The expat community in Hua Hin has been shocked by a recent spate of murders, many of which have been under similar circumstances. The highest profile was the killing of Asia Times Online editor in chief Allen Quicke whose life was taken at his home in Naebkehardt road on August 17. The police report suggests the crime was a simple robbery that got out of hand, a culprit was quickly apprehended and the case closed.
Other attacks on foreigners in the town center have also been on the increase however not all of them are reported. While Hua Hin still remains a safe haven it will soon change unless real action is taken against what appears to be a rising criminal element and more brazen assaults upon its residents.
On a brighter note Hua Hin’s golfing community seem to be reaping the benefits as the two month golf festival proves yet again to be a success, the new Sea Pine army course opens its fairways in Khao Takiab and the Asian Tour announces the return of the Black Mountain Masters in December. Golf is the town’s biggest draw so with new courses opening and being planned, and world class events returning to Hua Hin, it can only help bring more visitors and business to the area.
As predicted foreign tourist arrivals have been down over the last couple of months, the low season is always a little quieter but a strong local currency and fears of more political violence have kept people away. Some of the major hotels have reported occupancies as low as 20% despite the recent increase in domestic tourism. There is hope that the high season will bring numbers back up but there is also the fear that many have already cancelled their holiday to Thailand this year.
Hua Hin immigration department could be on the move again for the fourth time since their arrival from Dansingkhon in Prachuab a number of years ago. The next destination is a larger building along the canal road, anyone visiting recently will know that the current spot can get very overcrowded and busy. Despite the falls in numbers of tourists, it seems that the number of expats and long stayers is increasing. A reflection of this can be seen in the property rental market which has had a good year even though the sales market is still flat.
The ever popular ‘ask the expats’ section has seen an increase in questions ranging from postal services to Europe, used car dealers, driving schools, annual cost of living in Hua Hin, home appliance repair shops, and launching a jetski. Whatever your question you’ll get an answer within minutes on HHAD.