Hua Hin has a reputation for being a charming, seaside resort town remains intact, even if the city has grown by leaps and bounds during the past ten years. It is now home to international schools, world-class shopping centres and recreation opportunities galore. Connectivity to the rest of Thailand is also improving with a ferry to Pattaya now in operation and construction on a high speed train that will connect the city to Bangkok set to begin this year. Here is a special look at some of Hua Hin’s newest gems.
BluPort
Developed by Proud Real Estate and operated by The Mall Group, BluPort has immediately become the premier shopping destination in the region. The mall, which is connected to InterContinental Resort Hua Hin, embraces a nautical motif and is home to a wide range of shopping options. There is an international standard supermarket, upscale brands plus an expansive food court and a number of local sellers offering handmade goods. The food options are plentiful as well with Dean & Deluca and The Coffee Club just a few of the eateries found at BluPort.
It had been hard to find international standard fitness facilities outside of Hua Hin’s five-star hotels despite a more temperate climate that lends its self to sports. That all changed with the opening of True Arena Hua Hin last year. This highly rated fitness facility has it all and has drawn in athletes from a wide range of sports who wish to take advantage of its world class tennis courts, gym, sports courts and football pitches. There is also a four-story clubhouse that is equipped with a steam room, locker room, event space and a restaurant. Additionally, True Arena hosts tennis tournaments throughout the year with some of the region’s best-known players taking part.
Chiva-Som
The art of relaxation and wellness perfected, that is what is on offer at Chiva-Som International Health Resort. While visitors indulge in a multi-day retreat, even residents of Hua Hin opt to stop by the resort for a day or two to take advantage of Chiva-Som’s weight management, relaxation and de-stress, general well-being, fitness and anti-aging programmes. The resort has internationally trained wellness experts on hand who can ensure individuals stay on track when it comes to their health and wellbeing or dietary goals on a weekly or monthly basis.