File photo for reference only

 

Hat Yai has once more secured its spot among Asia’s top three best-value cities, as highlighted in Agoda’s mid-year 2025 travel report. This marks the second consecutive year for the city, located in Thailand’s Songkhla province, signalling a notable shift in the region’s tourism appeal.

 

Transformation from Transit to Tourist Hub

 

Traditionally, Hat Yai has been a mere transit point for travellers heading to Thailand’s southern border or nearby islands. However, it has evolved into a destination in its own right. This bustling city, the largest in southern Thailand, offers a captivating blend of Thai, Chinese, and Muslim cultures. Its dynamic cultural scene, affordable cuisine, and well-connected transport infrastructure – encompassing road, rail, and air links – contribute to its growing popularity.

 

A Favourite for Malaysian and Singaporean Tourists

 

Hat Yai has seen a rise in international arrivals, particularly from Malaysia and Singapore. The city attracts travellers seeking short, budget-friendly trips, with a focus on local culinary delights and shopping experiences. Hotels in Hat Yai average just US$36 per night, roughly 1,300–1,400 Thai Baht, making it one of the most affordable accommodation options among major tourist cities in Thailand and across Asia.

 

Culinary and Cultural Richness

 

The city is celebrated for its culinary diversity, offering delights from morning dim sum and southern-style spicy curries to traditional Muslim biryani. Vibrant markets like Kim Yong Market, Greenway Market, and the weekend walking streets provide authentic local experiences.

 

In addition to its food offerings, Hat Yai showcases its cultural tapestry through numerous significant landmarks, such as the Central Mosque of Songkhla, Wat Hat Yai Nai, and the Shrine of the Goddess Tubtim. These sites attract tourists interested in the area’s rich heritage and artistic traditions.

 

Promoting Sustainable Tourism

 

Hat Yai’s recurring recognition as a top-value destination aligns with the Thai government’s strategy to boost secondary cities as tourism hubs. This approach aims to decentralise tourism income, foster regional economic growth, and secure the long-term sustainability of Thailand’s tourism industry.

 

As Hat Yai continues to shine on the global stage, its success highlights the untapped potential of Thailand’s secondary cities, inviting travellers to explore beyond the country's well-trodden paths.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-07-22

 

 

On 7/22/2025 at 5:17 PM, snoop1130 said:

Traditionally, Hat Yai has been a mere transit point for travellers heading to Thailand’s southern border or nearby islands.

For westerners yes, but for Malaysians, Singaporeans and Indonesians it's been a destination in its own right for a long time. 

Hat Yai is ok. Nothing special. Phattalung is more interesting.

16 hours ago, Harrisfan said:

Hat Yai is ok. Nothing special. Phattalung is more interesting.

Curious, are you talking about Phatthalung the town or the province?

10 minutes ago, Stocky said:

Curious, are you talking about Phatthalung the town or the province?

Province. Most small towns are similar.

Then it's not a like comparison, Hat Yai is a city (not a small town) whilst Songkhla is the province. I would contend that Hat Yai city is more interesting than Phatthalung town and Songkhla province offers considerably more than Phatthalung province. Not that I don't like Phatthalung province, it's just rather small and a little limited.

1 minute ago, Stocky said:

Then it's not a like comparison, Hat Yai is a city (not a small town) whilst Songkhla is the province. I would contend that Hat Yai city is more interesting than Phatthalung town and Songkhla province offers considerably more than Phatthalung province. Not that I don't like Phatthalung province, it's just rather small and a little limited.

Been to all 3. Songkhla town is the nicest. Province Phattalung is best. 

1 minute ago, Harrisfan said:

Been to all 3. Songkhla town is the nicest. Province Phattalung is best. 

Songkhla town isn't Songkhla province, but whatever.

Songkhla town and the old city part is great. Excellent food, nice beach with the locals going to the beach in the early evening. Lot to see in the area