As a travel writer, I’m often asked what’s the best place I’ve ever been. A question I struggle to answer – it requires so much explanation and self-debate.
And I love travelling – so everywhere I’ve been I’m glad I came (to paraphrase Nat King Cole). But I can say one thing for certain, the countries I love the most I keep visiting time after time. And one of those is Thailand.
Thailand makes me feel happy, relaxed, and at peace. It’s the land of sunshine and endless beaches, fabulous food, and smiling faces. It’s known as the Land of Smiles because everyone is smiling – and it’s contagious – so soon you are too. Constantly.
In my 12 trips there over the years I’ve visited different parts of the country, both islands and mainland. And while I’m particularly fond of parts of Phuket, my latest discovery has been the lively coastal town of Hua Hin.
Hua Hin is 120 miles southwest of Bangkok and around a three-hour drive from Suvarnabhumi Airport. It’s a large town that’s somewhat charmingly sleepy at the same time. There’s a sweeping beach that seems to go on forever, buzzing night markets, shops, and restaurants in many guises.
The town’s pier restaurants are a local hallmark with their unique blend of seaside charm and culinary delights and the night market offers freshly barbecued seafood and meat you select yourself from the mouthwatering display. Think giant prawns, rock lobster, and, surprisingly, excellent pork. There’s somewhere for every taste in Hua Hin with many Thai restaurants as well as excellent Italian, Indian, Japanese, and even French eateries. And everything is within easy walking distance of our hotel.
Centara Grand Beach Resort sits proudly on the beach surrounded by 13 hectares of private landscaped gardens. Originally called The Railway Hotel to accommodate train passengers overnight, it’s the second oldest hotel in Thailand, turning 101 in 2024. Opened in 1923 with 14 rooms, it’s seen a lot of expansion since then and now has 251 luxury guest rooms. If the walls could talk, just imagine the stories of the times this majestic building has seen.
We’re welcomed with cheery sawadee kas and chilled purple drinks made from the butterfly pea plant before checking in to our Deluxe Ocean View Room. We’re at one end of the hotel with our large balcony looking out through frangipani trees to the beautiful white sand beach and ocean just beyond. The rolling waves become the chilled-out soundtrack to our Hua Hin days as we settle into an easy routine.
We love meandering through the magnificent gardens abundant with tumbling bougainvillea and flowering frangipani trees in hues of yellow and pink. There’s a pond full of waterlilies and plenty of walkways for a relaxed stroll. The gardens are scattered with stunning topiaries of elephants, birds, and (because it’s Christmas) reindeer.
And, also because it’s Christmas, there’s a beautiful Christmas tree made from halved coconut shells and Rudolph and his brothers await outside reception (made from branches and tree trunks). The topiaries are beautifully creative and at night everything sparkles with the myriad fairy lights, making coming home a magical experience every time.
The truth is that life at Centara Grand is magical in every way. From the early morning beach walks watching the sunrise, to the sumptuous breakfasts, three sparkling pools, excellent restaurants, fabulous service, and friendly faces, the hotel oozes class and style while also making every guest feel like they’ve come home. Quite a skill.
And it’s so convenient to be able to meander into town with ease. The side entrance leads onto a little market that runs down to the beach. Perfect for some souvenir shopping or a thirst-quenching shake there are even a couple of restaurants and bars serving great-value food and cocktails. Because that’s another positive thing about Thailand, it’s incredibly good value for money.
Especially in Hua Hin which remains relatively quiet yet still has so much to offer. With its easy proximity to Bangkok (no need for connecting flights), exceptional choice of bars and restaurants lining its winding streets, spectacular beach, and of course, Centara Grand to stay in, it’s the perfect destination for a dream seaside getaway. Just don’t tell too many people.
Find out more at https://www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centaragrand/chbr