Hotel
Trisara
A secluded luxury resort of private pool villas, suites and residences on Phuket's north-west coast, home to the Michelin-starred PRU and awarded Two MICHELIN Keys.
The Memory at On On Hotel
Phuket Town's 1927 heritage hotel on Phang Nga Road, once a backpacker favourite seen in The Beach and now a restored small hotel in the old town.
At a glance
- Type
- Heritage hotel
- Area
- Phuket Old Town, Phuket, Thailand
- Price
- $$ · Mid-range
Good to know
- Historic 1927 building
- Old Town location
- 24-hour reception
Why we recommend it
The Memory at On On Hotel is one of Phuket's most historic places to stay, a hotel on Phang Nga Road in the heart of Old Phuket Town. The building dates from 1927, when it opened as the Un Un Hotel. For decades it was the On On Hotel, a simple and rather shabby backpacker favourite, and it appeared in the 2000 film The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, before being renovated and reopened under its current name.
The restoration kept the hotel's character while bringing the rooms up to modern standards. There are four room types: Superior, Deluxe, Junior Suite and The Memory Suite. Rooms come with Wi-Fi and minibars, and the lobby offers complimentary snacks and drinks. There is no swimming pool, so this is a place for those who want to be in the old town rather than spend their days lounging at a pool. Cafe Mem is next door for breakfast and coffee, and a restaurant, Kanta, is alongside on Phang Nga Road.
The location is the main draw. Thalang Road, Soi Romanee, the Thai Hua Museum and dozens of cafés and restaurants are all within a few minutes' walk, and the Sunday walking street market is just around the corner. Reception is open around the clock, which helps with late arrivals. Patong Beach is about 13 kilometres away and the airport about 33 kilometres, so guests who want beach time should plan on taxis or a hired scooter.
The hotel suits couples, solo travellers and anyone interested in Phuket's history who wants a characterful base for exploring the old town. It is less suitable for families who need a pool or for travellers who want a beach resort. Rooms facing the street may hear some noise from Phang Nga Road and from the Sunday market, so ask for a quieter room if you are a light sleeper.
Prices are moderate, especially compared with beach resorts, which makes it good value for a two- or three-night stay in town at the start or end of a trip. Combine a stay here with day trips to the beaches or the islands, returning in the evening to eat in the old town's restaurants, such as Tu Kab Khao and One Chun, both within walking distance.
The Memory at On On Hotel FAQs
When was the hotel built?
In 1927, when it opened as the Un Un Hotel.
Was it in a film?
Yes, as the On On Hotel it appeared in the 2000 film The Beach.
What room types are there?
Superior, Deluxe, Junior Suite and The Memory Suite.
Is there a pool?
No, the hotel has no swimming pool.
Where can I eat?
Cafe Mem is next door, and the old town's restaurants are a short walk away.
Is reception open 24 hours?
Yes.
How far is it from Patong Beach?
About 13 kilometres by road.
Is it noisy?
Street-facing rooms may hear traffic and the Sunday market; ask for a quieter room if needed.