From Krabi to Hua Hin

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A very open and Japanese inspired style room - with a very hard bed. The bathroom was accomodating, with bath and shower, gowns, and slippers. And the usual air-conditioning, TV, mini-bar (free bottled water everyday), and electronic in-room safe.

The facilities included a small gym, tennis courts, and squash courts. We rented racquets and played a round of squash. I guess the courts weren''t used too often as someone actually started to film us playing.

We also received massage discounts upon checking in, which we took advantage of. Two hours of wondering whether the tiny Thai masseuse was trying to dismember me or tickle me silly. It was certainly refreshing after a hard squash match the day before.

We dined at the hotel''s restuarant. Enjoying some typical Thai preset menus. The Tom Yam Goong could''ve been better.

On the same level as the gym and squash/tennis courts was a recreational area. Where one could play pool, backgammon and a range of other board games.

Otherwise, you could lounge about the child friendly, no diving poolside.

Upon entry, one has myriad sights to see. We decided on the Tham Phraya Nakon cave. We parked the car and were promptly informed that the only way to get there was by boat--at a price, of course. Fortunately, the brochure stated otherwise. Our hike began up and around a small hill--on a hot and humid day. It was a pebbly and rock-ridden hike up the hill, which wasn't a highlight, but the hike afforded a great view of the ocean and beach below. Our descent was rewarded with an almost deserted beach--white sand, lots of small conch-shaped shells, and bluey-green water.

We ventured further towards the cave, following the signs past camping huts. The path led further into a forested area, which got warmer and more humid. The climax of the hike was seeing notices of local monkeys that shouldn't be fed, i.e. don't brandish your candy bars, you may be relieved of it. This was also when the giant mosquitoes showed themselves. I say "giant" because one bite and you're scratching for days, and you'll end up with one rather large swollen spot. Plus, they were persistent--not easily brushed off, more like batted off.

A combination of fatigue, irritation, and dislike for bugs meant some of us ended up back on the beach, while others ventured on. The "steps" leading up to the cave were quite steep and far apart. The cave itself, I was told, was a sunken cave, with a temple of sorts inside.

The beach was pleasant enough and the walk back short. We drove back to the hotel afterwards. There are other things to see and do in the park, so don't dismiss it from my brief experience.