Where do you vacation when you live in paradise already? Home to gorgeous beaches, vibrant cities and lush rainforests, Thailand is world-renowned as a vacation destination, as famous for its natural beauty as for the kindness of its people; the country is known as the Land of Smiles for a reason. So where do Thai people vacation? The secret sits tucked along the western coast of the Gulf of Thailand, only 125 miles southwest of Bangkok: Hua Hin, alongside a slice of coastline nicknamed the Thai Riviera. Located in Prachuap Khiri Khan province, the city is situated in the northern Malay Peninsula, overlooking the Gulf of Thailand.

This scenic, laid-back idyll proves increasingly popular as a weekend getaway for Bangkok residents. Despite its relatively under-the-radar status among foreigners, the city is actually Thailand’s oldest coastal resort, established by kings Rama VI and VII as a seaside retreat, and the royal family continues to vacation here today, using Klai Kangwon Palace as a summer residence. Despite its regal past (and present), Hua Hin remains far more low-key than party capitals like Phuket. And though it’s far less crowded than other Thai cities, Hua Hin’s peak season begins in November, after the monsoon season from July to October concludes and European visitors descend upon the coast.

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© TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND

The charming city boasts a variety of must-see sights, including lively markets and white-sand beaches, of which Khao Takiab Beach (known as Monkey Mountain Beach) is particularly stunning. Hua Hin Night Market opens at 6 p.m. and hosts an array of local vendors selling crafts and local designs, and other popular spots include Cicada Market and Market Village. Though you’ll find less diversity in culinary and nightlife establishments than in other seaside Thai cities, Hua Hin also offers a selection of dining options perfect for entertaining and surprising clients (even when they’re on their own turf ).

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A scenic spot to both book a stay and entertain business guests is the beachfront boutique Aleenta Hua Hin Pranburi Resort & Spa, a Small Luxury Hotels of the World property and part of a Thai-owned collection of exquisite hotels across the country. Check out Aleenta Restaurant or The Aleenta Beach Cafe, which sources ingredients from the nearby organic garden. For a true showstopper, book a private dining experience on the beach featuring a three-course meal prepared by a private chef to enjoy alfresco beneath the stars and string lights. Another unique venue for outdoor dining: a picnic above Khao Kalok Hill (also known as Buddha Blessing Hill), enjoying sunset canapés amid the ancient temples and panoramic views of the city and Pran Buri Forest below.

Speaking of sacred spaces, visitors should wake early for the daily Buddhist blessing ceremony, presided over by local monks traversing the city every morning. For power lunches and business breakfasts, check out Centara Grand Railway Hotel, a historic landmark built in 1923. To taste contemporary royal Thai dining, consider Jaras at InterContinental Hua Hin, sourcing fresh seafood from local fishing villages and produce from nearby farmers. And for super-stylish clientele head to Praça, a trendy restaurant in The Standard Hua Hin. Mouthwatering cuisine at Praça is rivaled only by the views, overlooking the Gulf of Thailand with the chic Heritage House serving as a backdrop.

Even the most widely traveled executives may be surprised to discover this hidden gem for the first time. The easiest way for international visitors to reach Hua Hin from Bangkok is by car (via taxi or rental), as it sits just less than three hours from the city and Suvarnabhumi Airport. You can book the popular Hua Hin Cab service online in advance of your arrival. Access public transport options via minibus (running hourly and taking four to five hours), or for a more scenic option, book a train ride from Krung Thep Aphiwat station, which takes three to four hours.

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© TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND

Hua Hin Airport mainly services domestic flights from Chiang Mai, an enticing option for travelers looking to add the historic northern city to their itinerary. Once in Hua Hin, public transport is available via songthaews, converted pickup trucks which operate as local buses, and tuk-tuks — just negotiate the price beforehand. Addition- ally, travelers can download ride-hailing services such as Bolt or Grab (the latter popular across Southeast Asia). So while Hua Hin may be a bit more difficult to reach — as all the best places are — once you’ve arrived, it’s quite easy to explore this undiscovered paradise on the other side of the world.