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Hua Hin – Thailand’s Royal Beach Resort
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In recent years, the once sleepy beachfront resort town of Hua Hin has begun to attract well-deserved attention. As the location of the King of Thailand’s summer palace, Hua Hin had always found favour with wealthy Bangkok Thais long before it was discovered by Western tourists. Today, it is not just big city Thais slipping away for a weekend of clean air and fresh seafood that visit the town. Hua Hin is now squarely on the map as a premier holiday destination and is attracting visitors from around the world.
Just 200 kilometres south of Bangkok on the west coast of the Gulf of Thailand, Hua Hin is easily accessible by road, rail and air. Although the boom in business, hotels and housing has meant that the town has inevitably lost it sleepy feel, Hua Hin has managed to retain its charm and is free of the sleaze that plagues many of Thailand’s other beach resorts. Hua Hin is an excellent family destination, a paradise for golfers and an idyllic place for retirees wishing to escape the dark and cold European winters.
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| Hua Hin’s Royal History |
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In the early 1920’s, during the reign of King Rama VI, the Royal State Railway of Siam opened a line to the seaside town in order to allow ease of access for the royal family. A beautiful railway station was built and to this day remains as one of the oldest, most well preserved stations in Thailand. The advent of the railway was closely followed by the construction of Klai Kangwon Palace in 1926 by King Rama VII. Meaning ‘far from worries’ in Thai, Klai Kangwon continues to be used as the official royal residence; a fact that ensures Hua Hin has a special place in the hearts of all Thai people. In recent years, the King has spent much of his time in residence at the palace. His presence means that the area is home to military bases that include an elite parachute regiment and the Royal Thai Police, resulting in a very low crime rate in the town.
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| Attractions in Hua Hin |
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Hua Hin has much to offer visitors. The town’s rise in popularity has seen it attract some of the finest hotels, including the Chiva Som Resort which has been voted the best spa in the world. Other top hotels with a presence in the town are the Sofitel Central Hua Hin Resort, the Hilton Resort and Spa, the Evason Six Sense Resort and Spa, the Marriot and the Oriental. A fabulous seven kilometre stretch of beach and shallow water make Hua Hin the perfect playground for whole family.
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| The wide expanse of sand is used for a range of activities including horse riding, kite boarding and alfresco dining on fresh seafood. Beachfront accommodation is plentiful and the town offers something for all budgets, from simple guesthouses to five-star luxury resorts and spas. |
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A Golfer’s Paradise Golfers will also find Hua Hin to their liking as it is home to many top quality golf resorts. Thailand’s first golf course opened in Hua Hin in 1924. The Royal Hua Hin Golf Course still welcomes golfers today and is located behind the railway station. Another eight superb courses, including the championship Nicklaus course at Springfield and the new Black Mountain View Golf Club are all located within 20 minutes of the town, meaning that golfers are spoilt for choice
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Beach Life Suan Son Pradiphat Beach is a three-kilometre stretch of sand just south of the town’s main beach and separated from it by Kao Takiap, otherwise known as Chopstick Mountain. This quiet, curved bay has shallow, clean waters suitable for swimming. Further south is Khao Tao beach, an excellent location for a swim or a picnic. Food stalls along the beach and nearby local restaurants provide superb dining opportunities
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Jazz Festival The Hua Hin Jazz Festival began in 2000 as a small event and now pulls in more than 15,000 visitors a night for the two day. Spread out along the beachfront, artists perform on two stages, one outside the Hilton Resort and another in front of the Sofitel. From its humble beginnings just a few years ago as a showcase for local jazz talent, the festival is now starting to attract major international names. The free event is one of the town’s biggest annual attractions
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| Nightlife and Dining Out |
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Not so long ago there were very few dining opportunities in Hua Hin. Options were limited to the Thai seafood restaurants located on the wooden piers that stretch out into the sea. Things have changed. Increasingly cosmopolitan, Hua Hin is now home to many international restaurants including Italian, French and Japanese cuisine. Take Hagi, for example.
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It would be hard to find a better Japanese restaurant outside Bangkok. Dining at Hagi is an adventure; a journey through a culinary landscape that skillfully combines subtle tastes with many surprises. Guests can watch as their meal is cooked in front of them in an exciting display of dexterity and creativity in the Teppanyaki kitchen. The extensive and eclectic menu features a classic selection of sushi and noodles as well as contemporary delights.There is certainly no shortage of excellent seafood restaurants in Hua Hin. The favourites on the pier are as popular as ever but dining on succulent seafood in Hua Hin has also gone seriously upmarket. For quality and a sophisticated ambience try Supatra-by-the-sea. This great alfresco beachfront restaurant has a well-deserved reputation as one of the finest seafood restaurant in town. Tastefully decorated and with beautiful ocean views and a cooling sea breeze, diners can enjoy a meal in a garden setting, just a stones throw from the water’s edge. Hua Hin has a well-established and vibrant night scene that offers something for everyone. An extensive night market provides a wealth of shopping opportunities as well as cheap and delicious food stalls. There are many bars in the centre of Hua Hin. Choose from traditional-style Irish pubs, cool wine bars or lively pools bars. There are also several popular nightclubs in the town for the young and the young at heart.
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Around Hua Hin
Hua Hin is situated in Prachuap Khirikhan province, an area of outstanding natural beauty. Visitors and residents of Hua Hua have a many interesting options of day trips and weekend excursions.
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Kaeng Krachan National Park is Thailand’s largest and perhaps least known park. Established in 1981, it extends to over 2,915 square kilometres of forest, spanning Prachuap Khirikhan and Phetchaburi provinces. Visitors can experience stunning scenery and a rich and varied flora and fauna. On the edge of the park are many resorts and guesthouses providing accommodation to suit all budgets. The area around the reservoir has several excellent restaurants serving delicious cuisine. Locally caught fish feature strongly on the extensive menus
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Sam Roi Yot National Park, also known as the ‘mountain of 300 peaks’, is one of the country’s smallest parks. Although it covers just 100 square kilometres it has many interesting features and should not be overlooked. The forested landscape and limestone peaks are a haven for over 300 species of bird and animal life, most notably the serow, a goat-like antelope
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Pranburi is 30 kilometres south of Hua Hin and although the beach itself is nothing special it has become an increasingly popular getaway location for the Bangkok crowd. A number of chic boutique resorts have opened in the town and several of them provide a shuttle service for customers who wish enjoy the lively nightlife in Hua Hin. Pranburi is an area of outstanding beauty and its close proximity to Hua Hin and Bangkok make it an excellent escape for a weekend or extended break. The Pranburi Forest Park located in Klongkao-Klongkob National Reserve covers 1,984 rai and was established in accordance with Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s wish. An excellent spot for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, the forest is home to a variety of small animals and birds such as porcupine, squirrel, chipmunk, monitor lizards and kingfishers
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Ao Manao near Prachuap is a favourite getaway for local people. A one hour drive from Hua Hin, the lovely beach and shallow azure water make it an excellent destination for a Sunday excursion with the kids
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Bang Saphan is an idyllic beach located two hours drive south of Hua Hin. The water here is clear and there is an abundance of marine life and coral reef, making it an excellent weekend escape for divers
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Amenities
Hua Hin’s long connection to Thai royalty has meant development in the town has proceeded at a more considered and controlled pace than elsewhere in the kingdom. Hua Hin has everything necessary for a safe, comfortable and convenient lifestyle. A new shopping mall called Market Village features an array of brand name shops as well as local retailers. A major supermarket also provides a huge selection of food items, electrical goods and clothing.
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Healthcare Traveling overseas for medical treatment has become increasingly popular in the West. The benefits are clear; whether for dental care, a minor operation or major surgery, patients find that by seeking medical care outside of their home country they save both time and money. Thailand was one of the first countries to recognize the potential of medical tourism and is now considered as a medical hub. Americans travel to Thailand to avoid outrageous costs, the Brits come to avoid the queues and the well-to-do from a host of under-developed nations come for peace of mind and quality care. Hua Hin is home to international standard hospitals and clinics with English speaking doctors and dentists. Using the latest technology, well-trained doctors and nurses provide excellent medical care
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Education There are a number of good schools in Hua Hin and an international school is being built to accommodate the needs of the growing expatriate community. The American Webster University has an international campus just outside Hua Hin
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Banking All of Thailand’s major banks have a presence in Hua Hin and cater for the expatriate community. English speaking staff are on hand to assist with all your banking needs. ATMs are plentiful throughout the town
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| Getting to Hua Hin |
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By Road The road to Hua Hin is currently being upgraded. Although progress is slow, when complete driving to Hua Hin will take a little over two hours. At the moment a three hour journey is more realistic, depending on the roadworks and amount of traffic. At weekends the roads can be particularly congested. If you haven’t got a car or don’t wish to drive, a regular bus service leaves from Bangkok’s southern bus terminal every 40 minutes. Another option is to go by taxi. A one-way trip can be secured for between 1,500 and 2,000 baht depending on your bargaining skills. Minivans also leave from Victory Monument in Bangkok, with a one-way ticket priced at around 180 baht. For those staying at one of the five-star hotels in the town such as the Central Sofitel Hua Hin Resort, they will happily arrange limousine transport for their guests to and from Bangkok
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By Rail Traveling to Hua Hin by train is the most relaxing option. Trains leave from Hualampong station in Bangkok on a regular basis. It is strongly advisable to book in advance. The journey takes around four hours and is an excellent way to see the beauty of rural Thailand. The carriages offer comfortable reclining seats, air-con and fans. Once seated, a hostess serves passengers a cold drink and a snack, and halfway through the journey, a glass of iced water. The journey ends at the beautiful and historic railway station in Hua Hin, making this one of the best ways to begin a visit to the town
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By Air SGA Aero operate three return flights a day from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport to Hua Hin Airport. Passengers must check in 35 minutes before take-off. The airline flies Cessna 208B Grand Caravans, an aircraft used around the world for sight-seeing and commuting purposes. With an excellent track record of safety and reliability and Pratt and Whitney engines, the nifty 12-seater aircraft are perfect for the 30 minute hop from Bangkok to Hua Hin. Passengers on the low altitude flight get to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the route
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| Investment Opportunities in Hua Hin |
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Hua Hin’s continued rise in popularity as a holiday destination and permanent home for retirees has meant that it has become one of the most attractive locations in Thailand to invest in property. Properties within Hua Hin and the surrounding area comprise of condominiums, luxury homes and gated housing developments. The price of land and property has increased dramatically in recent years and continues to give a good return to investors over a relatively short period of time.
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As the town continues to develop, the improved infrastructure and facilities are attracting increasing numbers of Westerners, which in turn is continuing to drive up property prices. Due to the town’s royal links, however, the increase in foreign residents and the booming tourist industry has not adversely affected Hua Hin’s character as it has in other Thai beach destinations such as Pattaya or Koh Samui. Charming Hua Hin remains free of the sleaze that can be found elsewhere. The authorities are keen to guard the town’s image and promote it as a family resort. While the property market in Phuket and Koh Samui seems to have slowed, Hua Hin continues to lure buyers from Europe and Asia attracted by high-end residential houses, villas, condominiums, apartments and land. Only a 200 kilometre drive from Bangkok, Hua Hin is still experiencing a strong demand from local buyers, both Thai and expatriate.
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| Thailand’s Economy |
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For over two decades Thailand has experienced phenomenal growth, developing from a traditional Asian agrarian society into a dynamic and progressive country attracting investment from around the globe. Although recently affected by slight political uncertainty, the outlook continues to be rosy. During 2006, Thailand’s economy grew by five percent and is projected to be 4.3 percent in 2007.
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Foreign investment is welcomed by the Thai government and the country provides an attractive environment for Foreign Direct Investment. Its central location within Asia, excellent infrastructure and transportation links, adaptable labour force, affordable real estate and construction costs continue to make Thailand an attractive choice for investors. The Thai authorities view the development of the capital market as a priority on their economic agenda. The Thai capital market aims to facilitate the development of the Thai economy while sustaining its competitiveness within the international capital market.
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| Ten Reasons to Live in Hua Hin |
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Hua Hin is one of Thailand’s most charming resorts. As a longtime location of the King of Thailand’s summer palace, the town has developed slowly and retained its character. Hua Hin’s beachfront location, year-round tropical climate and cooling sea breezes make it the perfect place to relax and enjoy life. Hua Hin’s beachfront boutique hotels, five-star resorts, spas, fabulous seafood restaurants, pubs and clubs provide a wealth of opportunities for relaxation and entertainment.
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Hua Hin is the location of the Thai royal family’s summer palace and as a result is well policed and benefits from a very low crime rate. The cost of living and quality of life in the town is also excellent. Hua Hin is a golfer’s paradise and home to eight world-class courses including the Jack Nicklaus-designed course at the Springfield Golf & Country Club. Hua Hin is close to beautiful countryside and protected national parks, providing many opportunities for trekking, fishing, cycling and climbing. Hua Hin has excellent shops including Tesco Lotus Superstore and the Market Village Shopping Mall. Hua Hin has good quality schools, and world-class hospitals providing excellent medical care. Hua Hin has not been spoilt by over-development or sleaze like other Thai resort towns. Hua Hin is just 200 kilometres from Bangkok and is easily reached by road, rail and air.
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It doesn’t take long to discover why Thailand continues to be regarded as one of the world’s most visited holiday destinations, or why so many people are deciding to settle here.This wonderful country is home to a distinctive culture that enables old traditions to sit comfortably within a prosperous and progressive society. Its unique mix of old and new, as well as the natural charm and hospitality of Thai people, has seen the country become increasingly popular with travelers from around the world. Thailand fascinating culture, exotic destinations and attractions are a real asset and the country is being regarded as an upmarket destination. In recent years Thailand has continued to develop its own contemporary style with flair and imagination. Its resorts and spas are now regarded as some of the most luxurious and beautiful in the world. Yet there is more to Thailand than its idyllic islands and pristine white sand beaches in the south. Bangkok is a city transformed. The vibrant capital is a hive of creative energy and is increasingly seen as a holiday destination in its own right.
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Travel northeast and you will discover a rich heritage and ancient architectural splendour. A new gateway from Mukdahan to Savannakhet in Laos strengthens links with our neighbours and offers new and exciting travel opportunities. The north of the country, home to the distinctive Lanna culture, hill tribes and mountain retreats, ensures a memorable travel experience.Whether in Thailand for a holiday, extended break or intending to settle permanently your stay here will be a journey of discovery and adventure.
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 For more information, Call: +66 (0)81-103-0301 |
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