Hua Hin Today Newspaper February 2023

HIDDEN WOW: THE EIGHT PLACES YOU REALLY NEED TO VISIT IN PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN

A new promotional campaign highlights some of ‘must visit’ places in Prachuap Khiri Khan.

The Hidden WOW tourism campaign in Prachuap Khiri Khan is a promotional initiative aimed at promoting some of the lesser-known attractions and destinations in the province.

The campaign focuses on showcasing the unique and authentic experiences that the area has to offer, such as stunning natural landscapes, local cultural activities, and important religious sites.

The goal of the campaign is to attract tourists to all eight districts of the province, boosting the local economy and preserving the cultural heritage of Prachuap Khiri Khan.

The campaign is a collaborative effort between the Tourism Authority of Thailand Prachuap Khiri Khan Office, the Office of Tourism and Sports, the provincial administration, tourism organizations, and private businesses, and is designed to highlight the best that Prachuap Khiri Khan has to offer.

“The main goal is to reduce the concentration of tourists in any area and distribute them across all eight districts of Prachuap”, Mr. Achawan Kongkanan, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Prachuap Office told Hua Hin Today in an interview.

“The campaign promotes hidden tourist attractions that people are either unaware of or that they have been informed about but have perhaps never visited,” Mr. Achawan added......p.2

How to visit the spectacular lotus flower lake in Sam Roi Yot…p.34

Hua Hin Marathon 2023 to take place in May…p.28

Feast Thailand gives the lowdown on pad krapow in Hua Hin…p.30

Best places to watch the sunrise in Hua Hin …p.32

Mr. Achawan Kongkanan, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Prachuap Office

HIDDEN WOW: THE EIGHT PLACES YOU REALLY NEED TO VISIT IN PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN

Mr. Achawan explained that while many people may have already visited or at least heard about places such as the Phraya Nakhon Cave at Sam Roi Yot, they might not be aware that December and January are the best times to visit.

This is when the sun shines through the top of the cave, cascading down on to the ornate Khu ha Kharuehat Pavilion below.

“It’s a spectacular sight, that can take your breath away,” Mr. Achawan said.

As well as helping to tell people something new about already well known attractions in the province, the Hidden WOW campaign showcases other places that many people probably don’t know anything about.

Mr. Achawan highlighted Fang Daeng Beach in the Bang Saphan Noi District as one such example.

The beach is described as a significant natural attraction which features an unusual cliff face and red coloured sand formed following years of erosion. Today, the beach is a strikingly beautiful and unique landscape that is unlike any other beach, not only in the province but elsewhere in Thailand.

Mr. Achawan said people may have heard of other attractions such as Mahathat Chedi Phakdi Prakas but have never visited and may be prompted to visit by the Hidden WOW campaign.

He also referenced Bo Thong Lang Bay, which is also a Hidden WOW and which was recently found to be the most searched beach in 2022 by users of

Google Maps, according to data recently released by Google.

Mr. Achawan said that while Hua Hin is an important tourism magnet in Prachuap, the province’s tourism resources are rich and diverse throughout all of its eight districts.

Mr. Achawan said that this was the message he hoped Hidden WOW would help to communicate to the tourists who are the targets of the campaign, such as Gen Y Millennials, active seniors, and families, in order to encourage them to come and travel to the province.

The Hidden WOW campaign will also see a collaboration with Chumphon province, which in turn will help to spur travel to the southernmost districts of Prachuap Khiri Khan.

Mr. Achawan explained that the campaign will help to inform people about the Grand Sand Dune in Chumphon.

The sand dunes, which are located in the Pathiu district of Chumphon were created as part of a pilot project to divert tourists to less crowded destinations in Thailand. The dunes are said to be similar to the popular dunes in Vietnam, and are approximately 12 kilometers in length and have a height of 30 metres.

The dunes are also located close to Prachuap’s southern districts of Thap Sakae, Bang Saphan, and Bang Saphan Noi. This means that people wishing to travel to any of those districts can fly into Chumphon Airport in order to explore the south of Prachuap Khiri Khan.

The Hidden WOW campaign is scheduled to run until September 2023, Mr. Achawan explained.

Following that, there will be an evaluation period to determine whether Phase 2 of the campaign will be launched.

Mr. Achawan said there are actually many places in the province that have a wow factor, so launching the campaign to highlight even more places of interest is a possibility.

With the Prachuap Khiri Khan province having so much to offer tourists, Mr. Achawan encouraged people to go out and explore everything the province has to offer.

“Finally, in addition to visiting Hua Hin, I encourage you to visit and stay in other districts in Prachuap Khiri Khan”, Mr. Achawan said.

Mr. Achawan Kongkanan, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Prachuap Office speaks to Hua Hin Today.

TAT PRACHUAP EAGER TO BUILD LINKS WITH EXPAT COMMUNITY

Prachuap had been working closely with a group of expats in Thap Sakae in planning activities and organizing events together.

He said it is important that TAT and the expat community build a relationship and get to know each other.

Mr Achawan said he would like to see his office collaborate with the expatriate community over a variety of different activities related to culture and food and said that small talks or seminars may be organised in the future to help bring the two groups together.

Meanwhile, TAT has said it is eager to grow the relationship it has with the expatriate community in Hua Hin and throughout Prachuap Khiri Khan.

According to Mr. Achawan Kongkanan, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Prachuap Office, tourism officials pay close attention to the local expat community.

However, he wants to strengthen ties between the regional TAT office and foreigners who live in the area long term.

Speaking to Hua Hin Today, Mr. Achawan said he wanted to communicate that his office is open to working together with the expatriate community. He said that TAT

Hidden WOW in 8 districts;

• Hua Hin District: Khao Tao and Khao Tao

Reservoir

• Pranburi District: Khung Sai Beach and Khao

Kalok Beach

• Sam Roi Yod District: Phraya Nakhon Cave and

Koh Nom Sao

• Kui Buri District: Khao Daeng Canal and Kuiburi

Safari National Park in Thailand

• Muang District: including 3 bays (3 Ao) (Ao

Prachuap, Ao Manao, Ao Noi) and Khlong Bueng

Reservoir

• Thap Sakae District: Koh Chan and Koh Taisee, Ban Thung Pradu Tourism Community and Khao

Lan Waterfall

• Bang Saphan District: Phra Mahathat Chedi

Phakdi Prakak, Bo Thong Lang Bay and Ron Thong Cultural Plaza (gold panning culture)

• Bang Saphan Noi District : Pha Fang Daeng and Khao Pho

Businesses, private agencies, or groups interested in joining TAT or having TAT support their activities should contact TAT Prachuap right away. TAT Prachuap is open and ready to assist, Mr Achawan said.

“I’d also like to say that Prachuap Khiri Khan is welcome to everyone,” Mr Achawan said.

“People of all genders, races and beliefs are all welcome in Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan.”

Mr Achawan said TAT is looking at organising activities specifically for the LGBTQ+ community, such as a CSR charity run, as well as other potential activities aimed at this community.

MANAGEMENT

Honorary Chairman: Dr Thanachai Theerapattanavong

President: Manoo Tharnpipitchai

Chairwoman: kittikorn Theerapattanavong

CEO: Titikorn Theerapattanavong

CFO: Duangsuda Pirompin

Managing Director: Rusada Chuenvichitr

EDITORIAL

Editor-in-Chief: Jonathan Fairfield

Art Director: Rusada Chuenvcihitr

Vanussanan Diprachip

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e-mail: info@huahintoday.com

Tel: 063-246-3282

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Production Manager: Lamai Wongwanakul

JAYNALYN MEDIA Co Ltd (Hua Hin)

Address: 323 Moo 7

Tubtai, Hua Hin, Prachuab Khiri Khan 77110

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Koh Chan and Koh Taisee

Pha Fang Daeng

A group of expats in Hua Hin ©BCCT

SOME TRAIN SERVICES BETWEEN HUA HIN AND BANGKOK REROUTED TO NEW KRUNG THEP APHIWAT CENTRAL TERMINAL

Passengers are advised that some train services between Hua Hin and Bangkok have been rerouted to the new Krung Thep Apiwat Central Terminal.

According to the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), the change affects all Rapid, Express and Special Express trains between Hua Hin and Bangkok.

All Ordinary, Tourist and Freight trains will continue to arrive and depart Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lumphong Station) until further notice.

The new Krung Thep Apiwat Central Terminal is located near the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market. It is close to both the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway networks making for convenient travel around Bangkok, and to the Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chatuchak).

In addition, the SRT has confirmed that a new shuttle bus service will operate between Krung Thep Apiwat and Hua Lumphong stations from 4am to 11pm every day with the buses departing either station 30 minutes apart.

At the Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, outgoing trains bound for the South (which includes Hua Hin) will depart from platforms 7 and 8, and incoming trains will arrive on platforms 11 and 12.

Outgoing trains bound for the North and Northeast will depart from platforms 1 and 2 and incoming trains will arrive on platforms 5 and 6.

The opening of the new Krung Thep Apiwat Central Terminal comes at a time when Thailand is embarking on a major upgrade of its rail network.

Hua Hin forms part of the Southern Line, which is currently being upgraded from a single track to a dual track train line.

The new line will enable people to travel by train between Hua Hin and Bangkok in approximately 2.5 hours instead of 6 or 7 hours as it can sometimes take currently.

Meanwhile, for anyone traveling by train to or from Hua Hin, the State Railway of Thailand has an online version of its Train Tracking System.

The online system provides real time information about trains and tells you if the train is running on time or if it has been delayed and by how long. It also tells you the estimated time a train will arrive at a particular station.

The train tracking system is available online at https://ttsview.railway. co.th/ or to download as an app on Google Play Store and the App Store.

To download it, it is possible to scan the QR Code provided or simply type “Train Tracking System”.

The train tracking system is available in three different languages: Thai, Chinese and English.

Paul Laffisse contributed to this story

THAILAND LISTED AMONG THE BEST PLACES TO RETIRE BY GLOBAL RETIREMENT INDEX

The Index reference’s the fact that Thailand provides long term visas for people over the age of 50, and says the country is popular with retirees from America, the United Kingdom, Canada, France and Switzerland.

from country to coast, rural to city and traditional to contemporary.

The people of Portugal and high English literacy was also key in the rankings: “The people of Portugal are some of the kindest and most genuine in the world, and they welcome foreigners with open arms and double-cheeked kisses. Since English is taught in the schools many of the locals, especially the younger generation, have a good grasp of the language”.

If you could spend the golden years of your life living anywhere in the world, where would you go?

Thailand has been ranked among the best countries in the world for retirees to relocate to, according to the 2023 Global Retirement Index by International Living.

Specifically, International Living ranked Thailand as the ninth best place to retire and settle down in 2023, with the country being lauded for its weather, affordability and healthcare.

InternationalLiving.com‘s 2023 Global Retirement Index scores and ranks the world’s top 16 retirement destinations for expats across seven categories, including the cost of living, housing, visa and benefits, climate, healthcare and more.

The annual Index — now in its 32nd year — examines the “top safe, good-value destinations beyond the U.S. or Canada,” where a retired couple can live a comfortable life on as little as $2,000 a month.

According to International Living, “the Retirement Index is the most comprehensive and in-depth survey of its kind. It’s the best way we know of to sift through the wealth of opportunity the world offers, bring some order, and help you pinpoint the best destination for you.”

“In no way is our Global Retirement Index meant to be a scientific output. It’s designed to be a useful tool for people, constructed out of realworld, on-the-ground information interpreted through a lens of well-informed experience and opinion.”

“Our sources are living in the places where they’re gathering their intelligence. And we trust their judgment. If they say the healthcare is good, or that a meal for two in a nice restaurant costs $20, then we believe them.”

Of Thailand, International Living correspondent Rachel Devlin says the country is “alive with social events. Festivals and local temple rituals delight as lanterns, fireworks, lightshows and candle water floats (kratongs) enhance the celebratory atmosphere. This is a fun place to live and provides many opportunities to feel alive.”

“Thailand’s expat appeal is that it offers an affordable cost of living yet manifests an enriched way of life,” International Living says.

It also points to the affordability of real estate in the country, saying it is possible for foreigners to buy a two bedroom condo for under $30,000, while rentals can cost as little as $180 per month.

International Living also says “most expats believe that $2,500 per month equates to a good life in Thailand” but that it is possible to live on less than that.

One of the biggest benefits for expat retirees in Thailand is the standard of healthcare available.

“An enormous advantage to living in Thailand is by far the healthcare facilities. Being a popular place for dental and health tourism says it all,” International Living says

“Expats report being very happy with the healthcare and there are a range of hospitals to choose from. Most of the doctors speak English but if not, there is often a translator on call. The best hospitals in Thailand are completely first-rate.”

Finally, it says another advantage to living in Thailand is the infrastructure, which it describes as “outstanding”.

“The utilities are very cheap, an average monthly water bill is less than $5. The roads are generally well maintained and there are good quality transport systems from the railway to long haul buses and reasonably priced taxis.”

Portugal tops the list thanks to the weakness of its currency and ease of acquiring a long-term visa.

Some of the areas that saw Portugal score most highly were healthcare (92), development/ governance (94) and visas/benefits (90), the area where Portugal scored lowest was in housing (74).

Terry Coles, writing for International Living said: “Despite its compact size, the country offers something for everyone” and outlines the varied landscapes and options

In second place was Mexico, followed by Panama, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Spain, Greece and France, with Thailand tying with Italy for ninth place.

In a similar survey, Bangkok was also found to be one of the best cities for expats to live and work.

According to a survey of more than 12,000 respondents from InterNations, an online expat community with more than 4.5 million global members, Bangkok ranked in 6th place.

The Expat City Ranking 2022 asked respondents questions about how they’d settled in, what the job prospects were like, and how they’d found the quality of life in their new city.

For Bangkok, the survey found that Expats are not only happy with the general cost of living (69% vs. 45% globally), but affordability is also a highlight.

Housing is both affordable (70% happy vs. 39% globally) and easy to find (85% vs. 54% globally).

On the other hand, expats rank the city 42nd in both the Digital Life and the Admin Topics Subcategories.

The Working Abroad Index (39th) is another lowlight, with Bangkok landing among the bottom 10 in the Salary & Job Security (41st), Career Prospects (41st), and Work Culture & Satisfaction (46th) Subcategories.

In fact, 35% are unhappy with the local job market (vs. 27% globally). Lastly, Bangkok comes 39th in the Quality of Life Index, ranking among the worst destinations worldwide for Safety & Security (45th) and Environment & Climate (48th). Expats are unhappy with the air quality (67% unhappy vs. 19% globally) and the political stability (36% vs. 15% globally).

Happening

FOSSIL DISCOVERED IN CHA AM PARK ESTIMATED TO BE ALMOST 300 MILLION YEARS OLD

years before the Age of the Dinosaurs.

On Thursday (Jan 26) Mr. Pichai Watcharawongphaiboon, director of the 3rd Conservation Area Management Office (Sor.Bor.3), Phetchaburi branch received a report from Ms. Netnapha Ngamnet, head of Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park, Cha-Am District that a fossil had been discovered by a team of researchers from the Department of Mineral Resources.

to reach the summit, as you pass the Nang Phanturat Shrine and Crematorium along the way.

At the front of the park is a large and beautifully landscaped and maintained area set in front of stunning limestone cliffs which make for a spectacular backdrop.

The remains of a fossil found in a park in Cha Am could be almost 300 million years old, officials have estimated.

The fossil was discovered in the Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park with officials believing it to be between 250 and 290 million years old.

The exact species and classification have yet to be determined, but the fossil is thought to be a crinoid – meaning that it is from part of a large group of marine invertebrate animals called echinoderms.

Other echinoderms are starfish, brittle stars, sand dollars, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers.

However, the fossil found in Cha Am is likely from a creature which is now extinct.

Officials said the fossil is likely from the Permian period, which lasted from 298.9 million to 251.9 million years ago and almost 50 million

Paleontologists and scientists from the Department of Mineral Resources say they plan to conduct a detailed exploration of fossils at the Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park.

If you have never been to Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park it is well worth checking out.

Located just a 30 minute drive from Hua Hin in nearby Cha Am, the park boasts a beautifully landscaped and maintained greenspace, a number of hiking trails, and viewpoints with stunning vistas of Cha Am and the surrounding area.

There are two fairly easy hiking trails that would be suitable for most people.

The shortest trail and the most accessible is the 150 metre climb up recently refurbished concrete steps to the Phanthurat Mirror viewpoint, which once at the summit offers great views out towards Cha Am beach.

The short jaunt takes no more than 15 minutes

LAWYER CONFIRMS VAPING IN THAILAND PROHIBITED

Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park also includes a small coffee shop, visitors centre and plant nursery. There is also the option to camp overnight, provided you contact park officials first and bring your own tent.

Located just outside the entrance to the park is a 10 kilometre bicycle route that circles the perimeter of the park and which is also suitable for runners and walkers.

Aprominent lawyer has warned the public about the consequences of possessing an e-cigarette or vaping device in Thailand.

The warning comes after police officers from Huay Kwang station were charged with taking a bribe from a Taiwanese actress in exchange for ignoring her possession of a vaper.

According to lawyer Ronnarong Kaewpetch, individuals caught in possession of a vaping device can face a maximum of five years in prison and a heavy fine that is four times the device’s price. He also noted that using a vape in public violates Section 42 of the Tobacco Control Act, resulting in a fine of 5,000 baht.

In 2014, the Commerce Ministry banned the import of e-cigarettes, electronic smoking devices, and vape liquids. Importing such devices or liquids violates Section 20 of the Import/Export Act and carries a jail term of up to 10 years and/or a fine of five times the value of the goods.

A year later, the Consumer Protection Board began banning the sale of e-cigarettes and their liquids with violators facing a jail term of up to five years and/or a fine of 500,000 baht.

Although the regulations have caused confusion among Thai social media users as vaping devices are widely available and used in the country, Ronnarong stated that it is important that the public understand and strictly follow them to avoid serious consequences.

NNT

Happening HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CANNABIS USE IN THAILAND

Thailand has published guidelines for foreign visitors about the do’s and don’ts of cannabis use and possession in the Kingdom.

The “10 Things Tourists Need to Know about Cannabis in Thailand” English language infographic was published on the Public Health Ministry’s website and Facebook page and warns that, among others, “Smoking cannabis in public spaces, including schools and shopping malls, is illegal”.

According to the Public Health Ministry, smoking cannabis in public in Thailand for recreation is subject to up to three months in jail and a fine of up to 25,000 THB fine or both.

The guidelines also state that while cultivation of cannabis in Thailand is legal, those intending to grow it need to register with the government via the Food and Drug Administration’s ‘Plook Ganja’ application or on its website.

It also stated that bringing in or taking out from Thailand any parts of the cannabis plant, including seeds, is not permitted - even if it is for personal use.

“Only domestic cannabis cultivated in Thailand has been removed from the narcotic drug list. However, imported cannabis plants are still considered on the narcotic list.

“Importing cannabis seeds requires permission from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives,” it said.

The guidelines also state that only cannabis health products that have been approved by the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) can be sold legally in the country.

Cannabis products that are intended for medical use are available at public and private hospitals, clinics and medical facilities, as well as pharmacies.

“Tourists visiting Thailand are requested to follow Thailand’s cannabis regulations for safety reasons. When returning home, tourists should check the laws and regulations concerning the use and possession of cannabis and cannabis products in their home country,” the guidelines stated.

The guidelines have been released after Thailand became the first country in Asia to decriminalise cannabis when the FDA removed marijuana and hemp from the Category 5 narcotics list on June 9, 2022.

The Ministry of Public Health has also said the guidelines will be translated into other languages, including Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Russian.

The ministry also reiterated that while it permits use of cannabis and hemp for medical use, recreational use is still prohibited in Thailand.

“10 Things Tourists Need to Know about Cannabis in Thailand”

1. Carrying seeds or parts of the cannabis plant from and to Thailand for personal purposes is not permitted

2. Cannabis cultivation is legal provided growers register on the Food and Drug Administration’s ‘Plook Ganja’ application or via a government website

3. Using cannabis flower buds for research, export, sale or processing for commercial purposes requires official permit

4. Individuals under 20 years old, pregnant women and breastfeeding women are not allowed to consume cannabis except under the supervision of health professionals

5. Possession of extracts containing more than 0.2 percent THC and synthetic THC requires permission

6. Cannabis contained dishes are only available in authorised restaurants

7. Approved cannabis health products are accessible through specific channels

Happening

FOREIGNERS IN THAILAND WARNED AGAINST BREACHING VISA RULES, WORKING ON TOURIST VISAS

on visa extension applications that cite work for foundations, the need to receive medical treatment, and for studying in both the formal and informal educational systems,” Pol Lt Gen Pakpoompipat said.

“Foreigners who stay in Thailand with student visas must have certificates from educational institutions. So, educational institutions must do this right. The bureau’s regulations are already comprehensive but all other organisations related to foreigners’ visa extensions must cooperate closely,” Pol Lt Gen Pakpoompipat said.

He added that local schools may be required to submit quarterly reports on the educational results of foreigners studying there. If the reports could be submitted, their visas could be terminated, meaning they would be forced to leave the country.

He said that charitable foundations where foreigners volunteer their time on volunteer visas may also have to submit the activities of said foreigners on a regular basis.

Foreigners in Thailand have been warned they must not breach the rules regarding their visas or permission to stay in the country.

The Royal Thai Police has instructed the Immigration Bureau (IB) and Tourist Police to help ensure that foreigners in Thailand are following visa rules.

Under the current rules, foreigners who stay in the country on a tourist, education or so-called ‘retirement visas’ are not allowed to work

In addition, there are certain jobs which foreigners are not allowed to take up, such as street food vendors or tour guides.

The warning comes following a complaint made by a street food vendor on Yaowarat Road in Bangkok’s Chinatown. The vendor claimed that Chinese nationals on tourist visas were in fact working and running businesses in Thailand using Thai nationals as nominees, which is against the law.

RTP spokesman Pol Maj Gen Atchayon Kraithong said that Chinese nationals can enter Thailand using a visa on arrival, which currently

gives them permission to remain in Thailand for a period of up to 30 days. It does not grant them permission to work in the country.

Anyone found violating the conditions to remain in the country can expect to be deported and barred from re-entering, Pol Maj Gen Atchayon warned.

“The RTP and other relevant agencies will work to ensure these [visa] conditions are followed,” Pol Maj Gen Atchayon added.

Education, volunteer visa rules to be tightened

In addition, the Immigration Bureau has said it will tighten visa extension rules in a bid to prevent foreign criminals from setting up businesses in the country.

Pol Lt Gen Pakpoompipat Sajjapan was responding to comments that some foreign criminals involved in illegal business activities were staying in Thailand on volunteer and education visas.

He said that foreign criminals may use loopholes in some of the existing rules to apply for the visas.

“So, there will be a working group to revise rules

Crackdown on foreigners using Thai nominees

Meanwhile, deputy government spokeswoman Rachada Dhnadirek will crack down on foreigners in Thailand who use Thai nominees to set up and run businesses in the country.

Ms Rachada warned that foreigners who wish to run food and beverage businesses in the country must obtain the necessary permits from Thailand’s Department of Business Development.

Furthermore, Thai business partners or co-investors are also required to prove they have sufficient funds to invest in such a business.

“Thai citizens who are foreigners’ nominees face up to three years’ imprisonment and/or a fine between 100,000-1 million baht,” said Ms Ratchada.

Officials from the Department of Business Development and the Labour Ministry regularly inspect foreign owned businesses in Thailand to check they are operating within the law, Ms Ratchada added.

Hot

IT’S HARVEST TIME! A MUST TRY EXPERIENCE IS HAPPENING AT MONSOON VALLEY VINEYARD IN FEBRUARY

Harvest is a great time to visit a vineyard.

It is the time of year when the grapes are being picked and processed, offering a unique opportunity to witness the wine-making process and to see the vineyard at its most active.

It's also a great opportunity to taste the freshly pressed juice and possibly sample some of the new wines that will be available in the coming months.

In Hua Hin, Monsoon Valley Vineyard is hosting its Harvest Festival between February 18-26.

The Festival is a must attend event for anyone who loves good wine, delicious food, and a festive atmosphere.

It is a celebration of the culmination of the vineyard's harvest season and is a chance for visitors to immerse themselves in the world of winemaking.

For just 450 THB, visitors to the Harvest Festival will receive a tour of the vineyard and can get in on the action and experience the wine making process first-hand by picking and stomping grapes from the vineyard’s orchards. This is followed by wine blending or a wine painting activity for kids and non-wine drinkers.

In addition, the vineyard setting provides a stunning backdrop for the festival, surrounded by rolling hills and beautiful landscape. You can take a stroll through the vineyards, enjoy the scenery, and appreciate the beauty of nature.

The Harvest Festival at Monsoon Valley Vineyard is set to be a fantastic event that should be

on every wine lover's and foodie's calendar.

From experiencing the winemaking process to enjoying delicious food, you're sure to have a great time. So mark your calendar and plan to attend this year's festival!

To reserve your spot at the Harvest Festival visit: https://monsoonvalley.com/en/harvest-season

Harvest Festival Dinner with Monsoon Valley and Jungle Aid

The Harvest Festival will also see Monsoon Valley Vineyard put on a special event to raise money for local charity Jungle Aid.

Jungle Aid does excellent work helping to provide medical aid, education, support and micro-business opportunities to improve the lives of people living in remote locations throughout Prachuap Khiri Khan and beyond.

The Harvest Festival Dinner takes place on Saturday, February 18.

Guests will be picked up from Monsoon Valley Wine bar in central Hua Hin and taken by bus to the Vineyard (250 THB transportation fee).

At 4pm guests will go on a tour of the vineyard before taking part in grape picking, stomping and wine blending.

At 6pm there will be a sumptuous buffet dinner with two hours of free flow, before traveling back to Hua Hin at 9pm.

Price :

• 2 hours Free flow THB 2,500 per person

• Kid ( 6 - 12 years old ) THB 1,250 per person

• Round trip transfer from Monsoon wine bar to Monsoon Valley THB 250 per person

To reserve your place on the Monsoon Valley Jungle Aid dinner contact: Khamarat Chorchuvong 0818089596 soapme.huahin@gmail.com

EBV (Epstein-Barr virus) or human herpesvirus 4 (HHV4) is a member of the herpes virus family. It is one of the most common human viruses, believed to be spread in humans since thousands of years ago.

EBV can cause many diseases, but those better known (perhaps) are infectious mononucleosis, also called mono or kissing disease, although kissing is just one of the ways to catch mono. Mono spreads most commonly through saliva, bodily fluids, sexual intercourse, and sharing things.

With the nickname “kissing disease”, those most exposed to mono would be teens, who have experience kissing, and adults. In Thailand, more than 95% of teenagers aged 12 to 14 were infected, and nearly 100% of those aged 35 and up were infected.

Nonetheless, most people overlook EBV because it often remains dormant in our body, showing no symptoms until certain events trigger/activate them, such as a weakening body. Even when there are symptoms, they might be so minor that people don’t care, such as sore throat, tonsilitis, swollen lymph nodes, fever, body ache, fatigue or feeling extremely tired, or lack of appetite. These symptoms could be easily treated with medicines.

However, some people could get severe symptoms. This is often the case for those with weakening bodies or sick with an immunodeficiency disease, taking immunosuppressive drugs, or doing chemotherapy. Some cases may be caused by re-infection from within the body or by contracting a new infection from others.

After being cured, the body develops immunity to EBV, resulting in blood tests showing antibodies associated with EBV (EBV IgM, IgG). You can tell if the infection has recently recovered or been cured for some time now from blood tests.

To summarize, EBV is one of the most prevalent human viruses. Most people get infected with EBV at some point in their lives because EBV is highly contagious. EBV is commonly transmitted through bodily fluids, such as kissing, sexual intercourse, or object sharing. However, unless the immune system is compromised, EBV often remains dormant or only manifests minor symptoms. Even if infected, it is easily cured on its own. As a result, health care is critical. It is always highly recommended to eat foods from all five food groups and exercise on a regular basis. Get enough sleep or strengthen your immune system, so your body is ready to fight any infection.

TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE (TCM) AND ACUPUNCTURE FOR STROKE

Over the last decade, stroke has been the top cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Stroke survivors have varying degrees of impairment and contribute significantly to the socioeconomic disease burden.

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and acupuncture can contribute an essential part of the treatment plan for a patient recovering from a stroke. Using a range of conventional treatments provides the patient with the most excellent chance for recovery of function and minimization of disability. It can also reduce pain and help the patient cope with frustration and other adverse emotional reactions to their illness.

How acupuncture can help stroke recovery

Acupuncture should start as quickly as possible after a stroke. In most cases, three treatments per week are recommended following

a stroke. Studies show patients get well faster, require less nursing and rehabilitation, perform better selfcare and use less money to recover when acupuncture is added to the recovery treatments. In recent studies, it has been found that acupuncture could reduce infarct size and improve neurological function in those with recent strokes.

Scalp acupuncture is the most effective method

of treating stroke patients. Scalp acupuncture views the scalp as a microcosm of the whole body.

Scalp acupuncture works on zones rather than specific points. The correlation between scalp acupuncture and stroke is reasonably easy to figure out, as the scalp is close to the brain.

Acupuncture can also increase blood flow and oxygen to the brain and damaged tissues, restoring tissue, nerve, and brain cells. It helps break down blood clots, and it can accelerate functional recovery.

Stroke rehabilitation, for most people, is a long process. Acupuncture—like physical therapy, occupational, speech, and other widely accepted forms of stroke rehab—is most effective when received frequently. TCM approaches are increasingly being incorporated into Western healthcare, and the best care often results from a whole-circle process: considering a person's mind and spirit as well as the body.

Dr. Kate Boonyakiat, DAOM, LAc. – Terra Acupuncture

YES, YOU CAN RUN A MARATHON IN 2023!

HERE ARE FIVE MARATHON TRAINING TIPS

Destination

The Hua Hin Marathon might be taking place in May but that might come too soon for you.

Wherever you choose to run your marathon in Thailand, be aware that it will be a lot (I mean A LOT) harder than running a marathon in Europe or the US.

Humidity and heat will make your body work harder to cool down, you will need to drink more fluids and eat more carbs during the marathon.

4. Set realistic goals

Setting a goal should be based on how fast you are able to run now and what is the time frame that you have to prepare for the race. A marathon is a very long event so consider that your 10k pace will drop massively.

Without specific preparation, you can consider that your pace will be anywhere between 15-30% slower.

My advice: Set yourself a target when signing up but don’t be afraid to fine tune it based on how your training is going. You want to come up with a specific strategy on race day.

Romain Chevalier is a certified health and performance coach, pilates instructor and personal trainer.

A highly decorated athlete, he is ranked among the top 10 triathletes in Thailand.

He is based in Hua Hin and can help you become the best version of yourself.

Connect with Romain on Facebook and start your journey to a better you

Continuing his monthly health and fitness feature for Hua Hin Today, Romain shares tips on how to run a marathon.

This May, thousands of runners will converge on the streets of Hua Hin to take part in the Hua Hin Marathon.

Many runners taking part in the event will be attempting a marathon for the first time. The 42.2km distance can be daunting for runners of all abilities, and even elite competitors can get nervous.

But the truth is that most people can run a marathon, providing they have the will and ability to train.

Below I have highlighted five key areas that I think are important to consider if you plan to sign up to run in a marathon.

1. Start running now

Most typical marathon training plans are between 12 and 16 weeks long. During which, you’ll typically run three to five times a week, increasing your mileage as you get nearer to race day. However, don’t wait until 12 or 16 weeks out to start training.

If you have plans to run a marathon, you should already be out running about 3 to 5 times a week even before you start your dedicated training plan.

Training takes time and you won’t go from zero to running a marathon overnight. Begin with short easy runs that will help you build up strength, stamina and endurance before you start a training programme.

My advice: Start your journey with easy and short runs, you might even mix up walking and running at the beginning.

Example session for beginners:

- 40min run as 1min Run - 1min walk. Overtime progress to 2min run - 1min walk etc etc

2. Choose your marathon wisely - consider these 3 things

That’s not to say you shouldn’t run a marathon in Thailand, quite the opposite. But consider the time of year - the winter months in Thailand are the best time to run a marathon, from November to early February. April and May, which are the hottest months, are probably the worst time.

Time of year

In addition to the weather, there will be other factors regarding the timing of your chosen marathon that you should think about.

Consider things such as when is the busiest time of the year at work, or when are your next holidays. Preparing for a marathon is a fairly big commitment, it takes time and energy. You want to avoid getting the last 4 weeks of your training leading to it at your busiest time of the year. Likewise, if you are on holiday, you may not want to or be able to wake up early in order to continue with your marathon training.

Take enough time to prepare

If you have already recently run a half marathon, you probably only need another 8 to 12 weeks of training to prepare for the full marathon. However, if you have never run a running event and only run occasionally, you might consider taking 8-12 months to get ready. Sign up to a few shorter races along the way so you stay accountable.

My advice: Give yourself at least 6 months before the time you sign up for the race and the time you run it.

3. Start strength training now

The biggest reason people don’t finish a marathon is because they never started it. Indeed some studies report that 30% of runners preparing for a marathon will get injured in the process. Strength training and a well-thought training plan are the best way to avoid injuries.

My advice: Squat, Deadlift, Calf Raises are your friends, 1 to 2 times a week.

If you set the right goal and strategy, the marathon could be a walk in the park but it can be an absolute nightmare and a long zombie walk to the finish line if you don’t have the right strategy/ target.

5. Choose the right training plan

How many weeks?

Unless you are already running halfmarathons and running frequently. The minimum training plan should be 16 weeks.

Frequency

Choose a plan that is very close to your current running frequency.

For example, if you already run 3 times a week, you should choose a 3 times / week plan or max 4 times/week. Increasing the frequency too quickly will lead to injury.

Intensity

Some training plans will be based on pace, some other plans will be based on perceived intensity.

You might have a target pace for a specific session, but I would always recommend using perceived intensity.

Some days, you will get out, it will be 40c outside and you won’t be able to hit the pace, don’t die trying, run as per feel, do the work and be proud of it.

Customization

If you are either very new to running or you have a very specific and challenging target, get in touch with a coach to help you.

A coach will save you an amazing amount of time trying to figure out the best way to train and a good amount of money not going to the physio twice a week to fix yourself.

We have tons of experience with runners, marathoners, trail runners and triathletes on runista.com , - a dedicated online training platform for runners of all abilities.

Take a look at the website and get in touch.

Be Well Medical Center

Family Health Care

24/7 House Call Services for Members

General Practitioner Doctors

Physiotherapists

Acupuncturists

Psychologists & Life Coaches

Dentists

Pharmacy & Laboratory

www.bewell.co.th | info@bewell.co.th

HUA HIN YOGA FESTIVAL 2023 TO TAKE PLACE IN FEBRUARY Hot

The Hua Hin Yoga Festival 2023 will take place in February, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Prachuap Khiri Khan office has announced.

Every Saturday throughout February fitness enthusiasts, yoga lovers or people interested in trying it for the first time are invited to take part in the festival.

Yogis are invited to meet on Khao Takiab beach in front of the Verso Hua Hin Hotel at 5pm on the 4, 8, 11, and 25 February 2023.

The festival offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the practice of yoga and learn from experienced instructors, who bring their knowledge and expertise to Hua Hin.

The event is free but anyone interested in attending must register beforehand:

https://eform.tourismthailand. org/public/hua-hin-yoga-festival-2023 (qr code)

The first 50 people who register will receive souvenirs from the Tourism

Authority of Thailand, Prachuap Khiri Khan Office.

Everyone who registers will also be entered into a grand draw to win special prizes.

The Hua Hin Yoga Festival is a perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature, while also engaging in physical, mental, and spiritual growth.

The event also provides a platform for local artists, musicians, and dancers to showcase their talents and contribute to the festival's lively and vibrant atmosphere.

Time: 17.00-18.00

Location: Khao Takiab Beach, in front of the Verso Hua Hin Hotel, Hua Hin District, Dress: Wear something comfortable and flexible with your yoga mat.

Banyan (Main Center)

Open Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm Weekends 10am to 4pm Banyan Resort & Residences 68/317 Phetkasem Road, Nong Kae, Hua Hin Phone 02 111 6644

Black Mountain (Satellite Clinic)

Open Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm

585 Moo 7, Hin Lek Fai, Hua Hin Phone 02 111 6622

*Doctors on duty every weekday from 1pm to 6pm.

9.7 MILLION TOURISTS, INCLUDING 150K FOREIGNERS, VISITED PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN IN 2022

two years. This indicates that travel demand in Prachuap Khiri Khan province is steadily increasing.

The data showed that more than ten times the amount of foreign tourists visited Prachuap Khiri Khan in December than in January of 2022.

The data also shows that arrivals spiked from October when Thailand moved to its ‘fully reopened’ strategy after it dropped its requirement for foreign tourists to show proof of vaccination or ATK test results prior to departure.

At the same time, Thailand also announced longer length of stays for tourists extending the length of stay possible in the kingdom to 45 days (from 30 days) for tourists from countries and territories entitled for visa exemption, and to 30 days (from 15 days) for those eligible for a Visa on Arrival (VOA).

However, despite the increase in the number of tourists visiting Prachuap Khiri Khan overall, the province is still some way short of reaching the pre-pandemic levels of visitors from overseas.

In 2022, Prachuap Khiri Khan saw a significant increase in tourist numbers, making it a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers.

Data released by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), has revealed a massive increase in the number of tourists visiting Prachuap Khiri Khan in 2022, compared to the previous year.

The data, which compares the number of domestic and international tourists visiting the province between January and December of 2021 and 2022, shows an almost five fold increase in the number of tourists visiting the province.

In 2022, a total of 9,747,884 tourists visited Prachuap Khiri Khan, the TAT said. Of which, 9,597,432 were domestic tourists, with 150,452 tourists from overseas.

By comparison, the province received a total of 2.6 million visitors in 2021.

This growth can be attributed to several factors, but mainly the easing of travel restrictions and the improved COVID-19 situation in the country.

TAT said the number of Thai and foreign tourists visiting the province in December 2022 was the highest than in the previous

TAT said that in the year prior to the pandemic the province welcomed 7,168,424 tourists, with 5,924,708 Thai tourists and 1,243,443 foreigners.

It said that Prachuap Khiri Khan is one of the provinces in Thailand which would expect to welcome over one million foreign tourists annually.

TAT also said the average hotel occupancy rate throughout the province in 2022 was 60.46 percent compared to just 21.22 percent hotel occupancy in 2021.

There is a trend that the number of tourists staying overnight in Prachuap Khiri Khan is much higher than in 2021 and that foreign tourists who come to the area stay for a longer period of time, TAT said.

BUYING A POOL VILLA IN HUA HIN FOR EXPATS: AN IN-DEPTH GUIDE

The rise of pool villas has remained so in Thailand for many years, especially when talking about Hua Hin. To understand the popular trends of pool villas as well as a guide for expats who wish to purchase pool villas in Hua Hin, our Lazudi Property Expert Andy Dyett will be sharing an in-depth guide on how to buy a pool villa in Hua Hin for expats. So, let’s delve in.

The trend of property buying for expats in Hua Hin has remained pool villas for many years now. Expats are seeing this as a 6-12 months a year destination. They prefer the space of the villa with a surrounding garden over a condominium. Andy Dyett also added that he has also noticed a shift in the condominium market which could be due to Hua Hin becoming more accessible for short-term visitors. With that said, it is clear to see that pool villas are still slightly more popular with expat buyers compared to Thai. However, since the post-pandemic era, the Thais have begun to visit Hua Hin and acknowledge the beauty of Hua Hin along with the improvement of large infrastructure, so Thais are now sharing much more interest in pool villas than ever before.

When asked our property expert what an expat could do if they would like to legally own a pool villa in Hua Hin, he said that “Owning is simple here as Thailand has provisional laws on land/house ownership. A house/villa can be owned 100% in a Foreign name, if not married to a Thai the legal form of ownership is the 3x30-year leasing arrangement with the added clauses of rights or renewal, succession, freehold if an option during this period and then right for heirs and succession throughout it are

terms. This way you have every option to sell or renew. Another important addition to this area is that on the back of the title deed (land paper) you as a foreigner can show you are leasing with your names added to this very important document. For foreigners that are married to a Thai then the land can be jointly owned during your lifetime, however, a foreigner married to a Thai cannot lease from her.”

According to Andy Dyett, when asked to advise the type of process: freehold or leasehold that is best for expats should they wish to buy a pool villa in Hua Hin; he answered that leasehold is the most transparent and safest legal form of ownership for foreign buyers.

Next, we asked Mr. Dyett to recommend 5 key locations where expats are seeking to purchase pool villas in Hua Hin. He said that the South area is popular due to the beaches and mountainous areas. There are also cycling and exercise tracks. Older houses towards Khao Tao such as Sivana, Stuart Park, or Panorama are also popular. Banyan Residence or Emerald Valley which is a little closer to town is also known to be a top hit. Mali Lotus which has now launched a 12th project, Mali Boutique is also popular as well. Other than this, the roads out towards Black Mountain are proving to be increasingly popular. Other than that, improving roads and infrastructure and international schools have attracted buyers with projects such as Baan Phu Thara and Cloud 2.

We also ask our expert if there are any ‘Don’t’ of buying a pool villa in Hua Hin. He added that one shouldn’t buy without a reputable agent or good legal support. You will need an expert in due diligence as well as someone who regularly visits the land office as laws are changed, so using someone knowledgeable

in this field is essential. Also, you should always do the research as there are great deals out there but always remain cautious and make sure all the documents are correct before you commit.

Lastly, we ask our expert if there are any key takeaway points he would like to give to those who wish to buy a pool villa in Hua Hin, Mr. Dyett said that to just enjoy the experience. Don’t overspend to try to seek a property that is suitable for your needs but leave the freedom to travel and enjoy the beauty of this country. The home here is a base, somewhere for you and your family to enjoy that doesn’t need to be overcomplicated. So make sure you are buying a place that you are not only comfortable with but also enjoy without stress.

We hope that this article has been helpful to you in one way or another. If you would like to explore the property in Hua Hin, please feel free to contact us today at Lazudi. We will be more than happy to assist.

Andy Dyett, Property Expert

Happening

THIS BEACH IN PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN WAS THE MOST SEARCHED FOR IN THAILAND IN 2022

Abeach in Prachuap Khiri Khan has been revealed as the most searched for in Thailand, according to data released by Google.

Bo Thong Lang Bay in Prachuap Khiri Khan was found to be the beach with the most direction requests and interactions on Google Maps in 2022.

Bo Thong Lang Bay, which is located in Bang Saphan, received more direction requests than beaches located in provinces such as Surat Thani, Krabi and Phuket.

Google said: “Thailand’s beach destinations are popular with both domestic and foreign tourists. Top beaches with the most direction requests and interactions on Google Maps in 2022 are located in six provinces including Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chon Buri, Surat Thani, Rayong, Krabi, and Phuket.”

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports describes Bo Thong Lang Bay as “a small bay with a beach that curves in a beautiful circular shape. It is a white sandy beach. When the tide is low, the beach area is suitable for swimming. It is a popular place for tourists to swim and relax because the water is shallow and there is a rocky island in the middle of the bay. It is a bay surrounded by rocks, so there are few waves and is suitable for swimming. Shops and restaurants are around the beach and beach chairs are available for tourists.”

Part of the attraction of Bo Thong Lang Bay are the tiny islands located in the middle of the bay that appear during low tide, which also reveals the vast white sand beach.

According to reviews on Google Maps left by visitors to the beach, Bo Thong Lang Bay has a 4.5 star rating from more than 900 reviews.

“This is a perfect place to relax. The shops serve delicious meal at affordable prices. Locals are friendly and helpful. It’s nice to spend weekends here,” read one review.

“Lovely little bay with great, inexpensive seafood restaurants,” read another.

Other reviews were equally as positive.

“Nice bay for swimming. Some restaurants. Good for relaxing. Good for kids, water not too deep.”

“Simple restaurants, but great seafood and other Thai dishes at good price. Because of the Buddhist temple serving of alcohol may be limited. Relatively clean beach with small waves, which is good for children for playing.”

“awesome place....nice to have lunch by the beach”

“Peaceful place, good for relax”

“Cute little private cove loved by the locals.”

According to Google Maps, Bo Thong Lang Bay is approximately a 2.5 hour drive from Hua Hin town centre.

The best way to visit the bay is by car with drivers taking Highway Number 4 to Bang Saphan, before turning left to Amphoe Bang Saphan at kilometer marker 397.

You then need to drive along Highway Number 3169 which is connected to Klang Ao Road. Keep driving along the beach to the entrance of Ao Bo Thonglang.

For directions, scan the QR code below.

https://goo.gl/maps/ ZuzCo3JduJdtaf6Y9

Meanwhile, Google says that 2022 saw Thais gradually resume travelling as the Covid-19 pandemic in the country continued to improve. According to data from Google Maps, there was a significant increase in commute searches on Google Maps compared to 2021.

Cycling directions requests increased by 30% and walking directions requests increased by 110%. There was also more than a 50% increase in driving directions requests while transit directions requests more than doubled.

Top beaches in Thailand in 2022

1. Bo Thong Lang Bay, Prachuap Khiri Khan

2. Samae Beach, Chon Buri

3. Haad Wai Nam, Surat Thani

4. Sai Nuan Beach, Surat Thani

5. Bang Por Beach, Surat Thani

6. Ta Yai Beach, Chon Buri

7. Nam Rin Beach, Rayong

8. Baan Tai Beach, Surat Thani

9. Noppharat Thara Beach, Krabi

10. Thala Beach, Phuket

Hua Hin Social

The Banyan Swap Stableford Pairs event wrapped up with great success. Congratulations to all our participants but only one pair could be crowned the Sway Stableford Pairs Champions. Our winners were Bonny Van De Ven & Aonzy Dyett with the score of 73 Stableford points, winning on the countback. The 1st runner up pair were Alan Bog & Mo Kamlichi with 73 Stableford points, and the 2nd runner up pair were Kimberly Pech & Ann Dixon with 69

VLCC, in collaboration with Banyan Privilege Club, organized an open house event exclusively for Banyan Privilege Club members on 26 January 2023 at VLCC Wellness at AVANI+ Hua Hin. As part of this event, VLCC Wellness offered a seminar on Healthy Ageing for longevity by Dr. Joe. We received a lot of feedback from members interested in attending the event.

Ms. Thipkasorn Songsen (centre) winner of Miss Tourism Prachuap Khiri Khan 2023.

Khun Suwat Liptapanlop (centre), Honorary President of the Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand at the opening ceremony of the WTA Thailand Open at True Arena.

Stableford points.

Henrik and Khun Wan from the Spine Clinic with Ukrainian tennis star Lesia Tsurenko who competed in the WTA Thailand Open

Lapo Edovard Elkann former controlling CEO of Fiat Automobiles at the Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin.

Image: Patrick Jacobs

Lapo Edovard Elkann

Tennis players Bianca Andreescu, Zhu Lin and Ellen Perez at BluPort

Bianca Andreescu, Zhu Lin แลิะ Ellen Perez เที�ยวัชม

Chinese New Year celebrations at BluPort. Image: Nushara Tanadee

The winning team from Black Mountain Football Academy who competed in the Surf 102.5 FM Cup III.

The Hua Hin Roadies, enjoying a ride out to Dolphin Bay

The Hua Hin Roadies เพัลิิดิ์เพัลิิน์กับการปน์จักรยาน์ไปยัง

Runners at the GTR Gravel Team run at Springfield Golf Club

Hua Hin Trail Runners at the Thungkham Cross Country running event in Cha Am

Mountain Football Academy

MAJESTIC REPORT

The course continues to be in excellent condition, the greens having been treated during December. Over the past 4 weeks we have had very little rain and much of the rough areas on the course are now quite brown. The club is very busy now with the average number of players increasing to around 150 players a day. Due to the Covid restrictions being eased in many countries, the number of guests and members, some of whom have not been able to come and visit Thailand for three years, has greatly increased. This is showing in the number of guests taking part in our weekly competitions.

Course C is now open and is currently being used by a Korean teaching school and will continue to be so until the end of February when it will be fully open to other players.

You may have noticed that work is being carried out adjoining the clubhouse where a new air conditioned restaurant is being constructed. The plan is to have this up and running in the very near future. This will double the size of the current restaurant area.

Tee times are now back to PRE COVID times of every 8 minutes and carts can be shared by two players.

Our competition takes place every Thursday and is open to members and non- members also. Anyone wishing to take part can either register with the pro shop by Tuesday evening or by email to, bookings@majesticcreekcc.com and your tee time will be sent to you by email on Wednesday morning. The presentation of the prizes takes place in the clubhouse each week following the entering of the scorecards into the system, where handicaps are adjusted automatically on to Masterscoreboard. The full results can be seen by logging on to masterscoreboard.co.uk, click on societies, then enter Majestic Creek, a list will appear with our name on, click on that and the password is “putter” The results for this week will appear plus all the results for the past 12 months, where details of the scores and handicaps are available.

RESULTS FOR THE COMPETITIONS DURING DECEMBER/JANUARY

29th DECEMBER

Stableford Competition 18 players.

1 st . Michael Krause 36 points playing off 13 handicap

2 nd . Eric Chantraine 35 points playing off 22 handicap

3rd. Xavier Diana 34 points playing off 12 handicap

Guest Prize

Nalinee Singhaphant 36 points playing off 28 handicap

Nearest the pins

Hole A4 Ian Wooldridge

Hole A6 Brian Callihoo

Hole B12 David Morris

Hole B17 Michael Krause

5th January

Stableford Competition 26 players, including 6 guests.

1 st . Ian Wooldridge 38 points playing off 17 handicap

2 nd . Didier Marchand 38 points playing off 7 handicap

3rd. Barry Haigh 37 points playing off 27 handicap

Guest Prize

Andrew Morris 38 points playing off 15 handicap

Nearest the pins

Hole A4 Michael Krause

Hole A6 Michael Krause

Hole B12 Jackie Crawford

Hole B17 Bigi Krause

12th January

Stableford Competition 43 players, including 20 guests

1 st . Eric Chantraine 43 points playing off 21 handicap

2nd. Wan Wallberg 43 points playing off 11 handicap

3rd. Brennan Blednick 42 points playing off 7 handicap

Guest Prize

Kanokwan Sonthisud 44 points playing off 22 handicap

Nearest the pins

Hole A4 Bigi Krause

Hole A6 Brennan Blednick

Hole 12 Thitima Shaw

Hole B17 Wan Wallberg

19th January

Stableford Competition 36 players including 15 guests.

Day 1

Handicap Competition leading players after Day 1

1st. Tim Dearden 40 points playing off 18 handicap

2 nd . Eric Chantraine 38 points playing off 21 handicap

Guest Prize

Saranat Hasler 36 points playing off 30 handicap

Nearest the pins

Hole A4 Tim Dearden

Hole A6 Thitima Shaw

Hole B12 Wan Wallberg

Hole B17 Jan Strandberg

COME AND ENJOY YOUR GOLFING AT MAJESTIC CREEK

THE JUICE CAFE / AT THE STANDARD, HUA HIN

COFFEE OR TEA?

This month at The Juice Café, you can have them both for one pretty price and both come with a complimentary pastry or cake.

**Hua Hin friends and neighbors! You can now get your favorite goodies from The Juice Café delivered to your doorstep with Grab.

Open daily from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

For more information, contact us at 032 535 999 or Facebook The Standard, Hua Hin

ERIC CHANTRAIN (Jan 12) Tim Dearden (Jan 19)

MICHAEL KRAUSE (29 DEC) IAN WOOLDRIDGE (5 Jan)

“AMAZING COLORFUL” INTERNATIONAL CHARITY NIGHT 2023

On January 25, 2023, at the Hua Hin Market Village Hua Hin shopping center, Rotaract Club of Stamford International University in collaboration with Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin and Hua Hin Market Village Hua Hin shopping center co-organized the “International Charity Night “ jointly presided over by Mr. Nopporn Wuthikul, Mayor of Hua Hin Municipality and Mr. Phonkrit Puangwalaisin, Hua Hin District Chief Officer. The Charity raised more than 80,000 baht.

The audience were greeted by Mr. Cell Dilon, Executive Director of Stamford International University, Hua Hin-Cha-Am Campus and Mr. Brian Anderson, Past President of the Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin. The objective report was delivered by Ms. Nitcha Puengphang, President, Rotaract Club of Stamford International University who revealed that the Stamford International Charity Night 2023 was organized to raise funds to support future CSR or public welfare projects, to help underprivileged children, and Schools in poverty-stricken rural areas.

After that, opening remarks were given by Mr. Nopporn Wuthikul, Mayor of Hua Hin Municipality who showed admiration for this activity, as an activity that is very beneficial to the local society, and the promotion of tourism in Hua Hin. Mr. Nopporn Wuthikul continued that events like this, when engaged in helping those in need, instills good conscience for the public mind of students and all sectors. “It’s a very good project. The Hua Hin municipality is pleased to support future good projects like this” he proclaimed.

Hua Hin Chief District Officer, Mr. Ponkrit Phuangwalaisin, also gave opening remarks and stated that although attending for the first time; he was very impressed with this event. “It is very international and appreciates the public’s interest in projects that have been organized in the past by Rotaract club of Stamford International University” he stated, and then thanked those who attended the event, telling them, that they are part of helping society through this fundraising project, and would like the university to organize good activities such as this on in the future.

Many people joined the event, Thais and foreigners alike, in total more than 200 people, and the event is considered a great success. The entertainment started with a cover dance show by Stamford students followed by the Amazing Colorful Walk fashion show from international beauty queens, Mrs.

National Universe 2022 from Sweden, Kenya and Thailand, also attending was Mrs. Universe Thailand 2022, who is going to compete on the world stage in Bulgaria next month. The audience were then introduced to Miss Grand Prachuap Khiri Khan 2023 contestants led by Khun Patiya Nimnoi, PD Miss Grand. This was followed by the highlight of the night, the Amazing Colorful Costume and Talent Contest from Stamford International University students displaying the diversity and prospects of the international university. The show sparked joy and impressed the audience. Loud cheering could be heard throughout Market Village Hua Hin shopping center throughout the event. Spectators bought flowers to send encouragement to their favorite contestants, proceeds from the flower sales were directed to the main charity fund.

All prizes were supported by Rotary Club of Royal Hua Hin and Hua Hin Market Village Shopping Center along with many private organizations such as House of Beauty, Hua Hin Cycling Club, and Olyvia Dress Studio.

TALES OF VARIETALS VOLUME 1 CHARDONNAY’S ABC

that is well-suited to oak aging, which adds depth and complexity to the finished wine and is one of the characteristics of age worthy white wines.

Hin are the Chablis Premier Cru “Fourchaume” AOC by Gerard Tremblay or the Meursault by Domaine Faiveley.

Say hello to Hua Hin Today’s new monthly wine column— written by Hua Hin based sommelier, Thierry Berno, Branch & Showroom Manager at Italasia Hua Hin.

Each month, Thierry will share his expert advice and knowledge as he delves deeper to explain different grape varietals.

This month, Thierry looks at the many faces of Chardonnay - arguably one of the most polarizing wines in the world.

Ah, Chardonnay. The grape varietal that elicits strong reactions from wine drinkers everywhere. Love it or hate it, there's no denying that Chardonnay is one of the most popular and widely planted white wine grapes in the world.

Although its origins are quite murky this polarizing grape is thought to have originated in the Burgundy region of France and it quickly spread to other parts of the world. Today it can be found in just about every wine-producing region on the planet.

Much like Chenin Blanc it is a versatile grape that can be made into a wide range of wine styles. From crisp and refreshing to rich and buttery, Chardonnay can do it all. It's also a grape

So, when I hear people tell me that they will drink ABC (Anything But Chardonnay) I always try to figure out what aspect of the Chardonnay they didn't like to offer a recommendation because I believe in another interpretation of the acronym ABC (Anyone Befits Chardonnay)

Perhaps the most controversial aspect of Chardonnay is its tendency to undergo malolactic fermentation, also known as "MLF." This process converts the grape's naturally high levels of malic acid (think of the tartness you get from biting into a green apple) into lactic acid, which gives Chardonnay its signature creamy, buttery flavors. Some wine drinkers love the richness that MLF brings to Chardonnay, while others find it too heavy and overpowering.

Where does that leave us in terms of choosing a Chardonnay? Well, the good news is that there are so many different styles of Chardonnay out there that there's bound to be something for everyone. If you're a fan of crisp, refreshing whites, look for Chardonnays that are fermented in stainless steel tanks rather than oak barrels such as the Louis Max Chardonnay “Les Terres Froides” Languedoc Roussillon VdP or the Villa Angela Marche IGT Chardonnay by Velenosi. These wines tend to be lighter in body and have bright, fruity flavors.

On the other hand, if you love a rich, buttery Chardonnay, look for wines that have undergone MLF and have spent some time aging in oak barrels. These wines will have a fuller body and flavors of butter, vanilla, and oak. Good examples available in Hua

But let's not forget about the other important factor in Chardonnay: where it's grown. Just like with any other grape, the terroir (or the specific combination of soil, climate, know-how and other growing conditions) can have a huge impact on the flavors and characteristics of the wine. Chardonnays from cooler climates, like Chablis in France or the Russian River Valley in California, tend to be leaner and more mineraldriven, while Chardonnays from warmer regions, like Napa Valley in California or the Hunter Valley and Margaret River in Australia, can be riper and more fruit-forward. Examples available in Hua Hin are The Snitch by The Prisoner Wine Company (Napa Valley) or the Devil’s Lair The Hidden Cave Margaret River Chardonnay.

So, the next time you're faced with a sea of Chardonnay options at your local wine shop, don't be afraid to ask for some guidance. And don't be afraid to try something new – you never know, you might just discover your new favorite Chardonnay!

And if all else fails, just remember: it's just wine. It's not the end of the world if you don't like a particular bottle. In fact, it's all part of the fun of discovering new wines and finding out what you do and don't like. So go forth and explore the wonderful world of Chardonnay – and don't take it too seriously. After all, it's just grapes, yeast, and a little bit of magic. So, let's raise a glass of Chardonnay and cheers to that!

Italasia Hua Hin

063 535 2590 (Thai)

097 415 4245 (English, French, Korean)

email: br-huahin@ italasiagroup.com

Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/huahinitalasia

All images: ©Velenosi

HUA HIN MARATHON 2023 TO BE HELD IN MAY

Mini Marathon, 10.5km, 5.30am

Fun Run, 5km, 5.45am

Each race starts and finishes at Wat Khao Krailas in Khao Takiab.

For the full marathon, runners will continue to near True Arena, then along Petchkasem Road to Hua Hin Airport before taking a u-turn and continuing towards Rajabhakti park, where they will run along the beach before crossing the finish line at Wat Khao Krailas.

Hua Hin Marathon 2023 is set to take place on May 14 2023.

The event, which returns after being canceled due to the pandemic and then being abruptly moved to Cha Am in 2022, will see thousands runners take to the streets of Hua Hin.

Runners can choose to compete in one of four distances:

Marathon, 42.195km, 3am start Half Marathon, 21km, 5am

The other races include u-turns at different locations along the route, with the u-turn for the 10.5km race near the beach at Seapines, and the u-turn for the 21km race being past the My Way Hotel, not far from the Government Savings Bank.

The Hua Hin Marathon is being organised by the Preserve Hua Hin Club under the royal patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, Chiva Som and Hua Hin Municipality.

Part of the money raised from this year’s event will be donated to an environmental fund that supports

the restoration of local mangroves.

How to register for the Hua Hin Marathon 2023

Registration for the Hua Hin Marathon 2023 is available in English on the event’s website: https:// www.runlah.com/events/huahin2023

The registration fee for each is as follows:

Marathon, 42.195km, (1,200 THB application fee)

Half Marathon, 21km, (900 THB)

Mini Marathon, 10.5km, (700 THB)

Fun Run, 5km, 5.45am, (500 THB)

Everyone running in the race will receive a t-shirt and medal, while trophies will be given to the winners and runners up overall and across each age category.

Official Hua Hin Marathon Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/huahinmarathon

FORMULA ONE COVERAGE IN THAILAND MOVES TO BEIN SPORTS

beIN SPORTS will become home to world-class motorsport broadcasting the Formula One World Championship to Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Timor-Leste, Philippines, Thailand, Laos and Cambodia

beIN SPORTS has secured exclusive rights to the Formula 1 World Championships in ten territories across Asia. The new media rights agreement begins in 2023 and runs until the conclusion of the 2025 championship which will include rights to all Grand Prix’s, Sprint Races, Qualifying and Practice sessions.

Coverage begins with the season opener, the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix from the Sakhir International Circuit from 3-5 March. The popular night race, the Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix, takes place from the 15-17 September, with the 2023 Formula One season concluding in the twilight of the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix from 24-26 November.

Other notable races include the returning Qatar Grand Prix from 6-8 October, following hot on the heels of Qatar’s successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. The new race on the calendar for 2023 is the Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix taking place 16-18 November, which will see the drivers race along the iconic strip in

F1’s first Saturday race for almost 40 years.

The ten Asian territories included in the agreement are Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Timor-Leste, Philippines, Thailand, Laos and Cambodia.

Formula 1’s coverage on beIN SPORTS channels will be available on major pay-tv platforms in the region, including on beIN’s live streaming app, beIN SPORTS CONNECT.

Mike Kerr, Managing Director beIN Asia Pacific, said: “We are extremely excited to add Formula 1 as we continue to invest in strengthening our ever-expanding line-up of sports content for our viewers. With the rapid growth Formula 1 has experienced in recent years, we look forward to working alongside Formula 1 to broaden its fan base in our markets by bringing an unparalleled viewing experience across all screens.”

Ian Holmes, Director of Media Rights and Content Creation at Formula 1, said: “Following a number of years of growing interest across Asia, we are delighted to announce this partnership with beIN SPORTS. As Formula 1 continues to attract new fans around the world, world class broadcasting is key, and this agreement will allow us to find new and innovative ways for our Asian fans to follow and engage with our sport.”

Kicking off in Bahrain and concluding in Abu Dhabi, motorsport fans can look forward to another season full of drama and excitement. Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen will be looking to defend his crown, having won the last two drivers titles. His team will also be defending the Constructors’ Championship, having dethroned Mercedes to claim the title for the first time in eight seasons.

Formula One joins a packed schedule of live premium sporting action on beIN SPORTS. In 2022, beIN acquired two tennis Grand Slams – Australian Open and Roland-Garros – in 10 territories across the Asia region, covering five editions of the tournament – from 2022 to 2026. beIN’s breadth of sports content includes the ATP Tour, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, FA Cup, LaLiga, Serie A, Ligue 1, and more – sealing beIN SPORTS’ position as the number one multi-sport destination in Asia.

SO YOU THINK YOU KNOW PAD KRAPOW?

TRY THESE DIFFERENT VARIETIES IN HUA HIN

There are many dishes that are ubiquitous with Thai cuisine: Som tam, pad Thai and green curry just to name a few.

But there is one dish that could perhaps be considered a part of daily life in Thailand, more so than any other.

And while dishes such as pad Thai may be more well known internationally, it is pad krapow which is the true staple of Thai food.

Eaten at breakfast, lunch or dinner, pad krapow is a popular dish made with stir-fried minced meat (typically pork or chicken), garlic, chilies, basil, and served over steamed rice. Sometimes served with a fried egg, it is known for its spicy and flavorful taste.

It’s popular for a variety of different reasons, namely its convenience, affordability and versatility.

The dish combines the flavors of spicy chilies, aromatic basil, and savory meat that appeals to many Thai people.

Pad krapow can be cooked with chicken, pork, beef, seafood, tofu and it’s even good with tinned tuna (take our word for it).

It's a quick and easy meal to make, which makes it a popular choice for people on the go, particularly during lunch time.

The dish is relatively cheap and is normally priced between 50 and 100 baht making it accessible to people of all income levels.

And it’s so easy to come by - you can find it just about everywhere, from street stalls and local markets to restaurants and just about everywhere in between.

Even if you have only been in Hua Hin for a relatively short period of time, it is likely that you will have your favourite spot in town to grab a plate of pad krapow.

Hua Hin Today recently teamed up with local food tour operator Feast Thailand who showed us some of the different varieties of pad krapow that are available in Hua Hin.

“Pad krapow is all about three key ingredients: chili paste, protein and holy basil,” Leigh Higgins from Feast Thailand told Hua Hin Today.

“Often the key to a really good pad krapow is how hot they can get the wok,” Leigh said.

“The dish is made in minutes so having a really hot wok is important and helps to bring out that extra flavor of whatever protein is used.”

When ordering pad krapow, you will often be asked if you would like a fried egg to go with it.

Leigh says that the fried egg is a must as it helps to add a richness to the dish, with the combination of the savory flavors of the stir-fry and the creamy texture of the fried egg creating a meal that is as tasty as it is satisfying.

Leigh said that pad krapow is a spicy dish and is meant to have a bit of a kick - with the egg yolk also helping to balance out the heat and spices in the pad krapow.

“You’ve got to order it with a fried egg and break the yoke over the spicy krapow. It’s all part of it”, Leigh added.

Like anywhere in Thailand, Hua Hin has an abundance of places serving pad krapow, which makes trying to highlight the ‘best’ an impossible task.

Instead, Leigh showed us some of the different varieties of pad krapow that are available locally.

And as Leigh wisely pointed out, it is often about trial and error before you will find your favourite pad krapow spot.

C'Cup Home Café & Restaurant

From its new location just off Soi 88, the first place we tried pad krapow was at C'Cup Home Café & Restaurant.

Those of you who know C’Cup from its days on Soi 94, may be all too familiar with its excellent offering of pad krapow.

The pad krapow here is just as it should be - nice and spicy - but you can of course ask them to tone it down a little if that’s your preference.

Order a plate of pad krapow and an iced cappuccino from C’Cup and you won’t go wrong.

70 baht.

good. The krapow served to us had a more mellow flavour and was a little less spicy than we were expecting. However, that didn’t take anything away from what was a very tasty and large portion of krapow.

It is worth noting that the menu was in Thai so if you aren’t a Thai speaker, you might want to take one with you!

Located in Soi 51 is Kamoo Troksung, While the restaurant is best known for its kao ka moo (braised pork leg over rice), it serves a delightful plate of pad krapow.

The ka moo we ordered wasn’t overly spicy but was absolutely delicious. The full flavour of the krapow alongside the softness of the braised pork was really good.

70 baht

Mae La Crab Kaphrao

Tucked away behind the G Supermarket is Mae La Crab Kaphrao.

The restaurant is hugely popular, not only among people living in Hua Hin but also with Thai tourists who travel far and wide to eat here. It has also been featured in various Thai TV shows and is popular among Thai foodie YouTubers.

Its signature dish is krapow crab which costs 120 baht but they also serve up more traditional offerings of krapow.

As well as the krapow crab, we tried a place of mixed minced pork and crispy pork (120 baht), which was really

For more information visit Feast Thailand: feastthailand.com

All images: Feast Thailand.

Kamoo Troksung, Soi 51

A big thanks to Feast Thailand – Hua Hin’s #1 Food Tour Company – for showing us the different variations of pad krapow in Hua Hin.

LITTLE SPAIN: THE PERFECT SETTING FOR VALENTINE’S DAY IN HUA HIN

Nothing says I Love You this Valentine’s Day more than a reservation at Hua Hin’s best Spanish restaurant.

Whether it’s your first date or your fiftieth, sometimes you need to pull out all the stops.

If you are looking for a unique and romantic way to celebrate this year then head to Little Spain.

Spanish cuisine is known for its bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and its emphasis on sharing plates. This makes Little Spain the perfect setting for a Valentine's Day dinner with your loved one.

The warm atmosphere, intimate lighting, and beautiful surroundings will set the tone for a night of romance, relaxation and incredible food.

Better still, Little Spain’s Valentine’s Day offers exceptional value and is priced at only 2990 THB and that includes 1 bottle of bubbles.

Begin the evening with a toast of pork loin goat cheese and fig jam, followed by a delicious zucchini mousse with Iberico ham shavings.

For the main course there is a choice of amazing Argentina tenderloin with red wine sauce or freshly caught grilled sea bass with vegetables.

And for dessert share the classic Spanish sweet treat churros for two.

To create a memorable experience that you and your significant other will remember for a long time, book a table at LIttle Spain this Valentine’s Day.

More

not to be missed specials at Little Spain

Outside of its regular menu, Little Spain has some excellent daily and midweek specials that offer excellent value and are well worth taking advantage of.

Tuesday: Paella night from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, you can enjoy 2 tapas dishes of your choice, a paella for two people and 1 litre of Sangria for 1,590 THB.

Thursday: Jazz Night with live music from ‘Have a Good Time’.

Sunday: Enjoy Sunday brunch at Little Spain from 12:30pm.

Brunch includes 1 set of 6 tapas plus 1 bottle of bubbles for 1,590 THB. A la carte is also available. Music is provided by DJ Ammy Smiley. It’s your new Sunday hangout.

Daily: Happy hour! Buy one get one free beer and cocktails every day at Little Spain from 5:30pm to 7:00pm.

Nestled away off Soi 102, Little Spain is located just 5 kilometers from downtown Hua Hin and less than 2 kilometers from the BluPort shopping mall.

BEST PLACES TO WATCH THE SUNRISE IN HUA HIN

At the start of the pier you can photograph the sunrise alongside the adjacent beach and the remains of what was the old fishing pier to the right, which has been left partially demolished in the water.

Go to the end of the pier and with a wide angle lens or with your phone’s camera settings in panoramic mode (or the equivalent) you can capture the sunrise with the beach, the old seafront buildings and Hilton Hotel in the distance.

The awakening sunrise, when light begins to creep over the horizon, the birds begin to sing and the day starts to come alive.

Find the perfect vantage point and a spectacular sunrise can be something you remember for a long, long time.

Happily, Hua Hin offers a multitude of places to watch the sunrise. From accessible beachside locations, to easily reachable viewpoints that you can walk to, with a coffee, camera and a companion.

The best part is that the sunrise always looks different from one day to the next and no two sunrises ever look the same.

What time does the sun rise in Hua Hin?

In the summer months (March to July) the sun starts rising shortly after 6am. In the tourist high season from late November to February the days are a little shorter, with the sun starting to rise from around 6:30am to 6:45am.

Websites such as Accuweather can tell you exactly what time the sun will rise in Hua Hin. Failing that, just a simple Google search will provide the information you need.

However, we’d recommend that you aim to be at a location a good 30 minutes ahead of the sunrise as that is when the real magic can happen.

It is at the absolute first light of the day when you can capture the early bursts of colour on the horizon, with some wonderful blue, deep purples and orange tones over the sea.

Then, as the minutes tick by, you can photograph the sunlight as it progressively changes.

Being at the beach, you also have the benefit of capturing both the sunrise and water, meaning you have two elements that can blend together beautifully. Add to that the occasional longtail fishing boat that may sweep into your shot and before you know it you’ve got yourself a really wonderful sunrise photo.

Below we have rounded up some of our favourite locations to watch the sunrise in Hua Hin and why.

The truth is that pretty much anywhere along Hua Hin beach offers a good spot to shoot a shot of the sunrise.

However, we have tried to highlight a variety of different locations that will help to give you a different vantage point or perspective of the sunrise in Hua Hin.

We have chosen the locations for a number of different reasons, including being the most accessible, the one offering best uninterrupted views or for offering the most unique vantage point.

Whether you are an experienced photographer with the latest and greatest camera setup or someone just armed with their smartphone, these tips will help ensure you get a fantastic photograph of the sun rising over Hua Hin beach.

This section of the beach located at the end of Soi 75 is arguably one of the most accessible parts of the beach from where you can watch the sunrise. Our tip is to park your car or motorcycle on Soi 94, cross over Phetkasem Road and walk down Soi 75 to the beach.

It is from here that you can get sweeping views of the beach to the left and right as the sun rises on the horizon. After taking your sunrise photos drop into the Morning Bread cafe on Soi 94 for a coffee and spot of breakfast before returning to your vehicle.

A place worth visiting in its own right, Hua Hin’s Chinese temple, the Jao Mae Tub Tim Shrine is a great place to watch the sunrise. Located next to the Hilton Hotel, it is a popular place for people to watch the sun rising due to the fact there are a few benches where you could sit with a coffee for what would be a pretty wonderful start to the day.

In fact, given its close proximity to the fishing pier, (it’s just a short walk) you can photograph the sunrise from both locations on the same day.

Khao Takiab Soi 1, Cafe Amazon

Queen’s Park or the area known locally as 19 Rai is perhaps one of the most scenic places in Hua Hin to take photos of the sunrise.

If you stand at the park itself, rather than heading onto the sand, you can take a photo of the sun rising behind the palm trees which grow along the park’s perimeter. Position yourself right and the results can be pretty spectacular.

Located in Nong Kae, to the south of Hua Hin is Khao Takiab. Alongside the branch of Cafe Amazon you will find Soi 1, which leads on to the beach.

From here you can photograph the sunrise with views of Khao Takiab beach to the right hand side. There is an area to park your motorbike or car too.

First light here can be stunning so get there well ahead of sunrise to capture a really special photo.

Saphan

The fishing pier in Hua Hin can be a hive of activity first thing in the morning.

As you approach the pier you will see the fleet of boats to your left, while you can also expect to see people out walking, exercising and fishing along the pier at first light.

The pier offers another interesting viewpoint from where you capture the sunrise.

Hin

Hua Hin’s famous viewpoint at Hin Lek Fai offers a completely different vantage point from which to watch the sunrise.

The viewpoint offers spectacular views of all of Hua Hin, as well as Khao Takiab to the south and Cha Am to the north.

There are a total of six viewpoints at Hin Lek Fai but viewpoints 3 and 4 are our favourites to watch the sunrise.

The beach at Hua Hin Soi 75

19 Rai

Pla - Hua Hin fishing pier

Jao Mae Tub Tim Shrine

Lek Fai viewpoint

This photo was taken at 19 Rai. Hua Hin Today

Image credit: RW

Image credit: RW

Image credit: RW

Image credit: RW

Image credit: Patrick Jacobs

HOW TO VISIT THE SPECTACULAR LOTUS FLOWER LAKE IN SAM ROI YOT

You don't need to travel far from Hua Hin to find an amazing day out, whatever your age.

Whether you're into natural wonders, water parks, shopping or the beach, there's something to fit your brief.

Located just a 45 minute drive from Hua Hin is the beautiful coastal town of Sam Roi Yot, also known as the "Three Hundred Peaks", which is home to the Khao Sam Roi Yot Park.

The park was Thailand’s first coastal national park with the park’s mountainous scenery a real stand out.

The park is packed with natural wonders and noteworthy things to see and do.

But one of its most notable attractions is Thung Sam Roi Yot - a wetland or picturesque body of water surrounded by lush greenery and mountains.

At certain times of the year the wetlands, which have been designated as a world wetland by Ramsar due to its diverse natural environment, are home to beautiful blooming lotus flowers and water lilies.

The lotus flower is highly significant in Thai culture and is widely considered a symbol of purity, enlightenment, and self-regeneration.

The flower is revered in Buddhism, which is the dominant religion in Thailand, and is often depicted in Buddhist art and used as a decorative element in Buddhist temples.

The lotus is also seen as a symbol of the Thai people, representing the country's strength and resilience in the face of adversity.

The first of the season’s lotus flowers begin to bloom from early January to the end of March, with February and March typically when the lotus flowers are at their most stunning.

The bloom sees the aquatic flowers bring a vibrant pink carpet of colour to the lake, against the spectacular limestone mountains that stand prominently behind it.

The wetland is home to an abundance of wildlife, including various species of birds, fish, and reptiles, making it a popular destination for bird-watching and wildlife photography.

In addition to the lotus flowers, there are other aquatic plants and a birding site which is

home to more than 300 species of waterfowl, including teal, egret, red herons, and purple swamphen, which can be seen all year round.

The best way to experience the wetlands and enjoy the peaceful and serene atmosphere, as well as to take in the stunning scenery, is to hire a boat.

Boats (complete with guide) can be rented from various points around the wetland, with the most popular place for boat rental being the Bueng Bua Nature Education Center.

However, another excellent location from where to hire boat is from the Chom Thung Pier at the Koh Phai camping site

The Google Maps location is linked at the end of this article.

Tourists can rent a long-tail boat from the pier for 600 baht per boat, which seats 4 to 5 people and takes over an hour to travel around the wetland, enabling visitors to explore the area and take in the stunning views from the water of the surrounding mountains and lotus flowers.

The boat tour includes stops at other locations on or around the lake, and you will also visit a hidden cave that features ‘kissing rocks’ and a remote temple which includes centuries old Buddha statues hand carved out of local stone.

The long tail boats are operated by members of the local community as part of a dedicated tourism project which aims to create economic and social benefits for the local community while also preserving the culture and environment of the local area.

The focus of the project is on sustainable and responsible tourism practices that support the longterm well-being of the local community.

The boat operators have knowledge of the history of Thung Sam Roi Yot and can even offer advice on the locations on the lake where you can take the best photographs.

The best time to take a boat trip is either early in the morning (from 6am) or during late afternoon.

The early morning trips offer you the chance to witness the sunrise above mountains, while in the late afternoon offers stunning views as the sunsets in the opposite direction.

Once night falls the area teems with fireflies, the boat operators claiming that this is one of the best locations in Thailand to witness fireflies.

A conservation success story

The wetlands at Sam Roi Yot have been a real success story of conservation.

For more than a decade, the wetlands were completely dry and the flowers had stopped growing at the popular natural lotus pond.

No-one has been able to pinpoint exactly why. However, officials suspected an increase in salt levels in the swamp had stopped the flowers from growing.

In recent years, officials tried to clean up the park and have since been rewarded with an annual sea of pink flowers.

Officials worked with local shrimp farmers to help reduce the salinity of the water in their farm pools before it was released into local water sources.

Then in 2015, the lotus flowers started to grow in the pond once more, helping the park to become an attraction for tourists and locals.

If you are looking for a day trip amongst nature within easy reach of Hua Hin and want to witness the beautiful blooming lotus flowers, this is the place to go.

All images: Patrick Jacobs

Asia’s Ultimate Golfing Lifestyle Experience

Championship Golf Course • Stay & Play • Luxury Course-side Properties

Come and enjoy playing one of the most scenic championship golf courses in the whole of Asia. Voted Best Course in Thailand by Golf Digest, Black Mountain Golf Club has hosted European Tour and Asian Tour events.

Drawn by Hua Hin’s cosmopolitan charm and ideal year-round golfing climate, an increasing number of discerning golfers are choosing to make Black Mountain their second or permanent home. To tempt you, we are now building luxurious new

4-bedroom two-story course-side “Twinhouses” for just 19.9M Baht and 3 bedroom pool villas for 29.9M Baht (includes 2 lifetime golf club memberships) so there has never been a better time to sample the renowned Black Mountain lifestyle. Visit us to play, or even book into one of our luxury private pool Hotel Villas and “stay & play” from just 3,450 Baht per night.

We look forward to welcoming you here soon. More info at www.blackmountainhuahin.com

Majestic Creek Golf Club & Resort

Majestic Creek Golf Club & Resort is one of the most unique golf courses in Thailand since there is a 27 -hole gem, lying in the beautiful undulating countryside close to the mountains separating Myanmar from Thailand and only 25 minutes outside the Royal town of Hua Hin.

Please call +66 (0)81-942-3619, email bookings@majesticcreekcc.com, or browse our website: www.majesticcreekcc.com to reserve for Green Fee.

There will be a very warm welcome for you here at the Majestic Creek Golf Club and Resort and we look forward to seeing you soon.