonardo Royal London St Pauls, 🇬🇧

This was a new part of London for us to stay in, on offer with a TravelZoo deal. Great room, and a fabulous price, we were happy with this stay. We really enjoyed this location and even joined in a service at St Paul’s Cathedral.

Big Ben London UK

Big Ben London UK

Millslade Country House Bed and Breakfast Brendon, Devon, 🇬🇧

A B & B in a lovingly restored period Georgian house offering luxurious boutique bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. Fabulous breakfasts situated in 𝐄𝐱𝐦𝐨𝐨𝐫 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤 in the beautiful Brendon Valley. For more see my Instagram post Millslade Country House.

Millslade Bed and Breakfast

Millslade Bed and Breakfast

Mercure Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa, Lancashire 🇬🇧

We enjoyed wandering a part of England that we did not know and we loved the walks in this area. The hotel was an attractive old building with modern rooms, loved the staircase! Had an indoor swimming pool I joined yoga and aqua aerobics classes. Nice Spa. An amazing value with TravelZoo. See more on my Instagram Mercure Blackburn post.

𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 ~ USA 🇺🇸, UK 🇬🇧, France 🇫🇷 ⁣

La Guardia Plaza Queens, New York 🇺🇸

We stayed 12 nights at this hotel in a spacious Plaza Suite room whilst visiting the US Open tennis. This 3-Star hotel is a few minutes from La Guardia Airport and a 10 mins ride to the US Open. Hola to the friendly housekeeping team. The indoor swimming pool was under renovation at the time. For more see my La Guardia Plaza and US Open IG posts.

Arthur Ashe Stadium US Open 2022

Arthur Ashe Stadium US Open 2022

New York Athletic Club 🇺🇸

A private members club in New York, opposite Central Park for around $200 per room per night? Sounds good, don’t you think? It was!  Full blog post and staycation review: Staying at the New York Athletics Club.

New York Athletic Club

New York Athletic Club

Holiday Inn Express London Luton Airport, Bedfordshire 🇬🇧

A perfect cheap (via Agoda) and cheerful no-frills hotel stay the night before the Queen’s funeral and a flight from Luton airport when I needed to make sure given the unpredictability of transport that I’d be at the airport. A 5 mins walk uphill to the airport there is a bus stop outside the door if your suitcase is too heavy. Good breakfast included. The comfy bed looked out over the runway thankfully with soundproofing it was not too noisy. I would happily stay again. All the details on my IG post Holiday Inn Express.

Les Logis des Vignobles, Saint-Emilion, Aquitaine, southwestern France 🇫🇷

𝐒𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐭-É𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧 is a picture-perfect, charming 𝐦𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝐯𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐠𝐞 located in the heart of the famous 𝐁𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐱 𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐚 and this Duplex Apartment above a restaurant was spot on for wandering this region.

For more see Exploring the Bordeaux Region

Les Logis des Vignobles, Saint-Emilion

Les Logis des Vignobles, Saint-Emilion

Les Chambres Des Aime, Carcassonne, Languedoc 🇫🇷

We loved this historic city and wandering the fabulous UNESCO medieval fortress as the sun went down was so special. The irresistible allure of wandering these ancient cobbled streets combined with the fairytale stay in beautiful en-suite rooms. We really enjoyed meeting the other guests. More on my Instagram Post Les Chambres Des Amie and Carcassonne  Book early. there are only five rooms.

Les Chambres Des Aime, Carcassonne

Les Chambres Des Aime, Carcassonne

La Mas des Alexandrins, Chambres d’Hotes, Uzes, Occitanie 🇫🇷⁣

Suite Andromague sleeps 4.  High standard of room, comfortable beds, well run, very clean, lovely conversations with the owners who were very good at chatting with us and our rusty French!! ⁣ A great choice for us with our two adult daughters with two bedrooms, one bathroom, and a sitting area⁣. More on IG Uzes and Chambre D’hotes, Uzes. For more see my IG Wandering Uzes post and  La Mas des Aleandrins.

La Mas des Alexandrins, Chambres d'Hotes, Uzes

La Mas des Alexandrins, Chambres d’Hotes, Uzes

𝐋𝐚 𝐕𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐞, 𝐀𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐬, Provence 🇫🇷⁣

𝘕𝘰𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘺, 𝘢 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘍𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘩 𝘪𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦! Driving through the labyrinth of 𝐀𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐬’ tiny streets to find 𝐋𝐚 𝐕𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐞 could only have been better if we’d been in a bright red sports car with the wind blowing in my hair. 𝘐𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘑𝘢𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘉𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘨𝘪𝘳𝘭! This 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐞 𝐝’𝐡ô𝐭𝐞 is highly recommended. Everywhere you look are antique furnishings, the room is huge and comes with a large bathroom with all mod cons. For more see my IG Wandering Arles post and  La Vagabond.

La Vagabonde, Arles

La Vagabonde, Arles

Hotel Particulier Cassis, Cote d’Azure 🇫🇷⁣

This Southern France area offers sea and beaches, surrounded by stunning nature and not to forget vineyards. Hotel Particulier offers 12 Apartments, 5 minute walk from the bustling Cassis Port  (some with sea views) in a converted private mansion built in 1960 for a rich family from Marseille. For more see Instagram Wandering Cassis and Hotel Particulier room tour video. 

Port de Cassis

Port De Cassis

𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 ~ UK 🇬🇧, Thailand 🇹🇭, Malaysia 🇲🇾 ⁣

Santiburi Koh Samui, Southern Thailand 🇹🇭

We won this stay and it was fabulous.  Loved the 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐢 𝐬𝐭𝐲𝐥𝐞 hotel and our Garden Villa. There is a lovely beach frontage & you’ll find the biggest hotel swimming pool on the island.  Popular with families, good kids club, and is also good for couples  Lots of free activities; tennis. yoga, beach fishing, sailing, Local market tour, free Ice cream, and free Afternoon Tea. More on my Instagram post here.

Santiburi, Koh Samui

Santiburi, Koh Samui

Absolute Sanctuary Koh Samui Southern Thailand 🇹🇭

An incredible Wellness Retreat on the tropical island of Koh Samui, Thailand. I attended the Just Me program and loved this pretty resort. It was a transformational week. Full blog post and staycation review:: Absolute Sanctuary Koh Samui. More on my Instagram post and room tour video. #hostedby

I’m a massive fan of a Wellness Retreat for more see  Why your next trip should be a Wellness Retreat. 

Absolute Sanctuary

The Prestige Hotel Penang, Malaysia 🇲🇾

A good value 5 Star hotel in In the heart of the Georgetown UNESCO World Heritage Site. ⁣Inspired by its 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐕𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞, yet with a swanky modern interior & some room design wows! ⁣ An easy wander to Penang’s cultural hotspots, street art, and popular cafe culture⁣. More on my Instagram post The Prestige.

View from The Prestige, Penang swimming pool

View from The Prestige, Penang swimming pool

500Rai Khao Sok National Park, Southern Thailand 🇹🇭

Memorable and wonderful. I couldn’t think of a better way to end our time in Thailand this year. The floating bungalows on Chiew Larn Lake and the magical view from your bed upon waking were one of our all-time Thailand highlights. The Khao Sok National Park is one of the world’s oldest rainforests. We loved the tours, especially seeing the wildlife. The longtail boat to and from the resort is magic. Do not miss!

More on my Instagram 500Rai post and Khao Sok National Park 

500Rai Floating Resort Khao Sok National Park

500Rai Floating Resort Khao Sok National Park

𝐍𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 ~ UK 🇬🇧, Thailand 🇹🇭⁣

Angsana Hotel Laguna Phuket

I’ve stayed here on several occasions, some hotels you always have a good time at. Angsana is one of Phuket’s best hotels for events, and right from the early return to travel days, they attracted a great crowd, from holidaymakers to beach volleyballers, golfers, or annual Corporate outings. I returned a few days later for TBEX Asia and got to see their slick operation for special events. Nice rooms with choice of pool, beach, and Lagoon front, fabulous event space. For more on my Instagram posts Angsana Laguna and earlier stay here.

Angsana Laguna Phuket

Angsana Laguna Phuket

Mercure Soi Sukhumvit 11, Bangkok 🇹🇭

The Mercure has fast become our home away from home because we like the location close to all my friends and with easy access to BTS Nana. Sukhumvit Soi 11 is known as a party street it is ever-changing nightlife, bars, and restaurants. The rooms are good, nice swimming pool area and the staff are lovely.

More on my Instagram post Mercure Soi Sukhumvit 11.

Mercure Bangkok Sukhumvit Soi 11

Mercure Bangkok Sukhumvit Soi 11

Park Cottage Air BNB Frome, Somerset 🇬🇧

An amazing rambling country house retreat with stunning views over the Somerset countryside perfect for an extended family gathering. Warm and cozy with a roaring fire and a massive dining room.

Lansdowne Club, Mayfair, London 🇬🇧

We upgraded to a suite room for our return to this is a private members club for a Christmas stay. It wins my heart for the fabulous Christmas decorations, as featured in the Channel 4 TV documentary Deck the Halls The Christmas Decorators! See more on my Instagram post.

Full blog post and staycation review: Stay Review Lansdowne Club.

The Lansdowne Club, Mayfair London, UK

The Lansdowne Club, Mayfair London, UK

𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 ~ UK 🇬🇧, Thailand 🇹🇭, Australia 🇦🇺 ⁣

Pinnacles Edge Resort, Cervantes, Western Australia, 🇦🇺 ⁣

We choose this stay for its proximity to the Pinnacles Desert at Nambung National Park in the southwest corner of WA.  We wandered amongst the famous natural limestone structures dating back 25,000-30,000 it was almost like being on another planet. Pinnacles Edge resort was a good enough place to crash for the night. We enjoyed Cervantes, especially eating at The Lobster Shack overlooking the sea.

The Pinnacles Resort, Cervantes, WA, Australia

The Pinnacles Resort, Cervantes, WA, Australia

Margaret River Motel, Western Australia 🇦🇺 ⁣

This 3 Star motel with a pool in a central Margaret River location was a fab place to sleep whilst out and about enjoying the Margaret River wineries and some lovely walks amidst spectacular scenery and a wonderful coastline. The town offers plenty of dining and shopping. We enjoyed watching the birds from our window in our large and comfortable en-suite room. We recommend a day trip to Hamelin Bay to see the Stingrays that appear, best time to visit is 9-10 am.

Hamelin Beach

Hamelin Bay Beach

Pullman Bunker Bay Resort, Western Australia 🇦🇺 ⁣

A mega-expensive splurge at the end of the year to join a memorable wedding. The setting at Bunker Bay was spectacular and oh-so-romantic. This beach area is idyllic (flies aside!)

Bunker Bay, Western Australia

Bunker Bay, Western Australia

Roseneath Cottage, Northam, Western Australia 🇦🇺 ⁣

We’re not exactly sure why we decided to head to Northam which gave us an insight into off-the-beaten-path WA. This pretty newly renovated cottage was a good choice in the town. Northam is in the Wheatbelt area, known for its painted Silo trail and black swans.

Roseneath Cottage, Northam

Roseneath Cottage, Northam

Photography

I took 16,543 photos in 2022. Most were in search of the best places for this ultimate Good Hotel Guide for memorable places to stay across the globe.  All photos have been taken with an iPhone camera, with very little editing. I remain firmly about “anyone can take these photos anyone can have this experience” 

To ensure the fast opening of this post I have limited photos here, but click on the Instagram links for more!

Villa Wren - The Pavilions Bali

Villa Wren – The Pavilions Bali

My Top 10 memorable hotels of 2022

It was hard to choose my top stays of the year as I have loved my stays and thank my lucky stars for giving me a lifestyle that has enabled me to have such a diversity of good hotel and more staycation experiences.

  1. 500Rai Khao Sok National Park – a spectacular floating hotel set in the magnificent Khao Sok National Park.
  2. Absolute Sanctuary Koh Samui, Thailand  – pretty resort, bounced out feeling fitter and stronger.
  3. Tree House Villas Koh Yai, Thailand – our top Southern Thailand island escape of 2022.
  4. Revivo Wellness Resort Bali – my beautiful Balinese wellness retreat for the soul, xx
  5. Lansdowne Club Mayfair, London UK – Private Members Club that ticks all the boxes.
  6. New York Athletics Club USA –  jaw-dropping sports facilities in the heart of New York – Private Members Club
  7. Cepik Villas Sideman, Bali – the stunning room in a rural off the beaten track Bali location.
  8. Corinthia Mayfair London, UK – luxurious London at its ultimate best.
  9. Chava Resort, Phuket Thailand – my apartment home away from home, that pool area is tops.
  10. Les Chambres Des Aime, Carcassonne, France – elegant stay in a charming French medieval city, Merci beaucoup!

Thank you for reading to the end. I hope you have enjoyed my Good Hotel Guide 2023.

So where’s your next travel going to be? Are you thinking of a Thailand or Bali beach or a Cotswold cottage? Or Maybe the cities of New York, London or Bangkok appeal? I’d love to hear which of these stays made it to your bucket list for must-see memorable future stays!

If you have enjoyed this post please share and Pin for others to find.  It makes a huge difference as I expand my readership.

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9 comments

Eileen Wise -

Hello Wren,
This is a fabulous post. The hotel guide is wonderful, so many beautiful choices and great places to visit.
Thailand is still on our list. Beautiful photos. Take care, have a happy week!

Reply
wrensrambles@gmail.com -

Thank you so much, Eileen, it certainly was fabulous enjoying all these great stays. I hope you get to Thailand one day!
Have a great week
Wren x

Reply
Julie -

Thank you for compiling your travels from last year. You traveled to some beautiful places and I love looking at the photos and learning about the hotels. I can’t wait to look over these hotels you stayed in.

Reply
wrensrambles@gmail.com -

Thank you, Julie, I’m so glad you have enjoyed this post and learning more about the hotels. We stayed in some incredible places and it’s my pleasure to share them with everyone again here.
Wren x

Reply
Neesie -

Oh Wren, this is a fabulous website. You have so many choices and places to visit. Your recommendations are fantastic, and give a great insight into all the various locations.
Thank you for sharing…have a great stay wherever you go next!

Reply
wrensrambles@gmail.com -

Hi Neesie, always wonderful to see you here, thank you for stopping by and for your lovely comment. We had an amazing year and I wanted to share these wonderful stays again with everyone.
Have a lovely weekend
Wren x

Reply
lowcarbdiabeticJan -

Wow! Great post, thank you 🙂

Keep well and happy travels.

All the best Jan

Reply
Little Wandering Wren -

Thank you so much Jan – You know me, I love my travels! I appreciate as always you stopping by.
Have a lovely week.
Wren x

Reply
Debbie- Dabble -

Thanks so much for stopping by!! I hope you are having a good weekend!!
Hugs,
Deb

Reply

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