“This is not a hotel. It’s something else entirely.”
I’ve stayed in many upscale hotels and resorts, but The Slate is in a different category altogether. Calling it a hotel almost feels misleading. This place is an experience, a world built with such creativity and intention that it simply isn’t fair to compare it to traditional resorts.
🏡 Our Stay – Villa 2006
We stayed in Villa 2006, and from the moment we entered, it was clear: this wasn’t designed just for accommodation, but for atmosphere.
A huge master bed, daybeds, lounge space, two separate toilets, two sinks, an impressive shower, and a corner bath/jacuzzi. It felt almost like walking into a scene rather than a room — every detail placed for effect.
🎨 Design & Story – Bill Bensley’s Vision
The Slate was redesigned by Bill Bensley, and you can feel his signature everywhere. It’s hard to describe the style — maybe Thai heritage meets industrial surrealism — but it creates moments of real awe.
The property reflects the history of the family behind it, tied to Phuket’s tin mining and rubber past. But it’s not a museum; it’s more like a living art installation. You don’t just see it — you sense it.
Walking through the grounds felt like exploring an art village rather than a resort. Normal hotels simply don’t reach for this kind of imagination.
🤵 Villa Butler – Service with Character
One major advantage of staying in a villa is the personal butler service. Ours, Rean, was outstanding — always available on WhatsApp, managing every detail from spa bookings to airport arrangements.
He even secured us a separate room for late departure, since our flight was at 22:30. That sort of thoughtfulness matters, and it’s done quietly here, without fuss.
🎥 About Expectations
Before arriving, I watched a review from The Flip-Flop Traveler, who was mildly critical and suggested the hotel might benefit from being managed by a bigger chain. I honestly disagree.
Everything he described as a “flaw” is precisely what gives The Slate its soul. If this place were standardized, it would lose everything that makes it exceptional. The Slate is well-maintained, intentional, and clearly loved by its creators.
🍽️ Black Ginger – Beautiful but Skippable
We had dinner at Black Ginger, the famous on-site restaurant. Visually, it’s stunning. The setting is dramatic, the design is impeccable.
But the meal, which cost around 6,000 THB for two, didn’t leave any lasting impression in terms of flavor. I’ve honestly had more memorable dishes at street stalls. It’s worth seeing, but next time, I’d skip the dinner.
🏋️ Gym & Fitness
The gym is perfectly fine for a hotel. Not exceptional, not terrible — just good enough. Same for the classes. You’re supposed to book ahead, but even without registering, you can usually join. It does the job.
---
🧭 Final Thoughts
It’s difficult to review The Slate using normal criteria, because it simply isn’t a normal hotel. It aims for something far more ambitious — mood, narrative, wonder — and it succeeds.
This is a place you feel, not just see. It won’t be for everyone, but for those who appreciate design, atmosphere, and individuality over formula, it may be one of the most memorable stays of your life.
Highest recommendation. Just don’t compare it to anything else.