From Cambodia to Bangkok, the transfers, although seamless and flowing, were at once electrifying and awe-inspiring. Following a smooth checkout from FCC Angkor, we made our way to Bangkok to experience Avani+ Hua Hin’s opulence and care amidst nature’s golden sands and calm ocean waters.
The two-and-a-half-hour drive from Bangkok airport to the beachfront hotel presented glimpses of the city that is seemingly on the move. As images of the cityscape whizzed past our window, we couldn’t help wondering what was in store at the magnificent Avani+ Hua Hin, which has earned repute as a popular weekend destination even for travellers from Oman, many of who have made Bangkok a regular tourist spot.
The sight of the luxurious beachfront haven was beyond our expectation; the very edifice of Avani+ Hua Hin has a relaxing tranquil energy about it, as if beckoning one to simply switch off from everyday life and unwind under the bough of nature. What a perfect getaway, I thought, as I walked into the plush lobby to be greeted by the friendly staff. They guided us to our exceptionally appointed pool suite and ensured that we settled in with ease. And what a bliss it was… The perfect blend of comfort and luxury, in a cocoon of nature-inspired landscape, set the tone for our short holiday.
Hua Hin’s sunny world
The hotel boasts a prime beachfront location, just north of Klai Kangwon Palace; it is a 10-minute drive from the town centre. 196 contemporary and colourful rooms, suites and pool villas surround a central lagoon pool framed by lush foliage. Each room or suite offers spacious outdoor living, some with a balcony Jacuzzi or lagoon pool access. Pool villas are designed with one or two bedrooms, and are located in private gardens, lagoon-side or overlooking the ocean. We were told that buy-outs for the villas are a popular option for weddings. And we caught a glimpse of one such Indian destination wedding as the party landed at the hotel the very next day. Apparently, the place is quite popular among Indians who love to splurge on destination weddings.
A secluded getaway
To get an up close feel of the relaxing mood within its warm spaces and its secluded getaway touch, we were invited to indulge in a spa experience, which did exactly what it promised – relaxed our work-weary muscles and put us in a happy mode. AvaniSpa is designed to provide a refreshing retreat from the world, with nine treatment rooms, couples’ journeys and a signature rhassoul ritual. Beside the spa is AvaniFit, which offers Yoga, Pilates and kickboxing, as well as a range of cardio machines and weight stations. AvaniKids is designed for children, with a daily programme of activities, a kids’ splash pool and dedicated supervisors.
With flowering trees and landscaped gardens adding to the visual delights of the place, we were in for a perfect break from the hectic pace of life that we had left behind. The minimalist vibe within the large open spaces creating a sense of familiarity that is at once welcoming and warm.
Food haven
On the culinary front are fresh and contemporary Thai and international flavours, in addition to local produce and fishermen’s catches. The beachfront Brezza features rustic Italian cuisine as well as frequent beach barbeques, while the jazz den Blue Biscuit showcases Hua Hin’s finest live beats in a sultry setting, complete with Creole-infused tapas and Cuban cigars. Guests staying in villas also get to enjoy all-day AvaniClub access, with breakfast, afternoon tea, sunset cocktails and canapés.
Although sport wasn’t on our minds during this short trip, we were amazed to see the options available for those with a penchant for games. Guests are, indeed, spoiled for choice with activities on land, at sea and high above the waves. Hua Hin is particularly known for its kite-surfing, as well as horse riding along the beach, jet skiing and all kinds of motorised thrills.
After the relaxing day session, we took on the offer to explore the night market, which is throbbing with life, as locals vie for the attention of regular shoppers and tourists. We managed to pick a few souvenirs, but it was the energy and vibrancy of the place that we were soaking in, as we walked around the busy aisles to experience Bangkok’s infectious hospitality.
And, just like that, our trip ended… But it was with a sense of contentment that we bid adieu to Avani+ Hua Hin the next day and boarded the flight back home – relaxed and rejuvenated.