while thailand's gay scene is more prominently featured in cities like bangkok and phuket, songkhla, including hat yai, offers a unique charm for lgbtq+ travelers.
its relaxed atmosphere and picturesque streets provide a refreshing alternative for couples and solo adventurers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. although "travel proud" certified accommodations may not yet be widespread in hat yai, several establishments stand out for their professionalism and welcoming attitude.
recommended stays and hangouts in hat yai
monkham village hat yai is a stylish 4-star hotel that provides a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing stay.
its modern design and convenient amenities make it a solid base for exploring the city. another option, especially if you're passing through, is the hat yai signature hotel, located near the airport. it boasts facilities such as a gym and swimming pool, catering to travelers seeking convenience and relaxation.
while i didn't personally stay there, a friend spoke highly of their experience.
for a more intimate gathering, consider visiting elysium, a unique venue that provides a space to connect with both gay travelers and locals. elysium is open from friday to sunday, 6 pm to 11 pm, and sometimes on thursday, although it's advisable to verify the hours, particularly around holidays.
keep in mind that the sauna is closed monday to wednesday, so adjust your itinerary accordingly, particularly given its early closing time of 11 pm.
when looking for vibrant nightlife, this nightclub is known for its energetic ambiance, boasting talented djs and captivating laser light displays.
for a more sophisticated start to your evening, west side saloon hat yai on suphasan rangsan road is a trendy bar renowned for its innovative cocktails and relaxed vibe, attracting a mix of locals and tourists.
other places to explore
hat yai provides diverse nightlife options that are sure to create lasting memories.
another fantastic option is chailay coffee, a beachfront café located in songkhla old town, not far from hat yai. it has a welcoming atmosphere and is ideal for relaxing by the sea, sipping on a drink, and watching the sunset.
exploring hat yai's attractions
hat yai seamlessly blends lifestyle, cuisine, and attractions.
the city's vibrant markets are a must-visit, offering an array of street food, shopping opportunities, and souvenirs.
kim yong market is particularly popular. for a more contemporary shopping experience, central festival mall, the largest shopping center in southern thailand, is located nearby, offering a wide range of international and local brands.
the greenway night market is also within walking distance of many hotels.
one of the most memorable experiences i had in hat yai was visiting the hat yai khlong hae floating market. operating on saturday and sunday evenings, the floating market showcases a variety of food and drink vendors both on boats and along the riverbank.
the sunset atmosphere is captivating, and i highly recommend taking a stroll to the nearby replica of the shwedagon pagoda, reminiscent of the famous temple in yangon, myanmar.
this area is especially lively during festivals, providing an unforgettable atmosphere and an abundance of delicious food to sample.
connecting with the gay community online
for those looking to connect with other gay individuals in songkhla, online platforms can be a valuable resource.
while i cannot directly endorse or provide links to specific dating apps or websites, i can mention that many platforms exist which cater to the lgbtq+ community globally and often allow users to filter by location.
these platforms can be used to find local events, connect with other travelers, or simply meet new people in the area.
songkhla beyond hat yai: exploring the region
while hat yai is a bustling city with plenty to offer, it's also worth exploring the broader songkhla region.
songkhla city itself, with its charming old town and beautiful beaches, provides a more relaxed and historical experience.
songkhla city highlights
- songkhla old town: wander through the streets lined with sino-portuguese architecture, browse the local shops, and sample the regional cuisine.
- samila beach: relax on the beach, take a dip in the sea, and snap a photo with the iconic mermaid statue.
- tang kuan hill: take a cable car or climb the stairs to the top of tang kuan hill for panoramic views of songkhla city and the surrounding coastline.
tips for lgbtq+ travelers in songkhla
while thailand is generally a welcoming country for lgbtq+ travelers, it's always important to be mindful of local customs and traditions.
public displays of affection may not be as widely accepted as in western countries, so it's advisable to exercise discretion.
it's also a good idea to research the local laws and regulations regarding same-sex relationships and lgbtq+ rights to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
conclusion: experiencing gay songkhla
songkhla, including hat yai, offers a unique and rewarding experience for lgbtq+ travelers.
while it may not have the same level of visibility as other gay destinations in thailand, its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and welcoming locals make it a worthwhile destination.
from exploring the bustling markets and vibrant nightlife of hat yai to discovering the historical charm and stunning beaches of songkhla city, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
by being mindful of local customs and utilizing online resources to connect with the community, you can create unforgettable memories in this hidden gem of southern thailand.
planning your trip: practical information
getting to songkhla
hat yai international airport (hdy) is the main airport serving the songkhla region.
it offers domestic flights from bangkok and other major cities in thailand, as well as international flights from neighboring countries.
you can also reach hat yai by train or bus from bangkok and other parts of thailand.
getting around songkhla
within hat yai, you can get around by taxi, tuk-tuk, or songthaew (shared taxi).
renting a motorbike is also a popular option for exploring the city and surrounding areas.
to travel between hat yai and songkhla city, you can take a bus or songthaew.
accommodation options
hat yai offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels.
songkhla city also has a selection of hotels and resorts to choose from.
consider booking your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
currency and language
the currency in thailand is the thai baht (thb). english is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basic thai phrases can be helpful.
visa requirements
most nationalities can enter thailand visa-free for a certain period of time.
check the visa requirements for your country before traveling.
important things to pack
- lightweight and breathable clothing
- sunscreen and insect repellent
- comfortable shoes for walking
- a universal adapter (if needed)
- a phrasebook or translation app
by preparing well for your trip, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience in songkhla.
embracing the local culture
songkhla and hat yai offer a blend of thai and southern thai culture.
immersing yourself in the local traditions and customs can greatly enhance your travel experience.
food adventures
southern thai cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of spices. be sure to try local specialties like massaman curry, gaeng tai pla (a spicy fish curry), and roti canai.
explore the street food stalls and local restaurants to sample a variety of authentic dishes.
temple etiquette
when visiting temples, dress respectfully by covering your shoulders and knees.
remove your shoes before entering the temple buildings.
avoid pointing your feet at buddha images or monks.
respectful behavior
thais generally value politeness and respect. be mindful of your behavior in public and avoid raising your voice or engaging in confrontational behavior.
learning a few basic thai phrases like "sawasdee" (hello) and "khop khun" (thank you) can go a long way in showing your appreciation for the local culture.
staying safe and healthy
songkhla is generally a safe place to travel, but it's always important to take precautions to protect your safety and health.
general safety tips
- be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night.
- keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics.
- be cautious when dealing with strangers and avoid accepting drinks or food from them.
- report any suspicious activity to the police.
health precautions
- drink bottled water and avoid drinking tap water.
- eat at reputable restaurants and avoid eating street food from vendors with questionable hygiene practices.
- protect yourself from mosquito bites by using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants, especially at night.
- consult your doctor about necessary vaccinations before traveling.
emergency contacts
- police: 191
- ambulance: 1669
- tourist police: 1155
by following these safety and health tips, you can minimize your risk and enjoy a worry-free trip to songkhla.
creating lasting memories
songkhla offers a wealth of opportunities to create lasting memories.
whether you're exploring ancient temples, relaxing on pristine beaches, or indulging in delicious cuisine, there's something to captivate your senses and leave you feeling enriched.
take the time to connect with the local culture, embrace the warm hospitality of the people, and allow yourself to be swept away by the beauty and charm of this southern thai gem.
your journey to songkhla will undoubtedly be an unforgettable adventure.