RSS Feed (xml)
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
CLIP: พัทยา เคานท์ดาวน์ 2009 (Pattaya countdown2009)
ขอเชิญทุกท่านร่วมเป็นส่วนหนึ่งในเทศกาลแห ่งความสุข พัทยา เคาน์ดาวน์ 2009 มหกรรมเฉลิมฉลองรับปีใหม่ ที่รวบรวมความยิ่งใหญ่ไว้มากที่สุด เชิญพบกับ คอนเสิร์ต และศิลปินแกรมมี่ และการแสดงพลุสุดอลังการทุกวัน 25-31 ธันวาคมนี้ ณ. แหลมบาลีฮาย พัทยาใต้ จังหวัดชลบุรี
Pattaya 2009 Countdown
Date : 25th - 31st December 2008
Venue : Pattaya Pier (Bali Hai Cape) south Pattaya, Chonburi
Sunday, December 28, 2008
See
Hat Chom Thian (หาดจอมเทียน) This 6- kilometre-long beach is only 4 kilometre from Pattaya. A beach Road, runs parallel to the shore along which are hotels and restaurants. Less noisy than Pattaya, it is popular as a site for relaxation, swimming and water-sports.
.............................................................................................
Hat Wong Phra Chan (หาดวงพระจันทร์) This small tranquil one kilometre beach is on the northern side of Pattaya Bay. The serene atmosphere here is attractive to those longing for a complete rest and privacy.
..............................................................................................
Animals & zoos
Underwater World (อันเดอร์วอเตอร์ เวิลด์) is located on the Sukhumvit–Nong Prue Road and is an aquarium where there is a collection of marine species in the Gulf of Thailand. Visitors can walk through the acrylic pedestrian tunnel and witness various kinds of fish swimming in the 180 degree area. The tunnel is 105 metres long divided into 4 zones; the first zone where there are beautiful and rare fish such as angel fish, cleaning wrasse and butterflyfish, the second zone displays soft-bone ones such as sharks, stingrays, while those in the third zone are the economic ones such as the Napoleonfish, groupers, pomfrets, hawksbill turtles, and green turtles which reside around a replica of shipwreck; the fourth zone is a special one where fish from the Amazon River and the biggest ones are on display. Moreover, there are marine life feeding shows, both on the surface of the water and underwater in each zone. It is open everyday from 9.00 a.m.–6.00 p.m. (the ticket counter is closed at 5.30 p.m.). Entrance fee is 360 baht for the adults and 180 baht for children. For more information, please contact Tel. 0 3875 6879 or Fax. 0 3875 6879.
22/22 Moo 11 Sukhumvit Road (15 minutes from town centre); tel. +66-38756879. Aquarium full of tropical creatures. Open 09:00-18:00, last admission 17:30, feeding times 10:00, 10:30, 11:00, 14:00, 14:30, 15:00. Different prices for Thais (180 baht/adult, 120 baht/child) and foreigners (360 baht/adult, 180 baht/child).
Ban Sukhawadee (บ้านสุขาวดี) [23] is located at 219 Mu 2, Sukhumvit Road. It is the residence of Dr. Panya Chotithewan. Visitors can enter the house to pay respect to the Bodhisattva Kwan Yin, to see the spacious conference room and the roof. It is open on Monday-Friday from 8.30 a.m.–6.00 p.m. and on Saturday–Sunday and public holidays from 8.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m. Entrance fee is 300 Baht for adults and 50 Baht for children. How to get there: Ban Sukhawadi is located in Bang Lamung District on the beach side near the Cholchan Pattaya Resort and not far from Bang Lamung District Office. For more information, Tel. 0 3822 3536-9.
Institute of Marine Science Aquarium & Museum, Burapha University, 169 Long-Hard Bangsaen Road, Bangsaen; tel. +66-38391671 /3 [24] is open 08:30-16:00 (feeding time 14:30), except public holidays (open 08:30-17:00, feeding times 10:30 + 14:30) and Mondays (closed); admission 20 baht/adult, 10 baht/child.
Oasis Seaworld, Paknam, Laemsing, Chanthaburi - full day guided trips including 45 minutes swimming with dolphins - approx. 2000 baht/adult 1500 baht/child - available via travel agencies.
There are two submarines (yellow ones, of course!) with tour operators in Pattaya:
Hynix of the Sea [25] - main ticket office at the Second Road end of Tipp Plaza (near Soi 10); tel. +66-38711059 /60
Vimantaitalay [26] contact any Pattaya travel agency; or tel. +66-38415234
Elephant shows & trekking offered by several operators, most located on Sukhumvit Road. These include Ban Chang Thai tel. +66-3870628 /91, Utthayan Chang tel. +66-38716379, Thin Chang Thai tel. +66-38756516 / +66-38756577, Suan Chang tel. +66-38756517, Farm Chang Thai tel. +66-38237825.
Pattaya Elephant Village (หมู่บ้านช้างพัทยา) [27] is Located at km 146, 7 kilometres from Central Pattaya on Phonpraphanimit Road., this elephant camp focuses on daily life of elephants and their masters and also offers stage shows demonstrating how to catch wild elephants, elephants-at-work in the jungle, elephants playing football and a grand war elephants parade. The shows are held daily at 2.30 p.m. and last one hour. The ticket costs 500 baht per person. A one-hour elephant ride is available from 8 a.m.-5.30 p.m. at 900 baht and rafting trekking three-hour is available from 10.00 a.m.-3.30 p.m. at 1,800 baht. Contact counter in Tropicana Hotel, Tel. 0 3824 9145-7, 0 3824 9818.
54/1 Moo 2, Tambol Nong Prue; tel+fax. +66-38249818, +66-38249853 [28] offers shows, elephant trekking and jungle tours (including a four-day/three-night tour in Phrae Province).
Monkey Training Centre (ศูนย์ฝึก-สอนลิงพัทยา) Located in Soi Chaiyaphruek off Highway No. 3 at km 151, the centre displays the intelligence of monkeys trained to climb and pick coconuts and to undertake other activities. Cock-fighting and snake shows are also staged. Shows times are 9.00 a.m., 11.00 a.m., 12.00 noon, 2.00 p.m. and 5.00 p.m. Admission: 250 baht. Tel. 0 3875 6367, 0 3875 6570 for more information.
Soi Chaiyaphruk (off Highway #3) tel. +66-38756367 / +66-38756570. Features monkeys trained to harvest coconuts and undertake other tasks. Also stages cockfighting (a traditional Thai bloodsport) and a snake show. Open daily, shows 09:00, 11:00, 12:00, 14:00, 17:00 - admission 250 baht.
International Snake Show, Sukhumvit Road (39/4 Moo 5 - near the junction with North Pattaya Road) tel. +66-38731586 / snake_show@hotmail.com
Khao Kheow Open Zoo (35 km north of Pattaya) tel. +66-38298270 [29]. A huge zoo with about 8000 animals of 300 species. Open daily - 08:00-18:00, 50 baht/adult, 10-15 baht/child; Night Safari 19:00-20:00, 100 baht/adult, 50 baht/child.
Sriracha Tiger Zoo [30], 341 Moo 3, Nongkham, Si Racha (30 minutes from town centre); tel. +66-38296556. A zoo with various shows.
Thai Alangkarn Theater - Pattaya [31], Thai Performing Arts in a Panoramic Concept, The entire project includes a prototype 70 meters Hexa Stage Theater with 2,000 seats in tiers, Cultural Rostrum and a Restaurant with 1,000 seats. open daily except Wednesday. Show time 18.00 hrs. Located on km 155 Sukhumvit road from South Pattaya to Sattahip,; tel. +66 (0)38 256007. 038 256 000.
Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, 163 Sukhumvit Road (15 minutes east of town centre); tel. +66-38429321, [32]. Beautiful gardens with waterfalls, elephant shows, "Cultural Extravaganza" performances 4 times a day, restaurants and so forth - enough to fill an entire day. Yet another place in Pattaya that thinks it is acceptable to charge foreigners more than Thais. 200 baht for locals, 400 baht for foreigners. This practice is illegal in Thailand but, strangely, nobody in authority is prepared to do something about it.
Siriphon Orchid Farm (สวนกล้วยไม้ศิริพร) is situated at 235/14 Mu 5, Noen Phlap Wan Road, Tambon Nong Prue, Turn left for 800 metres from Sukhumvit Road, diagonally across the Pattaya Klang Intersection. Inside the farm are various kinds of orchids to be admired and purchased such as Pompadua, Vanda, Golden Shower, and Cattleya. For more information, Tel. 0 3842 9013, 03842 1536.
Saithip Butterfly Garden, 79/5 Moo 11 Bangpra-Khaokheow Road, Bangpra Sriracha; tel. +66-99365339. Open 8AM-5PM. Admission for foreigners: 100 baht/adult, 60 baht/child.
Museums
Bottle Art Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์ศิลปในขวดแก้ว) This small museum is located at km 145 on Sukhumvit Road., of Highway No. 3. As its name implies, it specialises in glass bottle containing elaborately crafted creations, including the usual vessels. The exhibits are the works of the Dutch master, Peter Bedelais. Open daily from 8.30 a.m.-20.00 p.m. Admission fee is 250 baht for adults and 120 baht for children.
79/15 Moo 9, Sukhumvit Road, Nongpler; tel. +66-38422957, +66-38415783 [33]. More than 300 miniatures in bottles, open 08:00-20:00.
Open Eyes, 2nd floor of Pattaya Bazaar, 266/52-53 North Pattaya Road; tel. +66-38362077. "The Great Experience Behind The Magical", a lot of technological magic and illusion shows. Open 15:00-23:00; show time 3PM-11PM; Spy Zone show time 3PM-10PM.
Ripley's Believe It Or Not museum (tel. +66-38710294 /8) is located on the third floor of Royal Garden Plaza. Access from both Second Road (you can't miss this side - there's a large aeroplane protruding from the upper floors) and from Beach Road. Different prices for Thais (280 baht/adult, 230 baht/child) and for others (380 baht/adult, 280 baht/child) not based on citizenship or residency status but race; at the same location there's also a "Haunted Experience" show, a 4D movie theatre and "Infinity Maze" game. Various combination tickets available, all dual-priced - for Thais (480 baht/adult, 380 baht/child) and foreigners (780 baht/adult, 680 baht/child) to enter all four. Open daily 11AM-11PM.
NOTES: It really is believe it or not, when an American company likes Ripleys have a two-tiered priced system!
Other places to go in the Ripley’s World of Entertainment
Four-Dimensional Cinema (โรงภาพยนตร์ 4 มิติ) is a cinema of the future with a special system, creating a feeling of being in an actual situation among the viewers. Entrance fee is 200 Baht.
The Miracle Labyrinth (มหัศจรรย์เขาวงกต) Witness the modern special effects of lights, colours and sounds in the 16 rooms, as well as, admire the beauty of the mysterious dimensions and illusions. Entrance fee is 380 baht.
The Haunting Warehouse (โกดังผีสิง) Take an adventure in one of the 5 biggest coffin warehouses of the world. Entrance fee is 380 baht.
The admission fee package is 1,340 baht for adults and 1,240 baht for children. For more information, Tel. 0 3871 0294-8 or Bangkok Office Tel. 0 2247 0777. It is open daily from 11.00 a.m.–11.00 p.m.
Sacred places
Buddha Hill (between Thappraya Road and Phratamnak Road; 5-10 minutes by songthaew) is one of the highest points in Pattaya. At the summit is the biggest Buddha statue in Pattaya, and nearby is a beautiful Chinese-style sacred area dedicated to Confucius and Lao-zi. The next hill, just across the Phratamnak Road, has the best Pattaya Bay coastline viewpoint and is also worth a visit, especially for sunset.
Sanctuary of Truth (ปราสาทสัจธรรม) This gigantic wooden structure is situated by the sea at Laem Ratchawet, North Pattaya. The entrance is at Soi 12, Na Kluea Road., The sanctuary of Truth was first built in 1981 by Mr. Lek Wiriyaphan, the founder of the Ancient City in Samut Prakan Province. With exquisite architectural features, the building was conceived out of the vision that human civilisation has been achieved and nurtured by religious and philosophical truth. It is open daily from 9.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m. Admission fee is 500 baht.
206/2 Moo 5, Soi 12, Naklua Road, Naklua; tel. +66-38225407 / +66-38367229 [34]. An unfinished project, but worth a visit even now. The main attraction is a huge ancient-style wooden temple; nearby is a small dolphinarium with dolphin shows at 11:30AM and 3:30PM.
Theme parks
Gems Gallery, 555 Moo 6, North Pattaya Road, tel. +66-38371222. One of several "World's Biggest" jewelry stores, this one also has a theme park.
The Million-Year Stone Park and Crocodile Farm (อุทยานหินล้านปีและฟาร์มจระเข้พัทยา) (15 minute drive from central Pattaya) [35]. Features an exotic zoo, and crocodile, fire-swallowing and magic shows, as well as the garden and stone park. Open 8AM-18:30PM.
This popular attraction is 9 kilometres from Pattaya on Chaiyaphonwithi Road., off Highway No.3 at km 140. Its grounds are landscaped with flowering and rock gardens. Hundreds of crocodiles as well as some rare animals, including albino bears and horses, are kept. There are crocodile shows, magic performances and animal shows 7 times a day from 9.00 a.m.-5.00 p.m. The compound is open daily from 8.30 a.m. - 6.00 p.m. Admission: 300 baht for adults and 150 baht for children. Tel. 0 3824 9347-9 or www.thaistonepark.org for more information.
Mini Siam (เมืองจำลองพัทยา) [36] is located on Sukhumvit Road, surrounded by Soi 33, and features miniature replicas of iconic structures from Thailand and all over the world. is located at km 143 on Sukhumbit Road., Highway No. 3, North Pattaya, Mini Siam is one of famous model villages in the world. It celebrates the heritages of Thailand with miniature replicas of the most famous monuments and historical sites including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Democracy Monument, Bridge over the River Kwai, Prasat Hin Phimai etc. Minature replicas of the Tower Bridge of London, Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty and Trevi Fountain are also displayed in the section called “miniworld”. The compound is open daily from 7.00 a.m.-10.00 p.m. Admission: 250 baht for adults and 120 baht for children. Tel. 0 3842 1628, 0 3872 6201-3, 0 3872 7333 for more information.
Three Kingdoms Theme Park, The Three Kingdoms Park (อุทยานสามก๊ก) is a beautiful attraction full of the Sino-Thai architectural style, covering an area of 36 rai. It was originated from the idea of Khun Kiarti Srifuengfung, a leading Chinese businessman of Thailand. The art objects in this place is in accordance with the Chinese Fengshui, comprising of a 5-storey building, displaying oil paintings of the life story of Kong Ming, as well as, Jiangxi sculptures of leading characters from the chronicle in the Romance of the Three Kingdoms. The uppermost storey is the Buddha image hall and a sightseeing spot. Moreover, there is another building where there is a 4 metre-marble-engraved Bodhisattva Kwan Yin sculpture, Kuan Yu God, as well as, a fine art corridor where there are paintings on tiles depicting the major episode of the Romance of the Three Kingdoms. It is open everyday from 10.00 a.m.-5.00 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday, it opens until 6.00 p.m. Entrance fee is 150 baht for adults and 80 baht for children. Tel. 0 3842 1428-9 or Bangkok Office at Tel. 0 2633 8114-5 or www.3kingdomspark.com for more information:
100 Moo 9, Tambon Pong; [37]. Adjacent to Horseshoe Point (20 minutes from Pattaya), this is a Chinese-style garden filled with pagodas, murals and figures from the Chinese epic San Guo Zhi, and more an expression of filial piety than a theme park. Perhaps worth a quick look on a slow day, but unlikely to offer much to visitors not familiar with the story. 60 baht/adult, 30 baht/child.
Other Places to Go
Cabaret Shows (คาบาเร่ต์โชว์) There are two venues of transvestite cabarets in Pattaya.
Alcazar Cabaret (อัลคาซ่าร์ คาบาร์เร่ต์), Pattaya 2 Road., Tel. 0 3841 0225-7, 0 3842 8746. Showtimes: 6.30 p.m., 8.00 p.m., 9.30 p.m. Admission: 500 and 600 baht.
Tiffany Show (ทิฟฟานี่ โชว์), Pattaya 2 Road., Tel. 0 3842 1700-5, 0 3842 9642. Showtimes: 06.00 p.m., 07.30 p.m. and 09.00 p.m. Admission: 500, 700 and 800 baht.
Tuxedo Magic Castle (ปราสาทเวทมนต์ ทักซิโด) is located at 78/16-17, on Pattaya Sai 2 Road, Tambon Nong Prue, Bang Lamung District. It is a magical theater in the form of a split-level restaurant. There are series of shows such as making an umbrella out of cards. It is open everyday, 3 rounds a day at 7.00 p.m., 8.30 p.m. and 10.00 p.m. On Saturday and public holidays, there is also a 5.30 p.m. round. Admission fee is 450 baht. For more information, Tel. 0 3848 8880 or http://www.tuxedo-magic.com/.
Open Eyes Show (เปิดหู เปิดตาโชว์) is located on Pattaya 2 Road, opposite the Tiffany Show. It is a magic performance in various styles such as Aladdin, the Mermaid, Invisible Woman, the Wonderland, etc. Each category of performances will be shown in rotation. The admission fee is 600 baht for adults and 300 baht for children. Tel. 0 3836 2077-79 Fax. 0 3836 2075.
Pattaya Park and Tower (สวนสนุกพัทยาปาร์ค) Pattaya Park Beach Resort and Tower at Chom Thian features a large whirlpool with giant sliders and a tower with a revolving restaurant. Visitors can also enjoy several games and rides on the tower and in its playground. A Ticket for tower visit costs 200 baht. Open daily from 10.00 a.m.-7.00 p.m. On Saturday, it opens until 8.00 p.m. The Entrance fee of tower is 100, 200 baht for adults Tel. 0 3836 4110-20 or 0 2579 9612-4 or www.pattayapark.com for more information.
Ko Lan (เกาะล้าน) or Coral Island: This island is 7.5 kilometres from South Pattaya, about 45 minutes by ferry or 15 minutes by speedboat. Tourists prefer a swim and enjoy watersports along several beaches. Most fine beaches with white sand and clear water are on the western side of the island. Hat Thonglang and Hat Ta Waen are popular beaches for its bustling atmosphere, aquatic sport gear, souvenir shops, and restaurants while Hat Laem Thian and Hat Samae offer a more restful atmosphere. Visitors can choose glass-bottom boats or skin-diving to view coral reefs in front of Laem Thian. At the southend of the island is Hat Nuan, Hat Samae, Hat Ta Waen and Hat Thian where a hotel is situated. It is another spot for viewing corals.
How to get there: A ferry service departs Laem Bali Hai Pier to Ko Lan everyday. Departure time is from 7.00 a.m.-6.30 p.m., while the arrival trips leave Ko Lan from 6.30 a.m.-6.00 p.m. It costs 20 baht. The boat will stop at Na Ban Pier. In case of going to other beaches, a long-tailed boat can be rented or a taxi can be hired. Furthermore, speed boats for 10 persons are available along Pattaya beach. Visitors can stop at Ta Waen Beach and Thong Lang Beach. The rental fee for the speed boat is 2,500-3,000 baht or depending on the agreement. Note: Prices stated above are subject to change without notice.
Ko Sak (เกาะสาก) Six hundred metres north of Ko Lan is Ko Sak, a small island shaped like an upturn horseshoe. There are two connecting beaches to the north and south. Along the south shore are ranges of corals. Accommodation is available.
Mu Ko Phai (หมู่เกาะไผ่) is 23 kilometres from Pattaya beach comprising Ko Phai, Ko Man Wichai, Ko Lueam and Ko Klueng Badan. Ko Phai is the biggest one and is under the supervision of the Royal Thai Navy. Along the island lie perfect coral reefs suitable for scuba diving. How to get there: a tour boat can be rented at Pattaya beach. There are those for 20-80 people or speed boats for 20 people. The rental rate depends on the size of the boat and the destination. Visitors cannot stay overnight and ought to prepare food and water by themselves.
Anek Kuson Sala (Wihan Sian) (เอนกกุศลศาลา (วิหารเซียน)) whose entrance is a bit prior to Wat Yanasangwararam, 800 metres from the intersection at the reservoir, is the place collecting high-class Chinese architecture and fine arts constructed in 1987 to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of His Majesty the King’s Birthday. Inside is an exhibition displaying precious antiques such as the large white jade Bodhisattva Kwan Yin’s image, terra-cotta soldiers and horses from the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, an emperor’s golden throne, ancient paintings and pottery. It is open daily from 8.30 a.m.-5.00 p.m. The entrance fee is 50 baht. Tel. 0 3823 8367.
Wat Yanasangwararam Woramahawihan (วัดญาณสังวรารามวรมหาวิหาร) covers an area of 366 rai. Turn left from Sukhumvit Road, at Km. 160 for 5 kilometres. It was constructed in 1976 for Somdet Phra Yanasangwon, the present Supreme Patriarch, and later was supported by His Majesty the King. At the entrance are situated international pavilions presenting each country’s national architectural style around the pond. Within the compound of the temple are the Mondop where a replica of the Buddha’s footprint is enshrined, a large Chedi containing the relics of the Lord Buddha, as well as, his enlightened followers, and Wihan Phra Yanaret. It is open from 8.00 a.m.-4.00 p.m. For more information, Tel. 0 3823 7506. Moreover, there is a place where the Royal Project for Agricultural Training Centre and Wildlife Preservation Area are located. For more information, Tel. 0 3823 8060.
Amphoe Sattahip
On the last curvy bay of Chon Buri is situated the Royal Thai Nabal Base. Presently Sattahip is simply small fishing town by the sea. Domestic tourists come to pay homage to Wat Luang Pho I, a renowned Buddhist monk. Its big squid pier at Samaesan is still viable.
Alangkarn Theater (โรงละครอลังการ) [38] Located at Km. 155 on Sukhumvit Road, it is a unique Thai performing art collection area which can be divided into 3 parts; namely, Theater comprising of the Glittering Horoscope Balcony and the Bell Tower, “Alangkarn” Restaurant decorated with modern arts and providing visitors with Thai and international cuisines, Cultural Rostrum and Souvenir Shops, an area presenting Thai games, as well as, demonstration of products of local intellect, and “Alangkarn” Lake, reflecting the local Thai lifestyle, with a floating market for visitors to purchase fruits and Thai desserts. The Alangkarn Theater is open everyday except Wednesday from 5.30 p.m.-11.00 p.m. The performance starts from 6.30 p.m.-8.30 p.m. taking about 1¼ hours. The entrance fee is 1,000-1,400 baht. For more information, Tel. 0 3825 6000 or Bangkok Tel. 0 2216 1869-71, 0 2216 1949 or.
The Laser Beams Cast Buddha Image of Khao Chi Chan (พระพุทธรูปแกะสลักเขาชีจรรย์) is located on the same route as Wat Yanasangwararam, 6 kilometres from Km. 160 of Sukhumvit Road., The image is in the subduing Mara posture, cast by laser beams on the Khao Chi Chan cliff. It is a combination of Sukhothai and Lanna arts with a height of 130 metres and width of 70 metres at the lap of the image. The image called “Phra Phuttha Maha Wachira Uttamophat Satsada” was constructed in 1996 to honour His Majesty the King. Inside the chest of the image resides the Lord Buddha’s relic. Moreover, the garden in the compound is decorated for relaxation and is under the supervision of the Royal Thai Marine Corps, Royal Thai Navy.
Nong Nooch Tropical Garden and Resort (สวนนงนุช) About 18 kilometres south of Pattaya, with a left turn from Sukhumvit Road., at Km. 163, Nong Nooch Garden is a sprawling recreation park in typical Thai settings. Groups of traditional Thai houses and gardens of different plants, for example, an orchid garden, a palm garden, a banana garden, a bonsai garden, a cactus garden and a heliconia garden, are dotted around the beautifully landscaped site. A zoo and a butterfly garden are also in the compound. There are daily cultural and elephant shows attracting crowds of delighted visitors. Show times are 9.45 a.m. 10.30 a.m. 03.00 a.m. 3.45 p.m. and holiday 2.45 a.m. Admission: 400 baht. Tel. 0 3842 9321, 0 3842 9958, 0 3870 9358-62 or Bangkok Tel. 0 2252 1786. The admission fee to the garden is 100 baht, while that including the performance is 400 baht. Moreover, the garden provides a tram for touring around costing 20 baht per one round per person. For more information, Tel. 0 3842 9321, 0 3842 2958 Bangkok Tel. 0 2251 2161, 0 2252 1786.
Bang Sa-re (บางเสร่) This is a fishing village some 16 kilometres south of Pattaya, with a right turn at km 164. South of Bang Sa-re is a deep bay suitable for angling. To the north are accommodation and dining facilities along the beach.
Wat Sattahip or Wat Luangpho I ((วัดสัตหีบ หรือ วัดหลวงพ่ออี๋) is located in Sattahip Sub-district. Its back side is next to the sea. It was constructed during the reign of King Rama V by Luangpho I or Phrakhru Worawet Muni who possessed knowledge of meditation and was the comforter for local in their difficult times. Therefore, the monk was highly respected among the locals. They, therefore, cast an actual-size statue of him residing inside the Ubosot. Hat Toei Ngam (หาดเตยงาม) Lines of toei trees (Pandanus kaida Kurz) on the 200 metre crescent beach add to the tranquillity of the atmosphere. The northern side of the beach is located a naval museum and monument. Toei Ngam Beach is under the navy’s supervision. It is, however, open to the general public from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. everyday.
Hat Dong Tan (หาดดงตาล) Next to Sattahip Market is the curvy bay with lines of fan-palms call.ed “tan” trees from which the name of the bay is derived. The peaceful and quiet atmosphere of the bay attracts local regulars who would like to take a rest.
Hat Sai Kaeo (หาดทรายแก้ว) is a beautiful beach under the supervision of the Royal Thai Navy and is near the Naval Rating School. Accommodation for tourists is provided. For more information, Tel. 0 3843 6187 Ext. 2201-2. Hat Nang Ram (หาดนางรำ) Situated close to the Sattahip deep-water port, Nang Ram beach is about 200 metres long. At the tip of the beach stands the shrine of Kromluang Chumphonkhetudomsak, the Father of Royal Thai Navy. The atmosphere is very peaceful with shadowy pine trees and lines of frangipani trees.
Hat Nang Rong (หาดนางรอง) is a little beyond Hat Nang Ram. It is a 200- metre beach with pine trees, suitable for swimming and relaxation. There are various beach accessories for rent such as a hammock for 30 baht, a football for 20 baht and a takro for 10 baht. It is open every Saturday and Sunday, as well as, public holidays. The entrance fee is 20 baht for a car, while 10 baht for a motorcycle.
Hat Thian Tale (หาดเทียนทะเล) is a new tourist destination under the supervision of the Air and Coastal Defence Command, Royal Thai Navy. It is a sandy beach alternating with rocks, covering an area of 900 metres. It is a panoramic sightseeing point, with a bizarre shape of cliffs where a view of the sunset on the horizon can be admired. Moreover, there are various kinds of marine plants for study, kayaks for rent, as well as restaurants for food and beverage. For more information, please contact the Queen Sirikit Hospital, ext. Air and Coastal Defence Command at Tel. 0 3824 5760.
HTMS Chakri Naruebet (เรือรบหลวงจักรีนฤเบศร) is an offshore Patrol Helicopter Carrier anchored at the Chuk Samet Deep Seaport. His Majesty the King named the ship “Chakri Naruebet” meaning the Sovereign of the Chakri Dynasty. It was constructed in Spain in 1994. It is an 11-storey ship measuring 182 metres in length and 30.5 metres in width. It is equipped with modern weapons, as well as, long-range surveillance radar. The important missions during wartime are the Flagship of the fleet, controlling and commanding the fleet in the sea, as well as the aircraft carrier and air defence mission. It is open daily from 8.00 a.m.-4.00 p.m. It is closed only on Wednesday from 8.00 a.m.-12.00 a.m. It is free of charge. International visitors will have to write a letter to the Commander of the Royal Thai Fleet, Sattahip, Chon Buri, 20180. For more information, Tel. 0 3843 8547-62 ext. HTMS Chakri Naruebet.
Turtle Conservation Center, the Royal Thai Navy (ศูนย์อนุรักษ์พันธุ์เต่าทะเล กองทัพเรือ) [39] is a source of knowledge on the biology of the sea turtle life cycle for the government agencies and other groups of visitors. The center also provides a lecture for the public and youth, VDO presentation and exhibitions. Visitors can admire the cuteness of the sea turtles in the nursery ponds. Its objective is to create love and the preservation awareness towards Thai sea turtles. The Center is open everyday from 8.00 a.m.-5.00 p.m. Please contact in advance at the Air and Coastal Defence Command, Tel. 0 3843 1477ext.1035-6, 0 3824 5760, ext.066-3809.
Chong Samaesan Village (หมู่บ้านช่องแสมสาร) Chong Samaesan is another village offering good fishing opportunities. It is located some 17 kilometres further from the Sattahip deep-water port. There are bungalow-type accommodations and tourists can charter boats to enjoy fishing around the nearby islands. These entire small islands are under the jurisdiction of the navy.
Suan Chunlakan Sathit Sathan Banphachon Siam (สวนจุลการสถิตสถานบรรพชนสยาม) is a park built for Admiral Prince Krommaluang Chumphon Khet Udomsak in 1995. It is situated at Mu 1, Tambon Phlu Ta Luang where a shrine and statues of Prince Krommaluang Chumphon Khet Udomsak and significant persons in Thai history as well as revered Buddhist monks in the past are situated. The park is open daily from 7.00 a.m.-6.00 p.m.
Ecotourism Destinations
Coral Reef Submarine Tours In Pattaya, there are both submarines and semi-submarines for tourists to admire the beauty of the coral reefs underwater in the areas of Ko Lan and Ko Sak. There are private companies providing services as follows:
Pattaya Pakarang Semi-submarine (เรือพัทยาปะการังเซมิซับมารีน) Board a submarine at the company’s Pattaya Office at 125 Soi 4, Beach Road, North Pattaya. Admire the coral reef beauty underwater at Ko Sak and Ko Lan. It costs 1,800 baht for an adult and 900 baht for a child. A lunch is included for every seat. For more information, please contact the Pattaya Pakarang Semi-submarine Co., Ltd. at Tel. 0 3841 1001 or Bangkok Tel. 0 2503 3791.
Pirom Submarine (เรือดำน้ำภิรมย์)) [40] is located at 311/7, Mu 10, Pattaya Tai Road, Tambon Nong Prue, Bang Lamung District. Take a boat at Laem Bali Hai Pier. Tourists will have to take a ferry to the floating station at Ko Sak to get on a submarine. It is a submarine diving to a depth of more than 25-30 metres to admire the coral reefs underwater at Ko Sak. It costs 2,000 baht for an adult and 1,500 baht for a child. The submarine leaves every hour on Saturdays-Sundays and public holiday. on Monday-Friday it leave at 10.30 a.m., 11.20 a.m., and 1.00 p.m. For more information, Contact the Vimantaitalay Co., Ltd. at Tel. 0 3841 5234, 0 3841 5335.
Hi-tech Submarine (เรือดำน้ำไฮเทคซับมารีน) is at 212 Mu 9, Pattaya Sai 2 Road, Pattaya Tai, Bang Lamung District. Take a boat at Laem Bali Hai Pier. Tourists will have to take a speed boat to get on a submarine, which will take you to a depth of more than 15 metres underwater to admire the beauty of the soft corals in blue, green and violet colours, and coralline and yellowtail fusilier under the sea between Ko Sak and Ko Lan. It costs 2,500 baht per person. There are 2 rounds at 11.00 a.m. and 1.30 p.m. For more information, Tel. 0 3836 2460-1, 0 3871 1230-1 or E-mail: h.submarine@gmail.com.
Culture
Most of the officially registered Pattaya folk are of Thai-Chinese ancestory. However, due to the tourist industry many people from the north-east have come to work in Pattaya (north-east is the poorest region of Thailand). So, there is as much chance of hearing spoken Isan dialect (similar to Laotian) as you have Thai, especially in the bars etc.
Songkran is the Thai New Year, celebrated primarily by everyone throwing prodigious quantities of water at anything that moves. Pattaya officially celebrates Songkran on later dates (April 18-19) than most of the rest of the country (April 13-15) - but in reality the fun just starts early and keeps on going that much longer. During this period many hotels and guesthouses have high occupancy levels, and public transport services (especially buses to/from Bangkok) are very busy, with more frequent than normal departures but also with appreciable delays due to the general mayhem on the roads. For more on Songkran in general, including the more traditional religious and spiritual aspects, see Thailand Holidays
Songkran in Pattaya follows the same overall pattern as seen elsewhere in Thailand, but is especially vigorous in areas such as Soi 7 and Soi 8. Expect to get very wet indeed and you're unlikely to be disappointed - regardless of where you go or what else you actually plan to do. Although things calm down considerably after dusk, it's still worth keeping anything that could easily be damaged (especially cameras, mobile telephones, passports etc) in plastic bags.
As is the case throughout Thailand, Songkran is a particularly dangerous time on the roads, and especially for motorcyclists and moto-taxi passengers. It's also a bad time to get caught without protection for your luggage while travelling in a songthaew, so if arriving or departing during this period, either plan ahead (bin-liners are invaluable) or else take a taxi instead.
Note that the banks in Pattaya close for three days on the "national" Songkran dates (April 13-15) and are open as normal on the Pattaya-specific dates. Pattaya Immigration Office also closes on the "national" dates, and for the rest of the period hands back all passports pre-wrapped in plastic bags, without being asked.
The New Year's Day The International New Year Day has been adopted. On the first of January, people offer food to monks at the temple or at a particular site designated by government offices of private organizations. In Bangkok, the Phramaane ground and the lawn in front of the district offices are popular places.
Pattaya Festival, usually held in the mid of April has floral floats, a Miss Pattaya Beauty contest, a traditional aquatic sports competitions, castles, a fireworks display, fire crackers, arts and cultural performances, exhibitions and souvenirs for sale.
Chonburi Buffalo Races are held in Chonburi October every year. This event sees buffalo races and contests pitting buffalo and man. There also beauty contests.
Ancestral Spirits Ceremony Festival It is held at Sri Racha District and based on an old custom of the people from Chonburi. It is held every year between April 19 - 21 on Ko Loy Sri Racha. Activities include: a parade, traditional folk costume, spirit ceremonies, demonstrations and lots of local delicacies.
Boon Klang Ban and Phanatnikhom Basketware Festival It is a festival that dates back several years ago and usually takes place during the 3rd to the 6th month of the Thai Lunar Calendar. The festival’s religious ceremonies are followed by the sharing of meals and performances of folk games.
Get around
By songthaew
Songthaew is also known as public passenger pick-up vehicle.
Apart from a handful of privately operated examples, Pattaya has no tuk-tuks and most ad hoc local transport is undertaken by a flotilla of over 700 dark blue coloured songthaews - pickup trucks converted to buses, also called Baht Buses. The official "bus" fare is 5 baht for trips within Pattaya, however foreigners are universally expected to pay 10 baht. Having the correct change is by no means essential, but does keep the potential hassle factor to a minimum. Flat fares only apply when operating as a bus; beware the driver of an otherwise empty songthaew, especially one that's parked up at the roadside, who might presume (or decide on your behalf) that you want to charter - in which case expect a much higher fare of 100 baht or more, depending on your negotiating skills.
The busiest route is the beach circuit: from the junction of Second Road and South Pattaya Road, north along Second Road to the Dolphin Circle roundabout; then south along the full length of Beach Road; then briefly east along South Pattaya Road to complete the loop. Frequency is virtually non-stop, and even at the most unlikely hours, average waiting time is literally no more than a few seconds.
The routes sometimes vary - for example with a left turn (from Beach Road or Second Road) into Central Pattaya Road; or no left turn at the Dolphin Circle roundabout (where Second Road, Beach Road and North Pattaya Road meet) and going straight on to Naklua (or even a right turn towards the bus station and Sukhumvit). The only way to know the route for sure is to ask (but don't let the driver mistake your asking as a charter request). Sometimes the driver will just decide to turn down a random soi for no apparent reason, or because he's just been hired as a taxi, but you'll still be expected to pay your 10 baht if you've ridden for more than a soi or two - however surprises such as these are few and far between.
It's also easy to catch songthaews along South Pattaya Road, Central Pattaya Road, and North Pattaya Road; in the case of the latter, there's often a songthaew waiting at the Dolphin Circle roundabout (they depart from here at regular intervals, or when full, and the fare to the bus station is 10 baht) and there's also a free songthaew service to the Tesco-Lotus supermarket on North Pattaya Road.
For Jomtien, songthaews wait at the beginning of Pratamnak Road (the continuation of Second Road, from the South Pattaya Road crossroads), and charge 10 baht.
For Naklua, take a songthaew up Second Road to the Dolphin Roundabout. If the songthaew turns left or right at the roundabout (ie it's not one of the few that continue straight on to Naklua), disembark immediately and cross to the north side of the roundabout, and either walk or take a north-bound songthaew (10 baht) from there.
White coloured songthaews ply Sukhumvit Road, going as far as Si Racha and Sattahip (20 baht); full-size buses to destinations as far away as Trat and even Chiang Mai also stop and pick up passengers on Sukhumvit Road (at the South Pattaya Road, Central Pattaya Road, and North Pattaya Road junctions).
If you're overcharged by a songthaew driver, note the three digit vehicle number (top left corner of the windscreen, also stencilled on both sides and in the back) and report the problem to:
Pattaya City Manager: dial 038429216
Banglamung District Baht Bus Cooperative: dial 038221271 / 038423554
By local bus
After long delays, a government-subsidised public bus system charging 30 baht/trip, 90 baht/day, 180 baht/3-day and 900 baht/month was test-launched in August 2005. The long-term plan is for six routes (three clockwise, three anticlockwise - map [8]), with three air-con 34-seat buses per route making scheduled stops from 06:00 to 02:00 at 20 minute intervals. The introduction of facilities for wheelchairs, and additional open-top sightseeing buses, have also been proposed.
As at mid-2006 the green line has been suspended, the frequency on the remaining routes has been extended to 30 minutes, and the one-trip fare reduced to 20 baht. How temporary or permanent these changes are is unclear, but in the meantime, be aware that Pattaya now has a lot of shiny new bus-stop signs which make no attempt to tell prospective passengers that they are not in use. Brochures with details of the routes/stops (but not times) are available from the bus drivers; for updates, try dialing 038757340 /1 or e-mail pbb_bus@yahoo.com
By motorbike taxi
The quickest way to get around is by motorcycle (motosai). A moto-taxi will be less expensive than a songthaew charter, but arguably less safe. Roadside moto-taxi stands are scattered throughout town, and waiting drivers usually clap their hands or sometimes call out to attract the attention of potential passengers; alternatively just flag down the next available one that cruises by, as the drivers are easily identified by their coloured vests. Some will carry two (or more!) passengers - although this is illegal. Foreigners can expect to pay around 30-40 baht for trips around the inner parts of town.
By taxi
Meter-taxis are a common sight in and around Pattaya. All are from Bangkok; their drivers bring passengers from the capital, and then operate locally until a return fare becomes available. There are also some car services and non-metered taxis that operate on an on-call basis; minibuses can also be chartered. These services are suited primarily to longer trips outside the core of the town or to another city, and can be arranged through most travel agencies and many hotels/guesthouses.Expect to pay considerably more than the cost of a songthaew charter, probably in the order of a few hundred baht. If you are going back to Bangkok, there is the cheap possibility of catching a taxi which has just came from there (with some passengers) and has to return. Since the driver isn’t going to get a passenger as soon as he leaves Pattaya, he’ll be willing to take back a passenger for cheap which should cost you no more than 500 baht.
Rentals
If considering renting a vehicle, bear in mind that traffic in Pattaya can seem very erratic by Western standards, and that driving on the left can be confusing not only for those who have previously only ever driven on the right, but also for those unfamiliar with the common Thai practice (even the police do this) of motorcycling alongside the kerb on the "oncoming" side of the road, or the wrong way up one-way streets. The latter problem is especially prevalent in the Pattaya Bay area, where the majority of the roads in the main tourism zones are one-way; and the northern section of Second Road requires great care as some treat the right-hand "bus" lane as oncoming, while others do not.
Motorcycles and Scooters
Motorcycle rentals are a very popular way to get around, but not the safest, especially in the case of visitors with limited previous experience of motorcycling and Eastern traffic habits, and even more so in Pattaya given the large number of motorcycle-mounted holidaymakers who seem hell-bent on a Darwin Award. Also note that a motorcyclist carrying a shoulder bag, and anything placed in the front basket of a motorcycle, makes an especially easy target for bag-snatchers. Also beware the "No Parking" signs - fines are typically 400-500 baht.
Motorbikes can be rented without difficulty at countless locations in Pattaya, including many hotels and guesthouses, usually without having to produce a licence; however it's common for foreigners to be asked to deposit their passports as security (to avoid this, simply shop around until you find one of the many places that will accept a photocopy instead); cash deposits are also often required (1000 baht is not uncommon). Motorcycle rentals do not include insurance, and both motorcycling accidents and motorbike thefts are common.
Take It Easy, Pattaya New Plaza, Second Road, tel. +66-90077804. British management, open 09:00-19:00; sample prices:
- fully automatic 115cc scooter: 750 baht/4 days, 900 baht/week, 2900 baht/month
- Kawasaki KSR 115cc: 1100 baht/4 days, 1400 baht/week, 4400 baht/month
- Honda XR 250 trail/enduro: 2000 baht/4 days, 2900 baht/week, 10000 baht/month
Cheap Charlies, tel. +66-38720452, [9]. Assorted rentals from 100 baht/day, plus used motorcycle sales.
East Coast Choppers, tel. +66-38303113, [10]. Harley Davidson rentals.
Maipang Motorcycle Rentals, tel. +66-38361090 / +66-38303406, [11].
Jans, tel. +66-38373594. Advertises rates from 2000 baht/month for long-term rentals.
Noks Bike Rentals..at the "TAKE IT EASY BAR", Soi 7/8.. British managed, open 24hours, also sells European bike helmets.
Cars and jeeps
Cars can easily be rented, and are a good way to explore beyond the city limits, but they are not such a practicable way to get around the busiest central areas as traffic can be congested, and parking spaces can be difficult to find in the evening and weekend periods. However the major supermarkets offer free parking, and low-cost parking is available at the major shopping venues such as Royal Garden Plaza, Central Festival & Big C on Second Road.
Rentals without insurance start from around 800 baht/day for small cars, and from as little as 600 baht/day for open-top jeeps; cars with insurance start at just under 1000 baht/day, and come down to around 5600 baht/week or 18000 baht/month in low season. High season prices (from early November) are generally a few hundred baht more.
Getting the correct type of insurance cover on any rental car in Thailand is extremely important. Commerical "Car Rental Company" First Class Insurance provides the absolute full legal cover (as opposed to limited personal or third party only insurance cover. Request a copy of the policy document and check that it states "For Comercial Use".
Avis, tel. +66-38361627 (Dusit Resort) or +66-38428755 (Hard Rock Hotel), [12]
Budget, Beach Road, tel. +66-38710717, [13]
CCR Car Rent, Third Road, tel. +66-38489401 [14]
Chalee Car Rent, Third Road, tel. +66-38720413, [15]
Expat Car Rent, Thappraya Road, tel. +66-38252275 chadchap@yahoo.com [16]
Hertz, tel. +66-26542553 (Marriot Resort) / tel. +66-38716693 (Sukhumvit Road), [17]
Holiday Car Rentals, tel. +66-38723814 (Second Road) / tel. +66-38426303 (Third Road), [18]
National, Liabchayhard Rd, tel. +66-38416125 /6, [19]
Q Cars, Jomtien, tel. +66-38231694, [20]
ATVs
Imac ATV Centre, at the Beach Road end of Tipp Plaza, near Mike Shopping Mall - tel. +66-79532173 / +66-98884340 fax. +66-38227064, [21]. Has a small fleet of assorted models. Prices start at 1500 baht/day for a 4-stroke 150cc quad with road tyres that can carry two people; rates for larger models (some with off-road tyres) go as high as 3000 baht/day.
Bicycles
Bicycles could, until recently, be rented at Jomtien - however due to lack of demand the current options are to either bring your own, or buy one locally - see the Do Sports "cycling" section
Get in
Pattaya is located 147 kilometres from Bangkok and can be reached in a comfortable 2-hour drive. There are two convenient ways to get there.1.By the Bangkok-Chon Buri-Pattaya Motorway (Highway No.7) The motorway is linked with Bangkok’s Outer Ring Road., (Highway No. 9) and there is also another entrance at Si Nakharin and Rama IX Junction.
2.By Bang Na-Trat Highway (Highway No. 34) From Bang Na, Bang Phli, cross the Bang Pakong River to Chon Buri and take Chon Buri’s bypass to meet Sukhumvit Road., (Highway No. 3, passing Bang Saen Beach, Bang Phra to Pattaya.
Most visitors arrive by road from or via Bangkok, many having flown in to Suvarnabhumi (the "new" BKK). Much smaller numbers arrive direct by road from the north and east, by rail from Bangkok, and by air via U-Tapao from Ko Samui or Phuket in Southern Thailand or Siem Reap in Cambodia.
A surprising number of visitors inquire about ferries across the Gulf of Thailand - however no such services exist. Those determined to go by sea may find that local dive shops can help, if cost is not a consideration.
By plane
U-Tapao Airport [2] (IATA: UTP ICAO: VTBU tel: +66-38245295), often known somewhat inaccurately as "Pattaya Airport", is at Sattahip, just off the main Sattahip - Chanthaburi (Sukhumvit) highway, 30km south of Pattaya. Primarily a military facility, it's the closest airport fielding commercial passenger flights, but only to a handful of destinations. There are no commercial passenger flights connecting U-Tapao directly with Bangkok. Schedules (all daily, as at January 1st 2006):Bangkok Airways (PG) [3] flies to/from Ko Samui (USM) and Phuket (HKT) - UTP-USM & USM-UTP flights are usually slightly less expensive than BKK-USM & USM-BKK flights
- PG272 - UTP (12:10) to HKT (13:50)
- PG271 - HKT (14:20) to UTP (16:00)
- PG252 - HKT (09:20) via USM (10:40) to UTP (11:40)
- PG285 - USM (13:10) to UTP (14:10)
- PG286 - UTP (14:40) to USM (15:40)
- PG284 - UTP (16:30) to USM (17:30)
The easiest way to transfer between U-Tapao and Pattaya is by direct door-to-door minibus - driving time is normally about 30 minutes (200-250 baht per person for pre-booked services).
If speed and convenience don't matter, the ad-hoc option is to hop on virtually any bus on Sukhumvit Road. Going south, if it's a bus that terminates at Sattahip you'll have to swap buses or finish the journey by songthaew; if it's going further east (eg Rayong, Chanthaburi or Trat) it'll drop you off at the airport entrance as it goes by. Going north, wait for a bus that's going further than Sattahip and then you won't need to transfer. Alternatively, the white songthaews that ply Sukhumvit Road between Pattaya and Sattahip charge just 20 baht.
Or to buck the trend big time, go by rail (3rd class, weekdays only) between Pattaya and Sattahip, get off just before or after the line crosses Highway 3, and connect with the airport by songthaew or bus. The fare for the 40-50 minute train ride is 6 (yes, six!) baht - depart Pattaya 10:18AM, arrive Sattahip 11AM; depart Sattahip 1:30PM, arrive Pattaya 2:21PM - but don't forget, no trains on Saturdays or Sundays.
Suvarnabhumi
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) is Bangkok's shiny new successor to Don Muang. Only 110km from Pattaya (40km closer than Don Muang), transfers by road are inexpensive and quick (currently around 80-90 minutes) and getting quicker as the upgrades to the connecting highway are completed.
Don Muang
Don Muang Airport (new code: DMK) was superseded by Suvarnabhumi on September 28th 2006, subsequently re-opened on March 24 2007, and currently handles Nok Air, One-Two-GO, PB Air and most Thai Airways domestic flights. The easiest way to transfer is by taxi; the most economical alternatives are to go by bus via Moh Chit (Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal), or to go by train via Hualamphong (only practicable in the Pattaya to Don Muang direction).
By bus
First class bus1st class buses from Bangkok to the North Pattaya Road bus station are air-con, almost always have an on-board toilet, are essentially direct (ie no stops), and provide a no fuss, no frills, hassle-free service. Departures from the Eastern (Ekamai) Terminal and Northern (Moh Chit) Terminal are frequent (every 20-40 minutes, depending on the time of day; more frequent still at public holiday weekends) and usually take 2-2.5 hours; those from the Southern (Sai Tai Mai) Bus Terminal are less frequent and take a little longer.
Departure times & fares (as at June 2006):
- Ekamai (East) to Pattaya - first 05:20, last 23:00 - 127 baht
- Pattaya to Ekamai (East) - first 05:20, last 21:00 - 127 baht
- Moh Chit (North) to Pattaya - first 05:00, last 20:00 - 117 baht (tollway route: 121 baht)
- Pattaya to Moh Chit (North) - first 05:20, last 20:00 - 113 baht (tollway route: 121 baht)
- Sai Tai Mai (South) to Pattaya - 05:30, 08:30, 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00, 18:30 - 117 baht
- Pattaya to Sai Tai Mai (South) - 06:00, 08:00, 10:00, 12:00, 15:00, 18:00 - 113 baht
- Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya - 09:00, 13:00, 17:00 - 106 baht
- Pattaya to Suvarnabhumi Airport - times to be confirmed - approx. 120 baht
Fares may vary slightly depending on the route taken - for example, at busy times when the Moh Chit service uses the elevated express tollway, a marginally higher fare applies - however exact prices are always clearly posted at the official ticket counters.
All 1st class direct services to/from Bangkok use the recently redeveloped bus station on North Pattaya Road. These buses are usually full when they depart, and must be boarded at the terminus. Tickets are sold at the bus station; it's not possible to pre-book these services more than an hour or so in advance. Usually, if the bus that's due to leave next is already full, there will be seats available on the next one. The longest queues are for the very early morning departures from Pattaya - to get a seat on the first bus of the day you need to be in the ticket queue at least 30-40 minutes early; however the bonus is that these pre-rush hour services can take as little as 90 minutes to get to Bangkok.
From the North Pattaya Road bus station songthaews (a cross between a pickup truck, a share-taxi, a local bus and two pews) depart when full (every few minutes). The fare to anywhere on Beach Road ("the beach") is 20 baht; press the buzzer button on the underside of the roof when you want to get off.
Pattaya to the Eastern (Ekamai) Terminal: if requested, this bus will stop at the On Nut Skytrain Station (station map [4]) on Sukhumvit Road. Depending on your final destination and the traffic conditions, you may want to transfer to the Skytrain (system map [5]) there; if so, wait until the bus departs Pattaya and then confirm with the crew that you want to be dropped off at "On Nut". NB: this bus does not stop to pick up passengers at On Nut (or anywhere else) on the outbound leg.
Pattaya from/to the Southern (Sai Tai Mai) Terminal: if the direct bus is fully booked, take the Eastern (Ekamai) Terminal bus instead, and use the #511 (air-con, every 30 minutes 24/7, 20 baht) bus to connect between Ekamai and Sai Tai Mai.
Pattaya from/to Suvarnabhumi Airport - two services runs to and from Suvarnabhumi Airport. Bell Travel (as of July 2008) to: 06, 09, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19 and from: 08, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18. Their bus travels directly from the terminal building to the northern bus station. The governmental bus to (as of July 2008): 9AM, 1:PM, 4PM, 7:30PM and from: 6:30AM, 9AM, 1AM, 5AM. This travels between the Suvarnabhumi Transportation Center and the bus station in Soi Chayapreuk, Hat Jomtien.
Second class bus
2nd class services (air-con, usually no on-board toilet) don't use the expressways, and make frequent (and sometimes lengthy) stops, hence they take considerably longer than their 1st class counterparts (which at worst will only halt momentarily once or twice to let passengers jump off on the final approaches to their destination). As at June 2006 the 2nd class fare is 100 baht, so the difference in price doesn't amount to much.
Many 2nd class buses from Bangkok continue on to Jomtien, so may be worth considering if that's your final destination and you're not in a hurry. For travel from Jomtien to Bangkok they have the advantage that they can be flagged down and boarded as they crawl along Jomtien's seafront road (Jomtien Beach Road - Thanon Hat Jomtien), avoiding the need for a preliminary trip to the bus station.
The terminus for 2nd class services to/from Bangkok and other short-haul destinations is on South Pattaya Road, but in practice these buses pick up and drop off the majority of their passengers en route. Tickets are sold both at the bus station (although advance booking may not be possible) and on the bus itself.
The New airport bus service, not very well advertised, from SUWANNAPUMI airport,is brand new,as are the buses,DIRECT from the airport,and terminates at Jomtien beach road & Soi Chiaproek,it costs 112 bt (approx 4 us$). Currently 5 return trips either way per day.You won't get too much info on this service,as it is not a private company, it is run by government employees,and you will be directed to the taxis and mini-buses,by the touts at the airport.Upon arrival at Jomtien, (1 hour or so ) there are many guest houses,and hotels,prices vary from 550bt, ( Maggie Mays ) to 3,500bt( Nusa Playa ) cheap and cheerful,to luxurious.
Minibus / Passenger Van
Bangkok - minibuses run between Pattaya and Bangkok's hotels and Khao San Road, offering the convenience of a door-to-door service for around 400 baht/person. Departure times vary, but 9AM / Noon / 5:30PM are the most widely advertised. Driving time is about 2 hours, however it can take quite a bit longer overall (especially if you're the first to be collected and the last to be dropped off). One such service runs direct between Pattaya Dynasty Inn (Soi 13) and Bangkok Dynasty Inn (Soi Nana), and can be arranged through the Dynasty Inn reception desks.U-Tapao Airport (near Sattahip) - about 30 minutes, 200-250 baht; departure times to suit flight schedules (pre-booking especially important when flying to U-Tapao)
Ban Phe (gateway to Ko Samet) - about 90 minutes, 150-200 baht; departures typically 7:30AM, 11:30AM, 3PM.
Laem Ngop (gateway to Ko Chang) - about 3 hours, 400-500 baht; depart 09:00
It's also possible to travel by minibus to Hat Lek (for the southern-most border crossing between Thailand and Cambodia) but not every day of the week; this service may or may not go via Laem Ngop, depending on overall demand. As at January 2006: depart 7:30AM, arrive around 2PM, 700 baht, Tuesday and Friday only - but liable to change, so enquire locally for the latest schedule details.
Travel agencies (ubiquitous throughout Pattaya) plus many hotels/guesthouses sell minibus tickets, and tourist-oriented services such as these invariably include collection from your hotel/guesthouse/wherever (allow extra time for this - times quoted above are approximate transit times and make no allowance for the vagaries of the collection process).
By taxi
To Bangkok - widely advertised in Pattaya at 800 baht (the lower price is because it'll be a Bangkok cab returning home), and easily arranged through most travel agencies and hotels/guesthouses. Minibuses can also be chartered taxi-style from around 1800 baht.From Bangkok - prices range from 1500 baht (the official meter-taxi rate) to 1000 baht; arranged car services will tend toward the higher end, but licenced meter-taxis should be negotiable to the lower end of the range. Allow about 90-120 minutes, depending on where in Bangkok you're coming from; more around rush hour.
From Suvarnabhumi Airport - the official meter-taxi price to Pattaya is 1050 baht (1100 baht to Jomtien) plus the 60 baht highway ("motorway" or "expressway") toll. Allow around 80-90 minutes in favourable conditions.
Scams to watch out for when headed for Bangkok by taxi include being told that the pre-paid price is fully inclusive, but then, on arrival at the first toll booth, being told that the expressway fees are extra.
Many of the more upmarket hotels can arrange (for an additional fee) to have you met at the airport gate by a personal driver with a limousine, thus avoiding the need to negotiate with taxi drivers.
By train
Provided it's a weekday, the most economical way to travel between Pattaya and Bangkok by public transport is by rail - the one-way fare is just 31 baht, and if you've never experienced a 3rd class Thai train, this can be an interesting experience.From Monday to Friday, a single daily 3rd class (non-aircon) train departs Bangkok's Hualamphong Train Station at 6:50AM and arrives at the main Pattaya station at 10:18AM, before continuing on to Sattahip; it then returns via Pattaya at 2:21PM and terminates back in Bangkok at 5:40PM (on Saturdays and Sundays it turns back to Bangkok at Chachoengsao, so is of no practical use for getting to or from Pattaya at weekends). Regardless of direction, simply turn up and buy a ticket at the station - this train can't be pre-booked.
Pattaya has two train stations, both just east of Sukhumvit Road:
Pattaya Train Station (tel. +66-38429285) is the main stop, just north of the junction with Central Pattaya Road (from Sukhumvit Road, turn into Soi Pornprapanimit and then turn left immediately before the road crosses the railway line). A Baht Bus waits here for the train to arrive and charges a reasonable 30 baht/person to anywhere in the Pattaya Beach area; in the opposite direction, budget around 40-50 baht for a motorbike taxi from Beach Road. Facilities comprise a small snacks / chilled drinks counter, toilets, a solitary payphone, and the ticket office - which also sells maps of Pattaya.
Pattaya Tai Train Station is a small unmanned halt about 3 km further south, and hence closer to Jomtien, near the Sukhumvit / Thepprasit Road intersection.
At the main Pattaya Train Station, tickets must be bought before boarding and are only sold in the final 30 minutes prior to departure. The fare from/to Bangkok is 31 baht, from/to Sattahip 6 baht.
As the Pattaya Tai halt has no ticket office, passengers are permitted to board here without tickets and then pay on the train (32 baht to Bangkok).
From other regions
East
By road: Sukhumvit-route 2nd class aircon buses operate from Bangkok's Eastern (Ekamai) Bus Terminal and pick up and drop off on Sukhumvit at the Pattaya Nua / Pattaya Klang / Pattaya Tai traffic lights. Fares from/to Pattaya are Sattahip 20 baht, U-Tapao (Sukhumvit traffic lights, does not access the airport itself) 35 baht, Rayong (bus station) 50 baht, Ban Phe (Sukhumvit traffic lights, does not detour into the town) 60 baht, Chanthaburi (bus station) 115 baht, and Trat (bus station) 165 baht. Some terminate at Chanthaburi, however it's easy to transfer between there and Trat.
North-East
By road: for most (if not all) destinations in Isaan, it's not necessary to go via Bangkok. If a direct service isn't available, it's usually possible to connect via Nakhon Ratchasima (Khorat).
Tickets get sold very quickly! But it beforehand, a day or two ahead, seriously.
Nakhonchai Air Co. [6] (tel. +66-38427841 / +66-38424871) provides "VIP", 1st class, and non-aircon passenger services (plus parcel services) to Ubon Ratchathani (~11 hours) as follows:
VIP (32 seats, 540 baht) departures 17:15, 18:35, 20:15, 20:30, 20:45
1st class (465 baht) departures 07:45, 17:45
non-aircon (3rd class, 255 baht) departures 16:45, 18:00, 19:45
Roong Reuang Coach operates five Isaan services from the bus station on North Pattaya Road (the 1st class Bangkok bus terminal), all of which are air-con and go via Aranyaprathet (1st class 209 baht / 2nd class 162 baht / ~5 hours) and then either Buriram and Roi Et or Surin and Yasothon, and then terminate at Mukdahan (~13 hours) as follows:
2nd class via Surin & Yasothon (428 baht) departs 07:00
1st class via Buriram & Roi Et (553 baht) departures 08:30, 19:00
1st class via Surin & Yasothon (551 baht) departures 17:30, 19:30
By rail: it's possible to take the train from Pattaya to Chachoengsao (weekdays only) and switch there to a train to Aranyaprathet, or vice-versa, but either way the connection can only be made by spending the night in Chachoengsao. For trains to Nakhon Ratchasima (Khorat), Buriram, Surin, Si Saket, Ubon, etc, connect via Bangkok's Hualamphong station.
North
By road: it's possible to travel direct to/from numerous locations in Northern Thailand, however it's often quicker overall to go via the Northern (Moh Chit) Terminal in Bangkok. Much depends on final destination, time of travel, and available services; but if in doubt, the safest bet will usually be to stick with the 1st class buses and go via Moh Chit.
Nakhonchai Air Co. [7] (tel. +66-38427841 / +66-38424871) provides "VIP", 1st class, and non-aircon passenger services (plus parcel services) to Chiang Mai and Mae Sai from premises on the southbound side of Sukhumvit Road (30/7 Moo 9), one block south of the junction with Central Pattaya Road.
To Chiang Mai (approx. 13.5 hours):
VIP (32 seats, 670 baht) departures 14:30, 17:25, 18:30, 19:00
1st class (620 baht) departures 14:45, 18:15
non-aircon (3rd class, 345 baht) departs 06:15
To Mae Sai (approx. 15 hours):
VIP (32 seats, 770 baht) departures 15:00, 17:00
1st class (720 baht) departs 15:15
non-aircon (3rd class, 390 baht) departs 12:15
It's always worth considering pre-booking long-haul bus tickets, however more often than not seats will still be available an hour or so prior to departure.
By rail: it may be possible to use the one daily (weekdays only) train to/from Pattaya to connect with a northern line overnight train at Bangkok's Hualamphong station (pre-booking is advised for berths on overnight trains; this can be arranged at or via Pattaya Train Station).
South
The options for Southern Thailand are to fly to U-Tapao (near Sattahip) direct to/from Ko Samui or Phuket, or else to go via Bangkok. Note that a direct bus service between Pattaya and the Southern Bus Terminal in Bangkok was introduced in 2005; also that it may be worth considering using the one daily (weekdays only) train to/from Pattaya and connecting with a southern line overnight train at Bangkok's Hualamphong station (pre-booking is advised for berths on overnight trains; this can be arranged at or via Pattaya Train Station).
Orientation
These are connected by the three major east-west aligned roads: North Pattaya Road (Thanon Pattaya Nua), Central Pattaya Road (Thanon Pattaya Klang) and South Pattaya Road (Thanon Pattaya Tai). North Pattaya Road is a dual carriageway and carries the highest volume of traffic to and from Sukhumvit Road.
Also connecting Beach Road and Second Road are a large number of smaller streets or "sois". The main sois are numbered from 1 to 16, from north to south. Sois 1-6 are between North Pattaya Road and Central Pattaya Road; sois 7-13 are between Central Pattaya Road and South Pattaya Road (including the "Pattayaland" sois, immediately north of South Pattaya Road); sois 14-16 are south of South Pattaya Road. Most of these east-west sois are (in theory at least) one-way.
Beach Road, Second Road, and North Pattaya Road (plus Naklua Road to the north) all meet at the Dolphin Roundabout landmark. Heavy traffic and frequent accidents here have resulted in a semi-permanent diversion being set up which, at peak times, prevents vehicles (except motorcycles) from continuing around this roundabout any further than the North Pattaya Road exit, pending the installation of traffic lights some time in 2006.
Second Road south of South Pattaya Road becomes Pratamnak Road, which shares a junction with both the southern end of Third Road and the northern end of the main road to Jomtien, Tappraya Road.
Beach Road south of South Pattaya Road is closed to vehicles in the evenings (currently 18:00-02:00) and is called Walking Street; it's the main tourist area, both for nightlife and shopping. Other major tourism areas include the section of Second Road between sois 1-4, and the sois immediately north of South Pattaya Road.
At the southern end of Walking Street is the New Pier, usually called Bali Hai Pier (sometimes "Pattaya Pier" or "South Pier"). The Old Pier, close to the junction of Beach Road and South Pattaya Road, is still shown on most maps but was dismantled and removed at the beginning of 2006.
History
The Vietnam War and its warriors made Pattaya a well-known recreational centre, especially among American GI’s. From its beginning in 1959 with a small private bungalow where American officers on leave took turn to come and rest, this sleepy village by the sea has grown and changed dramatically into one of the world’s tourism hot spots. The opening of the new Suvarnabhumi Airport (located to the east of Bangkok, alongside the expressway to Pattaya) has made visiting easier than ever.
Pattaya is popular not only as a beach resort and for its entertainment, nightlife and shopping, but also for the broad selection of pastimes it caters for, from golf and horseback riding to bungee jumping, karting and shooting - not to mention a wide variety of watersports such as scuba diving, jet-skiing, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and kitesurfing, and a whole lot more. Pattaya is also very popular as a conference, convention and seminar venue, and the grapevine hosts rumours of future developments of varying degrees of plausibility, such as a horse racing track, casinos, and a tram system.
The Tourist Authority of Thailand (TAT) [1] Information Office is just outside the centre, exactly 1 km south of the junction of Second Road and South Pattaya Road - proceed along Pratamnak Road, continue straight up the hill, and where the road bears sharp right part way up, turn sharp left into the small side-soi. Worth a visit if you're in Pattaya for an extended period and want to browse for fresh ideas for new things to do/see. Open daily 8:30AM-4:30PM, tel. +66-38428750 / 8990 / 7667 or use the TAT freephone number: dial 1672 or e-mail: tatchon@tat.or.th
Media/Contact
Districts
"Greater Pattaya" occupies most of the coastline of Banglamung (one of the eleven districts that comprise Chonburi Province). It is divided into a larger northern section which spans the areas to the east of Naklua Beach (the most northern beach) and Pattaya Beach (the main beach) plus the Buddha Hill headland (immediately south of Pattaya Beach), and a smaller southern section covering the area to the east of Jomtien Beach (which lies directly south of Buddha Hill) including Dongtan Beach. Jomtien's beaches are much broader and generally in better shape, and the atmosphere locally is more sedate and family-oriented, than at Pattaya Beach.Sub-districts
Pattaya's coastal side is divided longitudinally into five contiguous sub-districts (or six, if also including Jomtien). Each one is named after the section of beach or headland at its seaboard.
In the middle are the three Pattaya Bay sub-districts, which share the main Baht Bus route (so most places are within 5 minutes / 10 baht of most other places, at any hour) and have much else in common, and hence in combination make up the main quasi-downtown zone:
North Pattaya (Pattaya Nua) - not the northern-most part of Pattaya (as Naklua lies further north), but the section of Pattaya adjacent to the northern end of Pattaya Beach and extending inland to both the north and south of North Pattaya Road. Does not include Naklua.
South Pattaya (Pattaya Tai) - not the southern-most part of Pattaya (as the Buddha Hill headland, and then Jomtien, lie further south), but the section of Pattaya adjacent to the southern end of Pattaya Beach and extending inland to both the north and south of South Pattaya Road. Includes Pattayaland and Walking Street. Does not include Buddha Hill or Jomtien.
Central Pattaya (Pattaya Klang) - not the dead center of Pattaya, but the section of Pattaya adjacent to the middle of Pattaya Beach and extending inland to both the north and south of Central Pattaya Road. Some maps/guides disregard the Central Pattaya convention, and instead extend North Pattaya and South Pattaya to meet each other along Central Pattaya Road; sometimes, Beach Road is described with a similar division, and the respective halves given "North Beach Road" and "South Beach Road" monikers.
Flanking the Pattaya Beach sub-districts are:
Naklua - immediately north of North Pattaya, and with quick, frequent, and inexpensive transport to and from the rest of Pattaya; Naklua is popular with visitors whose native language is German. In terms of tourism-related locations, it's the smallest and least significant sub-district, the main attractions being the beaches (which are quieter than Pattaya Beach) and the Sanctuary of Truth.
Buddha Hill - named after the Buddha Hill landmark and sandwiched between South Pattaya (to the north) and Jomtien (to the south); to the east, South Pattaya and Jomtien meet directly.
In practice, exactly where each sub-district ends and the next begins is a very grey area as none of the boundaries lie along major roads (and none of the many readily available tourist maps attempts to define boundaries at this level); nevertheless they do provide a handy rough guide to approximate latitude. Further inland, the sub-district names are used less, and locality/road names take precedence - for example, an address might state "Sukhumvit, Naklua" which is useful in that it makes it clear the location is to the north of the Sukhumvit / North Pattaya Road intersection, however the exact same place would not normally be described simply as being "in Naklua" as that would give the misleading impression of it being in the main beachside/tourism area further west.
![[8]](http://www.tatnews.org/tourism_news/images/pattaya_beachBus/b_map.jpg){kind=link}
![[4]](http://www.bts.co.th/en/images/Station%20Map/E9.gif){kind=link}
