Like some other posts we were concerned upon reading some of the reviews on this site but decided to go ahead anyway. Our only complaint is that when we got the $199 deal it was not clear that there was an expectation to attend a presentation. Rather it was just noted as the deal was to "promote" the resort. May need to be clearer up front re this in future. Nothwithstanding this we took part in the presentation, felt no pressure from Ian or Richard, and were pleasantly surprised at the offer. After seriously considering for a couple of days we decided it was not for us at this point and declined. Again - no pressure, our decision was respected. The resort is a great base for getting out and about and seeing the southern part of the Island. Great advice from Michael and Ian about what to see and do, and best ways to get around. Much appreciated guys. Local Thai staff are friendly and really add to the experience. Overall a great week. Kim and Kathy Perth

Apologizes for being a bit late on this review.
We stayed at the Mangosteen resort during the last week of July on a Our Deal $199 voucher and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. We found all the staff to very helpful and insightful. We enjoyed several dinners (Thai night) and breakfast at the resort..... All top notch! Like most people we took advantage of daily happy hour by the pool...... A great way to unwind and/or meet and mix with other guests and staff.
Some previous reviews have commented on the location of the resort....... We didn't really find this an issue at all. From the shuttle bus to the local beach, to taxi, scooter, and even walking we found getting around to quite easy. We visited Nai Harn beach on our first afternoon and loved it; nice beach, good value for money restaurants, and an amazing view..... We made sure it was the place we spent our last afternoon in Thailand.
After a couple of days sussing things out we hired a scooter and that really gave us a chance to venture out and see different areas of the island. My wife was very hesitant about getting on the back of a scooter, but we were very careful and putted around at 50km/hr and below, wore our helmets and didn't ride after dark.
Highlights of the trip definetly include a trip out to Racha Island (snorkeling, lunch etc), Phuket city markets, Simon Caberet (for a laugh), and the Sea Gypsies (well worth it!).

As for the presentation by staff we didn't really find this a hassle at all. We were well looked after by Ian (good ol cockney lad) and after talking with him on day 2, we caught up again on day 6. We decided to join as members but realize that it's not for everyone. We certainly didn't feel pressured and even if we didn't join the holiday club, we were already taking about coming back for another holiday (so it just made sense I guess). Please don't be put off by negative posts..... Your holiday is what You make of it....... Get out and see the sights, experience the culture, and remember you have a beautiful resort to come back too to unwind and relax!

Corey and Margaret

How anyone can write negative reviews about this place is beyond us....We thought it to be heaven..we arrived at 2am in the morning and were welcomed and shown to our room which was beautiful clean and cool....Next morning the most beautiful breakfast awaited us..the pool glistened..everyone was so lovely and friendly..we met awesome guests...we too went on a coupon and were invited to a presentation but no way were pressured at all...the salesman were lovely and friendly and helpful...massages were faboulous...wish we could have stayed for ever...thanks to all you wonderful people at Mangosteen...we will recommend you to all in NZ.........