May
Destination: Hua Hin, Thailand
Located some 200 kilometers from Bangkok, Hua HIn was accessible by both trains and cars. The train station in Hua Hin is located in one of the two major streets of the town that lead directly to the beach. The Royal Waiting Room was built separately from the main train station for the exclusive use of King Rama VII and his entourage. The Royal Railway Hotel was built adjacent to the station and was designed and patterned after the old Siam architectural style, same as the Royal Waiting Room. The first golf course in Thailand is in Hua Hin.
Hua Hin had its royal and glorious moments during the reign of King Rama VII. However, the effects of World War II had its toll on the place that for a time Hua Hin was forgotten. Pattaya was slowly but surely hugging the spot as the in beach in the Gulf of Thailand as American soldiers on R&R gravitated towards the livelier beach destination. Hua Hin was slowly rebuilt as indefatigable backpackers re-discovered the place. Soon more hotels, condominiums, shopping areas and local and international restaurants were established. Dusit Thani Hotel is one of the top hotels in the area.