OnTheRoad

Hua Hin is on the seashore not too far from Bangkok, about three and a half hours by second class bus. Beautiful beaches and great seafood are the big drawcards here.. Lots of Thai tourists, as there aren't as many farang as in Pattaya and Phuket, the other big beach locations. Much more expensive than the other Thai locations I've visited, although still reasonably cheap.

Places to stay: Lucky was very good value at 150 baht per night for a small room with a double bed and shared bathroom. The food downstairs ain't bad either and the staff are friendly. Also, the owner likes to read, and there's a pile of books that you can swap 1 for 1 with your own, an unusually good deal.

Places to eat: Food is relatively expensive here, I didn't find any really cheap options except for the little meat skewers and sticky rice in the markets.

Things to do: Hire a motorbike and cruise to the southern beaches. Sai Yok Noi is nice and small, with food and deckchairs available without the crowds at Hua Hin. You can head up above the city to get some good views if you're that way inclined.

There is also the night market, packed with Thai and Farang tourists. Lots of food and reasonably priced nicknacks of various descriptions.