We take a half-hour drive from Hua Hin to visit a typical Thai fruit plantation that grows bananas, pineapples, mangoes, coconuts and papayas. From here we board a small motor-boat for an hour’s leisurely ride down the river and witness the constantly changing scenery. We then take a fascinating walk on an elevated platform over a mangrove swamp. Our guide will point out interesting details about the flora and fauna.

We head to Khao Wang, a summer residence on the hillside built by King Mongkut (Rama IV) in the last century, followed by exploration of Khao Luang Cave which houses 170 Buddha statues. We then proceed to admire the Khmer architecture at Wat Prasrimahathat. Lunch is at a restaurant in Petchaburi before the return to your hotel.

We journey towards Ratchaburi province and stop en route at a sugar palm factory – a major crop harvested in this area. On arrival at Damnoen Saduak, we board a boat for a fascinating cruise through the canals to the market. On the way back to Petchaburi, we visit the impressive summer residence known as Khao Wang. A stop here will provide time to explore the palace and enjoy a fine vista of the town and the surrounding rice fields.

Two hours northwards from Hua Hin, we head to the famous Maeklong Market. This typical Thai market of exotic fruits and local produce is not so typical after all. It is situated aside the train tracks and when the trains approach, the market stall holders rapidly move their stalls back and hastily bring down their awnings. Once the train has passed, they reassemble their stalls and continue with their bartering. This is truly an amazing spectacle. Only about 20 minutes away is Samut Songkhram province where you will have dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll around the weekend market. At dusk we enjoy a canal boat ride on the river through the picturesque Amphawa Market as the sun sets.

A full-day excursion takes in the main highlights of Bangkok with a visit to the Grand Palace, including the renowned Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew. We also visit Wat Pho which contains the famous Reclining Buddha, followed by Wat Traimit with its huge Golden Buddha Statue. After lunch we head to MBK, the well-known department store which is packed with bargains, followed by the return to the hotel.

A one hour drive from Hua Hin through the pineapple and coconut plantations of Sam Roi Yod takes us to a typical Thai fishing village, followed by a boat ride to the beach below Phrayanakorn Cave. After lunch there will be time for leisure on the beach. Those not wishing to climb to the cave may spend more time on the beach.