Phatthalung and Songkhla south of Krabi are two lesser-known provinces for western tourists. I was excited to see some of the country’s natural beauty without the massive crowds. When we drove from Krabi in the morning our aim was to get to the Thale Noi Waterfowl Reserve in Khuan Khanun, Phatthalung to see those gorgeous lotus flowers fully opened before the petals close in the afternoon. Unfortunately, we were a little bit late, and the flowers were already fully shut.