I was looking forward to returning to the InterContinental Hua Hin. Honestly, just getting out of Bangkok was a nice break, but with several new resorts having opened in Hua Hin during the past few years, I wanted to see if InterContinental Hua Hin retained the charm that made it a preferred destination for me and my wife.
The moment we exited our car and entered the lobby, we were reminded of what makes the resort so special. Life truly slows down when you’re at InterContinental Hua Hin. The tranquil atmosphere lets you know immediately that this is a holiday.
Despite the fact the hotel was fully booked while we were there, it never felt as if we were rushed. Staff adroitly tended to our needs and ensured everything was taken care of all while practicing social distancing. In fact, it seemed like we were the only ones there for the most part.
InterContinental Hua Hin is ideal for the “new normal”
Because the resort is designed to maximize privacy, InterContinental Hua Hin is already setup nicely for the “new normal”. The rooms are spread out with no doors or windows facing each other. Walkways are laid out to ensure there is no crowding or close contact.
Of course, plenty of additional measures have been put in place to enhance health and safety. There are temperature checks and regular cleaning. The fitness center must be reserved in advance and you will need to book your time for breakfast the night before. However, even at a resort with hundreds of others guests, you still feel safe.
This peace of mind allows you to focus on enjoying the surroundings and getting the most from your holiday. If you have been stuck in Bangkok for the past few months like me, this is something you will appreciate greatly.
The luxury of doing nothing
You’ll probably never want to leave your room at InterContinental Hua Hin. The accommodations are works of art that embrace the heritage, tradition and legacy of Hua Hin. The subtle luxury is accentuated by exceptional pillows and bedding, a bathtub and your own private outdoor space.
Our room was on the first floor in the Beach Wing and has a lovely veranda covered by greenery to ensure total privacy. The space was perfect for spending time on the daybed and reading a book. Accommodations on the upper level have sea view balconies.
When my wife and I did venture out of the room, there was plenty to keep us entertained. We lounged by the pool bar, relaxed along the beach and indulged in a signature treatment at the Spa InterContinental. It was all fantastic.
The spa deserves special recognition. This wasn’t our first time here, but I remain impressed by the experience every single time. Treatment prices are in line with other five-star resorts, but the quality of Spa InterContinental is well worth what you pay for.
Family time is very important and InterContinental Hua Hin is exceptional when it comes to catering to guests of all ages. There is the Planet Trekkers kids’ club which has all kinds of fun games and activities. There is even a Nintendo Switch which I wanted to play but opted not to since, you know, kids were using it.
Dining the Hua Hin way
This trip allowed us to dine at Azure Restaurant for the first time. In the past, we ate dinner at Pirom Restaurant which was amazing. However, we wanted to experience the seaside ambiance available from the table at Azure Restaurant which is located along the beach.
Not only do you get to enjoy pleasant views of the Gulf of Thailand during the twilight hours, but you also can enjoy fresh, local seafood. The cuisine is true Farm-and-Sea-to-Table and you can taste the freshness. Our favorite was the Hua Hin seafood soup, which was absolutely delicious. However, the entire four-course meal was a treat.
Breakfast is everything you would expect from a world-class resort like InterContinental Hua Hin. You have freshly baked pastries, authentic Thai food and traditional favorites all in one place. It’s certainly worth getting out of your extremely comfortable bed for.
Final thoughts
Staying at the InterContinental Hua Hin was as magnificent as both me and my wife had remembered. It’s still our favorite resort in the city and for good reason. The property is flawless. The amenities are spacious, the rooms large and the staff friendly. But what sets it apart is the location.
First, you have BluPort shopping mall across the street which is very convenient. Second, both Cicada night market and the restaurants, shops and popular spots of the city center are close by. Finally, guests are provided with special privileges at True Arena Hua Hin and Vana Nava Water Jungle with shuttle service available. This central location means you won’t waste your time driving everywhere.
If you are looking for the complete holiday experience on your next trip to Hua Hin, nothing matches the InterContinental Hua Hin. From the awesome accommodations to the outstanding dining options and ideal location, it is the best place to get away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok.
