Hat Yai

Hat Yai has plenty of attractions to offer visitors. One must-visit attraction is the Hat Yai Municipal Park, which features a large golden Buddha statue and offers stunning views of the city. Other popular attractions include the Hat Yai Cable Car, the Magic Eye 3D Museum, and the Songkhla Lake.

One unique activity to do in Hat Yai is to visit the Ton Nga Chang Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a herd of wild elephants. Visitors can take a guided tour to see the elephants up close in their natural habitat. Another unique activity is to visit the Hat Yai Ice Dome, which is a massive indoor ice park with ice sculptures and ice slides.

Hat Yai is known for its delicious street food. Some must-try local dishes include khao yam (a rice salad with herbs and vegetables), roti canai (a flaky Indian-style bread served with curry), and pad sak krot (stir-fried vegetables with shrimp or chicken). For dessert, try the famous roti saimai, which is a sweet crepe filled with candy floss.

There are many shopping options in Hat Yai. The Kim Yong Market is a great place to buy fresh produce, spices, and other local goods. The Central Festival Hat Yai is a modern shopping mall with a wide variety of stores and restaurants. For a unique shopping experience, visit the Greenway Night Market, which is open on weekends and features local vendors selling everything from clothing to crafts.

There are many affordable options for accommodations in Hat Yai. The Aloha Hatyai Hotel is a budget-friendly option with clean rooms and a great location. The Hansa JB Hotel Hat Yai is another affordable option with comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool. For backpackers, the Hatyai Backpackers Hostel is a great choice with dorm-style rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

For those looking for a luxurious stay in Hat Yai, there are many options available. The Centara Hotel Hat Yai is a 4-star hotel with elegant rooms, a rooftop pool, and a spa. The Buri Sriphu Boutique Hotel is another luxury option with beautiful rooms and a serene atmosphere. For a unique experience, try the Vanda Garden Resort, which features private villas with their own pools and gardens.

The best time to visit Hat Yai is between November and February, when the weather is cooler and drier. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. March to May is the hottest time of year, while June to October is the rainy season.

Hat Yai has a lively nightlife scene with many bars and clubs to choose from. The Red Planet Club is a popular nightclub with live music and a party atmosphere. The Sky Lounge is a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city. For a more laid-back experience, try the Funky Monkey Bar or the Blue Sky Bar.

There are many interesting day trip options from Hat Yai. One popular option is to visit the nearby city of Songkhla, which has a beautiful beach and a historical old town. Another option is to visit the Phra Buddha Mongkol Maharaj, which is a massive reclining Buddha statue located just outside of Hat Yai. The Wat Tham Khao Rup Chang temple is also worth a visit for its stunning views and peaceful atmosphere.

The best way to get around Hat Yai is by tuk-tuk or taxi. Tuk-tuks are a fun and affordable way to travel short distances, while taxis are better for longer trips or when traveling with a group. Motorbike taxis are also available and can be a convenient way to get around, but be sure to wear a helmet and negotiate the price before getting on.