CITY PROFILE: PHITSANULOK |
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Phitsanulok, or "Phi-lok," is a typical smaller city in Northern Thailand. It lies on the edge of the Non River, and is a good place to base yourself for visits to
attractions in the lower part of the north. If you're lucky enough to find a teaching job here, you'll find yourself living in a nice town with plenty to do in the outlying areas. Along the river front are good floating restaurants and a night market where the specialty is phak bung loi faa ("flying morning glory vine"). If you order it, you will see the cook stir fry the vegetables and
toss them to the server, who sometimes runs quite a distance to make the spectacle complete. Population 80,000 Location Phitsanulok is located about 240 miles north of Bangkok and straddles the
Nan River. Weather The weather is similar to that in Chiang Mai. Transportation Phitsanulok lies on the main rail line to the north. You can also get there by air
or bus. City buses cost about US$.08 and samlors cost between US$.30–$.60 per ride. Places of Interest Within the city is Wat Phra Si Ratana Mahathat, which contains one of the country's most venerated Buddha images. You can also visit the Folk Museum
with its large collection of traditional hand-made farming implements, which are quickly disappearing as Thai farmers start buying factory-made tools. About 75 miles from Phitsanulok is Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park, which was the home of the Communist rebels in the 1960s and 1970s. Bungalows are available for those who want to hike the trails through the 120-square-mile mountainous park. About an hour by bus from Phitsanulok is Old Sukhothai, Thailand's first capital city and site of many examples of classical Thai religious art and architecture. Wat Si Chum has a 50 foot tall Buddha image. Ex-pat Hangouts Phitsanulok does not have as many resident foreigners as other Thai cities,
which many think adds to its charm. If you are in need of English-speaking company, however, try the Phitsanulok Guest House and the Country Road bar. Safety Most smaller Thai cities do not have the aggressive people who gather at bus stations, but you will probably attract more attention here. There are isolated
cases of problems, but generally the worst thing that happens is parents pointing you out to their children and saying "do farang" (look at the foreigner). Use your common sense: lock your doors and know your neighbors and neighborhood. Living in Phuket >>> |
