People of Hua Hin

Hua Hin Golf | People

The Thai people are one of the major attractions of a golfing holiday in this hauntingly beautiful country. They simply can't do enough for the visitor, and that includes those who have no expectation of a gratuity for services rendered.

It's part of their culture, it seems, and is based upon their religious beliefs. Predominantly Buddhist, they observe the tenets of their faith in all they do and practice common courtesies as a matter of habit; they are gentle in the extreme, graceful, welcoming, efficient and polite -- hence the ubiquitous bow with hands in prayer mode below the chin. It serves as a greeting, a thank you and a farewell.

Coupled with a miniscule crime rate -- transgressors receive short shrift here -- their attitudes enhance a most delightful destination where golf plays an increasingly important role in the national economy. Those readers seeking a holiday with a mix of history, culture, elegance and unfailing interest will find that Thailand fills the bill admirably. The golf is a glorious bonus.

IN terms of development the game of golf is a relatively recent phenomenon in Thailand. Golf has been played in some quarters there for the better part of a century but of the 230 or so clubs now extant most are associated with resorts and have emerged only in the past decade as the golf-tourism industry gained a foothold.