Songkhla Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Songkhla.
Healthcare System
Thailand has a multi-tiered healthcare system. Public hospitals are affordable but can be crowded with long wait times. Private hospitals offer high-quality, internationally accredited care with English-speaking staff, similar to Western standards but at a fraction of the cost.
Hospitals
For tourists, private hospitals in Hat Yai are recommended: Bangkok Hospital Hat Yai and Hat Yai Hospital. In Songkhla city, Songklanagarind Hospital is a top-tier public option but can be very busy. For minor issues, clinics are available.
Pharmacies
Ubiquitous (e.g., Boots, Watsons, local pharmacies). Pharmacists can often advise on minor ailments. Many medications available over-the-counter that require prescriptions elsewhere. Always check expiry dates. Bring a sufficient supply of any prescription medications in their original containers.
Insurance
Not legally required but HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Insurance should cover hospitalization, outpatient treatment, and medical evacuation.
Healthcare Tips
- Carry a copy of your insurance policy and the emergency contact number with you.
- For minor ailments, visit a clinic or consult a pharmacy first before going to a hospital emergency room.
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Opportunistic theft from unattended bags on beaches, in markets, or from motorbike baskets. Snatch-and-grab theft by motorbike thieves is possible in crowded areas.
Thailand has one of the world's highest road fatality rates. Risks include chaotic traffic, speeding, motorcycles, and pedestrians sharing roads. Renting motorbikes without proper experience is a major cause of tourist injuries.
Strong currents and riptides can occur, during the monsoon season. Not all beaches have lifeguards.
Traveler's diarrhea from contaminated food/water or simply new spices/bacteria. Heatstroke and dehydration are also common.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Friendly locals or tuk-tuk drivers convince you to visit a 'special' gem shop with a 'once-in-a-lifetime' government sale. You buy worthless gems with promises they can be resold for a huge profit abroad, which is impossible.
Drivers refuse to use the meter, quote an inflated fixed price, or take you on a longer route. May also insist on stopping at commission-paying shops.
Someone posing as a plainclothes officer asks to check your money for 'counterfeits' or your passport, with the intent to steal cash or the document itself.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
General
- Respect the Thai monarchy; it is illegal to deface or disrespect images of the King.
- Carry a photocopy of your passport's main page and Thai entry stamp; leave the original in a hotel safe.
- Learn a few basic Thai phrases (hello, thank you).
- Dress modestly when visiting temples (shoulders and knees covered).
Transportation
- Use the Grab app for reliable, cashless ride-hailing in Hat Yai and Songkhla.
- If renting a motorbike, have an international driving permit, wear a helmet, and ensure your travel insurance covers motorbike accidents.
- Be extra cautious when crossing streets; pedestrian right-of-way is not a given.
Money & Belongings
- Use ATMs inside banks or shopping malls during the day to avoid skimming devices.
- Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid card blocks.
- Use a money belt or neck pouch for large sums of cash and important documents.
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Songkhla is generally safe for women travelers, including those traveling solo. Unwanted attention is less common than in major party destinations, but can still occur. Cultural norms are relatively conservative, in local communities outside tourist zones.
- Dress modestly to blend in and avoid unwanted attention, outside beach areas.
- Be cautious accepting drinks from strangers in bars and never leave your drink unattended.
- Trust your instincts. If a situation feels uncomfortable, leave politely but firmly.
- Consider staying in well-reviewed accommodations with 24-hour reception.
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Thailand has no laws against same-sex sexual activity. Same-sex marriage is not yet fully legally recognized, but progress is being made. Gender expression is generally free.
- Discretion is advised for public displays of affection to avoid unwanted attention.
- Most hotels will not question same-sex couples sharing a room, in tourist areas.
- The LGBTQ+ scene is limited in Songkhla; Hat Yai may have a few more venues.
- As always, research accommodations and read reviews from other LGBTQ+ travelers.
Travel Insurance
Critical. Covers potential high costs from traffic accidents, medical emergencies, medical evacuation (which could be necessary for serious conditions), trip cancellation, and theft.
Travel insurance for adventurous travelers • Coverage in 200+ countries