HAT YAI (Hadyai), the transport axis of the region, is a concrete mess, but attracts a million tourists a year, nearly all of them Malaysians who nip across the border to shop and “get laid”. It’s only 50km from the border with Malaysia, and you can get to many destinations from here by direct share taxis, air-con minibuses and trains.

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
Sex trade and shows are a staple in this country, so if you’re offended by pimps coming up to you, then Thailand is not a country to visit. But it has so much more to offer in way of the smiles and friendliness that these people exude.

Shopping and Bargains:
Bargains are aplenty and haggling is very accepted. If you like something, try to point on another before settling for that something you like at a bargain price and always use a calculator to bargain with them. Cost-wise, it’s a bang-for-your-buck destination. Visit the only Hatyai market located in downtown for cheap clothes and leather goods.

Language:
Sawadee Khab” (Hello, Welcome) if you’re male. “Sawadee Kha” if you’re female.
“Kop Khun Khab” (Thank You) for male. “Kop Khun Kha” for female.

Favourite Spots:
I enjoyed swimming in Samila Beach that located about 20km away from Hatyai downtown.
Book a ‘Tuk Tuk’ for half a day and go to Songkhla. A nice getaway.

Massage:
This is the main attraction for this small town. I have been to so many other countries and i must say Hatyai has the cheapest massage in the world. A traditional Thai massage will cost you as low as Baht 100 per hour or Baht 200 for two hours.

Accommodation:
There are many reasonably priced hotels in Hatyai. Price range can be from as low as Baht 600 to Baht 2,000. It is recommended to stay in the town area which is more convenient.

Hangouts:
You must visit KISS CHANNEL PUB. They have friendly staffs, good live music…and attractive dancers. The best pub to hangout at night in Hatyai

Best Way to Get Around:
Tuk Tuk
Best way is by the local taxi called a “Tuk Tuk” (pronounced Took Took). It’s cheap and they zip you around anywhere in the city. Just hail any of these colourful motorized tricycles and hop on board. Normal price for a ride is Baht 20. Beware of ‘overpriced’ Tuk Tuk.

Walking
Walking is another form of getting to know your bearings. A grid of 4 by 6 streets doesn’t seem much, but there’s always something around the corner that will catch your eye and you would have lost your bearings for a moment…or two.