Hi guys

Thinking about doing this. Am concerned about safety obviously especially as I am travelling with my family. I lived in Hat Yai and Pattani more than a decade ago, and things on the ground were always better that they appeared to be to those in BKK.

But reports on the ground are appriciated.

Thinking of flying to Narathiwat from BKK and then getting some sort of taxi down to the islands. Any ideas?

Many thanks in advance!

Hi Samran

I used to live in Narathiwat and never heard of any attacks on taxis or vans as probably all of the drivers are Muslim. I still pass through there and never feel in danger.

There's usually some vans at the airport so it should be pretty easy to arrange to get to the border (Sungai Kolok) and from there a taxi (40 Ringgit = 400 Baht) to a hotel in Kota Bharu. Some may even take you all the way to KB, I don't know.

Most hotels can arrange the taxi and boat tickets as well.

For a family I'd recommend the Flora Hotel as it's right in the centre of town and very clean. The staff are lovely and breakfast is included in the price.

I hope this helps and PM if you need any other tips.

All the best

Schondie

Thanks so much for your reply. Still looking at options all over the gulf!