OFF AGAIN ON AGAIN Best Western Allamanda Laguna Phuket Opens
It's been puzzling driving into Laguna Phuket and seeing first the placement of the Best Western Allamanda sign a few months ago, then it's removal and now again we have received a confirmation that yes the 129 room property is once again branded to the chain. The property is running under a franchise agreement with the US based brand and management services from local firm HMS; and it's been understood the delay in branding was subject to the property receiving quality control and standards approval.
There continues to be some controversy at Phuket's first condo hotel opened in the 90's, as the project is separated into 3 different juristic persons or legal entities. The Best Western is operating Phase 2 and 3 which front onto the golf course though check in is at the lagoon facing Allamanda 1. Though the latter through its owners have reportedly opted out of the condo hotel scheme, well respected property managed firm CBRE had provided management services which now have been taken over by the common area juristic person (CJP). For unit owners in the first phase, it now limits their rental options under the Best Western branded operation in the other two phases.
Confusing yes, we are not the only ones. But as for now this is the current state of play is somewhat clear, though unfortunately for buyers of condos who had hoped to benefit from ongoing rental returns, its either lucky or unlucky depending on your location in the various entities.