Hat Yai is the biggest city in Southern Thailand. Hat Yai, a bustling city in southern Thailand, isn't as well-known as tourist destinations like Bangkok or Chiang Mai. This bustling city in Songkhla Province, however, has its own charm because of its history, Thai culture, delicious street food, and easy access to the southern islands. I'd like to offer some of the highlights of our recent trip to Hat Yai, where we witnessed the ideal fusion of modernity and heritage, creating moments we will never forget.

When we first arrived in Hat Yai from March 7 to 23, the lively yet calm atmosphere stood out. The streets were busy with locals, and the smell of street food filled the air.

Our first stop was Green Way Food Station, a well-known spot offering tasty, affordable, and healthy Thai and international dishes. It's famous for fresh ingredients and flavorful meals, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors.

On our third day in Thailand, we visited Tepomnouy School for our teaching immersion, marking the beginning of our journey, located in Hat Yai. The school creates a nurturing environment focused on fostering both academic excellence and character development in its students. We were divided into three groups, each assigned to a different grade level. While the first day was challenging and tiring due to communication barriers, we were fortunate to have several students who spoke English, making the experience more manageable. The students were exceptionally respectful, and the teachers were kind, welcoming, and incredibly accommodating.

The next day, we visited Tessaban 1, 2, and 3 Bansadao Schools in Songkhla Thailand, where we had the opportunity to conduct a teaching immersion alongside Indonesian interns. Tessaban 1 is known for its focus on quality education, community involvement, and extracurricular activities. Tessaban 2 provides a nurturing environment that develops both academic skills and moral values. Tessaban 3 Bansadao School is dedicated to offering a well-rounded education with an emphasis on academic excellence, extracurricular activities, and sports.

The Songkhla Central Mosque, a stunning blend of Islamic and Thai architecture, stands by a tranquil lake, embodying the region’s rich heritage. Its towering white minarets, grand dome, and intricate designs create a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere. Built in 1950, the mosque remains one of the largest in southern Thailand. On our recent visit, the first thing I noticed was the calm and serene ambiance. We had the opportunity to explore not only the mosque itself but also the surrounding area, which offers a peaceful blend of spirituality, culture, and history.

On a  Saturday morning, we were graciously invited by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, where we had the delightful opportunity to immerse ourselves in a truly unique experience.

On Saturday afternoon, after the mass, we decided to visit Hat Yai Municipal Park, a quiet place with beautiful views of the city and surrounding mountains. The park is home to a large Buddha statue, over 20 meters tall, offering a peaceful spot for reflection and a chance to appreciate the area's spiritual heritage. We also enjoyed a relaxing boat ride on Hat Yai Songkhla Lake before heading up to explore the park’s higher viewpoints.

After visiting Hatyai Municipal Park, we decided to have dinner at Khlong Hae Floating Market, where you can find many souvenirs and food stalls. Khlong Hae Floating Market is a lively place where both Thai Buddhist and Muslim cultures mix together. It's more than just a place to shop; it shows the traditional lifestyle of southern Thailand.

During our two-week international cultural teaching immersion, we had the chance to join an environmental project focused on protecting Thailand's coastline. The event, called "A Community Transformed," gave us the opportunity to make a positive difference and give back to the local community.

During our second week in Thailand, we had the opportunity to experience an ATV ride in Phatthalung, Songkhla. We started our journey early in the morning, excited to explore the area's natural beauty. The ride took us through muddy trails, rice fields, and rivers, all while enjoying stunning views of the countryside. It was a perfect adventure for those who love nature and seek excitement, letting us fully experience the untouched beauty of Phatthalung's landscapes.

On Thursday afternoon, after School, we decided to head to Ban Khao Rup Chang. This village, near Padang Bazzar in Thailand, is a beautiful and peaceful place. It’s known for its traditional Thai culture and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty, see how locals live, and experience the rich history of southern Thailand.

We had the chance to take pictures with the monks and noticed a difference in how they interacted with a boy and a girl. Due to their religious beliefs and cultural customs, monks avoid close contact with women to maintain their spiritual purity and focus. However, they don’t have the same concerns when taking pictures with men, staying true to their vows and peaceful way of life.

It was graduation day for the kindergarten students at Tepumnouy Hatyai School. The day before, the husband of the school owner came to talk to us and asked if we could perform something, like singing a song, during the ceremony. We quickly said yes and were excited to take part. We were happy to help make the day even more special for the kids and their families. It was a wonderful chance to show our thanks and share in the happiness of their big day.

On the last day of our second week of teaching, Friday morning, we got the chance to take some photos with our students at Tepumnouy Hatyai School. We were really happy and thankful for these students because they made our experience so special. The memories we made together will stay with us forever, and we’re grateful for the time we shared with them. Their excitement, kindness, and willingness to learn made this experience unforgettable, and we will always remember the time spent with them.

It was a Friday afternoon, the last day of our teaching experience, and we had the opportunity to perform a dance, one of the most well-known dances from the Philippines. Mrs. Su, along with the teachers and students of Tepumnouy Hatyai School, were filled with joy and appreciation for our performance. As a token of their gratitude, they presented us with a gift symbolizing the friendship and partnership between our group and the school. This heartfelt gesture truly touched us, marking the end of an unforgettable journey. 

The memories we created, the bonds we formed, and the lessons we learned from each other will remain with us forever. It was a beautiful reminder of how cultural exchange can build bridges of understanding and friendship across borders. Of course, huge thanks to Biliran Province State University, headed by Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., all members of the Board of Regents and the School of Teacher Education for letting us experience and explore the possibilities beyond the university’s borders.

As we said our goodbyes, we left with full hearts, knowing that our time in Hatyai had enriched us in ways we could never have imagined.