This month has been one of turmoil for many travellers to and from Hua Hin and Thailand with the political violence disrupting Bangkok, Songkran week resulting in the usual closures and road chaos, and the Icelandic volcano stranding thousands of passengers here and forcing more holiday cancellations. Just when we think Thailand’s tourism industry couldn’t suffer anymore it does.
The forum has been abuzz with discussion on Thailand’s political rift that seems to be widening, fortunately here in Hua Hin it is business as usual with no sign of any disturbances or shirt colour disparities. The results appear to be a surge in domestic tourism to the town as the holiday week witnessed unprecedented traffic levels with Bangkokians escaping to the sea side. Petchkasem Road became a solid three lane bumper to bumper queue of Benzes, Lexuses, BMWs and SUVs as Thailand’s “haves” inched their way into Hua Hin while the “have nots” threw bottles and stones at riot police in capital.
Sadly the same cannot be said for foreign tourism as thousands of cancellations were made firstly on account of the violent clashes in Bangkok and secondly due to grounded flights. Weak foreign currencies only add to the problem which may result in Thailand losing one of its once stable foreign revenue streams. Tourist visa waivers have been extended into next year though it is highly unlikely that immigration will make any effort to make life easier for the thousands of expats that live in Thailand. The trend continues to be one of decline especially in Hua Hin as authorities continue to put the squeeze on foreigners working and running businesses in the town.
The coming months will see a musical bonanza hit the beaches of Hua Hin as the Honda Summer Music Fest returns for its third year and the annual Hua Hin Jazz Festival gears up for a show. Takiab beach hosts the Honda Fest as thousands of young revellers flock to Hua Hin for the party on May 1st. A huge line up of rock, ska and reggae bands entertain the burgeoning crowds. The Jazz Festival is currently scheduled for June 18 to 20 though this may change (as it did last year), check the forum for the latest news and updates.
There have been plenty of recommendations for restaurants, hotels and entertainment venues from forum members who have been out and about recently. Despite the turmoil mentioned above many people have made it to Hua Hin and enjoyed their holiday immensely, many more are still looking to make the move here.
The heat and resultant water shortages around town have left many households with dry tanks although some suggested that the reserves had been saved for Songkran day which saw no such scarcity of the stuff. Water supplies are in higher demand as the town continues with its unabated development expansion into the hinterlands, planners must take this (and traffic management) into account before things reach critical levels.
Asking the expats is always popular and this month has been no exception with questions on windscreen replacements, laundry services, second-hand stores, dog breeders, baby sitters and driving lessons. Whatever your question you’ll get an answer in no time on the Hua Hin Forum.