Readme before you journey
Songkhla-Hat Yai: Relaxing Stays, Chill Excursions, and Breathtaking Views
Songkhla province currently has two airports: one in Mueang Songkhla district, which is a naval airbase with no commercial flights, and another in Hat Yai district. Therefore, if you want to travel to Songkhla by air, you must fly to Hat Yai. This trip focuses on exploring Hat Yai and Mueang Songkhla districts over three days and two nights (using a zero-baht flight promotion booked in advance). We will use Avis car rental services, a trusted choice for car rentals in Thailand. Avis provides new vehicles and excellent customer service and communication. Additionally, they offer a four-hour grace period for returning the car, unlike most rental companies that charge for an extra day if the car is returned late. (For example, if you rent a car for one day and pick it up at 9:00 AM, you must return it no later than 9:00 AM the next day.)
Itinerary: Exploring Hat Yai and Songkhla in 3 Days and 2 Nights
Day 1
11:00 AM - Pick up your Avis rental car at the airport.
12:00 PM - Pay respects to the Buddha and admire the beauty of the stainless steel pagoda.
1:00 PM - Cross over to Koh Yo and visit Wat Laem Pho to pay respects to the Buddha and marvel at the grandeur of the reclining Buddha statue.
1:30 PM - Lunch at Chorn Jum Moon Seafood Restaurant.
2:30 PM - Visit the "Phra Tan Jai" shrine and walk across the red bridge at Wat Kok Pi Yao.
3:00 PM – Pay respects and take photos at the ancient temple, Wat Tha Yoi.
4:00 PM - Departing Koh Yo and checking into Club Tree Hotel.
5:00 PM – Stroll along Chalatat Beach
6:00 PM - Purchase dinner and snacks at Chalatat Market.
Day 2
9:00 AM - Stroll through the Old Town Gate of Songkhla and Nang Ngam Road
12:00 PM - Pay homage to the stupa, enjoy the city and sea views of Khao Tang Kuan, and the Red Pavilion.
12:30 PM - Take a stroll and capture photos of the Mermaid Statue at Samila Beach.
2:00 PM – Take the cable car to the Big Buddha at Hat Yai Municipal Park
3:30 PM – Visit Space Bar for a relaxing evening.
4:00 PM - Check in at The Weenee Boutique Resort Hatyai.
6:00 PM - Enjoy the sunset at the Central Mosque of Songkhla.
7:00 PM – Dinner at a restaurant on the hill
8:30 PM - Stroll through the Lee Garden Night Market
Day 3
10:00 AM - Explore the Kim Yong Market for snacks and souvenirs.
12:00 PM - Enjoy a sweet and refreshing dessert at The Balcony.
1:00 PM - Visited another cafe with a great atmosphere, Foresto Cafe'.
3:00 PM - Return the rental car at the airport.
4:00 PM - Departure
Travel Log
Day 1
After checking in and printing our boarding passes to save time, we arrived at the airport early. With an hour to spare before boarding, we decided to grab a bite at the Magic Food Park food court in the airport.
This place offers great value for money, with a wide variety of food options. For example, this plate of grilled chicken with rice costs only 50 baht, which is very reasonable for an airport. I've eaten here many times and always find it to be a great choice.
11:00 AM - Pick up your rental car at the airport.
The journey from Don Mueang Airport takes approximately 1.5 hours. After a long nap, we arrived at Hat Yai Airport. Upon exiting, you will find the Avis counter on the right-hand side, easily identifiable by its bright red color. This is where we will pick up our rental car. If you have already booked through the website or call center (02-2511131-2, 02-2555300-4), simply present your driver's license and credit card for the security deposit. If you haven't booked in advance, you can still approach the counter and have the staff check for available vehicles. After a short wait, you will be escorted to the rental car outside the airport. The staff will conduct a pre-rental inspection for any existing scratches or dents. Once you have signed the documents and received a copy, you are free to embark on your road trip!
12:00 PM - Pay respects to the Buddha and admire the magnificent stainless steel pagoda.
The first destination of this trip is the "Stainless Steel Pagoda", also known as the Phra Maha That Chedi Traibhum Traimongkol, located on the top of Khao Kho Hong, behind PSU (PSU stands for Prince of Songkla University). Moo 8, Ban Nai Rai, Punnakan Road, Khao Kho Hong Subdistrict, Hat Yai District. Most pagodas in Thailand, from the Sukhothai period to the present, are made of brick and mortar. However, there are still a number of pagodas built with different materials, one of which is the "Stainless Steel Pagoda" in Hat Yai, which is said to be the first stainless steel pagoda in the world.
Visitors can walk around the pagoda, where there is a designated area for paying respects to the relics of the Buddha.
The stupa has circular entrances on all sides, leading to the central core, where Buddha statues are enshrined.
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The walls are adorned with portraits of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) and members of the royal family.
Upon reaching the central core, a spiral staircase provides access to the panoramic view at the top. The staircase is divided into separate sections for ascending and descending.
Below, a gentle breeze blows, providing a cool respite from the hot sun. However, upon ascending, the wind intensifies significantly, offering a refreshing coolness and panoramic views through the fence.
13:00 - Cross to Koh Yo, visit the temple and admire the grandeur of the reclining Buddha at Wat Laem Pho.
Then drive straight to Ko Yo, an island in the middle of Songkhla Lake. Once you cross the Tinsulanonda Bridge and reach the island, you will see the reclining Buddha statue, a large statue of the Buddha in the posture of nirvana, on your left. Find a way in and drive in to pay respects to the Buddha.
1:30 PM – Lunch at Chomchan Seafood Restaurant
Let's have lunch at Chomchan Seafood Restaurant. Since we're at the seaside, we naturally crave seafood. However, little did we know that seafood prices in Songkhla, especially Hat Yai, are quite high.
There are many seafood restaurants on Koh Yo. You can stop by any restaurant that is convenient for you. Almost all restaurants are located on the edge of the island, offering stunning views of Songkhla Lake.
Despite feeling very hungry, we only ordered enough food for two people, which turned out to be quite a lot. We ate until we were comfortably full, and the taste was good.
2:30 PM - Visit the "Phra Tan Jai" shrine and stroll across the Red Bridge at Wat Kok Pi Yao.
The next stop was Wat Khok Piak, where we paid respects to the "ทันใจ" Buddha statue enshrined in the octagonal building near the entrance. We parked inside and walked towards the old wooden bridge behind the abbot's residence.
Prior to our visit, we had seen pictures of the red wooden bridge stretching out into Songkhla Lake on Google Maps. However, there was little information available, only a few check-in photos from more than two years ago. We were curious to see it for ourselves, hoping that the bridge would still be sturdy and retain its vibrant red color.
Upon arrival, we were slightly confused about the layout. Without stopping by, it would be easy to miss the bridge entirely.
Unable to locate the Red Bridge, I inquired with a nearby novice monk and followed the path they indicated. The path was paved with cement and lined with walls adorned with sculptures.
Walk to the end of the path and turn right to find the red bridge. The bridge is currently in a state of disrepair, with some parts decaying and the paint faded. However, it is still structurally sound. If you choose to walk across, please do so with caution and take your time. With proper repairs, this spot could be truly beautiful.
3:00 PM – Pay respects to the Buddha and take photos at the ancient Wat Tha Yai.
Another temple on Koh Yo, Wat Tawayo, is an ancient temple with a classic feel. It features traditional Thai-style houses with hip roofs, some of which are over 200 years old. The roofs are made of Koh Yo terracotta tiles and old-style corrugated tiles.
The rear of Wat Tha Yoi is the location of Khao Phet or Khao Wihan, which has stairs for ascending and descending.
In addition, there are ancient sites and artifacts worthy of study and learning, such as ancient wells, ancient ponds, royal boathouses, stupas, beautiful bell towers, and traces of ancient ports, which were once the center of transportation for the people of Koh Yo.
For larger groups with ample time, consider a homestay on Koh Yo to experience the local fishing lifestyle. Traditional fishing methods, such as setting and lifting fishing traps, are prevalent around the island. During the evening, as the sun sets over the lake, the sight of numerous traps against the backdrop of the orange sky and water reflections creates a breathtaking spectacle, attracting many photographers. However, our visit coincided with a stormy week, resulting in intermittent rain and overcast skies, which was somewhat disappointing.
4:00 PM - Depart Koh Yo and check in to Club Tree Hotel.
After leaving Koh Yo, we checked into our first night's accommodation at the Club Tree Hotel on Thale Luang Road in Songkhla City. We found the accommodation by searching online and looking at the location on the map, along with photos of the atmosphere of the place. This place was the most appealing to us because the next morning we would start exploring the city before returning to Hat Yai, and some of the photos we saw looked beautiful. When we arrived at the actual location, we were not disappointed. It is a European modern style, with an emphasis on white and green colors, making it look refreshing, warm, and relaxing.
The hotel has a total of 76 rooms, which is a considerable number for a city hotel. It has been open for 3 years, but before that it was an apartment complex called Sun City. The hotel underwent a complete renovation about a year ago. The prices for each room type are as follows:
The lower floor features an indoor parking area. Upon parking, guests can enter the lobby, which boasts an elegant design reminiscent of a living room combined with a home library. The décor is cohesive and features a harmonious color scheme.
There is a comfortable seating area in a beautiful corner. This area is located in front of the elevator that leads to the accommodation building.
In addition to the beautiful and stylish seating, there are also free dispensers for cold drinking water and hot beverages such as coffee and cocoa. I really like this, not just because it's free, but because it shows that they care.
Upon check-in, guests will receive a key card and breakfast coupons, allowing them to access their room and enjoy a complimentary breakfast.
Our room for tonight is a Standard room with breakfast included. The room is decorated in shades of gray, brown, and white, creating a modern yet cozy atmosphere. It features a king-size bed (6ft) that is incredibly comfortable and makes you want to sink right in.
Amenities are fully equipped, including TV, refrigerator, electric kettle, cups, coffee cups, and hair dryer.
The bathroom features a separate wet and dry area, equipped with a water heater and toiletries.
Address: 165/8 Thanon Thale Luang, Bo Yang Subdistrict, Mueang Songkhla District, Songkhla Province 90000
Facebook: Club Tree Hotel
5:00 PM – Stroll along Chalatat Beach
After a short rest, we decided to go out for a light dinner. We intended to go to the Seven-Eleven, which was actually just a short walk to the left after exiting the hotel. However, driving out was inconvenient due to the difficulty of finding parking on this market street. Instead of just going to the Seven-Eleven, we continued driving until we reached a three-way intersection by the sea. Haha! We then drove along the coast and circled back to park and walk at the Chadalathatsan Pier. The cool breeze and fresh air were delightful. As this side faces northeast, we didn't see the sunset over the sea, but the atmosphere was still pleasant. There were many people sitting, picnicking, walking, and playing in the sea. Along the sidewalk, there were also people jogging and exercising.
6:00 PM – Purchase dinner and snacks at the Chala Tassana Market.
Returning to Thanon Talay Luang, in front of Wachira Nukul School, there are rows of shops selling food and drinks, stretching along the road for almost a kilometer. There is a wide variety of food available, mostly local dishes, all of which look delicious.
Many shops sell similar items, such as fried chicken, with various parts separated and fried. All shops offer an appealing appearance and affordable prices.
What is unusual for us is the "chicken curry rice". If you just listen to the name, you might think it's rice served with spicy chicken curry. But looking at the picture, it reminds me of the "Nasi Lemak" from Singapore, which I loved when I visited Singapore last year.
Nasi Lemak
Nasi lemak is a fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves, typically served with a variety of side dishes. These include:
- Fried chicken: Crispy and flavorful, often marinated in spices and herbs.
- Boiled or fried egg: A source of protein and richness.
- Roasted peanuts: Adding a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Fried small fish: Providing a salty and savory element.
- Cucumber: Offering a refreshing contrast with its cool and crisp texture.
- Sweet chili sauce: A vibrant condiment with a balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes.
The chicken rice and curry section offers steamed rice, sweet shrimp, small fried fish, cucumber, and two types of chili sauce: a spicy red chili paste and a sour tamarind sauce. It is served with chicken curry, which resembles a peanut-free chicken massaman curry. If you are worried about it being too rich, you can ask for additional tamarind sauce. We decided to try it with fried chicken (it reminded us of Singaporean food!) and also ordered a glass of iced milk grass jelly.
There are many shops and menus to choose from. Just a quick stop and my mouth is watering. I have to go back to my accommodation first.
Day 2
We got up early and got dressed to have breakfast at the hotel. Before eating, we walked around to see the different corners of the restaurant. It is a restaurant with a very good and beautiful atmosphere. People often like to pose for photos in different corners of this room. No matter where you take a picture, it will be beautiful.
The food line offers a variety of options, including rice, side dishes, rice porridge, sausages, ham, fried eggs, bread, deep-fried dough sticks, and more. The flavors are quite delicious.
A Culinary Delight: Deep-Fried Dough Sticks with Pandan Custard or Honey
One of our favorite treats is deep-fried dough sticks served with pandan custard. The combination is simply exquisite! Alternatively, they can also be enjoyed with honey.
9:00 AM – Stroll through the Old Town Gate of Songkhla + Nang Ngam Road
After a satisfying meal, we continued our walk to the Old City Gate of Songkhla and Nang Ngam Road, a historic district that retains its classic charm. The majority of the buildings are constructed of wood and a combination of wood and stucco in the Chino-Portuguese style (an architectural style that blends Eastern and Western influences).
The old town area will also have a tram running through it for tourists. While walking, I happened to see it, so I quickly raised my camera to aim. Some tourists waved at me ^^”
Another popular spot for photographs in Songkhla is a street art mural that vividly depicts local life.
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This street is lined with various eateries, including restaurants, old-fashioned coffee shops, dim sum restaurants, cafes, and dessert shops. However, the most captivating establishment was undoubtedly the **kaloji** stall run by two friendly uncles and aunts. Located directly opposite the mural, the stall had piqued my curiosity with its intriguing kaloji offerings. While I had heard of kaloji before, I had never had the opportunity to try it. This time, however, fate presented itself. As I stood observing the stall, locals who had gathered to purchase kaloji unanimously recommended it, praising its deliciousness. The aunt, who was diligently preparing the dessert, cut a piece of dough into a bite-sized portion, coated it with sugar and ground peanuts, and offered it to me. Her kindness touched me deeply. After taking a bite, I was instantly hooked and knew I had to purchase a cup. For only 20 baht, I savored the soft, chewy, and flavorful kaloji, its sweetness and nuttiness perfectly balanced. Had I not already indulged in a hearty breakfast at the hotel, I would have gladly gone back for another cup.
After about half an hour, the rain suddenly started to fall lightly, giving us just enough time to run to the car. As soon as we closed the car door, the raindrops grew larger and the rain became heavier. Wow, coming during a storm would be fun like this. I thought I would stop by the city pillar shrine again because it was not far away, but it was raining, so I slowed down the car and prayed from inside the car.
12:00 PM - Pay respects at the Phra That Stupa, enjoy panoramic views of the city and the sea from Khao Tang Kuan, and visit the Red Pavilion.
Let's continue to climb Khao Tang Kuan together. At first, I hesitated because I saw a lot of people queuing up, but I wanted to go up and see the panoramic view from above, so I stood there watching the monkeys for a while. The monkeys here are so good, they don't come down and wander around below.
The Two Ways to Reach the Top of Khao Tang Kuan
Khao Tang Kuan can be accessed in two ways: by elevator or by climbing the 145 steps on the opposite side. The stairs are located on the west side and lead to the Red Vihara Pavilion. While climbing the stairs offers a scenic route, most visitors opt for the elevator due to its convenience and speed.
The Khao Takiab Cable Car Station is open daily from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM. The fare is 30 baht for adults and 20 baht for children (under 120 cm tall).
Translation:
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The Phra That Chedi, a landmark of Songkhla, is located atop Khao Tang Kuan. Built during the Nakhon Si Thammarat Kingdom, it exhibits the architectural style of the Dvaravati period (approximately 2,000 feet above sea level). "It is believed to be an ancient stupa, but its origins remain unclear. In 1859, King Mongkut visited Songkhla, and in 1866, he granted 37 chang of royal funds to Chao Phraya Vichien Kiree (Men) for the renovation and expansion of the stupa. During this restoration, Chao Phraya Vichien Kiree (Men) constructed a residence at the base of the stupa and added a pavilion to the corner of the wall. As the Phra That Chedi is a revered symbol of Songkhla, it has undergone continuous restoration and maintenance. In 1996, His Majesty the King graciously bestowed a portion of the Buddha's relics and offerings to be enshrined at the Phra That Chedi, ensuring its continued veneration by the people of Songkhla."
There are also other interesting things, such as:
Red Temple Hall
The Red Vihara Hall was originally conceived by King Mongkut (Rama IV) as a royal pavilion, but construction was left unfinished. In 1889, King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) visited Songkhla during his tour of the Malay Peninsula and ascended Khao Tang Kuan to pay respects at the stupa. Inspired by the site, he ordered the completion of the Vihara Hall. In 1907, a naga staircase was constructed leading from the pavilion to the summit of the hill. The pavilion offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The interior of the Red Vihara Hall features a series of interconnected chambers of equal size and design. The rear chambers lead to the naga staircase ascending to Khao Tang Kuan and the Royal Stupa, while the front chambers provide access to the staircase descending to the foot of the hill.
Lighthouse
The lighthouse is a significant landmark in Hat Yai, constructed during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V). Construction began in 1896 under the supervision of Phraya Vichien Kiri (Chom), the governor of Songkhla province. Following the royal decree of King Chulalongkorn, the Department of the Navy was tasked with designing and adorning the lighthouse's lantern, while the base was constructed by the provincial commissioner. The location was chosen by Phraya Vichien Kiri and Phraya Chaloeyuthayothin. The lighthouse was completed in 1897.
Tang Kuan Hill Viewpoint
Translation:
From the peak of Khao Tang Kuan, one can enjoy panoramic views of Songkhla city. Seating is provided for visitors to admire the scenery. A bronze statue of Luang Pu Thuat stands in the center of the plaza, elevated on a platform. The observation deck in front of the main stupa offers expansive views of Songkhla, encompassing the cityscape, Songkhla Lake, and Samila Beach.
12:30 PM - Stroll and take photos at the Mermaid Statue, Samila Beach.
Continuing on to another must-visit spot in Songkhla, the iconic "Samila Beach" with its famous mermaid statue. Even under the scorching midday sun, a queue of people patiently waited to take photos with the mermaid. As for me, I zoomed in with my trusty lens, capturing the scene from afar.
2:00 PM - Take the cable car to the Big Buddha at Hat Yai Municipal Park.
After driving back to Hat Yai district from Songkhla city, we stopped at Hat Yai Public Park.
The "Cable Car" is a popular tourist attraction in Thailand. The cable car has two cabins that travel back and forth over a distance of 525 meters. The journey takes about 3 minutes and can accommodate up to 8 passengers at a time. The cable car is controlled by a computer system and is operated by experienced technicians. The cable car is also equipped with a safety system that controls the opening and closing of the doors and provides communication between the cabins in case of an emergency.
The Hat Yai Cable Car: A Journey of Faith and Scenic Beauty
The Hat Yai Cable Car offers a unique pilgrimage experience, transporting visitors from the bustling city center to the sacred peak of Khao Kho Hong. This journey begins at the majestic Phra Buddha Mongkol Maharaj statue and ascends to the revered Thao Maha Phrom shrine. As the cable car glides upwards, breathtaking views of Hat Yai unfold below, showcasing the city's vibrant landscape, the towering Guan Yin statue within the serene public park, and the lush natural surroundings. The gentle breeze that occasionally wafts through the car adds to the tranquility of the ascent.
Service Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
Entrance Fee: Thai nationals: Adults 100 baht, Children (height not exceeding 150 cm) 50 baht, Children in school/student uniforms and adults in civil servant uniforms 50 baht. Foreigners: 300 baht.
Getting There:
The Hat Yai Cable Car is located in Hat Yai Public Park. Upon entering the park, follow the signs to drive up Khao Kho Hong. You will first encounter a large white statue of Guan Yin, then continue driving until you reach the parking lot behind the Phra Phuttha Mongkhon Maha Ratcha (the large Buddha statue in the posture of forbidding relatives). From there, walk to the side of the Buddha statue and you will find the cable car station on your right.
The Great Monk of the Kingdom
The revered golden statue, often referred to as the "Buddha of Hat Yai" or "Phra Phuttha Mongkhon Maha Ratcha," stands as a testament to the unwavering faith of the Thai people and the international community. This colossal monument, the largest of its kind in southern Thailand, was meticulously crafted to commemorate the 72nd birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1999. The majestic statue, depicting the Buddha in the "Pacifying the Relatives" posture, soars to an impressive height of 19.90 meters. Renowned national artist Dr. Phinyo Suwannathirat masterfully designed this awe-inspiring masterpiece. On October 12, 1999, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej bestowed upon the statue the auspicious name "Phra Phuttha Mongkhon Maha Ratcha," signifying "the great auspiciousness." The esteemed Somdet Phra Yanasangworn, the Supreme Patriarch of Thailand, presided over the sacred gold-pouring ceremony on March 19, 2000. Subsequently, His Holiness Somdet Phra Thep Rattanarajsuda graced the ceremony of pouring the molten gold for the Buddha's crown on Thursday, August 10, 2000, at Khao Kho Hong in Hat Yai district.
Translation:
The King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) granted permission for the emblem of the 6th Cycle Birthday Anniversary Grand Celebration (December 5, 2009) to be placed at the base of the Phra Phuttha Mongkhon Maha Ratcha statue. Today, the Phra Phuttha Mongkhon Maha Ratcha still stands tall on Khao Kho Hong, facing the city of Hat Yai, protecting its citizens. It has become another important Buddha statue representing Hat Yai.
This location also offers stunning city views.
3:30 PM - Visit Space Bar for a relaxing evening.
Before checking into your accommodation, stop by this cafe for a refreshing drink and some delicious pastries. Sapce Bar is a cozy cafe that feels like home. The staff is friendly and welcoming, always greeting you with a smile. This warm atmosphere is a rare find.
Each corner of the shop exudes a sense of warmth and beauty, with a focus on white and brown colors, creating a visually pleasing and relaxing atmosphere. This makes it an ideal place to unwind and enjoy a moment of peace.
The shop is owned by Fah, Ann, and Jub. Today, I didn't meet all three of them, but I did meet a very talkative and friendly barista named Bee. If you come to this shop and can't decide what to eat or drink, talk to Bee. Sometimes when Bee comes up with new recipes, she might ask customers in the shop to help her taste them.
Feeling hot and tired, we were very thirsty. We ended up drinking a total of 5 beverages and 2 snacks. Two people, 5 drinks, haha! Each menu item was clearly made with care and had a delicious, rich flavor. Blue Espresso, Cappuccino, Butterbeer, Space Bar Summer, Hot Strawberry Milk, Chocolate Garden, and Spinach Pie.
Address: Wongwanich Road, Hat Yai Subdistrict, Hat Yai District, Songkhla 90110
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Facebook: Space Bar
4:00 PM – Check in to The Weenee Boutique Resort Hatyai
Translation:
The scorching sun left us with the scent of burnt skin and aching legs from all the walking, but it was fun! We then checked into our accommodation for the second night, The Weenee Boutique Resort Hatyai. This resort is a hidden gem, tucked away in the heart of Hat Yai district. Few people know about this beautiful and serene oasis, but we're here to give you a glimpse.
This accommodation has been open for 11 years, but it is not widely known. It has only recently been available for booking through online agencies such as Booking.com. As a result, most customers are friends, acquaintances, or those who have heard about it through word-of-mouth.
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The Weenee Boutique Resort Hatyai is a boutique-style resort surrounded by lush greenery, offering a cool and refreshing atmosphere. The buildings are constructed with exposed yellow concrete, creating a vibrant yet classic aesthetic. The resort boasts a spacious and well-organized parking area.
The spacious building boasts 40 Delux King rooms, all priced at 1,670 baht including breakfast. When booking through the website, you can choose between Pool View and Garden View. Regardless of the view, both options offer stunning scenery.
Upon check-in, guests will receive a room key and a unique breakfast coupon. Unlike typical breakfast coupons, this one allows guests to choose their preferred breakfast option, whether it be in-room or at the restaurant. Guests can select from a variety of options, including rice porridge, fried rice, or bread, among others. The completed coupon must be placed in the designated box outside the guest room before 10:00 PM.
The interior of the room maintains a boutique concept, featuring yellow and red painted walls, a blue concrete floor, and a balcony in each room. A king-size bed is adorned with vibrant batik fabrics. The room is thoughtfully divided into distinct areas, including a work desk, a dressing table, and a compact kitchenette equipped with a refrigerator, a hot water kettle, glasses, and a sink.
The bathroom features blue and white tiles, with stone and concrete walls. It is equipped with a water heater, shampoo, and shower gel.
The resort boasts a refreshing swimming pool with a built-in underwater jet system, providing guests with a delightful aquatic experience.
In addition, there is a fitness room equipped with a variety of exercise equipment.
And the brightly colored dining room
Address: 10 Phetkasem Road, Hat Yai Municipal District, 90110
Facebook: The Weenee Boutique Resort Hatyai
6:00 PM – Enjoy the sunset view at the Central Mosque of Songkhla
My sister has a friend from Hat Yai. They haven't seen each other for many years. While visiting Hat Yai, she had the opportunity to meet her friend. I took the opportunity to visit another sunset spot in Hat Yai, the Songkhla Central Mosque. The sky was cloudy and the wind was strong, creating ripples in the water. The weather wasn't ideal, but I had to visit this place while in Hat Yai. I really missed my tripod. If I had it, I could have taken much better pictures. However, the actual place is even more beautiful than the pictures I took. It is magnificent. If the sky is clear and the wind is calm, you will see the colors before sunset and the beautiful reflection in the water.
7:00 PM – Dinner at a restaurant on the hill.
My friend's friends and their family took me to dinner at a restaurant on a hill. It's located in the Hat Yai public park that we visited this afternoon. At first, when I heard "ร้านบนเขา," I thought it was a small restaurant on a hill. I didn't realize it was the name of the restaurant, "On the Hill." ^^
We arrived after dark. The storefront was adorned with colorful flags and numerous small lights, creating a beautiful sight.
The spacious restaurant offers a variety of seating options, including indoor areas with a roof and outdoor areas on both the upper and lower levels. Most people choose to sit on the upper level to enjoy the stunning view of Hat Yai's cityscape at night, illuminated by twinkling lights.
My sister's friend treated us to a delicious meal today. The table was full of flavorful dishes, perfect for both adults and children.
8:30 PM – Stroll through the Lee Garden Night Market
After a satisfying, or rather "overly full," meal, we took a stroll along the Lee Garden Night Market. Many locals in Hat Yai recommended visiting this area at night, as it is a vibrant and bustling hub with a wide variety of restaurants, dessert shops, foot massage parlors, and vendors selling various goods.
Large stores primarily sell bird's nest and shark's fin. When you come here, you must get the natural bird's nest, which has been sold for a long time. If you don't eat it here, you have to buy it and take it home. As for the price, it depends on the grade of the bird's nest, starting from hundreds to thousands.
Another popular item for sale at many shops is shrimp! Shrimp, shrimp, shrimp, everywhere! They come in all sizes, and at first glance, I thought they were grilled shrimp. However, they seem to be more like baked shrimp. As for the price… I could only look. It's very expensive because they are mainly targeting tourists. This is especially true now, as it's the school holidays in Malaysia, and many Malaysians are crossing the border to visit Hat Yai. My friend's sister told me that they sell out no matter the price. Business is booming!
Translation:
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There were also shops selling mangoes and durians, but I didn't check the prices. Even the price of shrimp was shocking.
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They then sat down at a bird's nest and tau huay shop, one of many small shops selling similar items.
We walked until we reached the last shop, which was run by an elderly couple.
We each ordered a bowl of tau huay, and wow, they were huge! They were packed with all sorts of ingredients. Tau huay is one of my favorite desserts, and even though I was already full, I was determined to finish it all. Haha!
Full of joy and contentment, we returned to our accommodation. The evening lights there were just as beautiful as the daytime.
Upon returning to the room and packing our belongings, I suddenly realized that my ID card, which I had placed in the pocket of the outfit I was wearing that day after checking in, was missing. Oh no! The first suspenseful incident began. I frantically searched every nook and cranny of my camera bag, the shopping bags, my sister's bag, and even the car, but to no avail. I tried to retrace my steps, and the last time I remembered seeing it was when I took my phone out of my outfit to take a picture of the tau huay. The card must have come out with it, and I put it back in, thinking that it might fall out. I then thought that if it did fall out, it might have happened in the car when I took out my phone to check the map, or it might have fallen at the tau huay shop. My sister and I searched the car and around it again, but we couldn't find it. We decided to go back to the tau huay shop. I remembered the way clearly. While we were walking, my sister asked around and talked to people, but I was still confident, thinking that we just needed to go to the shop first. Finally, when we arrived at the shop, as I was looking under the table where we had been sitting earlier, an aunt asked, "Are you looking for your ID card?" At that moment, it felt like I heard a voice from heaven. The aunt was my angel! The uncle and aunt at the shop came over to talk to us and handed me the card, saying that they had kept it for me, not knowing how to contact me, but thinking that I would come back looking for it. Wow... In the midst of bad luck, I always seem to find good luck. The uncle and aunt were so kind, and I was so happy I could cry.
Day 3
Waking up early, we went down to have breakfast. We chose to have it in the dining room because we wanted to enjoy the morning atmosphere. We walked down, admiring the view along the way, and sat down to enjoy our meal, taking in the sights around us.
Here are the two dishes I chose. As you can see, they are quite filling. I must say, they are also very delicious.
10:00 AM - Snack and souvenir shopping at Kim Yong Market.
Get up, shower, get dressed, and check out to head to your next destination: Kim Yong Market, a hub for souvenirs, snacks, fruits, and clothing.
The main reason for my visit was my craving for cashew nuts. I followed my sister's recommendation to a familiar shop, where her friend frequently purchases cashews to send home. The shop is called P'Kong's Shop, and I was excited to meet the lovely owner. It wasn't difficult to find, thankfully. ^^
There are many shops selling similar products with comparable quality. The main difference lies in the service. Choose the shop that you feel most comfortable with or that you are familiar with. Prices are generally the same, but you can negotiate if you buy in bulk. Be warned, even a single shop can easily cost you thousands of baht! ^^”
Suspenseful Story 2 Before arriving at the market, I remembered that I needed to purchase additional checked baggage weight for the flight, as I was sure we would be buying a lot of things. I needed to do this at least four hours before boarding, otherwise the price at the counter would be much higher. When I tried to do this through the website, as I had done before, I was unable to. So I called the call center, but when I spoke to the call center agent, they said, "Your return date has already passed." I was stunned and confused, wondering if I had booked the wrong date! I hung up and immediately checked the website again. It turned out that the system showed that I was departing and returning on the same day! I was panicking now. I slowly recalled that I had received a flight change notification from the airline earlier, so I had changed the travel time and confirmed it with the agent. In fact, I should have checked my email again to be sure, but because I trusted the airline and had never had to double-check anything, even after changing flights several times, I made a mistake this time. So I called again and talked to them two or three times until I was sure that I would get it right. It wasn't my fault. In the end, the airline admitted that it was the agent's fault (I understand that the call center records conversations, so I'm not sure how long they keep them, but if something like this happens, the airline will check the recordings). So I was lucky.
12:00 PM – Enjoy a sweet and refreshing dessert at The Balcony.
After shopping, there was still plenty of time, so we went to a cafe called The Balcony on Kanchanawanit Road. The shop is prominently located on the side of the road and has a spacious parking lot.
Modern country style, chic with a lawn and plenty of trees and flowers.
The airy interior design with high ceilings creates a sense of spaciousness and relaxation.
The Warmth of Hospitality: A Key Ingredient for Repeat Customers
The owner and staff were incredibly welcoming, radiating genuine warmth and smiles throughout our visit. This positive atmosphere is crucial, as even the most delicious food can be overshadowed by a negative ambiance. When greeted with such genuine hospitality, coupled with the delectable food and drinks, the desire to return becomes even stronger.
Every dish we tried was truly delicious, including the caramel macchiato, strawberry smoothie, pizza toast, chocolate brownie, and panna cotta.
Address: 141 Kanchanawanich Rd., Thwi Rat Alley, Koh Hong Subdistrict, Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province 90110
Opening Hours: 7:30 AM - 8:00 PM
Facebook: The Balcony
13:00 - Enter another cafe with a good atmosphere, Foresto Cafe'.
Let's stop by one more cafe, Foresto Cafe'. This modern loft-style cafe features a rectangular exposed concrete structure and is located on Si Phumwanat Road. It's a must-visit for anyone passing by.
Coffee lovers, this is the place for you! For those who prefer something other than coffee, there is a variety of other beverages and baked goods available.
Through conversations with the owner, it is evident that they are meticulous and pay close attention to detail, especially in the selection of coffee beans used for each menu item. The seating options cater to diverse preferences, offering both outdoor seating for those who enjoy the fresh air and indoor seating in a glass-enclosed room with cool air conditioning, providing distinct ambiences.
Every dish we tried was delicious! Booster, Black & white, okra pie, hot latte, carrot cake
Address: 2/2 Si Phuwanat Nai Rd., Khuan Lang Subdistrict, Hat Yai District, Songkhla 90110, Thailand.
Business Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM.
Facebook: Foresto Cafe'
Before heading to the airport, we stopped by my sister's friend's house, but we didn't get to see each other because she had taken her mother to the hospital. Instead, we met some of her relatives. Southern Thai people are incredibly friendly, aren't they? ^^ I also got a huge bag of mangoes, my favorite!
3:00 PM - Return the rental car at the airport.
Upon arrival at the airport, I contacted an Avis representative to arrange for the return of the rental car and keys. After a brief inspection, the process was completed. I would like to express my gratitude to Avis for providing a brand-new rental car and consistently excellent service.
4:00 PM – Departure
It's time to board the plane and head back. Goodbye, Hat Yai, Songkhla.
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Wednesday, February 26, 2025 4:02 PM
