Welcome to Thailand
The land of smiles, where everyone is fun loving and happy go lucky and the country itself is as diverse and spectacular as the glossy postcards depict. It is a country where travel is reasonably cheap and there is something for everyone. A land where boredom has been forgotten, where the rain is warm, even pleasant and there is something for every taste or desire.
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Pattaya Overview
Pattaya lies 147km southeast of Bangkok on the northeast coast of the Gulf of Thailand. In 1950 there was little here other than a small fishing village. It was unspoiled and unsophisticated yet in 40 short years it has become a city in its own right.
Development started during the Vietnam War when the US constructed a naval base in the area that is still visited by war ships today. Currently used by the Thai Royal Navy, Thai soldiers are often seen in town.
More than 30 offshore islands stretch around Pattaya within a radius of some 48km, from around Si Racha in the north to Sattahip in the south. A few islands are off-limits as they are under the control of the Royal Thai Navy. Most others have fascinating dive sites. The waters are rich in various coral species and tropical fish.
Today, Pattaya is one of Thailand’s premier beach resorts and annually attracts thousands of pleasure-seeking tourists from all over the world.
Pattaya has many attractions. It has good beaches, though the actual Pattaya beach is not the cleanest anymore, others are pristine and the water crystal clear. Beach related activities are extensive and you are sure to find something to suit you.
Pattaya is located within easy reach from Bangkok as well as Don Muang International Airport. It has an excellent accommodation infrastructure, which is of international standard and restaurants and entertainment for all tastes. Because of its good accessibility from Bangkok, Pattaya remains one of Thailand’s most important and popular dive centers.
Climate
Thailand has a tropical climate with three seasons: Hot (March-May), Rainy (June-October) and Cool (November-February). It is hot all year round, there is little difference between the hottest and coolest months, and average temperatures are around 27° c.
The months with the most rain are July, August and September. Pattaya’s coastal location means more breezes than say Bangkok and the rain tends to come in short and heavy bursts rather than prolonged over days, but no matter when you come, you'll have a good time. Lightweight casual clothing is recommended.
Pattaya Childrens' Activities
With palm fringed shores, miles of beach, the ocean and sunshine, sunshine and more sunshine…Pattaya certainly knows how to combat any feelings of boredom one's children may feel. There's so much on offer not only for children but the entire family. From elephant rides to sailing not forgetting the beach, there really is something to do, any time, any weather, any day or night for that matter.
BEACH ACTIVITIES are plentiful in Pattaya such as sand castle building, however kids often get tired of building ordinary sand castles and if this happens you help them by constructing some racing cars or speed boats out of sand...they can 'race' these for hours or of course there are umpteen other activities such as volley ball, beach cricket and the like to entertain the children. There are simply so many things one can do on a beach besides shell collecting and catching a tan.
CYCLING A safe activity, for those able to ride a bicycle, is mountain biking. There are various rental outlets around Pattaya and many hotels supply bikes, free to guests.
DIVING & SNORKELING It is recommended that children don’t learn to scuba dive before they are 13 years old but snorkeling can be done by anyone. If you or your children can’t swim, don a life jacket (far safer than other forms of floating apparatus) and join in. You don’t have to cart the family out on an organized trip either just swimming about along the shore-line can be exciting.
ELEPHANT RIDES If you like views, heights and elephants, there’s no better way to survey the jungles of Pattaya than atop one of these meandering monoliths. Even if you don’t want a ride, you can buy bananas from the elephant venue and hand feed the animals. Don’t forget to take pictures of the kids and these new found friends to send home to Grand-ma and Grand-pa.
GAMES AND Clubs Globe Trotters Children's Club For all ages. Meets every 2nd Friday at 15:30 for swimming and every 4th Saturday at 10:00 for structured activities at the Amari Orchid Resort. For more info call Penny Toner, Tel. 893763 or Ann Suttie, Tel. 424776. There is also a Play Group for Children between 1 and 3 years - every Tuesday and Thursday morning at 10.00. Please call Cindy 237483 or Yuko 303070 (Japanese speaker).
GO KARTING Thrill at the speed as you zoom around the go cart track. Go-karting is popular in Thailand and Pattaya hold many karting competitions. When the tracks aren’t holding international events, the general public may rent the vehicles and try the sport out for themselves. There are beginner, advanced and an off-road track.
HORSE RIDING is another wonderful activity for the entire family. There are three centers catering to this activity and even the youngest or complete novice can join in. If you’ve never ridden before, livery staff will always lead you or be there to lend a hand. Beach rides are a favorite and the jungle rides are perfect for hotter weather.
MILLIONS YEARS STONE & CROCODILE FARM This magnificent forty acre natural garden contains gigantic stones and 200 year old bonsai trees as well as a zoo with an array of crocodiles in their natural surroundings and different kinds of wild animals. It's a popular spot for children of all ages and a good venue on one of those days when one needs a break from the beach.
PARASAILING is another high-flying sport. Done here with the aid of a powerboat, this is definitely a ‘bigger’ boys and girls activity. Operators for these high-flying views can be found along most of the west coast beaches from November to April. Do check the gear though and remember it’s your life or that of your children’s at stake should anything go wrong.
SAILING A slightly different water activity and not often considered by those who aren’t already involved in the sport, sailing is definitely an, ‘all in the family’ pass-time no matter what your children’s ages. From the burbling baby to the teenager, what better way than to really discover Pattaya's coast and offshore islands, other than on a boat? There is a number of sailing dinghy and catamaran rental outlets on most beaches in the area.
If you would rather spend the day being taken by boat rather than having to play with sails and ropes, you can always charter a Speed Boat to get the family around on the water.
THEME PARKS There are several of these scattered around Pattaya and its surrounds and are always popular with children, no matter what their ages.
Pattaya Sports & Activities
FISHING BOAT CHARTER costs depend on the season and size of the boat. Boats can be hired from many owners along Pattaya Beach Rd. Some are equipped with speed engines.
PARASAILING is offered along Pattaya Beach, along Jomtien Beach and at Ko Larn. A common rate is 250 Baht per round.
WATER SKIING is offered along Pattaya Beach, along Jomtien Beach and at Ko Larn. Rental includes boat hire, driver and skis.
GAME FISHING Expeditions are organized by several operators. The waters around Ko Manwichai, Ko Rin and Ko Khram prove popular.
FRESH WATER FISHING is offered at Panarak Park on the Siam Country Club Road, Jomtien Fishing Park on Jomtien Beach Rd and at the Banglamung Shrimp Farm.
TENNIS can be enjoyed at more than 14 Pattaya hotels where preference is given to hotel guests. Several hotels have tennis coaches.
SQUASH is offered at the Cherry Tree on the Siam Country Club Road and also in other locations around Pattaya.
BADMINGTON courts open 24 hours a day can be found at the Pattaya Badminton Court.
BOWLINGThere are two ten-pin bowling clubs in the resort city.
SHOOTING with hand-guns and field rifles, is offered at Tiffany’s which has an air-conditioning. Range with 19 fully equipped galleries.
ARCHERY ranges offer further entertainments of skill in the Pattaya area.
HORSE RIDING Trail riding in the neighboring countryside is available on thoroughbreds imported from Australia at two different establishments in Pattaya.
MOTOR RACING visit to one of these tracks where you can join in the action is a great way to spend a cloudy day when the beach isn’t quite as inviting.
GO KARTING is popular in Thailand and Pattaya hold many karting competitions. When the tracks aren’t holding international events, the general public may rent the vehicles and try the sport out for themselves. There are beginner, advanced and an off-road track.
PATTAYA FITNESS PARKA track is laid out at the foot of Pattaya Hill. The park has a beautiful garden, offers plenty of shade from trees and has a refreshing hill breeze. Jogging is also popular on some hotel jogging tracks, along the 4km Pattaya Beach Rd and along the 6km Jomtien Beach Rd.
GYMNASIUMS There are several of these scattered around Pattaya and its surrounds.
PATTAYA PARK This park, between South Pattaya and Jomtien Beach is for water amusements. It has colorful water slides, whirlpools and large pool for the young at heart.
GOLFis catered to by four courses of international standard. The Siam Country Club, the Panya Resort Golf Course, the Royal Thai Navy Golf Course and the Bangphra Golf Course, all within 30min from Pattaya.
NIGHTLIFEDiscotheques, transvestite cabarets, nightclubs, coffee shops, open-air bars, amusement arcades and restaurants with live music and entertainment compete for attention. Most establishments are located along the Pattaya Beach Rd and in South Pattaya, the resort’s major shopping area. Pattaya is home to one of the largest cabarets in all of Asia.
Dining Out & Shopping in Pattaya
DINING Most hotels have restaurants. Those who want to dine out for special treats can always go to the actual Pattaya where they find a large number of specialty restaurants.
There are numerous restaurants, located in all corners of the city. Be aware that most of them serve Thai food and many have waitpersons who cannot speak English. Restaurants in hotels are more suitable for the un-initiated but the price is often more expensive.
If you have never tasted Thai Cuisine before; it owes much of it's appeal to the exotic spices, herbs and seasonings from China, India, Java and Portugal that are included in the ingredients. The final art of the country's cuisine comes from the skill and ingenuity of cooks.
Although some Thai dishes are quite spicy, far more dishes are completely mild. Much of the heat of the spicy dishes comes from red or green peppers, commonly referred to as chilies. One handy Thai word at all eateries if you aren't particularly fond of hot spicy food, is to learn the words "Mai Phet" (not hot) as if you don't ask, you may be served, Thai style, and then you'll really know the mean of the words "FIRE" (...in the mouth).
SHOPPING Shopping in Pattaya for many is an exciting and pleasurable experience. Whether you are shopping for a suit or bargain hunting, looking for that extra special 'something' for someone special back home whatever it is, shopping in Thailand can be fun.
TIP: The art of haggling is to never drop your guard. The first price is there only for show and has no real meaning. There is always room for negotiation. The starting price can often come down to half or less, depending on your haggling skills and those of the vendor. All the time, remember to smile. This is a game, it should be fun. Don’t take it too seriously. The price agreed for the transaction is always a “win-win” price. Both sides benefit. You get a product much reduced in price from the “decoration” price and feel happy with your newly acquired bargaining skills and the vendor sells their product and still makes a handsome profit. Remember that they will never sell for a loss.
South Pattaya is the main shopping area of the resort city. The city’s major gem, jewelry, silk, cotton and handicraft shops, tailors and boutiques are all in the vicinity, or adjacent to major beachside hotels Pattaya 2 Road also has several handicraft and silk shops.
A multi-million Baht shopping complex on North Pattaya Road, patterned after the Chiang Mai night market, includes a handicrafts center, bazaar and shopping arcade with small bars, nightclubs and an outdoor seafood restaurant.
Shoppers can take advantage of a bimonthly pocket-sized Shopping Guide published by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). The complimentary publication contains shopping tips, maps of major shopping areas and a comprehensive list of TAT accredited shops in Pattaya and other major tourist destinations.
ANTIQUES Thai, Chinese, Burmese and Khmer antiques are excellent buys. Certain categories of antiques are restricted, particularly Buddha images. Others pieces may require an export license, but any reputable dealer will be able to advise you the appropriate restrictions and necessary documentation.
GEMS Throughout Thailand, colored gemstones such as rubies and sapphires are readily available. Many other varieties of colored stones can be found here as well.
CLOTHING Thailand is one of the world's leading manufacturers of ready-to-wear clothing. Fashion boutiques are found in every shopping mall, while cheaper clothing such as T-shirts and jeans are available at bargain prices from street vendors and stores alike. Custom tailoring is also very affordable and tailors can produce most styles promptly. Then of course there are the 'designer label' copies, that frustrate the designers themselves but are a dream come true for many bargain hunters.
FURNITURE Rattan and rosewood furniture items are available in many designs and styles. They can also be made to order in some shops in Pattaya. Arrangements for oversea shipment are often available at the place of purchase.
NIELLOWARE Practiced in southern Thailand for hundreds of years nielloware is the craft of decorating gold and silver objects with delicate etched designs filled with a metal inlay. Nielloware trays, boxes, vases and other items are often strikingly beautiful and because they are created from precious metals can be of great value. They are excellent examples of souvenirs unique to southern Thailand.
ORCHIDS Thailand is famous for its huge variety of orchids. Their magnificent colours and beauty make them a popular purchase. Specially packaged flowers, complete with water supply are readily available for the long journey home and can be conveniently purchased in many locations including the Gift Shops in the international airports.
PEWTER WARE Pewter is fashioned with great skill by Thai craftsmen, the smooth, silky finish of this attractive alloy is enhanced by delicate decorative relief. Pewter ware items include plates, boxes, vases and pocket flasks and are available in many shops throughout Pattaya.
SILK Probably the most famous of all the kingdom's handicrafts, Thai silk is available in a range of colors, patterns and plies. It is sold by the yard or as ready-made clothing and souvenir items. A unique style of Thai silk is Mat Mee, a tie-dye silk traditional to the North-East.
Sightseeing in Pattaya
Lots to see around Pattaya, the many Offshore Islands, Muang, Panantikom, Sri Racha, Bangkok and MORE!
Orchid Farms are a worthwhile visit and if you are thinking of taking some of these unique plants home, visit a day or two before your departure, ensuring live plants when you get back.
BOTANICAL GARDENS are always worth a visit if you are interested in the natural flora of Thailand and Pattaya’s are equally so.
ELEPHANTS See these trained monsters of the jungle perform feats for tourist entertainment or take an elephant trek into the nearby hills. There are a number of elephant tours and show centers around Pattaya and surrounding area.
HILL TRIBE VILLAGE North of Pattaya, the village is home to many hill-tribe families. Demonstrations of their handicrafts are interesting and the items are on sale to the general public.
BRI INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT This international speedway for both cars and motorcycles, is about 15km from Pattaya City. Racing days are Saturday and/or Sunday. The 2.4km circuit is ideal for formula-3 races. You too can join in the thrill of racing your own car or motorbike! Those who want to give it a go need to be in possession of an International Drivers’ License. The cost of rental of vehicles depends on the size of the vehicle and the capacity of the engine. The circuit is open every day.
MINI SIAM near Pattaya Klang this theme park displaying Thai heritage in miniature is popular with young and old alike. The third largest in the world, it brings together models of important buildings and objects of Thai culture and civilization of various periods from ancient time till present.
PATTAYA BOTTLE MUSEUM is located on Sukhumvit Road in Pattaya. This is the place to go to see ships in bottles and other strange items.
Offshore Islands Near Pattaya
KOH LARN (island) is 45 minutes by ordinary boat or 15 minutes by speedboat from Pattaya. Attractions include viewing coral reefs from glass-bottom boats, scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, water-skiing and parasailing. Deep-sea fishing is popular in the waters around Ko Larn and the neighboring smaller islands. There are several beaches, such as, Ta Waen Beach in the northern, Laemtien Beach and Samae Beach in south-western, Nual Beach in the southern of island.
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KOH SAK (island) some 10 kilometers west of Pattaya Strait or 600 meters away from Koh Larn. Koh Sak is another small island shaped like a horse shoe with an area of 0.05 square kilometers. It has two beaches, one on the northern end where boats stop for tourists to swim and another one on the southern part of the island with a pathway linking the two beaches. A coral reef is found at the area in front of the southern beach. Skin-diving is also possible in this vicinity.
KOH KROK (island) is a small island covering an area of 0.05 square km, approximately 8 km from the shore. The island comprises mostly of rocks. Only one sandy-beach on the east of the island, Koh Krok beach is only 100 meters in length. This is an ideal place for coral viewing and paddling about in the water.
KOH PAI GROUP (islands) This group of Islands is comprised of Koh Phai, Koh Manvichai, Koh Leom, Koh Klung Badan etc., Koh Phai being the largest. The islands are presently under the supervision of the Thai Royal Navy. The Koh Phai group of islands is situated at a distance about 13 kilometers from Pattaya and takes 2 hours to reach by boat. There is a light house on top of a hill at Koh Phai. Visitors can enjoy relaxing-moments, swimming, fishing and diving.
KOH SAMET / KOH PHISADAN (island) is the most well known attraction off Rayong offering beautiful beaches with charming white sand, strange shaped rocks, water sports and diving. Ko Samet is located some 6.5 kilometers from Ban Phe. There are boat services available all day and accommodation.
Pattaya Beaches
PATTAYA BEACH is some 4 km long and faces Pattaya Bay, the major venue from which boats visit Pattaya’s offshore islands. The beach curves from north to south and is largely paralleled by a tree-lined promenade and beach road and in the northern and central parts, by hotels and restaurants. The northern section of the beach is largely tranquil, while the central and southern parts become increasingly lively, due to there being shops, department stores, bars, discotheques, restaurants and nightclubs lining the streets.
WONG PRACHAN BEACH is on the northern side of Pattaya Bay. The 1 kilometer beach shares the same entrance as the Central Wong Amat Hotel. A quiet spot, the beach is ideal for swimming and relaxation. Apart from these beaches, there are also Laem Hua Khon Beach on the back and front sides, Laem Lamrae, etc. which are also interesting tourist spots. Popular activities on Koh Larn include swimming, coral viewing, parasailing, water-skiing, water scooter riding, etc.
ANG SILA (Ang Hin) is a fishing village about 5 km from Chonburi. Ang Sila was formerly one of the oldest seaside resorts in the area. The village is famous for its cottage industry, producing stone mortars and animal sculptures such as elephants, horses and tigers. Ang Sila also boasts a number of good restaurants.
BANG SAEN BEACH is a famous beach that has enjoyed lasting popularity. It is ideal for visitors with limited time who wish to relax with their family and friends. It also offers several hotels and bungalows for overnight lodging as well as a good selection of restaurants and beach activities for the whole family.
KHAO SAM MUK is a small hill in between Ang Sila village and Bang Saen Beach, along the beachside road from Ang Sila that winds up Sam Muk Hill. The cliff overlooking the sea has become a tourist spot where legend has it that a couple tragically ended their lives together after having vowed their eternal love for each other. The Sam Muk Hill area is inhabited by a larger number of wild monkeys and beautiful cactus garden.
NONG MON MARKET famous for Chonburi's local handicraft and souvenirs about 1 km from the junction leading to Bang Saen. Tatan and bamboo basket-ware from Panatnikom, a district known for its unique and intricate weaving techniques are available here.
WAT YAN SANGWARARAM This temple under the king's patronage is unique for its modern Thai architecture. The temple is 12 kilometers south of Pattaya. Nearby is a Chinese-style building called "Wihan Sian" housing antiques and art objects from China. A meditation course is offered for men at 6:00 and 18:00. Admission fee is 30 baht per person.
BANG SARAY is a fishing village about 16 km from Pattaya City. A deep-water bay lies on the southern part of Bang Saray and is an ideal place for fishing especially for Prakarung. Towards the north, is a park with some good coral, for those snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Bang Saray offers a number of excellent restaurants and has become a popular place for relaxation. Boats can be hired for excursions around the vicinity.
CHONG SAMAESAM VILLAGE a tiny fishing village along the Sattaheep -Ta Rua Phanich Sattaheep route is renowned as a fishing spot and is a popular swimming and diving spot. Turn left just before the Sattaheep commercial pier. There is a small beach with crystal clear waters. Accommodation is available.
In Surrounding Districts
PANATNIKOM DISTRICT, BASKETWARE VILLAGE situated in the vicinity of Wat Kohkaew Klong Luang, about 4 km from the district. Bamboo is woven into ladies handbags, baskets, betel-nut sets, etc. in various colors and designs.
SRI RACHA DISTRCIT, KOH LOY (island) a tiny island close to Sri Racha Beach, linked to the land by a bridge. On the island is a public park and a Sea Turtle Garden, situated in lush grounds covering and area of around 1 and a half acres. On the Southern side is a small hill with a temple on it. There is also a pier from which one can board a boat to Koh Sichang as well.
SRI RACHA DISTRCIT, KOH KIEW ZOO is located at Tambon Bang Phra, covers a vast area of ground. The zoo can be reached by either one of two ways: first from Sukhumvit, one can follow the Bang Phra Reservoir route passing the Bang Phra golf course for another 19 km or, second, one may follow the new State Highway 36 following direction signs. The open zoo, operated by the Dusit Zoo Authority in Bangkok, has a large number of animals such as deer, monkeys, gibbons, hippopotami, bears, kangaroos, elephants and peacocks etc. Visitors can stroll around the grounds and observe the animals closely. There is also a large aviary with hundreds of varieties of birds covering an area of around 3 acres that visitors can enter for 'close-up' viewing. The zoo is open daily from 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
SRI RACHA DISTRCIT, KOH SICHANG is a large island about 12 kilometers from the Sri Racha shore. What attracts visitors to the island are its beautiful natural surroundings and tranquil atmosphere.
SRI RACHA DISTRCIT, CHONG KHAO KAD is on the south western side of the Koh Sichang Island. Villagers call this area the "Rear End" of the Island. A white sandy beach is found at Chong Khao Kad.
SRI RACHA DISTRCIT, CHAO POR KHAO YAI CAVE is on a hill close to Thevavongse pier. The large structure is Chinese in design. Inside the cave are monuments devoted to Chinese deities such as Heng Jia, the Goddess Kuan Im's Shrine and the Sakajayana Temple.
History of Pattaya
Known as "The Rivera of Thailand" Pattaya started life as a small, insignificant fishing village. In the 13th century it was the R&R (rest and relaxation) spot for soldiers of the great King Nari during his campaign against Burmese invaders, but other than that it continued to doze, until the 20th century.
Popular with the armed forces, it again achieved notoriety in 1959 when a group of American GI’s visited for R&R and after renting a house on the beach, spending an enjoyable time with the locals for a week, they returned and the word was out…Pattaya was “THE” place to holiday.
New groups of Marines arrived and it is from this simple beginning that the city grew. In just 40 odd years it has blossomed into the most renowned of all Thailand’s holiday spots, not only locally, but world wide.
By the late 70’s hotels, resorts, shopping centers, entertainment houses and the like had shot up. Industry developed as did tourism and with the opening of the motorway from Bangkok to Pattaya, it became a two-hour drive from the country’s capital.
Pattaya’s popularity grew so rapidly that the local government couldn’t cope with its administration and in 1976 Pattaya and nearby Naklur became one administrative district then in 1978 Pattaya was declared a city in its own right.
Pattaya is a pleasant, get away from it all place, with clean beaches it is rapidly becoming a place to bring the whole family.
Pattaya has much to offer, good beaches, islands offshore, diving, sailing and its many golf courses are just a few of the activities visitors can enjoy. A place for the whole family, an escape from the whirl of the ‘cosmopolitan’ world’s left behind, a place one can really relax.
Transport in Pattaya
AIRPORT BUS (LIMOUSINE) This is probably the best means of transport for travelling to and from Pattaya. For 200 Baht (one way) you travel from Don Mung Airport (Bangkok) directly to Pattaya. There are both buses and vans operating as 'Airport Limousines' (Bus) so don't be put off if you think you are choosing the wrong vehicle in which to travel. Times are from Bangkok 9am, 12noon & 7pm to Pattaya from Don Mung Airport or 6:30am, 2pm & 6:30pm from Pattaya. Look for their booth and waiting lounge inside the airport (arrival). Try to schedule your air flight accordingly. There are also airport taxis at the airport for 1500 Baht to Pattaya. Travel time from Bangkok to Pattaya is 3 hours by road.
BY AIR The vast majority of tourists going to Pattaya are unaware that the resort does have an airport...U-Tapao Airport at Sattahip. Currently the only scheduled flights are operated by Bangkok Airways to and from Koh Samui. Flight costs are around 1,900 baht (adult fare) one way, to/from Koh Samui. For other areas take a look at our transport pages for the following: Phang Nga, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, Chiang Rai and Phuket for local flights to/from these destinations and Bangkok.
FLIGHT INFORMATION
For more information on flight timetables etc. telephone the department you require as follows:
International Flights: (Bangkok) 66+2+5351111,
Domestic Flights:(Bangkok) 66+2+5351253,
Arrivals: (Bangkok) 66+2+5351301
and Departures: (Bangkok) 66+2+5351386.
| Flights from Pattaya to Koh Sumui | |||
| FLIGHT | DEPARTURE | ARRIVAL | DAYS |
| PG 841 | 12:00 | 13:00 | Tues, Thurs and Sat |
| PG 927 | 15:40 | 16:40 | Mon, Wed, Fri & Sun |
| Flights from Koh Sumui to Pattaya | |||
| FLIGHT | DEPARTURE | ARRIVAL | DAYS |
| PG 840 | 10:30 | 11:30 | Tues, Thurs and Sat |
| PG 926 | 10:30 | 11:30 | Mon, Wed, Fri & Sun |
BUS services link Pattaya and bankok. There are also direct buses from and to Bangkok’s Don Muang Airport.These also serve Naklua, immediately north of Pattaya, and Jomtien to the south of Pattaya.
Bangkok has three main bus terminals serving different areas within Thailand. The Eastern Bus Terminal located on Sukhumvit Rd., Soi 40, Ekkamai, tel. 66+2+3912504 or 66+2+392-2391, usually referred to as Ekkamai, is for Pattaya and points southeast, to Rayong and Trat province. Driving Time to Pattaya from Bangkok is about 3 hours. The fare to/from Bangkok on an ordinary bus is 90 baht one way and the fare on the airport bus costs 200 baht one way.
TRAIN The State Railways of Thailand has a weekend excursion train (Saturdays and Sundays only) departing from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station at 6:20.
BUS TRUCK (BAHT BUS or SONGTHEAW) transport within Pattaya is most convenient by passenger pickup (otherwise referred to as mini-buses or songthaew). They continually ply the Pattaya Beach Rd and Pattaya 2 Road in counterclockwise circuits. Fares beyond the main bay area have to be agreed upon before starting the trip. It makes a difference whether one just boards a passenger pickup and drives along its route while the or whether the trip is individual. The rates for individual trips during which the driver does not pick up additional passengers are much higher.
VEHICLE HIRE Those who wish to be independent or to explore Pattaya’s surrounding countryside and beaches at leisure, can hire motorcycles, jeeps or cars. The visitor should shop around, for different companies offer different prices and conditions. Driving Time to Pattaya from Bangkok is about 3 hours if you are interested in hiring a vehicle in Bangkok and driving yourself to Pattaya. Many street shops don't fully insure. When renting any vehicle first walk around it and write down any dents and scratches on the back of the rental form. This will save you problems upon return. You will also need an International Drivers License.
Pattaya Festivals
WESTERN NEW YEAR AND RED CROSS FAIR This festival is reasonably worthwhile attending. They regularly have a broad range of entertainment shows and special exhibitions of government and private agencies, the later proving interesting for those thinking of setting up a business in Thailand.
CHINESE NEW YEAR a time of firecrackers, lion dancers parading through the streets and time to ‘spring-clean’ the house, is celebrated in February by all Chinese-Thais. Lanterns line the streets and the smell of incense wafts through the air. Dragon parades weave down roads and children gad about everywhere.
CHON BURI PROVINCE ANUAL FESTIVAL Middle of April is an activity organized annually by the people of Chonburi since 1932. The Festival combines the festivals of venerating Puttha Sihing, Songkran and the Red Cross Fair together into one. Its activities include a procession for venerating the Phra Puttha Sihing Buddha image, water pouring for the elders, folk games, Khon or classical masked-dances from the Department of Fine Arts, cultural performance, exhibitions and stalls. The festival aims to conserve and promote local customs as well as to instill a sense of value for the cultural heritage. Well worth a visit if you are in the area and Chonburi isn't that far to drive to from Pattaya.
PATTAYA FESTIVAL Thailand's world-famous seaside resort puts on its most festival face for this annual event, held in April at the height of the summer season. Food and floral floats, beauty contests, stalls selling local delicacies, and a spectacular display of fireworks on the beach are only a few of the highlights that attract merry-makers.
The week-long annual Pattaya Festival, usually in early April, is celebrated with a broad range of entertainment spectacles, including parades, beauty contests, concerts, food festivals, fireworks and an exhaustive calendar of sporting events and contests. These include, a Grand Prix and go-kart racing, sailing regattas, windsurfing competitions and fishing contests.
SONGKRAN FESTIVAL The most frenetic festival in the country is that of Songkran, the Luna New Year. Held from the 13th to 15th April each year…it’s a wet one! Traditionally it was celebrated by Buddha images being bathed with water and the showing of respect to monks and elders. From the sprinkling of water onto someone’s hands as a sign of respect it has evolved into mass drenching for anyone who decides to venture outdoors. This has to be one of the friendliest, though wet, festivals anywhere and a great way to make new friends.
TIP: During Songkran, travelers be warned, don’t leave cameras, computers or cell phones unprotected…nothing is spared if you happen to get a dousing.
BUDDHA BIRTHDAY The 15th May is Buddha’s Birthday. Local Wats (Buddhist Temples) celebrate by holding candlelit processions. A tourist may take part in these parades and it can prove great fun.
TIP: Lady visitors please note; a monk may not touch a woman so please show respect and keep your distance.
ASANHA PUJA July sees Thai Buddhists celebrating Buddhist ‘lent’ or Asanha Puja, the full moon festival. Beginning mid to late in the month, this is the period when young men enter their monk hood for the rainy season and ordained monks remain in a single monastery for three months. One can view Buddhist temples throughout the year, but this tradition can be picturesque due to the activity of the saffron robed followers.
THE QUEENS BIRTHDAY on August 12th and also Thailand’s ‘mother’s day’. As with all royal anniversaries this celebration guarantees a firework display.
BUFFALO RACE October is an age-old tradition in the Province of Chonburi held annually on the 14th full moon night of the 11th lunar month which falls in October. Apart from the one held in Muang District of Chonburi Province, other races also take place at around the same time in Ban Bung and Nong Yai District. On the day of the festival, farmers bring in their buffalos draped attractively with multicolored satin cloths and gather on the lawns of the Provincial Hall. Buffalo's competitions make for interesting watching and are entered in races, best-decorated as well as other categories. Young women also compete in a beauty contest where girls vie for the title of "Nong Nang Ban Na" farm maiden.
LOI KRATHONG One of the most beautiful and moving sights are the festivities relating to the annual festival of Loi Krathong held in November. This is when you cast away your troubles and call in the hopes of the future. As the moon rises in the evening a small lotus-shaped raft of banana leaves filled with flowers, a candle, a snip of your nail, a piece of your hair and a few coins, is set afloat in the ocean or down a waterway conjuring up good luck for the forthcoming year. In some areas large paper hot-air balloons are also released.
PHRA CHEDI KLANG NAM FAIR This annual celebration is held in the twelfth lunar month during Loi Krathong festival, to pay homage the Chedi. The fair also features exciting boat races.
THE KINGS BIRTHDAY December 15th The King is much revered throughout Thailand, something that is probably unique in the world today. All Thais celebrate his birthday and government buildings, private homes, businesses and the palace are all illuminated specially for the occasion. In Phuket, they hold a regatta in his honor.
OFFICIAL HOLIDAYS These official holidays effects most of Thailand and often reflect the timing of the festivals above.
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