Golf & Co

The beachside town of Hua Hin is popular with local families escaping Bangkok, which is a two-hour drive away, hence it offers a more ‘authentic’ Thai experience than its compatriots. It also boasts 10 golf courses, and the best three are part of this itinerary. The Scenic Black Mountain, which has hosted numerous major golfing events, manages to test both professionals and be playable for average golfers.

The aptly named Palm Hills Golf Club opened in 1992, and was the first international standard Hua Hin golf course. It has notoriously fast greens, strategically placed bunkers and water hazards, making good scores difficult. The traditional Springfield Royal Country Club is a typical Jack Nicklaus-designed course – he’s renowned for loving to catch the player out who hits a poor weak fade or a slice off the tee.

Accommodation is at the 4-star G Hua Hin Resort & Mall, that has 79 fully-equipped deluxe rooms and suites. This new luxury boutique city resort is also close to major tourist attractions, offering a saltwater swimming pool, pool bar, in-house restaurant and numerous other amenities.