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It’s time for Bangkok to give up the prize as the cheapest travel destination in Thailand. And not just for Bangkok, but for the entire Asian continent.
Travelers from all over the world flock to many amazing places in Asia to get the most for their travel money.
While there are some chic destinations on this side of the world (ahem, ahem…Singapore), Thailand breaks convention on all fronts, so it’s no surprise that it took the title of “cheapest destination” according to Agoda.
Perhaps surprising is where. Widely scattered and less well-known is the breathtaking region Hat Yai of Southern Thailand is the icing on the cake because it is not only affordable but also truly fascinating to explore.
Surprisingly one of Thailand’s hottest travel destinations
Not surprisingly, Thailand has once again broken tourism records this year.
What may confuse you, however, is the how.
Thailand is home to numerous iconic destinations, from bustling cities to postcard-pretty islands, but it’s the off-the-beaten-track destinations that are gaining increasing popularity.
Yes, places like Hat Yai. In fact, this city and the district of the same name have made it into the top 5 most visited destinations in Thailand and play a big role in the new record-breaking tourism numbers.
But why is this relatively unknown side of Thailand experiencing a boom?
A Thai Two-Fer: Discover this multicultural hidden gem
Visiting Hat Yai is like hitting the 2-for-1 jackpot.
Nestled in Songkhla Province near Malaysia, visitors get the best of both worlds in one place.
Although Hat Yai is located away from other major tourist destinations, it is surprisingly easy to reach and explore.
Here travelers can find connecting flights to places like Bangkok, Phuket and Singapore.
In fact, a trip from the USA may only require one transfer, eliminating the fear of numerous stopovers.
Upon landing, tourists will quickly notice that there is no lack of diversity here.
A large part of the population are devout Muslims, which is reflected in notable sites such as Masjid Songkhla (known as Taj Mahal in Thailand‘) even more tempting for a visit.
Better yet, “border towns” may not always have the best reputation, but in Asia things are quite different.
Benefit from the opportunity to easily navigate multiple cultures, whether on the Thai or Malaysian side of the tracks.
Speaking of rails, a more fun way to cross the border in both directions is by train.
Travelers can board a so-called local commuter train or switch to the “Special Express” for a faster and more comfortable ride. (If you would like to book tickets online, you can do so here).
Immerse yourself in the phenomenal food offering
There is often no better way to get to know a particular place better than to enjoy the culinary delights of the region.
And the best part: Here you can log out of your bank account and enjoy your trip worry-free, because the food couldn’t be cheaper!
Street food often has a dubious reputation, but if it’s hot on the grill, chances are you’re on the safe side.
Or in this case, steaming pots of noodles and rice are also a safe bet. Just listen to your gut feeling, otherwise your gut feeling can be a real spoilsport!
Street food is super cheap – it’s not uncommon to find local classics under $1 per mealaccording to TripAdvisor.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a proper trip to Thailand without strolling through the famous markets. Night markets are a way of life and one of the best ways to sample local delicacies.
There are also floating markets that are more like farmers markets, but where you can still grab fresh treats from vendors who set up their stalls on their boats.
Cheap hotels and free attractions
Agoda’s rankings are based primarily on hotel prices, but it’s not as if Hat Yai is ahead in other categories as well.
Even low-cost airlines like Scoot fly here.
According to Agoda’s data, the average nightly price for hotels here is around US$36. Considering that temple visits are practically free, you’re in for a real treat exploring Asia’s cheapest destination.
Temples are considered sacred sites, so an entrance fee is rarely or never charged.
Be sure to check out:
- Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawiharn (central location)
- Wat Hat Yai Chai Mongkol (reclining Buddha statue)
- Wat Hat Yai Nai (the largest in Hat Yai)
- Wat Chalong (probably the most Instagram-worthy)
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other company. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the companies mentioned in the post.
