While some hotels have kid-friendly facilities as an afterthought, Novotel Hua Hin Cha Am Beach Resort and Spa takes providing fun for little guests seriously. They aren't kidding around with the introduction of Siam Adventure Club, which affords kids (and kids at heart) plenty of activities to enjoy throughout the day.
First Impression
You'll be greeted at the lobby by two elephant mascots -- Elfie and Eloise -- as well as rangers in safari outfits who will make you feel welcomed and help you get your fun on. This is the second Siam Adventure Club, though, as the first one is up and running at Novotel Phuket Surin Beach Resort.
Novotel Hua Hin Cha Am's Siam Adventure Club highlights various outdoor activities at the swimming pool, recently renovated Kid's World, Movie World, Wow Cow ice cream shop, The Toy & Candy Company and The Arcade Galaxy Room. You can practically schedule your whole day around these facilities.
Fun for the Fam
If I were a kid, I would be happily left to my own devices at the colourful Kid's World (and probably never leave) near the swimming pool. This is where kids can enjoy snooker, free popsicles, PS4 video games, coin-op games, ball pit and more, while a bouncing castle and trampoline are just steps away. As it gets hotter during the day, stop by Wow Cow for creamy ice creams available in 30 flavours from familiar (Thai tea, peanut butter) to quirky (unicorn cream cake). Definitely get a scope in a waffle cone with rainbow sprinkles atop for your IG. The Toy & Candy Company may be modest in size but do visit it anyway just so you'll be engulfed in the sweet smell of sugary goodies. You can drop by Galaxy Room for arcade games any time of the day (B20 per game) or go to the club's desk for a game of Uno or Connect Four or to inquire about Hua Hin excursions.
The biggest pleasant surprise about Siam Adventure Club is the Movie Club. It's basically a mini-cinema where kid-friendly flicks and blockbusters are screened. Their five-movie-a-day line-up is pretty impressive. I'm talking Thor: Ragnarok, Black Panther and The Secret Life of Pets. You can get cosy on a bean bag and enjoy a film with a popcorn (B30) in hand here or opt for once-a-day Movie Night on the lawn at 6.30pm. The property goes extra length for children by providing a kid's corner in some of its F&B outlets and even in the spa.
Adults, no worries. If you want me time, you have plenty of activities to enjoy, as well and the schedule runs from 8am until 5pm. You can keep fit with a bike ride the first thing in the morning, a water aerobics before noon, and a water polo or a foam party in the afternoon. Of course, you can always burn serious calories at In Balance Gym any time of the day as it opens 24/7. Then you can get a much-earned pampering and bliss out at the serene In Balance Spa.
There are seven choices of accommodation to choose from, two of which are designed for a family of four, while the poshest choice is the Penthouse, which accommodates up to four adults and two children. Staying at Executive Room and Executive Suite entitles you to access to Executive Lounge, which, of course, comes with special perks such as all-day refreshment and two hours of sundowner-and-canape session.
F&B wise, Gravity Sky Bar is a must-visit if you want some IG moments. This is where you come for the sundowners and stay for the stunning sunset sky. Horizon Cafe is abuzz with breakfast service, which begins at 6.30am. Serious foodies will definitely dig Champion Sports Bar and Grill for its succulent steaks, big burgers and Mexican dishes. For good ol' Thai dishes, head for Ocean's Restaurant. There are ongoing promotions at these F&B outlets throughout the week to keep things interesting for guests. While there are already plenty to enjoy on site, the resort facilitates going out (if you don't drive) with a round-trip shuttle service between the hotel and Hua Hin and Cha Am Night Market (B100 per person per trip, B50 for child).
Final Verdict
My pleasant stay at Novotel Hua Hin Cha Am isn't without bumps. The elevators respond slowly and are insufficient for the number of guests but the property is carrying out renovations and improvements. From talking with other guests and my own experience, the shower system is a bit hyper-active, rendering room temperature water warm. If you prefer a spanking brand new property, this place isn't for you. All in all, Novotel Hua Hin Cha Am provides good hospitality and a solid day, especially for families who like to keep active while having fun. It's offering various packages, including three-night stay for the price of two nights until Jun 30.
Novotel Hua Hin Cha Am Beach Resort & Spa, 854/2 Burirom Road, Cha Am Beachfront, Phetchaburi / www.novotelhuahin.com, 032-708-300.
