Phattalung province
This relatively small province sandwiched between Songkhla to the east and south, Trang to the west and Nakhon Si Thammarat to the north is landlocked, with the only water lapping its boundaries to the east from Songkhla Lake.
The province can be divided into two areas, the mountainous area to the west bordering Trang Province and the flat rice growing area sloping down to the tranquil expanse of Songkhla Lake.
Phattalung is a peaceful, rural province with a Muslim minority and despite it being very rarely visited by tourists it is worth exploring for a few days -- particularly if you like low-key, out of the way destinations as there are some interesting things to see in and around Phattalung town and the Thale Noi Waterbird Sanctuary is outstanding.
The locals are particularly friendly, but very little English is spoken. Make sure to pack a Thai phrasebook because your communication skills will surely be tested.
