In the past, Pattani has never been an overly willing member of Thailand. Its predominantly Muslim population tend to feel it has a lot more in common with their cousins south of the border in Malaysia than with the distant rulers in Bangkok, and visitors coming from Malaysia will probably agree. This has resulted in a series of rebellions and wars as Pattani has constantly shifted sides and allegiances. This fierce independence is supported by a strong base and history as a trading town, firstly with the Chinese, but then later with the Arabs, Portuguese, Dutch and British, making it one of the first areas of Thailand to have regular contact with European traders.

Today little of the historic trading past can be seen aside from a handful of sino-Portuguese shopfronts in Pattani town. Sprawling out on either side of the Pattani River, it is now a modern city of over 40,000 people with little to interest the casual tourist. As in many southern Muslim towns sheep and particularly goats roam the streets. Western tourists here are very rare -- don't be surprised to find you're the only foreigner in town.

The main commercial areas are along Yarang and Phipit Rds. The quietest and oldest part of the town is along the east bank of the Pattani River along Pattani Pirom and Rudee Rds, whilst the newer part of town, containing the municipal buildings, university and hospital are on the north side of the river.