In pictures: Daily life in southern Thailand

1 of 7 Southern Thailand has been hit by almost daily violence this year, mainly blamed on suspected Muslim separatists. Despite the fear and uncertainty this breeds, ordinary people have to get on with their daily lives.

2 of 7 In the southern province of Narathiwat, daily life for most people involves fishing or farming.

3 of 7 Such a reliance on traditional industries has left average incomes well below Thailand's average.

4 of 7 About 4% of Thailand's population is Muslim, nearly all of whom live in the south. Muslim leaders have called on Bangkok to stop discriminating against the region.

5 of 7 Most peoples' dress and language also sets them apart. Narathiwat is mainly Yawi speaking, a Malay dialect, with historical and social ties with Malaysia.

6 of 7 Buddhists, who account for about a fifth of Narathiwat's population, are increasingly alarmed by the almost daily toll of violence.

7 of 7 While tourists, despite the beautiful beaches, are being warned to stay away for the moment.