DUSIT THANI: PALATIAL ELEGANCE IN HUA HIN
The grand lobby is palatial with a huge chandelier dominating the centre which is the first thing you see as soon as you enter the Dusit Thani Hua Hin. The modern style soft furnishings are mixed with classic Thai style interior fixtures that offers an impressive greeting to new visitors as you look out beyond the olympic length pool and out to the Gulf of Thailand ahead of you.
The sound of water can be heard in all public spaces; colourful Koi Carp swim in a pool that is decorated with trees and fairy lights, and a small waterfall gently releases water over an edge keeping a constant soothing trickle of sound whether you are lounging by the pool or eating a freshly prepared lunch on one of the restaurants outdoor seating areas.
The main pool is surrounded by comfy loungers or you can choose the small beach area and listen to the sea lap the shore. If you want something more secluded the little-used, mainly adult pool, hidden behind the main building, is great for a siesta. If you feel active enough a stroll around the large lake at the side of the main lobby is a great way to get yourself ready for an early evening cocktail.
Situated perfectly between the towns of Hua Hin and Cha Am, just a 3 hour drive from Bangkok, you can grab the hotel bus or jump in and tuk tuk and be in either in around 15 minutes. The hotel is surrounded by lush grounds so you could be almost anywhere – but the friendly Thai hospitality easily reminds you of your location.
The hotel has a more traditional take on accommodation sitting comfortably between the business and leisure markets. The rooms are fairly plain and large enough to feel comfortable during an extended stay, however the 7th floor club suites (with ocean view) are a preferred option with more room, much more interior flair and slashes of colour and, importantly, come with club lounge access.
The club lounge is open all day and offers guests early evening cocktails and canapés. It’s also a great place to meet others staying at the hotel and get tips on where to visit while in the area.
It is the food offer at the hotel that really makes the stay special. The international breakfast selection at the main restaurant serves up the best freshly made noodle soups where you can choose a list of ingredients to make it just how you want. The themed evenings include a weekly Thai Market night at Ban Benjarong where visitors can eat food from the country’s regions in an authentic styled building. Or check out the Saturday Seafood buffet night for a vast serving of beautifully cooked and expertly presented seafood and shellfish which never seems to deplete.
The hotel has won plenty of accolades including the Luxury Hotel awards for 9 consecutive years. It’s easy to see the attraction of visitors who often stay for up to 3 month at a time to escape the cold European winters – and with food like this we imagine they leave a few pounds heavier too.
