Seaside destinations Pattaya and Hua Hin have long been favoured by Bangkok’s elite for their golden sand and emerald hinterland. Both resorts have history, from Buddhist temples to royal patronage. Both have timeless quarters, where elephants nibble jackfruit and fishers land grouper for dinner. Even the travel times are similar – about two to three hours by car from the capital, or an unhurried train ride from Bangkok’s historic Hua Lamphong terminal.
