The charming coastal town of Hua Hin in Prachuap Khiri province has been very well-known among holidaymakers for a very long time. Hua Hin offers a wide variety of attractions, such as stunning temples, natural wonders, and a world-class water park. It is said that a trip to Hua Hin will not be complete without wandering at the markets and mingling with locals.
Hua Hin’s main fresh market Chatchai morning market is worth a visit. Its building built almost a hundred years back in the reign of King Rama VII is unique with seven-eaved roof. Locals giving alms to monks is a usual early morning scene here. You can easily find common Thai breakfast favorites, such as Moo Ping (Thai grilled pork skewers), Patongko (Chinese fried donut), hot soy milk, porridge as well as fresh fruits at this market. In fact, Lung Tae’s Moo Ping isn’t as simple as you would think. Lung Tae (Uncle Tae) has been in this business for more than 35 years, and his grilled pork skewers were served on the late King Rama IX’s table when the king resided in Klai Kang Won Palace. Chatchai Market opens daily around 05:00 am to 15:00.
Another cool market is Cicada Market. Its area of nearly 4 acres is divided into many zones, such as market zone, art zone, music zone, and photo gallery zone. You can buy handmade goods, vintage items, furniture, used items, food and snacks. Also, you can appreciate many forms of art here. The market is only open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 16:00 – 23:00.
Another interesting place is the theme shopping attraction the Venezia Hua Hin. It officially opened in 2013. Its large area of roughly 20 acres features four main zones: foods, fashions, services, and arts. Various types of stores and services are included in this place. There are a wide variety of restaurants, a bank, a bookstore, a mini zoo, a mini amusement park, a vast outdoor activity area, a 3D museum, and a 23-metre-high observatory tower. Obviously, the theme chosen here is Italy, so you can see mini icons like a bell tower, a canal, a gondola, and an Italian garden. Many activities are not free and the entrance fee depends on the promotion terms. The Venezia Hua Hin opens daily from 11:00 am to 20:00.