The Pinoy Traveler

Ultimate Guide for Budget Traveler and Adventure Seeker

When people think about Thailand, the first destination that often comes to mind is Bangkok—the bustling capital filled with shopping malls,...

When people think about Thailand, the first destination that often comes to mind is Bangkok—the bustling capital filled with shopping malls, temples, and nightlife. But just a little over two hours away from Bangkok lies a more relaxed yet equally enchanting destination: Hua Hin.



Known for its pristine beaches, cultural attractions, food scene, and family-friendly activities, Hua Hin is the perfect escape for those who want to experience the best of Thailand without the chaos of big-city crowds. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back weekend getaway or a longer beach vacation, Hua Hin will surprise you with its mix of modern comforts and local charm.


Here are the top things to do in Hua Hin (plus some nearby attractions you shouldn’t miss).


1. Staycation in a Beachfront Hotel




If you’re visiting Hua Hin, the ultimate experience starts with a beachfront stay. Imagine waking up to ocean views, stepping right onto the sand, and enjoying a cocktail by the pool.


One of the best places to stay is Avani+ Hua Hin Resort. Offering a mix of Jacuzzi rooms, pool-access suites, and spacious villas, this resort is perfect for couples, families, and even solo travelers. You’ll also love the friendly staff, tropical gardens, and endless amenities that make your stay unforgettable. You can book a room via AGODA and use code ENJOYTRAVEL to get a discount. 


2. Taste Thai Wine at Monsoon Valley Vineyards




Yes, Thailand produces wine—and Hua Hin is home to the country’s most internationally awarded vineyard. At Monsoon Valley Vineyards, you can enjoy wine tasting while surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque scenery.


Apart from sipping wine, guests can explore the vineyard through mountain biking tours, elephant encounters, or leisurely walks. It’s a unique day trip that combines nature, culture, and culinary delight.


3. Discover Traditional Textiles at Khomapastr Cotton Factory




For culture and heritage lovers, a visit to Khomapastr Cotton Factory is a must. This historic textile house is famous for its hand-printed Thai cotton and silk, a craft that has been passed down through generations.


Visitors can even join workshops to learn traditional printing techniques and create personalized items like pillows, bags, and shirts—a perfect souvenir from Hua Hin.


4. Splash Around at Vana Nava Water Jungle




If you’re traveling with kids—or simply young at heart—head to Vana Nava Water Jungle, Hua Hin’s premier waterpark. With thrilling attractions like the Master Blaster, Abyss, and Superbowl, this park guarantees a fun-filled day.


Not into adrenaline rides? Don’t worry. The park also has lazy rivers, wave pools, and shaded areas where you can simply relax.


5. Sip Coffee & Explore Art at Hua Hin Artists Village (Baan Sillapin)




Looking for a creative escape? Hua Hin Artists Village, also called Baan Sillapin, is the town’s artistic hub. With traditional and contemporary artworks, workshops, and a cozy café, it’s the perfect spot to unwind.


Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea surrounded by paintings and sculptures, and don’t forget to check out their collection of souvenirs and art-inspired gifts.


6. Dine with a Sunset View at Baan Dum Oceanfront Seafood




No beach trip is complete without fresh seafood. At Baan Dum, you can savor authentic Thai dishes and seafood specialties while enjoying breathtaking views of the Gulf of Thailand.


The restaurant’s open-air setting makes it an ideal spot for a sunset dinner. With live music in the background, it’s one of the most romantic and memorable dining experiences in Hua Hin.


7. Experience Nightlife at Cicada Market




If you love night markets, Hua Hin’s Cicada Market is a must-visit. Located in Khao Takiab Village, this lively market is more than just food—it’s a mix of handcrafted goods, local art, live performances, and street eats.


It’s the perfect place to shop for unique souvenirs while soaking up Hua Hin’s lively evening vibe.


8. Relax and Recharge at Let’s Relax Spa




Traveling is fun, but it can also be tiring. Let’s Relax Spa is one of the most trusted spa brands in Thailand, known for its professional therapists and affordable treatments.


Indulge in a Thai massage, aromatherapy, or foot spa, and enjoy complimentary herbal tea and snacks afterward. It’s the best way to pamper yourself after a long day of exploring.


Nearby Attractions Around Hua Hin


If you have extra time, explore the nearby provinces for more unique experiences.


9. Create Your Own Herbal Inhaler at Play La Ploen – The Journey




Located in Kaeng Krachan District, Phetchaburi, Play La Ploen offers hands-on workshops where you can create your own herbal inhalers and eye masks. The place also has accommodations, gardens, and restaurants serving authentic Thai dishes—making it a fun and educational stopover.


10. Learn to Cook  Thai Desserts at Chommanard Thai Dessert




Foodies shouldn’t miss Chommanard Thai Dessert, a family-run café known for its traditional Thai sweets made with coconut cream and sugar palm.


Apart from tasting, you can join workshops to learn how to cook your own Thai desserts. Plus, the cozy ambiance makes it a great spot to relax or buy edible souvenirs for friends back home.


Hua Hin may not be as flashy as Bangkok or as wild as Phuket, but that’s what makes it so special. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation, culture, food, and adventure. From sipping wine in the hills and learning traditional crafts to splashing in water parks and enjoying fresh seafood by the sea—Hua Hin has something for every traveler.

Planning a trip to South Korea ? Here’s the perfect 5D4N Seoul itinerary covering must-visit attractions, cultural experiences, shopping, fo...

Planning a trip to South Korea? Here’s the perfect 5D4N Seoul itinerary covering must-visit attractions, cultural experiences, shopping, food, and day trips including the DMZ Tour and Nami Island + Alpaca World + Railbike tour with Klook.




Whether it’s your first time in Seoul or a return visit, this guide has everything you need: where to stay, what to eat, where to shop, transportation tips, when to visit, and exclusive discount codes.


Must-Visit Destinations in Seoul


Gyeongbokgung Palace – Seoul’s grandest palace, best with a hanbok rental.

Bukchon Hanok Village & Insadong – traditional hanok houses, tea cafés, and art shops.

Myeongdong – street food and K-beauty shopping haven.

Hongdae – youth culture, nightlife, and trendy cafés.

N Seoul Tower (Namsan) – iconic city views.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) – futuristic architecture & night market.

Han River (Banpo Bridge) – cycling, picnics, and the rainbow fountain show.

DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) – a glimpse into Korean history and North Korea views.

Nami Island + Alpaca World + Railbike – a fun countryside escape from Seoul.




5 Days 4 Nights Seoul Itinerary


Day 1: Arrival + Seoul Highlights


Arrive at Incheon International Airport (ICN).

Take AREX Express Train (43 mins) or Airport Limousine Bus to Seoul.

Check-in at hotel in Myeongdong / Hongdae / Insadong.

Explore Myeongdong Street (street food + shopping).

Visit N Seoul Tower at night for panoramic views.


Day 2: DMZ Tour + Itaewon


Morning: Join Klook DMZ Tour (Imjingak Park, Dora Observatory, Dorasan Station, 3rd Tunnel).

Afternoon: Back to Seoul – relax at Itaewon, visit War Memorial of Korea.

Evening: Explore Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) + late-night shopping.

You can book HERE and use the code PINOYTRAVELKLOOK to get a discount. 


Day 3: Nami Island + Alpaca World + Railbike Tour


Full-day trip via Klook Tour:

Nami Island – iconic tree-lined paths.

Gangchon Railbike – pedal scenic train tracks.

Alpaca World – walk and feed fluffy alpacas.

Evening: Back to Seoul → dinner + nightlife in Hongdae.

You can book HERE and use the code PINOYTRAVELKLOOK to get a discount. 


Day 4: Palaces, Markets & Han River


Morning: Gyeongbokgung Palace (wear hanbok), Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong.

Afternoon: Street food at Gwangjang Market, shop at Namdaemun Market.

Evening: Picnic or bike ride at Han River (Banpo) + Rainbow Fountain.


Day 5: Last-Minute Seoul + Departure


Shopping at Ewha University Street or Lotte World Tower & Mall.

Buy souvenirs/snacks (Market O brownies, choco pies, seaweed).

Check out + transfer to Incheon Airport.


💡 Use KLOOL Code: PINOYTRAVELKLOOK for discounts on Seoul hotels, activities, esim and airport transfers.  You can book HERE




Where to Stay in Seoul


Myeongdong – Best for first-timers (shopping & food). I recommend to stay at The Stay  Hotel Myeongdong.

Hongdae – Trendy, youthful, budget-friendly.

Dongdaemun – Less Crowd.  I recommend to stay at Seoul N Hotel Dongdaemun

Gangnam – Upscale, modern Seoul.

💡 Use Agoda Code: ENJOYTRAVEL for discounts on Seoul hotels. You can book HERE



Where to Eat in Seoul


Myeongdong Street Food – Tteokbokki, hotteok, tornado potato, lobster with cheese.

Gwangjang Market – Bindaetteok (mung bean pancake), mayak gimbap, soondae.

Itaewon – International dining & cafés.

Hongdae – Korean fried chicken, noraebang karaoke, unique cafés.

Insadong – Traditional Korean tea houses & hanjeongsik (set meals).



Where to Shop in Seoul


Myeongdong – Cosmetics, fashion, skincare.

Dongdaemun – Fashion malls & wholesale night market.

Namdaemun Market – Souvenirs, local goods.

Hongdae – Indie fashion & youth brands.

Lotte World Tower & COEX Mall – luxury shopping.



Getting Around Seoul


From Incheon Airport:

AREX Express Train (43 mins, ~₩9,500).

Airport Limousine Bus (~₩15,000).

Private Airport Transfer (book via Klook with code PINOYTRAVELKLOOK).


Transport in Seoul:

T-money card → tap-to-pay for subways, buses, and convenience stores.

Korea Tour Card → similar but with tourist discounts.

KORAIL Pass (if planning intercity train trips, not needed for Seoul-only).




Best Time to Visit Seoul


Spring (March – May): Cherry blossoms, mild weather.

Autumn (September – November): Crisp air, colorful fall foliage.

Winter (December – February): Snow, ski resorts, festive lights.

Summer (June – August): Hot & humid, but fun summer festivals.



Top Things to Know About Seoul


Language: Korean, but English is common in tourist areas.

Currency: South Korean Won (₩). Most shops accept cards, but keep small cash for markets.

Connectivity: Book eSIM / WiFi Egg on Klook (Code: PINOYTRAVELKLOOK).

Etiquette: Bow when greeting, respect elders, no loud talking on subways.

Tipping: Not required in Korea.

Apps to download: Naver / KakaoMap (navigation), Kakao T (taxis), Papago (translation).



Travel Discounts for Seoul 2025


Klook Promo Code: Use PINOYTRAVELKLOOK for discounts on:

Hotels

Tours & activities (DMZ, Nami Island + Alpaca + Railbike, etc.)

eSIM & WiFi

Airport transfers


Agoda Promo Code: Use ENJOYTRAVEL to save on hotels in Seoul.

As someone who travels often, time is everything to me. I stick to my itinerary to make the most of every trip—both for my budget and my exp...

As someone who travels often, time is everything to me. I stick to my itinerary to make the most of every trip—both for my budget and my experiences. That’s why I’m so glad I got my hands on the Xiaomi Smart Band 10. It’s not just a watch—it’s a stylish, smart, and fitness-ready companion that keeps me on track, whether I’m catching a flight or hitting the court for a badminton game.



The first thing I noticed is its gorgeous 1.72″ AMOLED display—clear, bright, and smooth, even under the sun. I love how it blends sleek design with comfort.




When I’m not traveling, I’m usually playing badminton, and this watch really steps up my game. With over 150 workout modes (and even auto-detection for common activities), it tracks everything from heart rate to VO₂ max, training load, and recovery time. Even swimming is covered with real-time heart rate monitoring and high lap count accuracy—plus, it’s water-resistant.



But it’s not all about workouts. The sleep tracking feature is a game-changer. It doesn’t just tell me how long I slept—it measures sleep efficiency, distribution, and even gives me tips to improve, thanks to a 21-day professional sleep improvement program.



On the smart side, it connects easily with my Xiaomi devices, gives me real-time notifications, and even lets me reply quickly right from my wrist. The battery life is impressive too—up to 21 days on a single charge (and still 9 days with Always-on Display).



For just Php 2,499 (or Php 2,999 for the Ceramic edition during the promo), it’s a solid buy if you want a mix of style, fitness tracking, and smart features without breaking the bank.


For me, the Xiaomi Smart Band 10 isn’t just a gadget—it’s part of my travel and active lifestyle, keeping me on time, on track, and in style.


Nestled along the coast of Selangor , Kuala Selangor in Malaysia is a charming destination rich in nature, culture, and history. Whether you...

Nestled along the coast of Selangor, Kuala Selangor in Malaysia is a charming destination rich in nature, culture, and history. Whether you're a local traveler or an international tourist seeking an off-the-beaten-path getaway, Kuala Selangor offers a relaxing escape with exciting activities and unique attractions. From scenic river cruises to fascinating historical landmarks, here's your complete guide to exploring Kuala Selangor.



Top Places to Visit in Kuala Selangor


1. Selangor Fruit Valley

A lush tropical escape just outside the town, Selangor Fruit Valley is a paradise for fruit lovers and agro-tourism enthusiasts. Enjoy tram rides through orchards, taste local fruits like, Durian, rambutan and jackfruit, and learn about sustainable farming.


Selangor Fruit Valley


2. Kuala Selangor Historical Museum

Dive into the local culture at this museum that showcases artifacts, traditional costumes, and the rich heritage of the Selangor region.


Kuala Selangor Historical Museum


3. Kota Melawati (Melawati Hill)

This historical hilltop fortress offers sweeping views and is famous for its Silvered Leaf Monkeys. Be sure to bring some fruit for a close encounter with these gentle creatures.


Silvered Leaf Monkeys


4. Kuala Selangor Lighthouse (Altingsburg Lighthouse)

Located at the top of Kota Melawati, this 100-year-old lighthouse is a photographer’s dream, especially during sunset.


Kuala Selangor Lighthouse


5. Museum of Traditional Games

The museum showcases around 40+ traditional Malaysian games, drawing from nostalgic childhood pastimes passed down through generations. The exhibits are interactive—visitors can play many of the games in a small play zone within the museum, blending culture with hands‑on fun. 


Museum of Traditional Games


6. Ramadas Pottery

Experience traditional pottery-making in action. Visitors can try their hand at shaping clay and even purchase handmade souvenirs.


Ramadas Pottery


7. Selangor River – Fireflies Watching

As night falls, take a boat ride along the Selangor River to witness one of nature’s most magical sights — thousands of fireflies lighting up the mangrove trees. Kampung Kuantan is a popular starting point for this unforgettable experience.


Fireflies Watching in Selangor River


8. Terminal Sekinchan (With Airplane)

This quirky roadside attraction features a decommissioned airplane, creating a fun photo op and a rest stop with food and local crafts.


Terminal Sekinchan


9. Paddy Gallery

Located in Sekinchan, just a short drive away, this gallery offers panoramic views of rice paddies and educational exhibits on paddy farming.


Paddy Gallery


10. Nazbell Cottage & Garden

Located in Sungai Besar, Sabak Bernam, Nazbell Cottage & Garden is a thematic countryside homestay nestled amid lush paddy fields. Great for families and couples seeking tranquility.


Nazbell Cottage & Garden


11. Wisma Masri – Shopping

For a quick shopping fix, Wisma Masri offers local snacks, breads, and souvenirs in the heart of town.



12. Sky Mirror

This natural phenomenon only appears a few times a month during low tide. Book a boat tour to this reflective sandbank, perfect for Instagram-worthy mirror shots.


Sky Mirror - photo from Carrie C.


Where to Stay in Selangor


Mardhiyyah Hotel & Suites

Located in nearby Shah Alam but worth the stay for its modern comforts and excellent service. Ideal if you’re also planning to explore more of Selangor.


Mardhiyyah Hotel & Suites


De Palma Resort Selangor

This family-friendly resort is right in Kuala Selangor, offering a relaxing environment surrounded by nature with comfortable chalets and a swimming pool.


De Palma Resort Selangor


Best Places to Eat in Kuala Selangor


River View Seafood Village Restaurant

Fresh seafood served right by the river. Don’t miss the chili crab and butter prawns! It's a perfect place to witness the one of the best sunsets in Selangor


River View Seafood Village Restaurant


Restoran Rahmaniyah

A local favorite known for hearty Malay dishes and warm hospitality. Perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. Tet Tarik is a must buy! 


Restoran Rahmaniyah


Muara Steamboat & Grill

A great option for group dining. Choose from a wide variety of fresh meats and seafood to grill or cook in a flavorful broth. If you love unlimited seafood, this place is must visit.


Muara Steamboat & Grill


Laman Tebu Aidil

Set among sugarcane fields, this café offers fresh sugarcane juice and local delicacies. It’s the perfect pit stop after exploring the countryside. It's also an Instagrammable spot in Sekinchan.


Laman Tebu Aidil


How to Get to Kuala Selangor


By Car: Kuala Selangor is about 1.5 hours from Kuala Lumpur via LATAR Expressway or Federal Route 5. It's the most convenient and scenic way to travel.


By Bus: You can take a bus from KL’s Puduraya or Terminal Bersepadu Selatan to Kuala Selangor. It’s a slower option but budget-friendly.


By Tour: Several local tour operators offer day trips and packages to Kuala Selangor, especially for firefly watching and Sky Mirror visits.


Top Things to Do in Kuala Selangor


Feed Silvered Leaf Monkeys at Kota Melawati

Watch the fireflies dance on the Selangor River

Take a boat to the Sky Mirror for epic photos

Sample fresh seafood by the riverside

Explore historical sites and local museums

Ride a bike through rice paddies in Sekinchan

Try hands-on pottery at Ramadas Pottery

Take an educational tour in Selangor Fruit Valley


Kuala Selangor is one of Malaysia’s best-kept secrets — a place where natural beauty, history, and local charm come together. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, this coastal gem has something for everyone.



Join the Malaysia Photo Hunt 2025 


Capture your best photo or video between 1 June and 31 August 2025 using either a camera or smartphone, and stand a chance to win a share of RM400,000 in prizes!


To enter:

Share your photo or video on social media.

Use the hashtags #MPHUNT2025 and #VisitMalaysia2026.

Register and submit your entry at www.mphunt.tourism.gov.my.


Don’t miss out—show the world your view of Malaysia and be rewarded for your creativity!