Rayong hotel mixes resort, homestay concepts

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“Homestay” and “resort” would seem to be incongruous concepts in holiday travel, but a new 45 million baht hotel in Rayong attempts to bring the two together under the guidance of HM the King’s “sufficiency economy” philosophy.

The Phala Buri Resort and Homestay on Ban Chang’s Pla Beach offers 10 villas on a homestay-style property where owners raise chickens and ducks and grow their own vegetables.

Ban Chang District Chief Somchai Planukhroa and Phala Buri project manager Boonyajan Eikeland (right) toast the official opening of the new resort.Ban Chang District Chief Somchai Planukhroa and Phala Buri project manager Boonyajan Eikeland (right) toast the official opening of the new resort.

Ban Chang District Chief Somchai Planukhroa was on hand for the July 7 grand opening with project manager Boonyajan Eikeland.

She said the 3.5-rai resort was aimed at eco-tourism enthusiasts.  Rooms are decorated modernly with an eastern motif, but the complex offers only 10 rooms to keep things small and private.

Phala Buri Resort and Homestay in Ban Chang.Phala Buri Resort and Homestay in Ban Chang.

Following HM the King’s “sufficiency economy” philosophy, the resort is self-supporting, raising fowl and growing vegetables organically.

Boonyajan said she was inspired by HM the King’s travels to promote his philosophy and she was encouraged by her Norwegian husband to make the resort a family business.  Customers are both Thai and from Europe.

In line with a homestay, guests can tend the garden, raise the chickens, fish for octopus and crabs, and make shrimp paste, soap and local specialty products to sell.

Space is obviously limited.  For information, call 081-863-4084 or visit www.phalaburiresort-banchang.com.