I haven't stayed in the Sofitel but I was impressed with their grounds and its position. Have you been to Hua Hin before?

Again only taken high tea at the Sofitel and walked through the grounds. Lovely hotel in central Hua Hin (featured in the film The Killing Fields). The Anantara might be another choice but it is 5 miniutes by taxi outside Hua Hin

The Hilton (if it's still a Hilton, they change names often) is pretty central.

Hi Gary&MarksMum,

Having been to Hua Hin several times, I would thoroughly recommend the Anantara. Whilst I have no experience of Christmas, I have no doubt that it a great hotel and located just far enough from the centre of Hua Hin to make it an attractive proposition.

Whilst the central location of the Sofitel and Hilton (and indeed quality of the hotels) make them an attractive proposition, I far prefer the serenity of the Hyatt or Anantara.

Please see reviews at http://www.holidaytruths.co.uk/reviews/thailand/prachuap-khiri-khan-province/hua-hin/anantara-resort-and-spa/

If you choose a central hotel, my preference would be for the Sofitel - which has recently been described as 'sumptuous'.

Good luck with your booking and best regards

Peter

I too like Pete adored the Anantara - I think the pool area , the rooms and the tropical gardens are heavenly, will definately go back there.

Thanks everyone. This is actually for my friend who has set me the task of finding her a suitable alternative to the Hyatt which is her normal standard! I've stayed at the Hilton, although nice (great pool and central location) I wasn't keen on the Japanese 'low slung' furnishings or having the air con in all the public areas switched off! Blooming hot waiting for (and in) the lift and sitting booking trips by reception. Somehow I don't think it'll compare well enough to the Hyatt for her.

Looks like Anantara it is assuming she hasn't left it too late for booking there as well! Almost makes me wish I was returning to Thailand myself - lovely country, lovely people and lovely orchids from the Hua Hin market, 50 or so blooms all in individual phials of water, boxed for on board transport, all for £3.50.

Thanks again

We have stayed at both these resorts and would recommend the Hilton purely because of the central location. To get down into the centre of town takes about 10 minutes by Tuk Tuk and costs about 50 Baht. For eating out in the evening there is not a great choice of restaurants within walking distance of the Anantara.

Just a thought but the new Sheraton is due to open Jan 2007...there's always a risk associated with staying at new hotels (like will it be open/finished) but then you can also get some excellent deals. It may be worth a look.

Oops, will re-phrase a couple of my comments about the Hilton. My friends 'benchmark' is the Hyatt, I've not stayed there but get the impression it is right at the top end of the tree.

My nit-picky comment about the lack of aircon in public areas and 'low slung' Japanese style furnishings shouldn't be taken by anyone booked there to mean that it isn't a fantastic hotel in a brilliant location.

My hubby certainly loved it, straight through the 'red light' area to get to the night market etc - I'm SURE there must have been another route but where else is he going to get propositioned on a nightly basis! (Or me for that matter.) All part of the fun and the girls were very good natured.

Just back from staying at the Hilton Hua hin. It is in the middle of the town and an excellent choice for families. I'll post a review when I get some sleep.

Jack

Hi jack
I have asked for the hotel to be added to our review. Did you have a great holiday?

Fiona

We have had the best holiday ever and are trying to change holiday plans for next year.
We planned to go to Florida as an extended family group but are now trying to persuade the others that Thialand would be a better place to go.
As a family we just loved Thialand and it was sooo cheap.
Shopping - I was in heaven. Suits, boots and shoes all hand made. Cheap good quality t-shirts, bags and trainers. Specs,daily contacts and even colour contacts. I've even convinced hubbie that I've saved him a fortune and that's a first.
The people were lovely and the service was excellent everywhere we went.
Now to the serious bit - DVT. Unfortunately I spent the first week home being treated for DVT. Scans and running to the hospital for injections in the stomach for 7 days. Everything has settled now but precautions will have to be taken in future but it will not put me off travelling.
Will post a review soon on Hua Hin HIlton

Jack

oh dear Jack- what a terrible end to your holiday.
Glad we have another Thailand convert on our forum though! Are you going back to HH or trying somewhere else?

Hi Jack (sorry)

Glad you enjoyed Thailand, sorry to hear you had a DVT (I'm another who's had a DVT after a flight from the Far East pm me if you want to compare notes). Hasn't stopped me from returning to Thailand although any slight niggle in the leg causes you concern.