Destination Thailand
Pattaya
On the Eastern side or Sunset side of the upper Gulf of Thailand, Pattaya is one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations. Known for its nightlife, Pattaya is also where people come to enjoy sun, sand and sea. There is an excellent selection of accommodation in all ranges in Pattaya as well as one of Thailand’s largest convention centres. There is a wide choice of activities available in the Pattaya area, such as, scuba diving, sailing, deep sea fishing, shooting range, golf courses, go-karting and paintball.
Pattaya is only one small part of Chonburi Province which includes other areas such as the local seaside resort and fishing port of Sri Racha and Koh Si Chang, a small island getaway mainly for Bangkokians. For those wanting to get away from the crowds at Pattaya Beach, these two locations might offer something different and off the beaten track.
Pattaya itself is centred around a small bay with a long beach lined by a road and hotels, restaurants, cafes, shops, massage shops and other businesses. The Northern end of Pattaya Beach tends to be more quiet than the Southern end where a pedestrianised ‘walking’street provides all the ‘nightlife’ entertainment. Across the headland is Jomtien beach which is a different scene from Pattaya and more quiet again providing an escape of sorts from the hustle and bustle that is Pattaya.
Pattaya is a good location for golfers with several international level courses within easy reach of Pattaya offering the chance to play a different course every day for two weeks. Laem Chabang, Rayong Green Valley or Royal Lakeside Golf Club all offer excellent golfing for all levels.
Other attractions in the Pattaya are include an open zoo at Khao Kheow; an island popular with day trippers seeking sun and sand; Sri Racha Tiger Zoo; Nong Nooch Garden and Wat Yan. For evening entertainment many visitors head directly to one of the ‘cabaret’ shows to watch some of the infamous ‘ladyboy’ entertainers miming their way through a cabaret style show.
