Hat Yai, the largest city of Thailand's Songkhla Province, and its business centre, used to be like a second home for many Ipohites. There were plenty of shuttle vans and buses making weekly trips from Ipoh in the 1980s. I don't find such services these days, probably because Hat Yai is no longer popular among ... continue reading »

Although Ipoh is famous for its dim sum, at ฿18 per basket/plate (x 0.128 to convert to Ringgit) of dim sum at Kho Nang Tae Tiam near Hat Yai city centre, it is a steal. So, when in Hat Yai, of course one must eat dim sum by hook or by crook! Kho Nang Tae Tiam ... continue reading »

While Sakura Budget Hotel may not be in the heart of Hat Yai city centre, it is still situated in a convenient spot between the city centre of Lee Gardens where the action is, and Asean Night Bazaar at Asean Plaza. It is a ฿20 tuk-tuk ride away, either direction. If you prefer to walk, it ... continue reading »

If you would love to visit ASEAN Trade Market for some street shopping but it's Monday evening and the bazaar is closed, Lee Gardens Hatyai Walking Street is a good alternative. Of course, there are dissimilarities and many of the apparel sold here are Chinese products, not Thai. Well, something is better than nothing. At least, ... continue reading »

Whether you are taking the bus, train or plane to Hat Yai, Wat Hat Yai Nai should either be the first or last attraction to visit during your stay. This is because it is located along the road to the bus terminal, train station and Hat Yai International Airport. If you do not have your own ... continue reading »

Although Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol is touted to be one of Hat Yai's top tourist attractions, don't be surprised when locals give you a blank stare when you ask them for directions to this Stainless Steel Temple. Hat Yai, and in general Thailand, has way too many wats and temples, after all. Located on the ... continue reading »

Hat Yai Municipal Park is a large recreational park-cum-tourist attraction to the east of Hat Yai City in Thailand. Within the park itself, there are many points of interest. How much time would one need to enjoy the entire park? Half a day, I would say, but quite impossible to cover the whole area in just ... continue reading »