An area guide to life in Pattaya

The lowdown 

Bangkok’s closest beach resorts. The US Forces used Pattaya as place for rest and relaxation during the Vietnam War in the 1960s and set the bar for it as a popular beach destination. Situated to the east of the capital and the same side as Thailand’s main international airport, Suvarnabhumi, Pattaya is the easy option for those wanting to reach a beach as soon as they step foot off the plane. The journey is just 100 kilometres along Sukhumvit Road, taking 90 minutes on a good day.

Today Pattaya has an international feel. Walk down the street and you will see signs in a variety of different languages – you will feel at home regardless of where you are from. At night Pattaya comes alive, but by day there are plenty of hidden beaches to discover or beach clubs to kick back and relax in. A 20 minute boat trip also takes you to Ko Lan, a postcard perfect stunning island just four kilometres by two kilometres, an ideal day trip perfect for snorkelling.

Climate

The weather mirrors that of Bangkok. The dry season from December to February is followed by the hot season where daily temperatures easily reach the mid 30s (degrees Celsius). This lasts until the rains arrive in June, where rainfall peaks in September and dies out as December nears.

Daily life

Pattaya is divided into North, South and Central Pattaya each with a different flavour. Central Pattaya has the highest concentration of development and action. The outer suburbs tend to be quieter, and more in demand for retirees. Pattaya is a popular retirement destination, partly due its numerous golf courses but also because of its choice in activities that are geared towards Western tastes such as the perfectly manicured Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Gardens.

Pattaya’s prestigious Thai Polo Club and Equestrian Club hosts many events that would make you think that you are back in England! Silverlake vineyard backdrop feels like a winery out of France and hosts music events in its pretty surroundings, and the Central shopping mall will empty the purse of any shopaholic.

Restaurants serve food from across the globe. Nightclubs and bars cater to all tastes, and sports such as sailing, archery, softball, target shooting, horse riding, tennis and bowling can be participated in. Thus making Pattaya also family friendly due to its international schools, elephant sanctuaries and water parks – something no beach destination would be complete without.

Where to live

There is a mix of accommodation available at Pattaya. High rise condominiums, smaller lower rise buildings and private villas with pools. Some that are built on Pattaya’s curved beachfront with views across the Gulf of Thailand. Popular places are Naklua in North Pattaya, Wongamat just slightly north of Central Pattaya and Pratumnak Hill which is in Central Pattaya with everything on your doorstep.

Due to its international persona, Pattaya’s real estate agents are teamed with an army of linguistics speaking languages from Swedish to Korean, and from French to Kazakhstani. This makes buying or renting property a straightforward process, coupled with the fact that whatever the budget or requirements there is something for everyone.

Why I should live in Pattaya?

1. If you love Thailand but can’t bear to part with Western food, Pattaya’s food menus will satisfy all your cravings.
2. Relax, get active, explore or go wild. You can do it all in Pattaya.
3. There is a well established expatriate community making it feel like a home away from home.