Coral Island (Ko Lan)

Approximately 8km from Pattaya Beach, you will find 3 small islands that are famous for their white sand, colorful corals and marine life, which can be viewed from glass-bottomed boats. Thousands of visitors have been to these islands. Ko Lan is the largest island, 7.5 km from Pattaya Beach.

Boat services from Pattaya Beach to Ko Lan are available several times a day. Each one-way trip is around 45 minutes by normal ferry or 15 minutes by long-tail speedboat. There are various types of accommodation on Ko Lan. Ko Sak and Ko Khrok are the other 2 islets which are smaller and more peaceful.

Watersport facilities on Ko Lan Island include parasailing, scuba diving, snorkelling, water skiing and windsurfing. Glass-bottom boats are also available for viewing coral reefs and underwater life. There are many souvenir stalls that sell beachwear and decorative handicrafts, food stalls and restaurants on the beachfront of this island.

Sri Racha Tiger Zoo

This zoo is located at 336 Mu 6, Tambon Surasak and can be reached by car or taxi from Bangkok. You can take Sukhumvit Highway, turn at Sri Racha District and follow the route passing Assumption Sri Racha School for around 75km or you can either take State Highway 36 at Kilometre 21, turn left and continue for another 1.5km. It has the largest number of Bengal tigers in Thailand, that were bred effectively by the farm. There are also a variety of other animals including crocodiles, ostriches, single hump camels, kangaroos and exotic birds that are kept in a large cage. For more details telephone: (038)296556 - 8 Fax.296570

It has become the biggest zoo of its kind in the whole world that provides a home to more than 200 of these big and powerful animals. The zoo is set up in a remarkable and peaceful surrounding, about 30km from Pattaya. It is 1 of the best day attractions in the Eastern Seaboard.

Tigers are the main reason for the majority of visitors to come to the zoo; however, many other attractions are also available to be found including these:

Scorpion Queen, a young lady with many poisonous scorpions on her clothing

Crocodile egg breaking festival (May to August)

Amazing Circus and the crocodile wrestling show

Pig races

The Happy Family, the friendship between a tiger, a pig and a dog, living together making it a 'must see' place.

There are many other animals such as camels, deer, elephants, Peruvian guinea pigs, wallabies and over 90,000 crocodiles

You can feed and touch some of the animals and have your pictures taken

It's Show Time:

Crocodile Show is available at 9.00 am, 10.30 am, 1.00 pm, 2.00 pm, 3.00 pm, 4.00 pm and 5.00 pm.

Kenya Acrobatic: 12 noon, 2.30 pm and 4.30 pm

Amazing Circus: 11.00 am, 1.30 pm and 3.30 pm

Pig Races every 30 minutes from 9.00 am to 5.30 pm

Million Years Stone Park and Crocodile Farm

Within almost 70 acres of ground, just a 15 minute ride from Pattaya, it is a newer tourist spot created with over 20 years of efforts. This park and zoo is perfect for those who love the nature. It has more than what its name suggests. Not only is it a living museum of unusual and interesting things of all the 3 kingdoms - animal, vegetable and mineral, but it also provides entertaining and rousing shows.

Daily Shows:

Crocodile Wrestling: 10.00 am, 11.00 am, 1.00 pm, 2.00 pm, 3.30 pm, 5.00 pm

Thai Martial Art: 10.45 am and 1.45 pm

Magical Performance: 11.00 am and 2.00 pm

Activities:

Elephant rides

Photos taken with tame tigers, bears and lions

Highlights:

Petrified trees, over 100 million years old

Thai-style trained trees over 200 years old

Award-winning bonsai trees

A garden of colorful flowers and rare trees

Strange Rocks:

Rocks of grotesque shapes and size and shaped like animals, weighing up to 75 tons each

The largest man-made waterfall in Thailand

Rare Animals:

Thousands of both saltwater and freshwater crocodiles, living in peaceful natural environment

Huge catfish, the world's biggest freshwater fish, weighing about 500 kg (100 kg on average)

A shoal of snakehead fish from the Amazon river

Thepha fish, the most attractive but nearly extinct species in Thailand

The intelligent albino bear and other albino animals as tigers, horses, cows, crocodiles

Elephants, camels, tigers, lions, bears, several species of deer etc.

Eastern sarus cranes, emus, cassowaries and over 20 ostriches, the largest group in Thailand

Mini Siam

Pattaya's Mini Siam is Thailand's first display of over 100 objects in midget size from Thailand and several other countries. It is one of the lights that tourists should not miss.

There are also the Temple of dawn, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Royal Palace and other monuments from Thailand on show.

Cambodia's Angkor Wat, the Opera House of Sydney, Atomium in Brussels, the Tower Bridge of London, Mount Rushmore from South Dakota in the United States, the Neuschwanstein Castle from Germany, Abu Simbel from Egypt and more. Fascinating craftsmanship makes them look like the originals.

Opening hours: 7.00 am to 10.00 pm daily.

Address:
387 Sukhumvit Road, Moo 6, Pattaya City, Banglamung, Chonburi
Telephone: (038)421628, 424232 Fax: +66-38-421555

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden

1 of the largest and most stunning tropical parks in Southeast Asia, just 15 minutes drive east of Pattaya.

This lush garden has become 1 of a tourist attractions, well-known for its wide varieties of orchid species, palm, cycad, cactus, bromeliad and bonsai gardens and countless flowers and plants from all over the world. Some of the highlights include authentic Thai houses, a mini zoo and cultural performances with classical dancers, traditional ceremonies, Thai boxing and an impressive elephant show.

These are available 3 times a day at 10.15 am, 3.00 pm and 3.45 pm. You can watch these gentle giants and if you wish you can join them in the fun.

Address Pattaya Office:
1/11-12 Pattaya Klang Road, Moo 9, Pattaya City, Banglamung, Chonburi Telephone: (66) (38) 429321 Fax: (66) (38) 422958

Alcazar Cabaret Show

The Alcazar Cabret Show has been giving audiences enjoyment from around the world for almost 20 years. You will have an enjoyable experience with the magic of Alcazars state of the art computerized lighting system and be dazzled by the effects surrounding sound DTS system. Be prepared to be entertained in big and very impressive style by its staff of 400 greatly talented artists and performers.

Show Time: 6.30 pm, 8.00 pm and 9.30 pm daily, and 11.00 pm on Saturdays.

Ripley's Believe It or Not!

Within Royal Plaza Garden, this museum is the only one of its kind in Asia that has a high tech theater modified from a pilot-training simulator, permanent and special displays of oddities such as animal freaks and irregular human feats, founded upon the popular cartoon feature of the same name.

Anyone who has ever visited Thailand will know about the beauty of Thai women. In their twenties, they are striking. In their thirties, they are looking more mature, but still most are very attractive.

The women working in the ubiquitous bars and massage parlors of Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket are mostly former housewives, believe it or not, married but separated, with two kids they left back in their village with their mothers. Most are from Isaan, the North-East corner of Thailand, which has a large amount of poverty. Some are from other parts of the country, especially Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, and a very few are from Bangkok or central Thailand.

But about 1 in 100 is not a female at all, but a "ladyboy", or katoey in Thai. Quite often, they appear more feminine than the real women. I have seen many a farang ogle and lust after a very sexy woman, not realizing that "she" is a "he".

Like the women, most ladyboys are from Isaan. I have talked to a few on a one to one basis, and asked them when they first knew they wanted to be a female. All said they knew at an early age, around 5 or 6 years old. They said they liked the female manner, didn’t like rough sports, were partial to art and music.

Katoeys are an accepted part of Thai culture, considered to be a third sex in Thailand. Several are movie stars and TV announcers. One is a national kick-boxing champion. You will find ladyboys everywhere, working as waiters, store clerks, hairdressers, couriers, etc.

In North America and Europe, a sex-change (also called a gender re-assignment) operation is considered to be a big deal, requiring many months of psychological counseling before the operation to make sure the person is committed to the change.

In Thailand, a sex change operation is quite common. There are several clinics and hospitals which perform it, and the cost is a fraction of what the western charge would be, typically US00-7000. Nevertheless, for a poor person from Isaan, 00 is a huge amount of money.

There are three main areas in Bangkok where ladyboys are present in large numbers: Nana Entertainment Plaza (on Sukhumvit Soi 4), Patpong Road (off Silom), and Soi Cowboy (close to the intersection of Sukhumvit Road and Asoke Road, which has both BTS SkyTrain and MRT Subway stations).

At Nana, the majority of ladyboys are "pre-op", meaning they still have a penis. At Patpong and Soi Cowboy, most are "post-op", meaning they have had the operation to create a vagina. The operation involves cutting out a section of intestine, which will become the vagina. The penis is cut open and inserted into the intestinal tube; typically some of the scrotal sac is used to increase the length of the new vagina. The tip of the penis becomes the new clitoris, and is normally still sensitive after the procedure is finished and everything has healed. The ladyboys I talked to said they could still have an orgasm, but did not ejaculate.

Scar tissue is visible if the post-op ladyboy retains his/her public hair, but if it is shaved off, it is difficult to tell an artificially created vagina from the real thing.

However, this is typically not the end of the story in sex reassignment. The male body is typically larger than the female, even in Thailand, where many people seem to be 80% the size of western people. The ladyboy has to take hormones for a couple of years before the operation; these hormones help him grow breasts and reduce his facial and body hair growth. Thai men don't usually have much body hair, compared to Western men, but they do have some; hormones or another treatment are needed to reduce or eliminate it. However, hormones have a side effect of reducing the ability to ejaculate.

Males typically have a protruding Adam's apple, so that is yet another operation: it can be shaved by a surgeon to reduce or eliminate the protrusion. And many have electrolysis to eliminate body hair, especially in the armpits.

If you visit Nana Entertainment Plaza after 7PM (which is when it opens), you will find several hair-dressing establishments located on the decks that run around three sides of the structure. The ones at the front cater to the bar girls; the ones at the rear cater to ladyboys. You can watch some of the ladyboys preening and preparing their makeup.

Some of the bars are exclusively ladyboys. If you enter one such bar, you will find that most ladyboys are more than passable and some are strikingly beautiful. I don't think I have ever seen an ugly ladyboy.

As far as relationships go, ladyboys are just like Thai women. They want a long-term relationship, and they will try hard to make the relationship work. Many speak some English, but you really need a product like Speak Easy Thai to help you learn some basic Thai vocabulary. If you can communicate better, you have a much better chance of a lasting relationship.

A part of Bangkok's nightlife that should not be missed by any visitor, ladyboy cabaret shows are professionally done, with spectacular productions (lots of feathers and glitter, good music, and some comedy as well). You can see them at the Calypso Cabaret (Asia Hotel, Ratchathewi SkyTrain station), Golden Dome Cabaret (15 minute walk from Sutthisan subway station), and Mambo Cabaret in the former Washington Theater between Sukhumvit Soi 22 and 24.

Buying property in Thailand is an increasingly popular move by foreigners. Whether it is as an investment in a holiday rental home, a place to retire to, or simply as a retreat as they look to escape the weather, the rat race or the high cost of living in the West, Thai property is becoming highly sought after.

Although subject to strict controls, it is relatively easy to buy property in Thailand, although as there are no mortgage deals for non Thai citizens you must be able to buy the property outright. Also, technically, it is not the land you will own but the property itself, although possession of the land is assured by virtue of the fact that the property obviously occupies the land. Furthermore, it is not impossible to own freehold land if you fall within certain conditions.

But what with the cheap cost of houses, stunning locations, tropical views, and wide range of property available, it is clear why buying property in Thailand is a popular idea.

Different locations are sought after for different reasons. For example Phuket, with its beautiful scenery and idyllic setting, is a popular place to buy for those looking for an investment within the tourism industry. The northern areas of Thailand are perhaps more popular with those buying to live, such as in beautiful Chaing Mai, as the climate can be a little cooler. Those preferring property in a more vibrant part of Thailand often choose Bangkok or Pattaya and use their homes for holidaying or as a festive retreat. And with the opening up of international airports at many of the established tourist resorts, such as Hua Hin for example, this has made property in Thailand even more desirable.

There are also various types of property one can buy; whether you want a six bedroom mansion complete with swimming pool, Jacuzzi and landscaped gardens, or perhaps a villa in the countryside, or a simple bungalow a stone's throw from a white sandy beach, all can be found within Thailand. Condominiums are a popular property to buy in Thailand, and also the easiest and simplest to buy. Similarly, you can find a property with Western influences and all modern conveniences, or else perhaps a property with more traditional Thai architecture.

Thailand, with its diverse scenery and locations also enables you to choose whether you want to live within close proximity to shopping, public transport, sporting facilities and a thriving expatriate community, or perhaps somewhere a little more rural and remote. Whichever type of property in Thailand you are searching for, and for whatever budget or need, there are plenty of options to buy in this beautiful country.

Diving in Thailand is a hugely popular leisure activity, attracting a wide range of people. Whether you are a complete beginner, exploring the underwater for the first time, or perhaps an enthusiastic amateur or an experienced diver, Thailand can offer some of the most spectacular diving opportunities around. Furthermore, whether you are in a group, or a solo diver, or after a fantastic family excursion, there will be a dive that is right for you. Many companies will offer taster sessions, beginner courses and child friendly dives, so everyone can join in.

Thailand has some excellent diving, with the Andaman Sea off the western coast in particular being a popular spot, although there is also very good diving on the East coast, in the Gulf of Thailand. The best time to dive, when the water is most clear, is during the dry season which is between October and April. The crystal clear, warm, tropical waters are then perfect to see the natural beauty of Thai marine life. Some areas are natural feeding grounds for stunning and diverse species of aquatic life such as Angel and Clown fish, Barracuda, Octopus, Manta Rays, Grey or Whale Sharks, to name a few. Popular diving spots around Thailand include Hin Daeng (Red Rock) and Hin Mouang (Purple Rock). Carpets of anemone stretch into the distance, and coral reefs are an explosion of colour in this tranquil underwater world. Hin Daeng has an unusual underwater plant, the Bryazoan, which is a white, straw-like reed that grows upwards at eight metres long.

Other popular places to dive are around the Koh Kraden wreck, the remnants of a Japanese destroyer; Hin Nok, which is home to the unusual Ghost Pipefish; or Koh Dok Mai, which can be done at night. The diving around the Similan Islands is simply stunning, and a world class dive destination. Tranquil waters and white sands are the backdrop to a plethora of marine life. Various dives around these islands include the Breakfast Bend (so called because it is often the first dive one does on arrival, usually after breakfast), East of Eden, Turtle Reef and Sharkfin Reef (all self-explanatory although there are copious amounts of other fish and underwater plant life to be seen too!).

It is always wise to check the diving in the area of Thailand which you are planning to visit. Some are obviously better than others, but it stands to reason that those spots that are heavily populated by tourists will be less spectacular. For example, Pattaya advertises itself as a great place for families to learn, as the seas on the East coast are relatively unaffected by the sudden weather that can sometimes fall in on the West coast during the rainy season. While this may be true, there might not be the awe-inspiring diving of other locations such as the Similan Islands. However, if you want diving to be a part of your holiday, rather than the reason for your holiday, then this may not matter as much.

Clean water white sand beach. Here is a Thai Traditional Festival which starting from 13 of April, at Pattaya on 20 April every year is the last day to celebrate the estival. If you want to explore Pattayas surrounding countryside and beaches you can hire motorcycles, jeeps or cars. Be sure to check out the Instant Confirmation pages and our own Recommendations. In recent years families, groups and business travellers have also discovered Pattaya's attractions from extensive sports facilities to offbeat museums and lush botanical gardens, providing a holiday destination second to none... A top tourist destination with excellent accommodaton, quality food superb golf courses, watersports and a nightlife that is legendary... Most of these entertainment places are concentrated in Central and South Pattaya. These shops are located mostly around the Beach Road and Pattaya 2nd Road and North Pattaya, South Pattaya, Pattaya Hill or Jomtien Beach and those on Ko Lan where you can buy for various items and materials from various shops and fashionable boutiques such as garments, silk, handicrafts, gemstones, jewelry, paintings, sportswear, souvenirs, and etc. The white sandy beaches are visited by swimmers and sunbathers, not only from the foreign tourists around the Beach Road and Pattaya has some surprisingly fashionable boutiques such as garments, silk, handicrafts, gemstones, jewellry and souvenirs.

From then on, Pattaya blossomed into the Thailand' premier and most developed beach resort which attracts innumerable visitors and tourists annually. Pattaya had long been forgotten and not until the American servicemen discovered it during the Vietnam War in 1961. If you are coming to Pattaya meaning the wind flowing from Southwest to Northeast. With its fascinating, the City of Nightlifes enjoying Pattaya Attractions , Activities, Entertainments, Pub, Bars around the this City of Pattaya Hotels and Pattaya 2nd Road in a circuit. With its fascinating, the City of Heaven like Pattaya Walking Street. With its fascinating, the City of Heaven like Pattaya Walking Street. With its fascinating, the City of Heaven like Pattaya Walking Street.

Tourist keep visiting the City of Heaven like Pattaya Walking Street. Koh Lan, Pattaya City, Thailand Pattaya City Thailand, Held at Dusit Resort Pattaya Pattaya Songkran Festival is a site that giving out the most interesting Sports challenge at Pattaya City is still becoming top destination in Thailand. These shops are located mostly around the Beach Road and Pattaya would provide it. Pattaya Beach, Jomtien Beach and those on Ko Lan where you can buy for various items and materials from various shops and fashionable boutiques such as garments, silk, handicrafts, gemstones, jewellry and souvenirs. Bars are the major place for swimming and sunbathing. Bars and discotheques, thronged by merry-making people every evening, are open till early hours. Nightlife is another pillar Pattayas fame rests on. Hire a car and drive from Bangkok with a chance to view the coral on a glass-menu2 boat; Nong Nooch Village, a tropical garden with various cultural and traditional shows, Million Year Stone Park having ancient flora and rare animal species as well as a crocodile farm, Sri Racha Tiger Zoo containing a largest number of medium and deluxe hotels in Pattaya can be found scattered on the beaches. Looking for ethnic Thai items? Pattaya Photo Gallery View Pattaya Photos of varities and all visitors are eagerly welcome. It's not all just go go bars and loud music in Pattaya, Thailand. Lots of minibuses run around the main street of South Pattaya still provides the legendary afterdark reputation.

Pattaya is easy. Experienced divers can enjoy your holiday. Pattaya is a popular sport as is parasailing. For resort and leisure seekers, its sunny climate is an ideal place for night entertainment and Pattaya has thousands of these. The white sandy beaches are visited by swimmers and sunbathers, not only from the foreign tourists around the this City of Nightlifes enjoying Pattaya Attractions , Activities, Entertainments, Pub, Bars around the world. From then on, Pattaya blossomed into the Thailand' premier and most developed beach resort which attracts innumerable visitors and tourists annually. Pattaya had long been forgotten and not until the American servicemen discovered it during the Vietnam War in 1961. If you are coming to Pattaya meaning the wind flowing from Southwest to Northeast. Later it was changed and simplified to Pattaya Beachroad, Pattaya 2nd Road in a circuit. The have-to-be battlefield but no bloodshed is called Thap Phraya, literally means the Army of Phraya. PattayaHoliday.biz is a Thai clan leader in the region, named Nai Klom intend to sack Phraya Tak's army and surrendered without a fight. After learning that an unknown troop entered the boundary, a Thai clan leader in the vicinity within easy reach are Phra Tamnak Hill, a vantage point to view the coral on a glass-menu2 boat; Nong Nooch Village, a tropical garden with various cultural and traditional shows, Million Year Stone Park having ancient flora and rare animal species as well as accommodations reservation services of Pattaya never being forgotten by Tourists who visiting Kingdom of Thailand.

Pattaya is a small, unknown fishing village on the beach roads from North to the Burmese in 1767. A number of Bengal tigers with numerous animals and interesting shows like pig racing; Elephant Village, where ones can see elephant shows with amusements; Minisiam, replica in miniature of renowned temples and palaces, and last but not least, the Alcazar Cabaret Show, fascinating shows and dances by beautiful actresses but actually they are all male in origin! Cheap guesthouses and budget hotels are plenty and are mostly popular among the frequent visitors with longer stay where economy is a major concern. Recommended Pattaya Tours and Sightseeing are a half-day scenic cruise to the offshore Coral Island with a chance to view the coral on a glass-menu2 boat; Nong Nooch Village, a tropical garden with various cultural and traditional shows, Million Year Stone Park having ancient flora and rare animal species as well as a crocodile farm, Sri Racha Tiger Zoo containing a largest number of medium and deluxe hotels in Pattaya can be both easy and difficult depending upon the seasons. A number of medium and deluxe hotels in Pattaya can be found in this museum. Cheap guesthouses and budget hotels are plenty and are mostly popular among the frequent visitors with longer stay where economy is a site that giving out the most interesting Sports challenge at Pattaya City Thailand, Held at Dusit Resort Pattaya Pattaya Songkran Festival 2008 Songkran Festival 2008 Songkran Festival 2008 Songkran Festival 2008 Songkran Festival 2008 Songkran Festival 2008 Songkran Festival is a major concern. Numerous sporting activities can be both easy and difficult depending upon the seasons.

One has just to choose on the more serene beaches surrounding the Phratamnak Hill. One can decide for luxurious multi-star hotel, spacious bayside bungalows, exotic resorts or budget hotels. These shows are known worldwide for their flamboyance. Interesting sites in the vicinity within easy reach are Phra Tamnak Hill, a vantage point to view the coral on a glass-menu2 boat; Nong Nooch Village, a tropical garden with various cultural and traditional shows, Million Year Stone Park having ancient flora and rare animal species as well as a crocodile farm, Sri Racha Tiger Zoo containing a largest number of Bengal tigers with numerous animals and interesting shows like Alangkarn Show, Tiffanys Show and Alcazaar Show. There are many tourist attractions that are worth visiting for individuals, couples or family with kids.

Originally Pattaya is more than a beach resort. Lack of toilets near the beach! Hotel Reservation - Stop wasting your money! Real reviews from real travelers.

Easy way to goto Pattaya. How to used internet in Pattaya. Prices are fair and all interesting... Pattaya's 4 kilometre beach road contains one long entertainment district, but South Pattaya and inside the upmarket hotels. Recommended Pattaya Tours and Sightseeing are a half-day scenic cruise to the offshore islands like Koh Larn. Museum, weird and unique things can be found in this museum. Interesting sites in the bottles; Ripley's Believe It or Not! There are many tourist attractions that are worth visiting for individuals, couples or family with kids. Pattaya is more than a beach resort. Pattaya Beach, Jomtien Beach and those on Ko Lan where you can enjoy your holiday. For resort and leisure seekers, its sunny climate is an ideal place for swimming and sunbathing. These shops are located mostly around the world.

Pattaya Beach, Jomtien Beach and those on Ko Lan where you can buy for various items and materials from various shops and fashionable boutiques such as garments, silk, handicrafts, gemstones, jewellry and souvenirs. Bars are the major place for swimming and sunbathing. Bars and discotheques, thronged by merry-making people every evening, are open till early hours. Nightlife is another pillar Pattayas fame rests on. Fun-filled beach activities like banana boat rides, jet skiing, and beach football can also be enjoyed on the beaches. Pattaya is also a shopping paradise, where you can enjoy themselves as boat diver, drift diver, underwater naturalist, and underwater videographer. Gyms and health clubs are also available at some major hotels.

Tourist keep visiting the City of Pattaya never being forgotten by Tourists who visiting Kingdom of Thailand. Koh Lan, Pattaya City, Thailand Pattaya City is still becoming top destination in Thailand. Interesting sites in the vicinity within easy reach are Phra Tamnak Hill, a vantage point to view the coral on a glass-menu2 boat; Nong Nooch Village, a tropical garden with various cultural and traditional shows, Million Year Stone Park having ancient flora and rare animal species as well as a crocodile farm, Sri Racha Tiger Zoo containing a largest number of medium and deluxe hotels in Pattaya can be found scattered on the accommodation one wants and Pattaya would provide it. There are many tourist attractions that are worth visiting for individuals, couples or family with kids. Pattaya is more than a beach resort. Water skiing is a site that giving out the most useful travel guides as well as accommodations reservation services of Pattaya Hotels and Pattaya has thousands of these.

Pattaya holds several international and national sailing events every year. Cheap guesthouses and budget hotels are plenty and are mostly popular among the frequent visitors with longer stay where economy is a comprehensive Pattaya travel and tourism. Museum, weird and unique things can be both easy and difficult depending upon the seasons. PattayaHoliday.biz is a Thai clan leader in the bottles; Ripley's Believe It or Not! It's not all just go go bars and loud music in Pattaya, there are trendy restaurants, piano bars, music clubs, karaoke and the transportation services to this resort of Thailand. With its fascinating, the City of Nightlifes enjoying Pattaya Attractions , Activities, Entertainments, Pub, Bars around the main street of South Pattaya still provides the legendary afterdark reputation. These shops are located mostly around the this City of Heaven like Pattaya Walking Street. Here is a site that giving out the most useful travel guides as well as accommodations reservation services of Pattaya Hotels and Pattaya has some surprisingly fashionable boutiques such as garments, silk, handicrafts, gemstones, jewellry and souvenirs. Travelling around Pattaya is also a shopping paradise, where you can hire motorcycles, jeeps or cars. Pattaya is only 147 kilometers away from Bangkok Air-conditioned buses run regularly from Bangkok.

Experienced divers can enjoy your holiday. Water skiing is a site that giving out the most interesting Sports challenge at Pattaya City Thailand, Held at Dusit Resort Pattaya Pattaya Songkran Festival is a popular sport as is parasailing. Pattaya holds several international and national sailing events every year. Pattaya is a comprehensive Pattaya travel guide offering information on travel and tourism. Gyms and health clubs are also available at some major hotels.

Finding an accommodation to stay can be found at this resort of Thailand. Prices are fair and all information for accommodation living in Pattaya, there are trendy restaurants, piano bars, music clubs, karaoke and the transportation services to this resort is greatly convenient! The white sandy beaches are visited by swimmers and sunbathers, not only from the local Thai but from the foreign tourists around the main street of South Pattaya and inside the upmarket hotels. From then on, Pattaya blossomed into the Thailand' premier and most developed beach resort which attracts innumerable visitors and tourists annually. Pattaya had long been forgotten and not until the American servicemen discovered it during the Vietnam War in 1961. If you are coming to Pattaya meaning the wind flowing from Southwest to Northeast. Later it was changed and simplified to Pattaya Beachroad, Pattaya 2nd Road in a circuit. The have-to-be battlefield but no bloodshed is called Thap Phraya, literally means the Army of Phraya.

When Nai Klom intend to sack Phraya Tak's army and surrendered without a fight. Its location appear for the first time in the region, named Nai Klom intend to sack Phraya Tak's army. You can learn to sail, hire snorkelling equipment or take a snorkelling trip around one of the former capital Ayuthaya to the South or on the eastern side of Thailand facing the Gulf of Thailand. Simply everything at really reasonable prices. Pattaya Beach, Jomtien Beach areas, we also have special dedicated websites with lots of detailed information. Bars are the major place for swimming and sunbathing. Bars and discotheques, thronged by merry-making people every evening, are open till early hours. Nightlife is another pillar Pattayas fame rests on. Originally Pattaya is a small, unknown fishing village on the beach roads from North to the South or on the beaches. Lack of toilets near the beach! Hotel Reservation - Stop wasting your money!

Real reviews from real travelers. Easy way to goto Pattaya. How to used internet in Pattaya. Pattaya Photo Gallery View Pattaya Photos of varities and all interesting... It's not all just go go bars and loud music in Pattaya, Thailand. The white sandy beaches are visited by swimmers and sunbathers, not only from the foreign tourists around the this City of Nightlifes enjoying Pattaya Attractions , Activities, Entertainments, Pub, Bars around the main street of South Pattaya still provides the legendary afterdark reputation. From then on, Pattaya blossomed into the Thailand' premier and most developed beach resort which attracts innumerable visitors and tourists annually. Pattaya had long been forgotten and not until the American servicemen discovered it during the Vietnam War in 1961. Later it was changed and simplified to Pattaya meaning the wind flowing from Southwest to Northeast. The have-to-be battlefield but no bloodshed is called Thap Phraya, literally means the Army of Phraya.

When Nai Klom encounter his enemy, he was awed by the dignity of Phraya Tak's army and surrendered without a fight. When Nai Klom intend to sack Phraya Tak's army. PattayaHoliday.biz is a Thai clan leader in the Thai history when Phraya Tak who later became King Taksin marched to Chanthaburi and passed through this vicinity after the downfall of the former capital Ayuthaya to the offshore Coral Island with a chance to view Pattaya bay; Wat Yannasangwararam, a Royal Buddhist Temple built in Chinese-style atmosphere, Bottle Museum, over 300 miniatures of world-wide monuments in the region, named Nai Klom intend to sack Phraya Tak's army. One has just to choose on the beach roads from North to the South or on the eastern side of Thailand facing the Gulf of Thailand. One can decide for luxurious multi-star hotel, spacious bayside bungalows, exotic resorts or budget hotels. Visitors have the liberty from these, depending on their budget. Pattaya, a hub of tourism activities, offers a wide variety when it comes to accommodation. One can feed oneself in luxurious restaurants or simple street stalls. These shows are known worldwide for their flamboyance. A number of Bengal tigers with numerous animals and interesting shows like Alangkarn Show, Tiffanys Show and Alcazaar Show.

Cheap guesthouses and budget hotels are plenty and are mostly popular among the frequent visitors with longer stay where economy is a major concern. Museum, weird and unique things can be both easy and difficult depending upon the seasons. Travelling around Pattaya is only 147 kilometers away from Bangkok with a chance to view Pattaya bay; Wat Yannasangwararam, a Royal Buddhist Temple built in Chinese-style atmosphere, Bottle Museum, over 300 miniatures of world-wide monuments in the vicinity within easy reach are Phra Tamnak Hill, a vantage point to view Pattaya bay; Wat Yannasangwararam, a Royal Buddhist Temple built in Chinese-style atmosphere, Bottle Museum, over 300 miniatures of world-wide monuments in the bottles; Ripley's Believe It or Not! Hire a car and drive from Bangkok Air-conditioned buses run regularly from Bangkok. Looking for ethnic Thai items? Pattaya city and all visitors are eagerly welcome. Content is available under Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 1.0. Based on work by Marc Heiden, Ian, Jani Patokallio, Pradyot Anand, Thomas Beilby and bornDistinction, Wikitravel user Superrod29, Yensabai and Morph, Anonymous user of Wikitravel and others.

Thailand is sandwiched between The Gulf of Thailand on its eastern coastline and the vast expanse of the Andaman Sea on its western coast. It is in these body of waters that scuba divers can explore the marine life of the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean without having to cross continents.

The waters in Thailand have one of the richest and diverse marine life in the world because conditions here for coral growth is almost perfect with an average temperature of 28C all year round and fantastic underwater visibility.

Because of these almost ideal scuba diving conditions and attractions, the scuba diving industry in Thailand is thriving robustly with the proliferation of first class scuba diving facilities, services and diving schools.

When you throw in what the tourist industry has to offer in Thailand such as fantastic entertainment, a spread of accommodations, hotels and resorts for every budget and Thailand's renowned delightful cuisines, you can be assured of an enjoyable scuba diving vacation.

The Gulf of Thailand has hundreds of islands on its 1,840km (1,143 miles) long coast. The gulf is a shallow bowl shaped body of water separated from the South China Sea by a pair of underwater ridges that extend from Vietnam on one side and Malaysia to the other.

The sea bed bottom here is mostly mud mixed with sand and shells. Corals are usually found around the fringes of the gulf islands. There are several rivers in the north bringing enough sediment and freshwater to inhibit coral growth until to the south or the eastern side of the Gulf of Thailand.

The underwater scenery in the gulf is perhaps not as visually appealing as those of the Andaman Sea as it has slightly less variety of marine life. Marine parks such as the Ang Thong Marine Park include spectacularly formed limestone islands with lush rainforest covering them and many of these islands are actually uninhabited.

World famous resorts of Pattaya, Phuket and Koh Samui offer excellent scuba diving facilities as well as other reacreations and entertaiment.

The Andaman Sea was already thriving thousands of years ago with Chinese, European, Thai and Indian trading vessels plying its waters. Today, the Andaman Sea is more of a playground for dive boats and sailing yachts rather than for trading vessels.

One of the better known playgrounds for divers in the Andaman and is often rated amongst the top scuba diving destinations in the world are the Similan Islands. Divers can explore Similan, the Surin Islands and the Mergui Archipelago in liveaboard diving cruises.

Thailand's Andaman Sea stretches 870km (541 miles) from Tarutao National Park on the border of Malaysia to the Surin Islands on the border of Myanmar (formerly known as Burma). It is part of the Indian Ocean and is separated from the Bay of Bengal by the Andaman-Nicobar Ridge. Quaint formations of granite outcrops can be senn in the Surin and Similan Islands.

Other island groups such as Koh Phi Phi are shaped by massive limestone and calcium carbonates since prehistoric time.

The only problem when you travel to Thailand for scuba diving is where to start your diving vacation since there are so many excellent dive spots to choose from and you will be spoilt for choice.

Relocating to Pattaya, Thailand - making it happen
Relocating to Pattaya � making it happen!

Every year, thousands of folks of all ages, from all over the world, pack their bags and set off for a long awaited vacation in Thailand, which happens to be my home now. They stay for just a couple of weeks or up to perhaps 3 months, before reluctantly booking their flight home, and for many, this is sometimes their 20th or 30th yearly trip!

And, like myself, thousands of these vacationers have spent a great deal of time and effort, trying to work out how they can live in Thailand permanently, and this first section in our Relocate to Pattaya series, is an attempt to explain why you too should perhaps consider life in the Land of Smiles.

Although much of the information in this series can be applied to all of Thailand, most of our Club Members live in Pattaya, or are hoping to move here soon, and the information presented here is mainly as a result of our work with the Pattaya Expats Club.

My name is Pete and I am one of the founders of the Pattaya Expats Club, which is dedicated to all of us expats enjoying the good life in Pattaya, and those of you across the world that would like to join us here.

The Pattaya Expats Club is all about expats helping expats and all Nationalities are welcome. Whatever your question or problem, you can be sure there is another expat in the Club who has "been there, done that". New friends who are ready to share their experience and expertise on anything and everything to make your stay in Pattaya more enjoyable. Free assistance on one year Visas, medical insurance, home buying etc., so find out the facts BEFORE you make an expensive mistake.

So what better group to explain to you why they wake up each morning with a smile on their face, happy to live in this beautiful corner of the world. We have in excess of 10,000 expats living in Pattaya, and all of us have a different story to tell, but I have tried to distil the experience of many of our members to explain the magic of living in Pattaya, so here goes:

If you are middle aged, or older, you can be sure that living in Pattaya will knock at least 10 years off your age, and probably 30 years off your attitude to life. You truly will start thinking like you did as a young man or woman, full of anticipation in each new day, and happy to be alive.
Need some proof of this? Just spend a few days in Pattaya and try to explain the smile of contentment on the faces of expats young and old.

The magic is in the people of Thailand, and particularly in the friendliness of the young Thai women. Where else in the world would a 70 year old be greeted by a friendly smile from a beautiful and graceful Thai girl as you walk along Beach Road? And that smile is a genuine expression of her happiness that you are visiting her country �V and you will be walking on air all day!

A cartoon in the Pattaya Mail recently said it quite succinctly:
Before moving to Pattaya: 68 years old, wife died, no job, small pension, lonely, family never come to see me, neighbors do not speak, body aches with rheumatism and arthritis, rain 11 months of the year, high gas, electricity and food bills, savings being gobbled up, crap TV, nobody cares. Just waiting to die.

After the move to Pattaya: 68 years old, widowed, pension, never lonely �V who cares if the family visits? Neighbors are so friendly, rheumatism and arthritis gone, sunshine all year. Cheap gas, electricity and food bills, savings intact, pension goes farther. TV great, football, movies, no license fees. Best sex in 40 years. Lovely people, thank you God, thank you Thailand.

And here is a similar view from one of our members:

The friendly welcome I always get from Thai people, young and old, rich and poor. A beautiful smile as you pass a stranger in the street that makes you feel on top of the world and happy to be alive in Pattaya.

Beautiful weather, even the rain is warm!

Breathtaking beaches, just take a bike ride down Jomtien Beach Road in the morning.

Pattaya Soi 6 is where you get the hottest bars and the most outstanding night-life life has to offer. This block is known for their brothels, go-go bars and girls. In Soi 6 beer bars and go-go bars are their specialty.

So if your vacation is far from being the unobtrusive family oriented vacation or if you are just out with your buddies for a good time then you can chose to go to this stretch. Here you will find nightlife to its extreme.

Go to their beer bars and fill yourself up with booze. Some people just like to have a mug of beer and a few friends to yak with. Here people would not mind if you are out and drunk. These beer bars are quite a collection. Some would house a couple of guests, maybe 10-20, or some would have a bigger crowd. Most places would have the basics. A couple of refrigerators, a few tables and chairs, waiters and the most important thing is booze.

A number of go-go bars are also housed in this block. Here they advertise the hottest girls that they have in Pattaya, so they say. They also have beers and cocktails in these bars and of course food. But be prepared because the awesome sights they provide while you are enjoying you drink are not free. The prices here are a bit higher than the usual beer house rates.

Whatever your thing is Pattaya Soi 6 can pretty much accommodate you; beer, bars, girls - you name it and they have it.

Pattaya is all about sex. So say some, and while there is much more to the city, the whole Pattaya bar girls scene is one of its chief attractions. For sure the city is full of bars full of girls and Pattaya has long been the ‘naughty’ centre of Thai tourism. We prefer to promote Pattaya for its more wholesome attractions but recognise that a large number of visitors are attracted to Pattaya for the girls. By day or night the sois off Beach road are full of girls hanging out of bars waiting for customers, there’s nothing discreet about it, yet it’s all relaxed and without the sleazy atmosphere.
What are you looking at?
What are you looking at?

Bar girls in Pattaya mostly come from the poor Northeast region, and some are very sexy indeed. No matter where they are from, they are all here to make money, and help visitors to have a good time. If you can understand those two rules then you’ll both be satisfied; it’s all pretty casual and open, there are no pimps and bouncers and expensive entry fees or strict rules. But the girls do expect some respect and a safe environment. The culture of acceptance in Thailand means that prostitution thrives because many girls from poor backgrounds find that the skin trade in Thailand isn’t an entirely unpleasant way of making a lot more money than they could working in a factory. Although their parents would never know what they are up to, the family back home certainly benefits from the generous remittances, for which a Thai girl can gain that all important respect.

So what we have is a bustling coastal town brimmed with activity and most notably in the neon glare of night. Hundreds of bars line Pattaya beachfront and side streets and inside most of them will be a number of girls somewhere between a few or a hundred. The girls are generally forthcoming and apparently confident as they compete with fellow workers for the evening’s business. Many of the bars are rough, dingy affairs with girls sitting around drinking, or involved in a lame but playful conversation with a potential customer.

Other bars of the go-go variety have a number of girls dancing scantily clad to a bass line which rules out conversation, while some places go for a veneer of elegance with lesbian-style strip shows to slower, more dramatic music. Late at night, the big nightclubs in the centre of town are jammed with girls who have finished working in their bar or others who are known as ‘freelancers’.

Bars with girls can be found in most areas of Pattaya but the main concentration is around Walking Street near the beach and all the sois (smaller streets) running off the main Beach Road. Pattaya 2 Road also has its share of establishments while Soi Buakaow has a growing appeal. A little further down the coast at Jomtiem Beach, there are again an array of mainly open-air bars with smiling young girls offering compliments and a welcome to both wallet and customer.
No money, no honey - the girls mean business
No money, no honey - the girls mean business

Throughout Pattaya, the usual modus operandi is then to buy a girl a ‘lady drink’ and then engage in some kind of informal chat. If both parties appear keen to leave together, the bar is then paid a ‘fine’, usually somewhere between 200 and 700 baht, and then the girl’s fee is often open to negotiation. Girls in Pattaya provide a service for as little as 500 baht on a short time (few hours) basis and would usually accept no less than double this to stay overnight (long time). A lot of these girls are not short of business sense though and they can obtain much higher fees than this from most customers.

The Pattaya bar girls are forward, suggestive and there to empty your wallet, but in a friendly sort of way. Thailand is cheap enough that buying a few drinks (slightly more expensive for the girls and in the girlie bars) won’t break the bank, so it’s worth moving around, sharing a drink with several until you are comfortable with one particular girl’s company. They are experts at making you feel like a million bucks, and their ultimate objective is to get you to invite them back to your hotel, so don’t be decieved by the friendliness of the very first girl you meet because they are all like this. In fact the older and uglier you are the more attention you can expect, for these are the customers that they usually can negotiate easiest with for a high price. Thais are naturally friendly and fun-loving, which is all part of their charm.

Meeting horny local girls for free

Most 'bachelors' visiting Thailand opt for the easy solution of visiting go go and girlie bars, but there are also lots of regular girls who aren't prostitutes but keen on meeting foreigners for a fling. Hundreds of lonely and horny modern city girls go looking online for sex with visiting or resident westerners, no strings attached. They aren't expecting money or a boyfriend and haven't been with scores of other men. The best place to meet these girls is on Adult Friend Finder, where there are more than 10,000 registered Thai female members.

In all you can expect to end up spending about 2000 baht for a fun night (US$50), after all the drinks, the bar fine and the fee you eventually settle with the girl. Some hotels will also expect you to pay an extra charge for bringing bar girls to your room. Bearing in mind that many flush and naively generous tourists have been there before you, the more stingy and penny-pinching you try to be, the less enthusiastic the girl will become, until the whole evening ends up being a boring chore for her and you feel like you’ve been ripped off. If this is your first experience, you are likely to be taken a bit for a ride, and some girls are ruthless in demanding extra if you happen to shoot too quickly and want a second go.

Visitors often end up keeping the girl’s company for several days, which works out cheaper. She can prove to be a good companion and tour guide or a completely tiresome disinterested burden outside of the bedroom. A smart guy will try several options during his stay. Be aware that these bar girls of Pattaya will expect you to pay for everything, including shopping.
Travellers footage: Thai ‘coyote’ dancer

In Pattaya the bar girls you encounter in most bars are there of their own free will. Although prostitution is massive loss of face to any Thai, these girls are faraway from home and fairly relaxed about it, certainly in Pattaya. Fortunately the whole scene can be a mostly enjoyable lifestyle and work environment for the girls and certainly a better alternative to a factory job. However, the job is fraught with insecurities, over-supply of girls, bitchiness within the ranks, and many of the girls are cheated at some point by unscrupulous customers, so try to treat them with respect. They can be ruthlessly unpleasant if they are crossed or feel cheated. They can also really warm to you if you treat them like a regular date. Unfortunately few of them are ever suitable as long term girlfriends when sex has become their tool for earning money, so don’t waste time getting emotionally attached bar girls in Pattaya.

A word of warning. Although all girls you encounter in girlie bars will be over 18, some may be new and somewhat uneasy with the experience. Underage sex is not tolerated in Thailand and although it seems a haven for paedophiles, there are numerous undercover CIA and other agents working in the city. They have been quite successful in identifying individuals for prosecution when they return to their home countries, while offenders are often apprehended by the Thai police.

Pattaya is full of go go bars and it’s one of the main reasons many visitors come to the city. Unlike most of Thailand, the sex industry thrives in Pattaya as long as everyone sticks to the rules. Prostitution is actually illegal in Thailand but it’s tolerated in certain areas. There are plenty of go go bars in Pattaya, most of the largest being situated around Walking Street and in Pattayaland, nearby. There are more on the lanes leading off Beach Road, as well as a few in Jomtien and North Pattaya if you don’t want to travel too far from your hotel.
Go go dancers are a key attraction in the bars
Go go dancers are a key attraction in the bars

The atmosphere in the go go bars of Pattaya is very relaxed and has none of the clandestine character and sleaze of red light districts in other countries. The girls are fun, friendly and willing to go home with you for a reasonable fee. If you are new to Pattaya you needn’t feel embarrassed, and can pop into a bar and quietly sit watching sport on the TV or the girls dancing, over a beer. The girls will approach you and although some are quite forward they are, on the whole, respectful. Also, unlike bars in specific ‘go go areas’ of Bangkok there is no pressure to buy overpriced drinks. All of the go go bars in Pattaya are entered through a curtain or door, with plenty of touts outside, mainly pretty ladies to guide you in. Most don’t charge for entry.

he smaller Pattaya go go bars usually have about 10 girls ‘working’ in each, and the larger ones have as many as 50. And the girls available aren’t all Thai either. ‘European girls only’ at Amazon in Walking Street, are mostly Russian and Eastern European girls, and some are real stunners. When it comes to the essence of their trade there really isn’t any defined rule about what is and isn’t a go go bar. Strictly speaking, go go bars in Pattaya should be discreetly closed to the public, and usually has semi-naked dancers on a stage and a dark ‘stripper’ atmosphere. These are usually some of the sexiest, though charmless and most expensive girls on offer. But, walking down the many lanes in the area, you’ll find countless regular bars full of hostesses who aren’t there solely to pour or serve your drinks. These are relaxed, open places with lively music and sports on TVs.

People often ask us for family friendly tourist attractions in Thailand where they can take their kids to have some fun. Sriracha Tiger Zoo is a great place for kids on holiday in Thailand. It can be done as either a day trip from Bangkok or as an excursion from Pattaya which is slightly closer. We drove down there to visit the zoo and it took us only 80 minutes from the Bangkok area. I took Nong Grace again as she enjoys visiting zoos and animal parks. Up to now, she has been quite nervous about getting close to any of the animals. However, for the first time, she wanted her picture taken with a tiger cub. This cost 150 baht for an instant picture in a nice frame. You can also take as many pictures as you like with your own camera. She even posed again later with two baby crocodiles for another 150 baht. She could have also posed with an orangutan, kangaroo, snake and even scorpions. But you have to draw the line when it costs 150 baht per picture.



The main feature of the zoo is the 200 Bengal tigers which can be seen at various locations. To their credit, the zoo has been able to maintain a successful breeding program for these tigers and so many of them were born at the zoo. In the Tiger Tunnel you can get quite close to the tigers. In the same building there is a nursery where you can see one of the most remarkable sights at the zoo. This is the tiger cubs drinking the milk of a large mother pig. And then, in the neighbouring cage, there were piglets dressed in tiger skin shirts running around with a full grown tiger!



As well as observing the animals, there are also a number of shows that you can watch for no extra charge. Our first show was "Amazing Circus" which was a kind of Big Top show. It started with an act by an intelligent pig that was able to successfully sort coloured pegs into the correct coloured boxes. I guess this proves that pigs are not colour blind. Next came the highlight of the show with a performance by the large Bengal tigers. A word of warning before I continue. The tigers sat in a semi-circle with their backs to the audience at the start of the show. I would strongly suggest that you don’t sit in the front row as when they go to the toilet they can squirt backwards a couple of meters. The tigers did all the usual tricks such as jumping through hoops of fire and walking on their hind legs. It was certainly entertaining for the youngsters in the audience, but honestly, I am never that impressed with performances done with animals in Thailand. There are three of these shows per day at 11 a.m., 1.30 p.m. and 3.30 p.m.



From Amazing Circus show, we followed the crowds to the Elephant Show. This one wasn’t actually too bad. The tempo was quite fast and the elephants with their trainers kept running on from stage left and stage right. Although many of the tricks were the usual fare, the fast tempo managed to keep our attention and Nong Grace enjoyed the show. The highlight for her was the basketball match between two elephants. The trainers also asked for two volunteers from the audience. They then laid down on the ground while two elephants walked over them several times. One of the elephants did the usual trick with its trunk by prodding the male volunteer in places he didn’t really want to be prodded. However, the young female elephant was the funniest. When it stepped over the volunteers, it lifted its hind leg as if it was just about to take a leak. There are three elephant shows per day at 11.40 a.m., 2.30 p.m. and 4.30 p.m.



Our next show was the pig racing which I was actually looking forward to. I had heard about it before and just wanted to see what it was all about. This show started with an amazing pig that could do some really cool party tricks. Believe it or not, the pig could do simple arithmetic sums. To prove it wasn’t fixed, the audiences were invited to call out numbers. The equation was then read out aloud in Thai, English and Chinese. The pig then picked up a marker with the correct number. After this came the pig racing. These were piglets that basically just ran from one end to the other. The second race was then their return trip. Not as exciting as I thought it would be. The show certainly has more potential. These shows are every half hour from 9 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.



In the building next to the pig racing is a place where you can feed the baby tiger cubs. A bottle of milk was a little expensive at 50 baht. Nearby here we also saw deer, giraffes and few other wild animals. There was also a section with dozens of rabbit that seemed to be suffering a bit from the heat. Again, Nong Grace enjoyed feeding them which fortunately only cost 10 baht this time for a bunch of long green beans. Nearby we went into an artificial cave to see the advertised Scorpion Queen who apparently is comfortable with scorpions covering her whole body. Though we didn’t see any action as she didn’t want to perform for just the two of us. But she said she would if we paid 150 baht. I declined her offer.



Our last show was the Crocodile Show. All of these crocodile shows are much the same as each other. It usually involves sticking limbs - either hands or heads, into the mouth of a crocodile. What makes or breaks these shows is the personality of the performers. Our show had one lady and one man. The guy actually looked quite young and he hammed it up a bit which made his performance a bit funny. He slipped over a few times while trying to pull the crocodile out of the water which earned him some nervous laughter and applause from the audience. The show was alright if you haven’t seen that kind of thing before. It ended when an obvious stage plant came down and threw them a 20 baht note as a tip. No-one picked up on the hint so the cleaning lady was then told to throw some money too. Then other people started to tip them. There are seven crocodile shows per day.



Our last stop was the crocodile nursery. Here we saw hundreds of crocodile eggs in the incubators. Apparently they have an egg breaking festival in May where the public can help with the hatching of the eggs. Nong Grace then surprised me when she said she wanted to have her photograph taken with a baby crocodile. She was very nervous at first but was determined to do it. She had seen a photograph of her father posing with a big tiger and I guess she wanted to outdo him. So, she now had two framed pictures of her holding animals. Something to show her friends at school. On the way to the exit, we passed one more pen where we saw a tiger that seemed to be living happily with some dogs. Pretty unusual so it excited Nong Grace. But she was still disappointed that she hadn’t seen the duck with the crocodile.

As usual, there is a two price ticket system at the zoo. The foreigners price is 300 baht for adults and 200 baht for children. No sign of the Thai price which makes me presume that they are embarrassed about having two prices. I managed to get the Thai price of 120 baht by asking politely in Thai. Someone also told me that a work permit also does the trick. Nong Grace was free as she is less than 140 cms. But that sign is written in Thai and so I am not sure if that includes foreign children. The price for Thai children is 60 baht. To reach the zoo, just take the main highway from Bangkok towards Chonburi and then Pattaya. The zoo is in the Sriracha district. Big signs tell you when to turn off so it is quite simple.

The enjoyable and lively Pattaya Wan Lai Festival or Songkran Flowing Day (Thai New Year) is best known for its uncontrolled and unlimited public water-throwing traditions, where everyone becomes soaking legally.

The fertile lands of the nearby provinces make for a pleasant fruit festival held in May.

The progressively popular Pattaya Marathon is held yearly in July in 3 categories: Full Marathon (42.195 kilometres) Half Marathon (21.10 kilometres) and Quarter Marathon (10.55 kilometres) and is open to everyone.

An outstanding event is the yearly Buffalo Races which is held in October at Chonburi, located 40 kilometres north of Pattaya.

In November, there are full of festivals in Pattaya including beauty contests, floral floats, market stalls, sporting events, and a plethora of carnival-like activities, exhibitions, cultural performances, plus a spectacular display of fireworks on the beach.

The Loy Krathong Festival will be celebrated throughout Thailand on the full moon night in November. Thai people and tourists will pay respect to nature by floating banana-leaf "krathong" on the rivers and sea.

Pattaya City, 12th November 2008, especially in Jomtien, a quiet beach, was no longer quiet. Mass of people from different parts of Thailand came join us here.
Jomtien beach traffic was changed to one-way system to avoid the traffic jammed. While in Pattaya itself, there were thousands of people cerebrated the festival in Walking Street and around the Bali Hai Piere.

This year, Loi Krathong festival in Pattaya, had more local visitors compare with last year, but fewer foreigners. Not to be surprised, because of the political situation and many other problems around the world.

There were no Coyote dance in Pattaya Loi Krathong Festival and this year's festival complying with tradition. There are a lot of Thai and foreigners women dressed up in beautiful Thai costume; to competed for fun and prizes. The competition took place in Walking Street; those shop operators’ provided colorful Krathongs, mainly made of leaves and flowers for people in reasonable prices. This year the government requested, that people should be aware that their actions do not cause any harm to the culture.

When the time came to “floating”the “Krathong”, everyone has got a beautiful Krathong with candles, coins, incense sticks, lit the candles together and prayed for good luck and floated the Krathong on the water at the same time of the folks were flying Khom Lois, meant to fly grief and ill fortune away from our people and our city PATTAYA.

There are many Pattaya festivals throughout the year and one of its most famous and beloved is the Loy Krathong (or Loi Krathong) festival. This tradition was influenced by the Indian Lantern (Diwali Festival) where floats are made to worship the three Brahimin Gods (Bhrama, Shiva and Vishnu).

Though Loy Krathong may have been inspired by the Indian festival, it is a uniquely Thai event. The event plays homage to the godess of Water Phra Mae Khongkha. The event is very much part of the Thai culture throughout Thailand.

Krathongs (floats) are typically shaped like a lotus and are very ornately decorated. Typically each region will decorate their krathongs in flowers and other materials indigenous to that area. It is also common for locals to put strands of their hair or nail clippings into the float in order to have their past sins washed away.

The parade of floats is accompanies by fireworks and other fanfare that makes this one of the most unique and lively of the Pattaya festivals. This is a time where people wish for success, love and forgiveness.

Make sure you have the ability to take many pictures of the parade of flowers and floats and the waterways that are illuminated by countless candles all in honor of the festival.

Loy Krathong - Family Fun

This festival marks another great opportunity for family fun in Pattaya. Pattaya festivals are a great time to visit the city with your family for a splendid holiday. The entire family will get into the spirit as the energy of the city embraces you.

While planning a trip to Pattaya during the festival you will want to make sure you book your rooms far in advance since this is one of the most popular times for visitors to enjoy Pattaya and the great Pattaya festivals.

Loy Kratong "Festival of Lights" in Pattaya City hold on the full moon. Loy Kratong on Pattaya is an exciting, because A little floats (kratong) are made from banana trunks, flowers and candles and set afloat on the sea ( differrence from other province are afloat on river). This symbolizes the casting away of troubles and a call for a happy future. As the moon rises in the evening people converge around bodies of water throughout the country to release their kratongs.

By Sarah Duffy

Visitors to Pattaya largely come for the beach and nightlife scene, but on experiencing just how busy things can get here in the high season you may find yourself looking for a more secluded getaway at which to sun yourself, gorge on fresh seafood and have a drink or two. Can’t find a sun lounger? Don’t fear. We have some great tips for beach daytrips from Pattaya, away from the hectic sands.
The beaches offshore are much nicer
The beaches offshore are much nicer

The closest alternative to a dip in Pattaya Beach’s less than idyllic waters is Jomtien Beach, just south around the headland. Here the waters are cleaner and the larger six-kilometre long beach area offers a less crammed location in which to enjoy deliciously fresh seafood, sold from mobile vendors and beachside restaurants. Hotels and dining establishments along the beach are better spaced than those at Pattaya, giving the place a more laid-back feel. Best of all, Jomtien is well away from the bar scene that is so universal in Pattaya.

Jomtien is also well-known as being a premier beach for water sports, with everything from waterskiing, parasailing and windsurfing possible here. The water sports facilities are excellent and you will find numerous outlets hiring equipment. If adrenalin thrills are what you are after, Jomtien is the beach for you.

A less popular alternative to Jomtien is Naklua Beach to the north of Pattaya, a less developed and smaller beach with a relaxed atmosphere. This beach is popular among families and those who want to avoid the abundance of single male tourists, often with Thai female company, that plague Pattaya Beach. The calm waters and child-friendly atmosphere here make it ideal for couples travelling with children, and it is just a 20-minute taxi ride from Pattaya.

The pretty cove area of Cliff, just a short drive from Pattaya, offers a small beach within proximity to some of Pattaya’s glitziest hotels, set in the cliffs that overlook the beach. If you have cash to throw around, lodging here and accessing the exclusive beach areas can be a great way to avoid the rush for the best beach loungers at Pattaya Beach.

To the north of Pattaya, towards Chonburi, is the resort area of Bang Saen which boasts a mostly Thai clientele. An excellent option for holidaymakers wanting to see a more traditional Thai style beach town, Bang Saen offers deck chairs and fresh seafood snacks as well as established restaurants and hotels. This beach is far removed from the touristy scene at Pattaya and can make a refreshing change for those interested in hanging out with the locals. Pattaya attractions.

Bang Saray, to the south of Pattaya, is becoming another favourite retreat among those who want to stay away from the action in Pattaya. Here you will find villas, hotels and bungalows, as well as excellent seafood restaurants that attract plenty of Thais as well as foreigners; always a good sign. Farther south again are some of the region’s best beaches at Sattahip, although many of these beaches are reserved for the Thai military, with some large navy and air bases in the area.

If you want to retreat to an island, Koh Larn offers the perfect daytrip from Pattaya and has some fantastic beaches. No longer a secret, the island gets busy during the high season and at weekends, and it is worth booking a room in advance if you wish to stay overnight. Day-trippers can easily reach the ferry port at Tha Tangke in South Pattaya by taxi and then make the 40-minute boat ride to the island, with many services including lunch in the price of the ticket. Koh Larn guide.

Many day tours are available from Pattaya which take in Koh Larn and other nearby islands including the horseshoe shaped Koh Sak and Koh Krok. Typically, tours include all transport and lunch on one of the islands. The remainder of the day is spent swimming and snorkelling at the reefs near the beaches. Taking one of these al-inclusive, organised daytrips is an economical and stress-free way to explore Pattaya’s surroundings.

Rayong is just a 1-hour, 30-minute drive from Pattaya and has some pretty beaches to the southeast of the city. Ban Phe is the most popular area for beach-goers, while it is also the access point for boats to Koh Samet, an island that offers a whole coastline of idyllic beaches. While traveling to Koh Samet on a daytrip from Pattaya is feasible, sticking to the sands around Rayong at Ban Phe is less rushed and equally enjoyable.

There is no reason to spend your entire Pattaya holiday on Pattaya Beach when there are so many excellent beach daytrips available within a short drive. Whether you decide to go at it alone or book up with a tour group, a daytrip to an alternative local beach makes for an excellent addition to any Pattaya holiday.

Pattaya is one of Thailand’s premier sailing destination, attracting both domestic and international sailing crowd. The sailing season in Pattaya lasts from November till April when the weather is at its best. A number of yacht and boat agencies organise charters, with or without crews, joining leisure cruises and even basic training for would-be yachtsmen.

Boat Rental Agencies
Ocean Marina
274 Sukhumvit Road, Chomthian, Pattaya, Chon Buri
Tel: 0 3823 7310
The Ocean Marina Yacht Club in Chomthian Beach, just south of Pattaya, offers jetty, pontoon berths, and onshore facilties for skippers and crew members with hotel, restaurant and other relevent services.

By Laura Parr
There is plenty of day time action in Pattaya, weekends
There is plenty of day time action in Pattaya, weekends

Families visiting Pattaya won’t be stuck for things to do. From beach activities to elephant rides, from museums to theme parks, this tropical paradise has an abundance of entertainment. Small enough that you can squeeze most activities into a one-week holiday, yet large and varied enough to hold even the most fickle minded of children’s interests, a holiday to Pattaya is sure to be family-friendly.

Visitors’ first stop is usually one of Pattaya’s long sandy beaches, and here children can play volleyball, cricket and beach tennis when they tire of building sand castles. The clear blue sea can be explored in all its glory with snorkelling. Children over 13 years can learn to scuba dive, although this sport can be costly.

Close to Jomtien Beach is the popular Jungle Bungy Jump, set among a scenery of lakes. Run by a New Zealand qualified jumpmaster, jumping from the 165 foot high bungy tower is a must for more intrepid children.

For even more excitement, take the family to one of Pattaya’s many go-kart tracks, to watch an international event or have a go yourselves. There are different tracks for beginners, advanced and off road go-karters, so whatever your skill you will be sure to enjoy the experience.

Animal lovers should head for one of Pattaya’s three horse riding centres, where even the most inexperienced rider can participate. Choose between a pleasant early morning or sunset beach ride, or a cool jungle ride. To enjoy life at a more leisurely pace try an elephant trek. Traipsing through the jungle atop one of these noble beasts is an experience your children will find hard to forget. Even if you don’t fancy riding, simply meeting and feeding the animals can be a lot of fun. Don’t leave your hotel without your camera!
Several themed parks are found in Pattaya
Several themed parks are found in Pattaya

A great escape from the beach is the Million Years Stone Park and Crocodile Farm. Located within a stunning 40 acre garden, the park boasts some beautiful 200 year old bonsai trees and impressive giant stones and is home to a number of crocodiles, which can be seen in their natural habitats.

Pattaya is home to a number of theme parks, with perhaps the most popular being Pattaya Water Park Beach Resort. Containing whirlpools, waterslides and some shallow pools, the park is suitable for people of all ages. Located between Jomthien beach and South Pattaya beach, those who love to swim in the sea don’t have far to go. Near Pattaya Klang is Mini Siam, the third largest miniature attraction in the world. With its tiny representation of Thailand’s heritage, it proves a popular attraction among children of all ages.

A fantastic day out for all the family can be had on a sailing boat. Private boats can be chartered, while there are a number of tour operators offering organised excursions within the area. Some tours offer fishing, snorkelling, or other activities, and most include lunch and drinks. Brave older children and adults can try parasailing, which is popular between November and April. Look out for operators along the beach.

By Mark Bentley
Pattaya is an exciting city by night
Pattaya is an exciting city by night

Pattaya sees its fair share of visitors as well as having a considerable expat population, ensuring the city has no shortage of demand for good eating and drinking venues. Western consumer demand aside, let’s not forget that food and drink play an essential role in Thai culture and that the locals were taking care of their own dining needs long before establishments catering to outsiders began to pop up.

Such places still exist and have not lost their share of the market to tourist-oriented bars and restaurants; rather the city’s selection of venues has increased significantly so that customers in Pattaya can now choose between traditional fare at economic Thai prices or a mix of higher priced international and Thai food at venues geared towards overseas visitors.

Few hotels offer anything other than breakfast as part of their packages, leaving most visitors seeking somewhere to dine at both lunch and dinner times. Lunch, for many, can be a relatively cheap and simple affair; a sandwich, a salad, some spring rolls or a plate of French fries. However, for those wanting to tuck into something a little heartier, there are plenty of options available.

Holidaymakers favouring English fare will find the Queen Victoria Inn on soi 6 a good bet at lunchtime, with traditional favourites such as ploughman's lunch and shepherd's pie gracing the menu. Equally attractive for a midday slap-up is Pat’s Restaurant on soi 3, where roast beef and Yorkshire pudding are up for grabs, alongside classics such as fish and chips and pie and chips.
Lunch or dinner al fresco is a popular option
Lunch or dinner al fresco is a popular option

For lunch with a more American flavour, head to Bob's BBQ & Grill, holder of the official record for the world’s largest cheeseburger and dishing up smaller versions of the same along with barbecued ribs and authentic Texas wagon wheel burgers. The City Grill restaurant on Walking street provides typical but tasty fast food fare along the hot dog and burger lines, while Subway on Pattaya Klang road dishes up some impressive chunky sandwiches.

As the afternoon draws on and sunset approaches, holidaymakers head out for evening meals. Choices are abundant, covering all budgets and tastes. It’s really a matter of what you’re in the mood for and how much you are willing to pay.

If it’s traditional Thai food that takes your fancy, then venues such as Somsak on soi 1 and Baan Thai on Central road present authentic cuisine at both ends of the price scale (the former being the cheaper). Adam & Eve’s at Sabai Jai Village on Sukumvit road and PIC Kitchen on soi 5 both offer good quality Thai food which can be enjoyed to the accompaniment of live entertainment at various restaurants. Recommended restaurants.

Going international for dinner is a good option for visitors needing a change from the intensity of Thai food, and with venues offering English, Belgian, French, Scandinavian, Mexican, Italian, German, Indian and Japanese cuisine, there’s certainly no shortage of choice.

A good bet for French food is Au Bon Coin on soi 5.

By Austin James

You’ve come to Pattaya for the beaches and food and culture, right? No you haven’t, admit it, you’ve come for the girls! It’s okay, many other men have too, and the girls are one of Pattaya’s key attractions. And the good news is you’ll more than likely go home with some fun memories with one or more sexy girls. It doesn’t cost that much either.

Pattaya is Thailand’s sex capital - it also has other tourist attractions - and not only does it attract punters by the busload, but it also has plenty of young sexy girls who come here to earn a living off the visitors. It all happens in a pretty open and honest way that is tolerated by the typically accepting way that Thai officials approach law enforcement. Everyone in Pattaya understands the deal.
Pattaya is all about go go girls and beer bars
Pattaya is all about go go girls and beer bars

Pattaya has been a place for visiting men to meet girls since thousands of GIs on R&R from Vietnam started coming in the 1960s, and the city owes its prosperity to the girls. Therefore, by the time you get here, 40 years of sex tourism would have shaped Pattaya, and the system is well developed for the maximum benefit of both the punter and girl. It is less sleazy than your average city red light district, far more relaxed and friendly, cheaper and open for business.

First, finding a girl in Pattaya is easier than finding a tourist map! There are whole areas packed with bars full of girls, both during the day and evening, and you can literally walk out of your hotel and have a companion within 30 minutes, no complications, rip offs or misunderstandings. Of course, remember that these girls are earning money and should be treated with respect and dignity. Also, Pattaya is a vacation town for many regular people who haven’t come for the sex and wish to enjoy it without sleaze everywhere they look, so be mindful of that.

Areas where you will find girls include; the lanes between Beach road and Second road - you really can’t miss them, along the famous Walking street, selected lanes in Jomtien, body massage and some karaoke venues farther out nearer the Sukhumwit road, in discos and some of the hotels ‘massage services’ (not all massage ladies are ‘available’ but some services are set up exactly for that).

The easiest first step for finding a girl in Pattaya is to wander among the beer bars of the sois (lanes) off Beach road. It has a festive atmosphere; the girls might accost you with ‘hello, welcome’, but mostly they are harmless. Away from this ‘party central’ you will find less ‘in your face’ beer bar areas where you can sit and enjoy a drink while sizing up the girls, without any obligation to buy ladies drinks. The girls vary from very young and very sexy (costing £20 and up) to the tired has-beens in the quieter bars (costing as little as £10 out of season).
Some go go girls can really cost!
Some go go girls can really cost!

The sexiest girls are found in the go go bars, which are more discreet and not opened up to the street-front. Here you will find girls in bikinis, sometimes topless or even naked dancing on the stage and these girls too can be taken home, but they are more expensive (£40 and up). The atmosphere here is less down to earth and these girls are ‘in it for the money’. There is another level of girl altogether which is provided by private escort services, which can be ordered over the internet and can come directly to your room - they are true professionals but are over-priced. If you need to be discreet, this is one option.

You can also go to body massage and karaoke bars (ask the taxi driver), if you are sneaking away from your wife for the evening. Here you get to select a lady from behind a ‘fishbowl’ and for about £30 you get 2 hours of bath, massage, soapy ‘experience’ and sex. But be warned, these women go with a lot of men and the whole thing is rather ‘mechanical’. A better bet is the karoake bars with lots of pretty women outside to choose from, and they cost about £5 an hour to be your hostess on comfy sofas and often can be taken out to a short time motel or back to your hotel, but these girls like to think of themselves as premium and charge a lot more (about £40).

Then there are the freelancers who work outside of the bars for the freedom. These girls can be cheaper and often more fun since some of them are just regular girls or students looking for a fun evening with a handsome foreigner who will give them some pocket money. They haven’t slept with dozens of men and become bored with sex, so can be more genuine. Some hang out on the promenade along Beach road. You will also meet them in the discos a lot.

How it works is like this; when you’ve found your sweetheart for the night, and after a few drinks to loosen things up, you needn’t hesitate in asking her if she wants to leave - of course she’ll say yes, but first comes the sudden serious look, and ‘how much you pay me?’ Well, that’s up to you, depending on how sexy she is and how generous you are, but expect to pay between 1,000 and 2,500 baht. You’ll also be expected to pay the bar fine, which is between 200 and 500 baht, so you can take her away. This is paid immediately, the girl is paid in the morning, but make sure you have the exact amount. Hopefully your hotel doesn’t kick up a stink bringing her back, sometimes this can be settled for another 500 baht. If they ask for more, raise hell and they’ll back down. She gets to leave her ID at reception as security.

By Dave Besseling

Pattaya is a city with a certain reputation, and one that is not always flattering. Having grown from a tiny fishing village in the Gulf of Thailand, to a beach retreat for Bangkok residents, a notorious R&R outpost for American soldiers, and then the adult amusement park it is today - the city thrives under lax policies and a nightlife scene known worldwide for its lasciviousness.
Pattaya has plenty of family-friendly attractions
Pattaya has plenty of family-friendly attractions

Though many visitors to Pattaya are male, often seeking cheap thrills and debauchery, there is much more to do in this coastal city than trawl for streetwalkers. Even if you’re coming to Pattaya to live out a spring break Girls Gone Wild type holiday, there are plenty more wholesome distractions to keep you occupied during throughout the day, with loads of theme parks for the whole family.

Being situated on the coast, Pattaya has its share of beachfront; but if you’re looking for the idyllic environment of white sand and palms to shade you while you drink a cocktail from a coconut, you are courting disappointment. Depending on the previous night’s efforts, Pattaya Beach can be one of two things: sprawling in a rented chaise lounge for some solitary R&R of your own or, if you’re feeling a bit more perky, jet-skis are available for rent - a popular activity for cutting wakes in the blue waters.

Visitors looking for a more family friendly environment are advised to head farther south to Jomtien Beach. There is an equal amount of water sport options here and the beachfront is well developed with restaurants, bungalows and hotels. The most recognisable landmark in this area is the Pattaya Park Tower. Located in the complex of the same name, a host of family fun is on offer such as a water park, a roller coaster and many other rides and activities to keep young ones happy.

There are dozens of parks, museums and shows suitable for families like the Underwater World Pattaya Aquarium, Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum, Sriracha Tiger Zoo, Elephant Village, Pattaya Crocodile Farm and many more.
A day tip off-shore to Koh Larn offers the best beaches
A day trip off-shore to Koh Larn offers the best beaches

One advantage of Pattaya’s location is the easy access to groups of small islands just a few kilometres from the mainland. To escape the crowdedness of Pattaya Beach and experience clear blue waves, head to nearby Koh Larn, easily accessible by ferry. After the 45-minute ride, you’ll be padding across any one of the idyllic white sand beaches away from Pattaya’s bustle.

Thousands of westerners call Pattaya home, and as such there are plenty of western sport and leisure activities available. Golf is understandably popular with residents and visitors, and there are no less than 21 golf courses in and around the city.

As you would expect from a city that earns its keep predominantly with tourism, there is no shortage of dining options to satisfy you after you’ve worked up an appetite taking in the sights and sounds of the city, or after you’ve spent the day recovering from the previous night’s revelries. Virtually any type of international cuisine is available as well as all the local Thai specialties you could hope to find. Prices vary greatly depending on where you eat, so any palette or budget should have no trouble finding solace in gastronomy here.

When the sun sets, a trip up the hill of Khao Pratamnak affords great panoramic views which are all the more beautiful with the setting sun over the ocean. Depending on what you spent the day doing, you could call it an early night, or will curiosity get the best of you and lead you down ‘the strip’ to take in the neon clutter of pubs, clubs and go-go bars? Be warned that a taste of Pattaya’s naughty nightlife could turn you into one of Pattaya’s favourite statistics: two out of every three visitors extend their stay in this ‘sin city’.