Travel Guide: Americans Exploring Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a city in Southern Thailand, close to the Malaysian border. It is a popular tourist destination for Singaporeans, Indonesians, and Malaysians, as well as Thais from neighbouring provinces. The city is known for its night markets, street food, beaches, and waterfalls. It is also a hub for business, education, transportation, and shopping. Hat Yai has a population of around 157,000, with over 400,000 people in the wider district.

Americans can travel to Hat Yai, but it is recommended that they follow their country's travel advice and remain vigilant. While there is little evidence of foreigners being targeted in the region, there is a risk of being caught in the middle of an incident. Hat Yai has experienced bombings and random shootings, with major incidents occurring from time to time.

Is it safe for Americans to travel to Hat Yai?

Hat Yai, a city in Southern Thailand, is a popular tourist destination for Malaysians and Singaporeans. It is known for its vibrant culture, stunning views, and exciting nightlife. However, in recent years, it has also gained a reputation for being a somewhat dangerous place to visit due to incidents of bombings and random shootings. So, is it safe for Americans to travel to Hat Yai?

Safety Concerns in Hat Yai

The safety of Americans travelling to Hat Yai depends on a few factors, including the time of their visit, the duration of their stay, and their reason for travelling. It is important to note that the US government usually issues travel advisories for its citizens, and these should be consulted before planning a trip to Hat Yai. Additionally, it is recommended to call the US embassy in Thailand beforehand as they can provide the most up-to-date and accurate safety advice.

Hat Yai has experienced several major incidents, including bombings and random shootings, in recent years. While these incidents have targeted government officials and police, foreigners have also been caught in the middle and affected. For example, in 2006, a bombing in Hat Yai killed four people, including a Canadian teacher, and wounded an American citizen who left the country immediately after the incident. More recently, in 2012, a bomb exploded in the underground car park of the Lee Gardens Hotel, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries. These incidents highlight the potential risks and consequences of being caught in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Safety Precautions for Americans in Hat Yai

When it comes to safety in Hat Yai, there are a few precautions that Americans can take. Firstly, it is recommended to avoid the three southern provinces of Yala, Pattani, and Narattiwat, as they have a higher frequency of random shootings, bombings, and beheadings, especially targeting non-Muslim government workers. Secondly, it is important to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in busy areas like night markets. Keep a close eye on your belongings and consider using taxis or ride-hailing apps like Grab for transportation. Finally, practice regular safety precautions, such as avoiding going out late at night, and always stay informed about the latest safety updates and news.

In conclusion, while Hat Yai offers a unique and authentic Thai experience with its vibrant culture, stunning views, and exciting nightlife, it is important to carefully consider the potential safety risks before planning a trip. Americans can take precautions and follow safety advice from official sources to mitigate these risks. However, as with any travel destination, there are no guarantees, and the decision to travel to Hat Yai depends on individual comfort levels and risk assessment.

How to get to Hat Yai from the airport

Hat Yai International Airport is located in the Songkhla Province of Southern Thailand. The airport is about 14km from the town centre. There are several ways to get to Hat Yai from the airport.

Taxi or Private Transfer

The quickest and most comfortable way to travel from Hat Yai Airport to the town centre is by taxi or private transfer. This option provides a door-to-door service and takes around 25 minutes in light traffic. The standard fee is €6.50 (THB 250) for up to 4 passengers.

Shared Minibus

The Hat Yai Airport minibus is a shared shuttle service that runs between the airport and Hat Yai bus terminal. The bus makes several stops along the way, including at Kim Yong Market and Central Festival, before terminating at the bus station. The journey takes around 40 minutes in light traffic. A one-way trip costs €2.60 (THB 100) per person, and the minibus departs every 60 minutes.

Blue Songthaew

You can also take a blue songthaew from the airport to the bus station for around €0.80 (THB 30) per person. These are shared local vans that depart when full and can be found at the back of the airport car park.

Car Rental

If you prefer more privacy, speed, and safety, car rental services are available on the first floor of the airport.

Airport Shuttle

For added convenience and speed, you can book the airport shuttle service in advance.

Where to stay in Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a big city, so there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from. The best area to stay in Hat Yai depends on your travel plans. If you want to try local food and street markets, stay in the city centre or close to the street markets. If you need to catch an early morning flight, stay near the airport. If you're travelling by train, you can stay close to the Hat Yai railway station, which is also very central.

• Centara Hotel Hat Yai: A 4-star hotel located in the heart of Hat Yai, with prices ranging from $40 to $80 per night for a double room.
• PM Residence Hotel: A super cute and clean property with spacious and bright rooms, located near the Asean Night Market and Central Festival Shopping Mall. Prices start at $20 per night for a double room.
• Red Planet Hat Yai: Located in central Hat Yai, near the train station, restaurants, and massage centres. Offers spacious rooms, friendly staff, and convenient Tuk-Tuk service.
• Hatyai Signature Hotel: A modern design hotel with spacious rooms and a shuttle service, located between the airport and the city.
• Monkham Village Hatyai: A highly-rated hotel with a pool and Thai breakfast, located within walking distance of Lee Gardens.
• New Season Square Hotel: Located near the night market and several restaurants, with basement and open-air parking available.
• Buri Sriphu & Convention Centre: A centrally located hotel with spacious, clean rooms, a large pool, and a buffet breakfast.
• Lee Gardens Plaza Hotel: A nice, centrally located hotel, but some reviewers mention that the furnishings are old and the rooms could use renovation.

What to eat in Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a city in Southern Thailand with a diverse population of Thais, Chinese and Muslims, resulting in an interesting restaurant scene. Here is a list of what to eat when visiting Hat Yai:

Bak Kut Teh

A dish with Chinese and Malaysian origins, served with your choice of meat and offal, a clove of garlic, and sides of rice and paa thong ko, a deep-fried dough with a sweet coconut jam dip. The broth is dark and rich, evocative of the dish's Hokkien name, which translates to "meat bone tea". You can find this dish at Koh Tii Ocha, a Chinese food court-style restaurant in the centre of town.

Khao Yam

A type of rice "salad" popular in Southern Thailand. The rice is cooked with dork anchan, a type of flower that gives it a purplish-grey hue, and is topped with finely sliced herbs, flowers, fruit, ground dried shrimp, thin rice noodles, and a thin fish-based sauce. One of the best versions in Hat Yai is served by a Muslim woman near the train station.

Roti

A crispy pancake served southern-style with a curry dipping sauce. You can find this tasty Muslim breakfast at a string of Muslim restaurants along Th Niyomrat, including Tamrab Muslim.

Hat Yai Fried Chicken

Chicken, marinated in dried spices before being deep-fried, is a specialty of Hat Yai, with a reputation across Thailand. Many locals claim that Daycha, a restaurant with a couple of branches in town, serves the best version. You can order it with sticky rice and a plate of som tam or chopped and served over yellow rice.

Night Market Food

Hat Yai has two pretty good night markets, one located north of the town centre and another slightly closer to the centre. At these markets, you can find local specialities such as deep-fried chicken, southern-style curry, khanom jeen, and local seafood.

Other recommended restaurants in Hat Yai include Sor Hueng, a khao tom place serving mostly Chinese and Chinese/Thai dishes; Chen Long Boat Noodle; Rim Rua Kratha Ron Restaurant; Kan Eng Restaurant; Nai Roo Restaurant; Khlonghae Seafood; and Dimsum Chabura hatyai.

What to do in Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a city in southern Thailand that offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. Here is a list of things to do when visiting:

Outdoor Activities:

• Visit the Hat Yai Municipal Park, a large park with a lake, gardens, and temples. Take a tram ride or a cable car ride for a panoramic view of the park.
• Explore the Khlong Hae Floating Market, a lively market where vendors sell local delicacies and handmade goods from boats.
• Discover the Ton Nga Chang Waterfall, a seven-tiered waterfall in the Ton Nga Chang Wildlife Sanctuary, offering stunning views and trekking opportunities.

Adventurous Activities:

Visit the Songkhla Zoo, home to a variety of animals, including tigers, elephants, and giraffes, with a water park for a full day of fun.

Things to do for Couples:

• Stroll through the Greenway Night Market, offering a wide range of street food and affordable shopping options.
• Enjoy a romantic evening at the Skylight Lounge & Bar, a rooftop bar at the Centara Hotel, offering panoramic views of Hat Yai.
• Visit Samila Beach, famous for its golden mermaid statue and stunning sunset views.

Things to do for Families:

• Explore the Magic Eye 3D Museum, an interactive museum with optical illusions and 3D art installations.
• Visit the Hatyai Deepsky Observation for Science and Astronomy, an educational attraction with telescopic viewing and programmes about astronomy.

Cultural Activities:

• Visit Wat Hat Yai Nai, a temple famous for its massive reclining Buddha statue, one of the largest in Thailand.
• Explore Songkhla Old Town, known for its well-preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture, street art, and local cuisine.
• Visit Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol, also known as the Stainless Steel Temple, a unique temple constructed from stainless steel.

Free Activities:

• Discover the street art around the city, especially near Lee Gardens Plaza Hotel, for a glimpse of local talent and culture.
• Visit the Hat Yai City Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region through exhibits on local history and traditional crafts.

Night Activities:

• Shop at the ASEAN Night Bazaar, a bustling market with a wide array of stalls selling clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and street food.
• Experience the vibrant nightlife on Thammanoonvithi Road, with a variety of pubs, restaurants, live music venues, and entertainment options.

Dining and Drinking:

• Enjoy Southern Thai cuisine at Kan Eng Restaurant, including dishes like curry crab and spicy shrimp paste.
• Try the best fried chicken in Hat Yai at Kai Tod Decha, served with a variety of sides and dipping sauces.
• Sample delicious dim sum at Chokdee Dim Sum, including steamed buns and shrimp dumplings.

Frequently asked questions