When mentioning Hua Hin, one pictures long, sandy beaches, unspoiled and uncluttered. Hua Hin can be further distinguished as Thailand's oldest beach resort. What was once a sleepy little fishing port received royal distinction in the 1920s, when King Rama VII chose the site for a summer palace, which he named 'Klai Kangwon', meaning "Far From Worries" - an indication of Hua Hin's restful atmosphere.

A vogue was thus created and Hua Hin became the resort for the elite of Bangkok's society, a status enhanced by the completion of an 18-hole golf course. Today, the present Royal Family continues to spend part of the year at Hua Hin, while the resort has also gained wide popularity with overseas visitors.

In spite of moving with the times to offer all modern amenities, Hua Hin has retained its own enduring Thai identity. the main attraction of this resort is a peaceful time lazing on the beach soaking up the tropical sunshine, complemented by the fun of a variety of water-sports and delight in relishing some excellent seafood.

What makes Hua Hin stand out amongst Thailand's many resorts is the fact that unlike the younger resorts, such as Pattaya, Thailand's oldest seaside holiday town has never sought an international image. It remains content in itself and a stroll down by the little fishing port gives a refreshing insight into the traditional life of a Thai coastal settlement, perhaps a trifle more prosperous than most, but unpretentious nonetheless.

In addition to the attraction of sun, sea and sand, Hua Hin provides options for leisurely times away from the beach. Of particular note is the busy night market. This is not something created just for the visitor, rather it is a traditional place and occasion for shopping and pursuing that most delightful of Thai past times, 'pai teeo' - leisurely wandering about to see and be seen. Best buys for the dedicated shopper are the locally produced high quality silk and cotton, as well as the region's famous dried seafood and various kinds of 'kanom' - Thai sweets.

Although the keynote of a stay at Hua Hin is relaxation, the coastline in this region is well worth exploring. South from Hua Hin, through Pran Buri and down to Prachuap Khiri Khan, there are numerous quiet coves and tiny fishing villages, ideal destinations for day excursions. Hence, Hua Hin offers the visitors what they expect and more !