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Phatthalung: The Serene Jewel of Thailand
As a National Geographic journalist, I had the privilege of visiting one of the lesser-known cities of Thailand: Phatthalung. The scenic beauty of the city and its serene ambiance left me in awe. Located in southern Thailand, Phatthalung is famous for its limestone cliffs, lakes, and waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
The city is well-planned and charming. The night market, located in the heart of the city, is a bustling hub of activity where locals and tourists gather every evening to enjoy delicious street food, shop for souvenirs, and listen to traditional Thai music. While I found the city to be peaceful and serene, there are a few downsides, like a lack of English speaking locals and the absence of public transport.
The good news, however, is that the cost of living in Phatthalung is extremely affordable. A day’s worth of expenses, including accommodation, food, and local travel, would not amount to more than US$30.
With twenty popular points of interest in Phatthalung, travelers will have a full itinerary. Here are the top twenty places to visit in Phatthalung:
1. Khao Pu-Khao Ya National Park
2. Thale Noi Waterfowl Reserve
3. Wat Khuha Sawan
4. Wat Kaeo Phichit
5. Emerald Pool
6. Huai Yang Waterfall
7. Bhumisiri Mangrove Garden
8. Ton Nga Chang Waterfall
9. Morakot Cave
10. Lake Songkhla
11. Khao Chaison Hot Spring
12. Manora Waterfall
13. Tang Kuan Hill
14. Bo Nam Ron Bamboo Rafting
15. Cha Muang Temple
16. Phatthalung Night Market
17. Namtok Khao Chai Son
18. Thale Sap Songkhla
19. Tham Khao Rup Chang
20. Suan Somdet Phra Srinagarindra Park
For foodies, Phatthalung is a heaven on earth. Here is a list of the top twenty street foods and their prices:
1. Pad Thai (US$1.50)
2. Mango Sticky Rice (US$1.50)
3. Som Tam (Spicy Salad) (US$1.00)
4. Grilled Chicken (US$1.50)
5. Fried Rice with Chicken (US$1.00)
6. Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup) (US$1.50)
7. Khanom Jeen (Rice Noodle Curry) (US$1.50)
8. Gai Tod (Fried Chicken) (US$1.00)
9. Khao Mok Gai (Chicken Biryani) (US$2.00)
10. Khao Kha Moo (Pork Leg with Rice) (US$2.00)
11. Kor Moo Yang (Grilled Pork) (US$1.50)
12. Moo Bing (Pork Satay) (US$1.00)
13. Gaeng Keow Wan Gai (Green Curry with Chicken) (US$1.50)
14. Kao Soi (Curry Noodle Soup) (US$1.50)
15. Khao Yam (Mixed Rice Salad) (US$2.00)
16. Khao Pad Tom Yum (Tom Yum Fried Rice) (US$1.50)
17. Pad Krapow Moo Sap (Basil and Pork Stir-Fry) (US$1.00)
18. Khao Pad Sapparod (Pineapple Fried Rice) (US$1.50)
19. Khao Tom Gai (Rice Soup with Chicken) (US$1.00)
20. Pad See Ew (Stir-Fried Noodles) (US$1.00)
For accommodation, there are a variety of options available. Here are the top ten hotels and Airbnb listings, with prices in US dollars per night:
Hotels:
1. Hoon Rukya Homestay – US$14, 4.2/5 rating on booking.com
2. NB Hotel Phatthalung – US$22, 4.2/5 rating on booking.com
3. A Cadee Hotel – US$28, 4.1/5 rating on booking.com
4. Kanthima Resort – US$29, 4.0/5 rating on booking.com
5. Mina Resort – US$34, 4.0/5 rating on booking.com
6. 99 Residence Songkhla – US$34, 4.2/5 rating on booking.com
7. Ingtara Resort – US$38, 4.5/5 rating on booking.com
8. Chic 48 Hotel – US$42, 4.5/5 rating on booking.com
9. U-Sa Family Hotel – US$43, 4.3/5 rating on booking.com
10. Sripattha Hotel – US$45, 4.3/5 rating on booking.com
Airbnb:
1. Quiet apartment near the city – US$18, 5.0/5 rating
2. Cozy Condo Unit in Phatthalung City Center- US$20, 4.8/5 rating
3. Housing House with a large lawn – US$25, 4.9/5 rating
4. Phatthalung Natural Bungalow…3 – US$28, 4.9/5 rating
5. Koon Tour House – US$30, 4.8/5 rating
6. Phatthalung Nature Stay 2 – US$32, 4.8/5 rating
7. Madam Suk Bungalow – US$35, 4.9/5 rating
8. Pangrum Homestay – US$40, 5.0/5 rating
9. Baanmairathu Homestay – US$45, 5.0/5 rating
10. Suan Ban Phatthalung – US$50, 5.0/5 rating
In conclusion, Phatthalung is a hidden gem in Thailand that is perfect for those who wish to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. With its scenic beauty, delicious food, and affordable prices, Phatthalung should be on every traveler’s itinerary. On that note, I give this city an admirable rating of nine out of ten stars.
So, pack your bags and come explore the serene beauty of Phatthalung!
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