Thailand’s Royal beach resort, Hua Hin, offers all the convenience and attraction of a modern holiday resort combined with the old world charm of a fishing village. While other resorts in the country cater to the foreign tourist community, this is where the natives come to relax and unwind. Discovered by King Rama VII in the early 1920s, it sits on the north coast of the Malay Peninsula.
World class golf courses adorn the five stunning miles of white, sandy beaches. So far undiscovered by the global golfing community, the high standard of greens keeping belies the affordable fees. There are so many luxurious links dotted around the coastline, it is feasible to spend an entire holiday playing golf.
Beachfront hotels boast beautiful views of the Siamese Gulf. Nearby are exquisitely manicured tropical gardens. Standard amenities include high speed internet access, satellite television, mini bar, air conditioning and balcony. There are many restaurants serving up a variety of different cuisines.
There are many tourist attractions nearby, such as the Pala-u Waterfall and the cave temple at Khao Luang. In September, the area plays host to the King’s Cup Elephant Tournament. This event attracts both players and spectators from all over the world. It may not be the most rapidly paced sport on the planet but it is a spectacle to behold. Players must exercise control over their beasts to avoid committing fouls. The sport is surprisingly easy to learn for men, women and even children.
Climate-wise, there three main seasons. The hot season occurs during the months of March through June, when temperatures average around 29 degrees Celsius (deg. C). Days are clear and bright. Breezes in the afternoon bring perfect conditions for sailing or windsurfing. The rainy season begins in July and lasts through October. Temperatures are pleasant (28 deg C on average) and it does not rain every day. When it does, it is a brief, refreshing shower lasting no more than half an hour. In the cool season from November to February, temperatures plummet to around 26 deg C (approximately 80 degrees Fahrenheit). Surfing is good this time of the year.
As well as elephant polo, the area offers other sports such as the annual International Kite Festival that is held in March. Usually held at Rama IV Camp during the month of March, the event attracts participants and spectators from all over Thailand and all over the world. The International Cricket Sixes Tournament is held in April. It attracts test stars and amateurs alike from Hong Kong, Thailand, Australia, Bangladesh and India.
Thailand’s Royal Beach Resort holds attractions for non-sporting fans, too. Tourists on ponies trek up to the summit of Khao Takiab Hill to inspect the Buddhist shrines. The hearty and adventurous hike up the five storeys of steps to take in breathtaking panoramic views of Hua Hin and beyond.
Few railway stations anywhere in the world an boast of being a tourist attraction. The Royal Waiting Room at Hua Hin Station can make this claim. The Royal pavilion adjacent to the station is a popular photo spot.
Karen likes Thailand and scent of coconut oil at seaside accommodation at Hua Hin. The Thai massage revitalizes her body and soul. When she stays in Hua Hin she prefers budget accommodation at Hua Hin.