Enough of city life in Bangkok and longing for the ultimate relaxing getaway? Take a 3-hour drive to Hua Hin, a seaside resort city located in Southern Thailand. Besides pristine beaches, a clutch of boutique hotels with pool access rooms, delicious seafood, night markets and local culture awaits you.
I’m thankful to have the opportunity to visit Bangkok and Hua Hin with the Radisson Blu crew to experience their hotel offerings. We spent a night in Bangkok (Radisson Blu Plaza Bangkok), followed by two nights in Hua Hin. Despite having been to Bangkok several times, it was my first time to Hua Hin and I really appreciated the laid-back lifestyle and slow living.
I’ve prepared a guide for those planning on extending their Bangkok trip to visit Hua Hin. Read on for my Hua Hin travel guide on where to stay, what to do and getting around!
WHERE TO STAY
Radisson Blu Resort Hua Hin
If the idea of pool access rooms and free-form infinity pools appeal to you, then you will love Radisson Blu Resort Hua Hin. The hotel has an elegant and clean design, and a soothing colour palette that reminds me of the pristine sandy beach right at its doorstep. There are 3 F&B outlets within the resort, so you don’t even have to leave the resort.
Let your stress and negative energy fade away as you sip on a cocktail at the infinity pool while enjoying breathtaking views of the Gulf of Thailand. If you can fight the sleep monster, wake up early to catch the sunrise.
I stayed at the Superior Room with pool access. At 45m², it was spacious and comfortable. The bathroom is fitted with a bathtub, but you can choose to soak at the pool right outside your room. Other room options include larger suites with their own private pools.
With other amenities such as the spa and fitness centre, you will be guaranteed an idyllic retreat away from the bustling city life.
For rates and more, check out: Radisson Blu Resort Hua Hin.
Radisson Blu Resort Hua Hin; 1392 Petchkasem Road Cha-am, Phetchaburi Thailand 76120.
ACTIVITIES
1. Wine and dine at Monsoon Valley
Spend a tranquil afternoon at Hua Hin’s very own award-winning vineyard, Monsoon Valley. Besides a range of premium wines including Chenin Blancs and Shirazs’, they also offer a selection of Thai and Western dishes to go with your wine. Engage with your artistic side and participate in painting your own Wine Labels, a meaningful souvenir to take home! Increase your wine knowledge by experiencing their guided Vineyard Tour, and learn how the vines grow in their tropical climate.
Monsoon Valley Vineyard; 1 Moo 9 Baankhok Chang Patana Nong Plup HuaHin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan,Thailand 71100; Daily 9.00am. – 6.30pm (Nov – Mar opening hours: 9.00am. – 8.00pm.).
2. Eat at an Alpaca restaurant
No, they do not consume Alpacas here! However, you get to enjoy wholesome Thai food for lunch and take photos of/with Alpacas. The restaurant itself is spacious with an extensive menu. The cheery and vibrant wall paintings will set you in a happy mood. I can imagine this to be a place for families to take their kids here!
Alpaca Restaurant Cha-Am; Cha-am, Cha-am District, Phetchaburi 76120, Thailand.
3. Go back in time at the old Hua Hin Railway Station
Been getting a lot of wears from this lovely and comfortable rust dress from Knitcapsule.
The Hua Hin Railway Station is one of Thailand’s most picturesque train stations due to its meticulous architecture. Rich in history, it was built in the reign of King Rama VI, hence featuring a Royal Waiting Room with a Thai architectural style. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction not far from the town centre. With its vivid colours and East-meets-West architecture, there are no lack of photo opportunities around.
Hua Hin Railway Station; Western end of Damnernkasem Road; All day.
4. Hua Hin Coffee Station
Channeling old school vibes, this quaint cafe at Hua Hin Station serves coffee, tea and pastries. Order their Thai iced tea, coffee or frappes to beat the heat after visiting the railway station. They also have a range of caffeine-free options such as smoothies to quench your thirst!
Hua Hin Coffee Station; King Prajadhipok Road, Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110.
5. Indulge in Thai Street Food and Shopping at the Hua Hin Night Market
Hua Hin Night Market is a great place to visit for street food and drinks. Besides food, there is also shopping to be done. The market is lined with seafood restaurants, accessories, hand-crafted pieces, clothing, food and beachwear. I managed to score some wooden tableware that comes with complimentary laser engraving, so do keep your eyes peeled for the good buys! For those planning a trip there, I would recommend heading there after 7pm.
Hua Hin Night Market; Petchkasem Road; 18:00 to 23:00 (best time to go is after 19:00).
GETTING THERE
Singapore to Bangkok
Ready for that beach vacay? Thai Airways has 5 daily flights between Singapore and Bangkok. I had an enjoyable flight onboard Thai Airways. Albeit an Economy flight, there was ample legroom, delicious meals and inflight entertainment provided.
I was also privileged to be able to experience the Royal Silk Lounge– the complimentary wifi, quality food and drinks were a bonus. Definitely a comfortable spot for me to work or rest when in transit!
Tip: Did you know? Thai Airways has an extensive flight network, with over 70 destinations in 5 continents including Europe.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThaiAirways/
Bangkok to Hua Hin
Hua hin is a 3.5 – 4 hour drive from Bangkok, depending on traffic conditions. I would highly recommend booking Klook’s convenient and value-for-money car transfer, priced at THB2200 (S$90) for a one-way trip. Choose to add on a Thailand 7 Day SIM Card if you’re heading there directly from the Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (more details here).
Otherwise, opting for other private limo services will set you back from about THB3500 (S$143) for a one-way transfer from Hua Hin to Bangkok.
This post is in partnership with Radisson Blu and Thai Airways.
Words and photos by Vickii Ma, unless otherwise credited.
