Travel to a region of opulence and authenticity boasting beautiful beaches, magnificent resorts and exciting activities.
Hua Hin
lies on the east coast of Thailand in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province just to the
south of the Thai capital, Bangkok.
Hua Hin has
already been the favourite Thai resort for over 70 years. It was discovered in
the early 1920s by King Rama VII as an ideal getaway from stifling Bangkok. His
Klai Kangwon (Far From Worries) Palace still remains as an official royal
residence. It is still frequently used by members of the royal family and is
open to the public for visits.
In more recent
years the number of international hotels has increased as Hua Hin has emerged
as one of Thailand's most popular destinations amongst domestic and
international visitors. You will be spoiled with slick hotels, top seafood
restaurants and, of course, the knowledge that you are sharing a truly royal
resort with the country's royal family.
But despite this modernisation Hua Hin still clings to the beachside
atmosphere that first attracted royalty back in the ‘20s. In comparison to Pattaya,
the other main beach destination near Bangkok, Hua Hin is quite tranquil, and
is a favourite with families and older travellers.
There are no party-hard places here. Instead you can fill your days
enjoying golf, horse riding, water sports and of course the stunning beach.
When the sun goes down there’s an international restaurant scene to explore,
rustic seafood restaurants on the pier to visit, or the simple culinary charms
of one of Thailand’s best night markets to sample.
The city’s 5km of beaches are very clean, swimming is safe, and Hua Hin
continues to enjoy some of the peninsula’s driest weather.
The average daily
temperature is fairly consistent throughout the year at around 30°C. The
rainy season is from October to November and the hottest time of year is
between April and May, with temperatures reaching 33°C which can be humid at times.
Normally, the best time to visit is between December and February when the
temperature is warm and rain showers infrequent. But whichever way you look at
it Hua Hin is beautiful year-round.
The average monthly
temperatures are:
|
°C |
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
|
Day |
29 |
31 |
32 |
33 |
33 |
33 |
33 |
32 |
32 |
31 |
30 |
29 |
|
Night |
21 |
22 |
24 |
25 |
25 |
25 |
25 |
25 |
24 |
24 |
23 |
21 |
If you love to browse and
haggle you’ll be in your element here. There are a number of informal stalls in
and around the beaches. If you are after something a bit special head for the
Naresdamri area for fine bespoke tailoring – but shop around, prices can vary
considerably.
The night market in the
center of the town is a must. It runs daily from 6 pm and is great for hawker
food, clothing, wooden elephants, and trinkets. However, it is quite touristy so
prices may be higher here than in other markets.
On the same site is the
Chat Chai day market which sells fruit, vegetables, fish, and meat. The weekend
market at the Grand Hotel is always worth a browse (Thursday to Sunday from 5 pm) for clothing, plants, pets, books, toys, and tropical fish.
Finally, there is the Pae
Mai Tuesday market (near the railway) where you can pick up fresh produce,
clothing, electrical goods, tools, and household items.
Hua Hin Market Village is
the town’s first major shopping mall. Situated 2km south of the center of town
it houses fashion outlets, a food court, and local shops and stalls. There are
recognizable names such as Tesco Lotus, Boots, KFC, and Starbucks plus bowling
alleys and a cinema.
The nightlife in Hua Hin
isn’t exactly rocking. There are no really major clubs to speak of but there is
quite a good selection of bars, cafés, and a few girlie bars. Here are a few
names of bars and clubs you might like to check out during your stay:
If none of this appeal you can always try a cabaret night at the Blue Angel or a spot of karaoke.
March
June
August
November
December
As mentioned in the see and do section, there are numerous fabulous beaches near Hua
Hin which is well worth a day trip. Your hotel will be able to provide you
with details of excursions that you can take; however, below are just a few
suggestions to get you started:
Do not
drink the tap water in Hua Hin or wash food in it, or clean your teeth. Only
use bottled water which is inexpensive and widely available. Don’t have ice in
your drinks and avoid eating fruit and vegetables that are unwashed or sold
unpeeled.
Drink
plenty of water to avoid dehydration. The medical facilities are good but you
are strongly advised to take out comprehensive medical insurance before
traveling. You should also check with your GP before traveling for up to date
immunization information.
You should
exercise the usual precautions with your valuables especially in crowded areas
and never leave your belongings unattended on the beach.
