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Published on September 1, 2007

Usually, a romantic getaway means a long journey to a remote destination. But thanks to the proximity of Sheraton Pattaya Resort, your heart can now take a holiday much closer to home.

Launched two years ago, Sheraton Pattaya is reckoned to be one of the best resorts in Pattaya, with secluded a cliff-top location that's home to beautiful pavilions, guestrooms and impeccable service under the global management of Starwood Hotels & Resorts. Though Pattaya is better known as a family destination, Sheraton Pattaya is a good choice for young couples looking for the right surroundings to revive that love vibe.

Checking in late last month, we made our way to one of the spacious Pavilion rooms that overlook the sea and two large free-form swimming pools. The plush decor is right up to the chain's high standards but carries a laid-back atmosphere typical of this seaside resort. The king-size bed was tested for comfort, and passed - we learned later that the Sheraton's Sweet Sleeper Bed has been specially designed with guests' sweet dreams in mind.

The bathroom area features two separate washing areas, large twin closets, a big bathtub and a shower area. A generous hamper of toiletries is provided for those who want relax out of the room. Beyond the bed and bathrooms is a living area, where you can wind down on the large sofa with a glass of complimentary red wine while the sun's still too hot to think of a trip outdoors. For us, the comfy chaise lounge on the pavilion's spacious balcony was the place to enjoy a book, some music and the sea breeze, waiting for the sun to sink signalling preparations for a romantic dinner for two.

Sheraton Pattaya has three restaurants and one lounge. For those wanting to whet their appetite before dinner, Latitude Lounge offers a perfect entrée to the evening with a light tapas menu, long drinks list and a library. When you're ready for the main course you can hop up to the funky Mez restaurant. We enjoyed their delicious Asian dishes, especially the appetiser of spicy fried edamame beans, the steamed snowfish main course and the basil cream brulee for dessert.

For those in the mood for al fresco dining, make a date for lunch at Infiniti restaurant with its cliff-top views. The compact menu encompasses simple sandwiches, salads, pastas and wonderful pizzas, while the drinks list features smoothies, cocktails and wines. Infiniti was so good that we chose it both times for lunch during our short stay. We had to go back for the fantastic avocado and grilled baby octopus salad with balsamic vinaigrette (high in healthy fats), ink-pasta served with blue-crab sauce, and grilled chicken breast on focaccia served with chunky French fries.

Their Amburaya Spa left us with more satisfied smiles. We tried the signature Amburaya Massage, a clever combination of massage traditions from around the world, including Thai, shiatsu, ayurvedic, Swedish and aromatherapy. The hands-on treatment is a smart way of getting that healthy glow over dinner, before fanning things to a flame for further hands-on treatment back in your room.

Despite the romantic setting, the resort is not exclusively for couples. Sheraton Pattaya has a babysitting service, and the swimming pool and activities for youngsters make it a fun place for kids. When a romantic getaway is this easy and convenient, though, why not bring the along whole family?

Sirin P Wongpanit

The Nation