The Centara Grand in Pattaya, which just opened in 2009, is a one-of-a-kind, Las Vegas style resort built around a family friendly theme – the “Lost World.”

The large resort's main focus is a massive pool and garden area set right on the ocean. There are numerous swimming pools, a lazy river with inner tubes to float on, multiple water slides, a children's pool with sandy beach, and an adult pool with a swim-up bar.

Though there is plenty going on at the resort, because of the layout (lots of meandering paths) and lush landscaping with plenty of plants and trees, the atmosphere is very peaceful and quiet.

The resort is set on a semi-private beach north of the main Pattaya Beach area and is much cleaner and quieter than the rest of the city. It also has a beautiful, western facing view and because of the resort's design, most of the guest rooms face out onto the water.

In addition to all the amenities one would expect at a high-end resort, there is a Kids Club with organized activities for children aged four to nine, plus a gaming room with arcade games, table games and half a dozen computer game consoles.

If you're traveling without kids, there are also a few areas on the grounds designated quiet and kid free.

Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort has multiple restaurants and features a themed buffet nearly every night. The breakfast buffet has a large selection that caters to European, Japanese and Thai palates, so you'll find everything from pancakes and made-to-order omelets to stir fries and dim sum and plenty of all of that.

There are traditional hotel rooms plus larger suites and family accommodations with a living room, and extra bedroom with bunk beds for kids. Those traveling with a larger group or family can also rent one of the hotel's luxury duplexes, which offer lots of living space and amazing views. Though the resort is often described as a five star property, it's probably more accurate to call it a 4.5 star, as heavy traffic from lots of families means rooms suffer a little wear and tear.

This is one of the most popular resorts in Pattaya and it is often book to capacity, especially on weekends, so make sure to book well in advance.

In

Address:

277 Moo 5, Naklua, tel. +66 3830 1234

The resort is located on Wongamat Beach, a small bay just north of central Pattaya.

Cost:

Prices start at 3,500 baht ($115) per night for a double with breakfast.