Hua Hin online community update
Life in Hua Hin is starting to slow now as ,the low season is upon us; the advantage for those visiting and resident is that the town and beaches are a lot quieter and more serene. That was until one of the multiple long weekends last month, which drew convoys of shiny new SUV’s down from Bangkok clogging up Hua Hin’s road system. The new mayor promises change and improved road management, which is desperately needed in Hua Hin. Driving standards, or lack of, are always a hot topic on the forum as we all need to travel from time to time. A number of complaints were aired about the taxis clogging up the streets and charging over inflated fares to tourists. Solutions were suggested which included parking meters, taxi ranks with standard fares, park and ride systems and congestion charges. We have taken these measures for granted in the west and although they may not always be popular they certainly ease the traffic problems that have become so prevalent here lately.
There was more disappointment for of weekends due to antiquated alcohol restriction laws for local elections. This also extended to restaurants many of which refused to sell a beer with a meal, even to tourists who can’t vote anyway. It begs the question of what these draconian laws are trying to achieve and what are the results, aside from a number of annoyed holidaymakers in tourist spots such as Hua Hin.
As usual the property forum was active with discussion on developments, house insurance, insulation and companies. There were also rumours that the government will extend the lease period for foreigner from 30 years. Cynics still don’t view this as being enough as the land is still in the Thai owners name and some recommend going down the condominium route as the best option for property investors.
Hua Hin has had the rhythm for the last few weeks with the Honda Summer Fest in Khao Takiab last month, which attracted the younger crowd, and the Hua Hin Jazz Festival this month. The only frustration is the lack of information released by the promoters and organizers in the run up to these events. Every year the press release for the jazz festival is held about a week before it takes place, this does international travellers no favours whatsoever. Accommodation is scarce in Hua Hin for these large events so people generally like to book in advance.
Dual pricing was a sensitive subject that all foreigners have an opinion on as we have all been subjected to it living in Thailand. Whether it is inflated national park fees by the government, over charging taxi drivers or restaurants with dual language and priced menus, dual pricing is often seen as racist. One of the solutions is to know the price of what you are buying before hand and pay no more if someone tries to rip you off, walking away is the easiest thing to do. Speaking a little Thai also goes along way and is recommended for anyone that wishes to live here long term.
The political situation seems to be heating up again with rumours of another coup but we can’t write too much about that as we may get muzzled along with a number of Thai publications that came under the government cosh last month. Ask the expats had is usual mix of bizarre requests ranging from sports trophies tomosquito repellent to gas ovens to LPG converters. Whatever your question you’ll find an answer on HHAD.