Pattaya Thailand Travel Guide
Pattaya City is located just an hour from Bangkok International Airport and is a popular weekend getaway for residents of the capital city. The lively, fun, and exciting city offers tropical beaches, some family-friendly activities, and great value shopping. Dining options are inexpensive, plentiful, and feature some of the best Thai fusion food in the country. Hotel and package prices vary according to budget and the exquisite beachfront destination never tires of offering attractions and sightseeing opportunities.
Some of the most popular activities available in the coastal city of Pattaya range from parasailing in the bay, deep sea fishing, elephant trekking, walks through tropical gardens and tai chi on the beach. The area is full of adventure activities that can be self-guided or accompanied by a reliable and informative tour guide. Pattaya is known for its diving options and is one of the oldest areas in all of Asia for diving. The diving season takes place throughout the year and the water temperature is perfect for this activity. Dive centers and companies have offices along the coast, as well as on Walking Street, and have certifications and classes for student divers. The rich marine life and corals that surround the reefs make the area one of the most picturesque diving spots in the world.
For a little less adventure, tourists can watch beautiful sunsets along the outskirts of the city or relax at a day spa or beauty treatment center. You can enjoy horseback riding at one of the stables in the area, such as the Horseshoe Point Riding Academy. There is also a polo club which is located on the outskirts of Pattaya and is often frequented by members of the Thai royal family.
Travelers yearning to spend the day touring other areas near and around Pattaya have day trip options to choose from. Visits to the temples in the area, the Sri Racha Tiger Zoo or the Elephant Village can be arranged. The coaches pick up tourists at their hotels and transport them to different destinations. Most day trips last all morning, all afternoon, or both. In some cases, a lunch and light snack may be provided. The highly sought after Elephant Village day trip allows guests to witness an elephant extravaganza featuring the world’s most majestic animals.
Shopping in Pattaya offers a unique experience and includes trips to smaller-scale shops, boutiques and open-air markets. Fashion boutiques offer silk clothing, precious stones and jewelry that tourists can sometimes get at a good price. The shops in the area also sell unique paintings, handicrafts and many souvenirs.
Gourmet Thai cuisine can be found all over Pattaya. Depending on the palate, visitors can sink their teeth into authentic Thai dishes or a fusion of flavors that mixes Thai food with German, Russian, Mexican, Korean or even Indian. Many of the gourmet restaurants are located in the heart of Pattaya, while the resorts also offer four and five star quality dining.
When the sun goes down in Pattaya, the nightlife comes alive. Known internationally as the world’s naughtiest city, Pattaya offers entertainment for the meek or the raucous at heart. North Pattaya’s nightlife is quieter than many other places in the city. Restaurants, bars, and pubs are scattered throughout the area, providing casual drinking and dining atmospheres for topless go-go girl spots. Taking a walk along the Pattaya Bay waterfront after hours offers a colorful taste of the people and culture of Thailand. Many tourists are accosted by the occasional bar girl, but the sights can be interesting and picture-worthy.
Whether it’s a wild nightlife or a beachfront paradise you’re after, Pattaya will meet your needs and more. Pattaya is a great place to get away from everyday life and experience a look at Thailand like no other.