Pattaya

Pattaya, Thailand’s famed beach resort town, has a colourful reputation over the years. This location, less than 200 kilometres from Bangkok, offers easy access to the sun, sand, and sea. Pattaya has attracted tourists and expats from around the world. During the Vietnam War, US soldiers “discovered” the hitherto tranquil retreat spot.

In recent years, the government has worked to entice families to Pattaya by developing facilities such as water parks and an aquarium. The area alonJomtien Beacheet, the town’s main entertainment hub, is still more popular with adults. Jomtien Beach and Naklua are popular tourist destinations, however they are quieter than the town centre.

Pattaya has been managed on a distinct independent system since 1978. It has the status of a municipality and is controlled separately by Pattaya’s mayor, who is in charge of setting policies, administering public services, and managing the city’s staff.

Pattaya is central to Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). More than 1.5 trillion baht (US$45 billion) has been invested in EEC infrastructure projects, including airports, deep-sea ports, high-speed railroads, and autoroutes.

Pattaya has a tropical wet and dry climate, with three seasons: hot and dry (December-February), hot and humid (March-April), and hot and rainy (May-November).

Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Gardens

The large park at Nong Nooch (pronounced “nung nut”) Village provides a variety of activities for the entire family. Walkways swirl through colourfully themed gardens, including a topiary garden, a 17th-century French garden, a European Renaissance garden, and species-specific gardens with tropical palms, succulents, and bonsai. The exquisite orchid garden will inspire anyone with an interest in horticulture. Live acts at the Thai Cultural Hall include traditional Thai dancing, sword fighting, Thai kickboxing, and an elephant display of questionable ethical standards.

Jomtien Beach

Jomtien Beach, which stretches for six kilometres, provides a nice respite from the hustle and activity of the main city, which is four kilometres away. Located around 3 kilometres south of Pattaya, this area features high-rise residences, beachfront hotels, beaches, and restaurants.

Sanctuary of Truth.

Billed as “the magnificence of heaven recreated on Earth,” this gigantic wooden monument is a study in Thai architectural styles. Every accessible space is artistically embellished with wood carvings, and the entire construction was designed to honour ancient religions and beliefs. The artwork here explores topics such as the circle of life, utopia, and humanity’s relationship to the universe.

Wat Yansangwararam

Wat Yansangwararam (also known as Wat Yan), like other of Thailand’s remarkable wats (temples), provides insight not only into Thai architecture and architectural traditions, but also into societal ideals. Surrounded by huge palm-studded gardens, the temple was dedicated to King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1988 to mark the 42nd year of his reign. The main complex houses precious Buddhist relics, and on the right side of the walk leading to the temple, there is a lake with spectacular Chinese pavilions packed with antiques and artefacts. Wat Yansangwararam’s shrine is located on a hill and may be approached via a staircase of 299 stairs lined with Naga snakes.

Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai)

This 18-meter-tall golden statue of the Buddha, looking peaceful and relaxed, sits atop the wooded Pratamnak Hill south of Pattaya. Climb the steep stairs, ornamented on both sides with golden Naga snakes, to get a close look at the statue and the several smaller Buddhas that surround it. Many locals gather to pray for health, happiness, and prosperity. From the top of the hill, you can enjoy stunning views of Pattaya and the bay.

Koh Larn (the Coral Island)

Koh Larn (also known as Koh Lan) is a relatively calm respite from tourist-heavy Pattaya, only a 30-minute speedboat ride or 45-minute ferry journey away. Several white-sand beaches run along the island’s coastline, along with food kiosks and water sports. The most popular activities include parasailing, banana boat rides, and underwater sea walking. Tien is a stunning beach, while Nual Beach is home to playful monkeys.

Ramayana Water Park

Ramayana Water Park, billed as “the biggest and best water park in Thailand,” provides an exciting day out for visitors of all ages with 21 various water-themed rides. A riot of colourful, serpentine slides wind around the park, featuring a thrilling freefall and more mild slides for the kids. Other attractions include a twin wave pool, a children’s Aquasplash Park with fountains, and a green maze. The leisurely river ride passes through intriguing caves and spouting geysers. Daily activities include water polo, fish feeding, Zumba, and volleyball.

Four Regions Floating Market

This buzzing hive of business is Pattaya’s first and only floating market, with items from Thailand’s four major regions sold in various sections. Souvenirs, arts and crafts, and apparel are among the numerous products on sale here, and it’s also a perfect spot to try some strange cuisine, like scorpions, bugs, and crocodile flesh. Renting a boat is an excellent way to explore the markets. Unlike more realistic floating marketplaces, you must pay for access here.

Mini Siam

Mini Siam offers a fascinating way to explore Thailand and the world by displaying replicas of well-known landmarks. The exhibition features iconic structures such as Bangkok’s Victory Monument and Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn), New York’s Statue of Liberty, London’s Tower Bridge, Sydney Opera House, and Paris’ L’Arc de Triomphe.

Pattaya’s image as a tourist destination stems from its thriving sex business and nightlife. This has had a significant impact on the city’s development. Most cities, including Pattaya, tolerate prostitution, despite it being technically illegal. The city’s numerous host bars, gogo bars, massage parlours, saunas, and hourly hotels cater to both residents and foreign tourists. This is notably noticeable on Walking Street and other spots throughout the city. Efforts have been undertaken to restore the city’s image.