I really wanted to visit Phuket, but there were no direct flights available. So, I ended up booking a trip to Bangkok instead. I’ve always had my eye on the Hua Hin Marriott and decided to stay there. Originally, I had planned to visit both Hua Hin and Bangkok, but due to the increasing number of COVID-19 cases, I decided to cancel my Bangkok plans and focus on Hua Hin instead. It turned out to be a great decision, as my kids really enjoyed the water activities. However, I don’t think I’ll visit Hua Hin again due to the long travel time. It took me 5 hours to get there from Bangkok and another 4 and a half hours to return. I was exhausted.
Anyway, I have a sensitive husband and a 5-year-old daughter who resembles him, so before heading to the airport, I booked a cottage for us to freshen up and rest. It was an old place, but since we were only staying for a short while, I was satisfied with the value for money. One of the best things about it was that there was a Robinson mall next to it. It reminded me of the good old days when I visited Parciao Mall; it was quite nice. In Hua Hin, we also visited Market Village and Blueport Mall, which were a bit more relaxed compared to Robinson. It was interesting to see the variety of restaurants there, including Shabu-Shabu, Subway, Bonchon, MK, Burger King, Fuji, Starbucks, and many others. Saturday night seemed to be quite busy with people.
After dinner, I went to Tops Market to buy Madame Heng soap, which I couldn’t find in Hua Hin. I was worried that I would have to buy it at the airport, but luckily they had it there. It seems that Korean products are available almost everywhere now, even in Hua Hin. They had Korean ramen, seaweed, and kimchi, although they were a bit more expensive compared to Korea. However, I couldn’t find “Haitai”, which can be stored at room temperature. It took me a while to find the kimchi corner in the refrigerated section. Since my second child is a picky eater, I bought cup noodles and brought the seasoning along, accompanied by some seaweed, omelette, french fries, and tonkatsu. That kept them satisfied.
By the way, in front of Robinson, there was a construction site for the Courtyard Marriott Hotel. Though I couldn’t see it in detail, they seemed to be making good progress. It will probably open soon. The nearby Parkn’in Hotel Residence also looked clean and impressive.
If you are worried about the cottages, you might want to consider these two hotels near the airport. They are not as impressive as Robinson, but for those who usually visit Phuket or Hua Hin, like me, they’re worth considering. Just thought I’d share my experience!
If you are staying at the Hua Hin Marriott and looking for nearby tourist attractions or activities, there are a few options you might consider. Despite the long travel time from Bangkok, Hua Hin has some attractions that are worth exploring.
One popular destination is the Hua Hin Night Market, located in the city center. Here, you can immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere, browse through various stalls selling local goods, handicrafts, and souvenirs, and indulge in delicious street food. The market is a great place to experience the local culture and sample authentic Thai cuisine.
For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the Hua Hin Railway Station is recommended. Built during the reign of King Rama VI, this charming station is renowned for its unique architecture, blending traditional Thai design with Victorian influences. The station is also known as one of the most beautiful train stations in Thailand and is definitely worth a visit.
If you are traveling with children and they enjoyed the water activities at the hotel, you might want to consider a trip to Vana Nava Water Jungle. Located just a short distance from the city center, this water park offers a variety of thrilling rides, slides, and pools for all ages. It’s a perfect place to cool off and have some fun under the sun.
Another attraction that might interest you is the Maruekhathaiyawan Palace, also known as the “Palace of Love and Hope.” This stunning palace was once a summer residence for King Rama VI and is renowned for its beautifully preserved wooden architecture and serene seaside location. Take a leisurely stroll through the palace grounds and enjoy the scenic views of the Gulf of Thailand.
Lastly, if you are looking for a relaxing day out, head to one of Hua Hin’s beautiful beaches. The city is known for its pristine sandy shores, and you can choose from popular beaches like Hua Hin Beach or venture further to quieter spots like Khao Takiab Beach. Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea, and take in the natural beauty that Hua Hin has to offer.
Although Hua Hin might not be as well-known as Phuket or Bangkok, it still offers a range of attractions and activities for tourists to enjoy. Whether you prefer exploring local markets, visiting historical sites, indulging in water activities, or simply relaxing on the beach, Hua Hin has something to offer for everyone.