Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
KITE CRAZY
Adding to the beauty of Hua Hin's beach are the kiteboarders flying and jumping above the ocean. Hua Hin is
Thailand's kiteboarding, or kitesurfing, capital, blessed with strong, gusty winds, shallow water and a long, long
beach off which to practise your moves.
From here down to Pranburi, the winds blow from the northeast October to December, and then from the
southeast January to May: perfect for kitesurfing. Even during the May to October rainy season, there are plenty
of days when the wind is fine for taking to the waves. In fact, this stretch of coast is so good for kiteboarding that
Hua Hin hosted the Kiteboarding World Cup in 2010.
This is also the best place in Thailand to learn how to kiteboard, with a number of schools in Hua Hin offering
tuition. After three days with them, you can be leaping into the air too. The schools also cater for more advanced
students, and you can qualify as an instructor here as well.
But if you prefer to stay on the ground while flying a kite, then check out the
Hua Hin International Kite
Festival
. Staged every two years in March, 12km north of town at the Rama VI military base, it's a chance to see
stunt kiters in action, as well as kites of every conceivable size and colour.
Courses
Buchabun Art & Crafts Collection
( 08 1572 3805;
www.thai-cookingcourse.com
; 19/95 Th Phetkasem; courses 1500B)
Aspiring chefs should
sign up for a half-day Thai cooking class that includes a market visit and recipe book. The
course runs only if there are a minimum of four people.
COOKING
Festivals & Events
King's Cup Elephant Polo Tournament
( Aug & Sep)
Polo with a Thai twist, this annual tournament involving elephant mounts in-
stead of horses takes place on the scenic grounds of the Anantara Hua Hin resort in late
August and early September. It might not be as fast-paced as its British cousin but it is a
charitable event that raises money for elephant-welfare issues.
CULTURAL
Hua Hin Jazz Festival
( May or Jun)
In honour of the king's personal interest in the genre, the city that hosts roy-
al getaways also hosts an annual jazz festival featuring Thai and international performers.
All events are free and usually occur in May or June.
MUSIC
Fringe Festival
THEATRE
