Fell in love on my first trip to the South, P'Gun loves Songkhla

Fell in love on my first trip to the South, P'Gun loves Songkhla

If you have never visited southern Thailand, I, mr.hotsia, want to tell you straight that “Songkhla” is the province that made me fall in love from the very first step off the bus. The stories, the atmosphere, and the flavors here have a unique charm. It was my first trip to the South, but it felt like a second home immediately.

Songkhla is not just about beautiful beaches or seas; it also offers the warm local lifestyle full of blended cultures, including fresh seafood that anyone visiting must indulge in. I am a big fan of the seafood here, especially in Ranot, which is not far from Songkhla city. If you watch the videoCooking in Ranot, Ranot, Songkhlayou will see fresh sea fish turned into delicious dishes like deep-fried goatfish or stir-fried spicy sea catfish. These dishes are so delightful that you have to give them a thumbs up.

On the day I strolled through Kim Yong Market in Hat Yai, a famous market in this area, I triedTurnip Cake at Kim Yong Market, Hat Yaiwhich was fragrant and uniquely flavored. I also enjoyed watching the lively buying and selling atmosphere. This market is not just a shopping place but a cultural meeting point that helped me understand Songkhla even more.

The charm of Songkhla that you must experience yourself

What I love most about Songkhla is the diversity of lifestyles and harmonious living. I enjoy visiting local markets like Kim Yong Market and the old market in Songkhla city. Here, you see people from morning till evening—vendors and customers—coming for daily necessities. It feels like experiencing the real life of southern people without any embellishment.

Also, there are must-try dishes I recommend such asChanthaburi-style Pad Thai, a specialty of Songkhla at the Walking Street near the Clock Towerwhich P'Gun says is so delicious he had to order it multiple times. Plus, walking the evening walking street is full of fun and the unique southern street market vibe.

Ranot, a paradise for seafood lovers

Speaking of seafood, Songkhla is well known for it, especially Ranot. I had the chance to see how several seafood dishes are made myself, such asDeep-fried GoatfishandStir-fried Spicy Sea Catfishwhich are local signature recipes with perfectly balanced bold flavors—from the spicy curry paste to the fresh sweetness of fish caught nearby.

Also, simple dishes likeRanot Crab Fried Riceare highlights that impressed me. Fresh, large crabs stir-fried with fragrant rice make meals here unforgettable memories.

Connecting the deliciousness of Songkhla with Hat Yai

Not far from Songkhla is Hat Yai city, which mr.hotsia has shared inTraveling the 3 Southern Border Provinces 2/15: Satisfying Eats, Ouan Bak Kut Teh, Hat YaiandTraveling the 3 Southern Border Provinces 1/15: Eating Pork Tail Noodles at Yinkit, Hat YaiThis city is also a hub of delicious food and diverse cultures. It’s perfect for those who love heavy eating and want to try authentic southern specialties.

Travel between Songkhla and Hat Yai is very convenient. I recommend setting aside time to enjoy the delicious food of both cities together. I guarantee you will be full and satisfied.

Summary of impressions from mr.hotsia

If you ask what made me fall in love with “Songkhla,” the answer is the sincerity of the locals, the simple yet story-filled lifestyle, and the fresh, delicious food that makes me want to return many times. Besides the beautiful sea, Songkhla is a city that makes me feel warm like home.

On my first trip to the South, I never expected to fall in love with this province so much. I believe many who visit Songkhla will feel the same way, just like mr.hotsia does now.

If you want to know what the real South is like, don’t forget to stop by Songkhla. I promise you won’t be disappointed!