Over 1.18 million Indian tourists visited Thailand in the first half of 2025 — a 13.8% jump that places India as Thailand’s No. 3 tourism market. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand is setting its sights firmly on India as its next tourism powerhouse, and Pattaya is expected to be one of the biggest beneficiaries of this booming market. With India’s economy expanding at breakneck speed and direct flights increasing, a wave of Indian tourists is headed to Thailand’s most iconic beach destination. According to recent forecasts, India is on track to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2030, overtaking Japan by 2025. In 2024, India’s GDP grew by 6.5%, and the first quarter of 2025 has already posted a staggering 7.4% growth rate—a stark contrast to global economic uncertainty. This economic momentum is fueling strong outbound tourism demand, and Thailand is reaping the rewards. In the first half of 2025, 1.18 million Indian tourists visited Thailand, representing a 13.82% increase year-on-year, making India the third-largest source market after Malaysia and China. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) projects a total of 2.5 million Indian arrivals for the full year. The Thai Hotels Association places the number slightly lower at 2.4 million, still a significant leap. “Indian tourists are now one of Thailand’s strongest and most resilient visitor segments,” said Thai Hotels Association president Thienprasit Chayapathranan. “They’re not just coming in greater numbers—they’re spending more than the Chinese, especially on shopping. And that matters a lot for places like Pattaya.” With its mix of beachfront luxury, vibrant nightlife, family attractions, and shopping options, Pattaya is well-positioned to attract Indian travelers. Especially during long holidays like Diwali, many are expected to trade bustling Mumbai or Delhi for Pattaya’s seaside leisure. In fact, Diwali 2025 (October 20) is expected to be a key driver of Indian arrivals. The Thai government is going all in with the Amazing Thailand Grand Diwali Festival 2025, headlined by a grand celebration at Sanam Luang in Bangkok, and additional events planned for Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Surat Thani—all destinations now more accessible than ever from Indian cities. More direct flights from India to Thailand than ever before. Thai AirAsia, Thai Lion Air, and VietJet Thailand ramp up routes as demand soars — now connecting travelers to 13 cities across India. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) The Diwali festival will feature processions of Hindu deities such as Lakshmi and Ganesha, Bollywood-style parades, performances by Indian and Thai artists (including Milli and Hanumankind), cultural exhibitions, shopping zones, food stalls, and illuminated photo backdrops—all aimed at embracing Indian culture and making visitors feel at home. “India is a cultural powerhouse and economic superpower in the making,” said TAT’s Deputy Governor for Asia and South Pacific, Phattharanong Na Chiang Mai. “We’re creating a Diwali experience here so Indian tourists don’t just visit—they celebrate.” To support this surge, airlines are rapidly expanding direct connectivity between India and Thailand: Thai AirAsia now operates the most extensive network, flying from Thailand to 13 Indian cities on 16 routes, including direct services to Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Kochi, Bangalore, Jaipur, Hyderabad, and more—many also connecting with Phuket, a gateway city for Pattaya-bound travelers. Thai Lion Air serves 7 Indian destinations, adapting quickly after a sluggish recovery in the Chinese market. VietJet Thailand has just launched its first direct Phuket–Mumbai service, flying four times a week from August 14, linking India’s financial capital with Thailand’s premier southern beach hub. These flight additions make it easier than ever for Indian tourists to arrive not just in Bangkok or Phuket, but also connect onwards to Pattaya via U-Tapao Airport or road transfer, especially from the capital. Aside from Diwali, Indian travelers are drawn to Thailand by its affordable luxury, shopping opportunities, and warm hospitality. Indian visitors typically spend more on retail than Chinese tourists, though they are more budget-conscious on hotels—a perfect match for Pattaya’s wide range of accommodation options. Pattaya’s cosmopolitan charm also appeals to India’s growing middle and upper-middle classes, with selfie-worthy locations, beach clubs, and family attractions that complement their holiday preferences. With international organizations predicting India’s rise as an economic giant and its outbound tourism expected to grow in tandem, Thailand—and Pattaya—are gearing up to capture long-term loyalty from Indian visitors. As Thienprasit puts it: “In a year where global tourist demand is uncertain, locking in the Indian market isn’t just a strategy—it’s a necessity. Pattaya is ready.” Despite spending less on hotels, Indian travelers splash out more on retail, making them key contributors to Pattaya’s tourism economy. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin)

Weather warnings miss Pattaya — Sunseekers enjoy a dry day while flash flood alerts hit the North. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – While much of northern and northeastern Thailand braced for torrential rain and flash flood warnings, Pattaya and Jomtien beaches remained packed with sunseekers on July 13, as clear skies and calm seas continued to draw both Thai and foreign tourists. The Meteorological Department issued Weather Advisory No. 6, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall in provinces such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son, Nan, and parts of Isaan, including Nong Khai and Bueng Kan. Flash floods, runoff, and travel disruptions were anticipated in multiple regions, especially in low-lying and hillside areas. But in contrast, Pattaya—shielded from the worst of the southwest monsoon and well outside the alert zones—remained largely unaffected, allowing beachgoers to enjoy a surprisingly calm and sunny day. Vendors returned to full operations, water sports resumed, and deck chairs filled early, particularly along Jomtien Beach, where families and weekend visitors gathered in large numbers. This divergence highlights the regional weather divide across Thailand. While the Andaman coast and northern mountains face heavy monsoonal impact, the eastern seaboard, including Chonburi province, has so far avoided the worst of this week’s storms. Marine authorities, however, still urged caution across both the Andaman Sea and upper Gulf of Thailand, advising small boats in storm-prone zones—especially off Ranong, Phang Nga, and Phuket—to remain ashore. Wave heights of 2–3 meters are expected, with stronger swells near thunderstorm areas. Back in Pattaya, the weather reprieve is a temporary boost to local tourism. As one beachfront vendor remarked, “We’ve been lucky so far — the forecast might say Thailand is raining, but here, it’s beach season.” Calm in Chonburi — Tourists pack Jomtien and Pattaya beaches despite nationwide weather alerts. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin)

With currency stability on its side, pattaya shines as a top destination for foreign visitors. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya continues to attract tourists and investors, benefiting from the relatively stable Thai baht amid global economic uncertainties. This week (July 14-18), the baht’s trading range remained steady between 32.20 and 32.80 baht per US dollar, signaling resilience despite external pressures such as the US’s import tariff policies and fluctuating global markets. According to the Kasikorn Research Center, key factors to watch include ongoing US trade measures against trading partners like Thailand, foreign fund flows, and global gold price movements. Economic indicators from the US, such as consumer and producer price indices, industrial production, retail sales, and housing starts, alongside manufacturing surveys and consumer confidence indices, continue to influence currency movements and investor sentiment worldwide. Additionally, data releases from major economies including China’s GDP and inflation figures from the UK, Eurozone, and Japan also play a crucial role. Earlier this week, the baht weakened slightly in line with other Asian currencies amid uncertainty over US tariff measures. The US dollar strengthened due to expectations that the Federal Reserve may hold interest rates steady at the upcoming FOMC meeting, backed by lower-than-expected weekly unemployment claims and the Fed’s Beige Book reports indicating no urgent rate cuts despite a downward trend expected this year. However, by the end of the week, the baht regained strength, appreciating past the 32.50 mark per dollar, supported by rising global gold prices amidst ongoing concerns about US tariff actions. On July 11, 2025, the baht closed at 32.43 per dollar, slightly weaker than the previous week’s 32.36, but maintaining stability overall. Foreign investors remain cautiously optimistic, net buying Thai stocks worth 2.93 billion baht between July 7-11, while net selling bonds worth 2.82 billion baht during the same period. For Pattaya, this currency stability is a significant advantage. It helps keep travel costs predictable and affordable for foreign tourists, reinforcing the city’s appeal as a top leisure destination. With the baht holding steady, Pattaya can confidently promote its diverse attractions—from its lively beaches and vibrant nightlife to cultural events and new developments—without the fear of sudden price shocks due to currency volatility. As global uncertainties persist, Pattaya’s ability to leverage stable economic fundamentals like a resilient baht strengthens its position in Thailand’s tourism landscape. This creates confidence not only for tourists planning their vacations but also for businesses investing in the region’s hospitality and service sectors.

Compact, affordable units drive market preferences. Most popular sizes range from 31–60 sqm, ideal for holiday homes and investment. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand’s condominium market continues to attract steady interest from foreign buyers, especially in popular areas like Pattaya and Bangkok, with two-bedroom units priced under 3 million baht proving to be the most sought-after option. According to the latest data released by the Real Estate Information Center (REIC) of the Government Housing Bank, 3,919 condo units were transferred to foreigners nationwide during the first quarter of 2025, with a total value of 16.39 billion baht. While that marks a slight 0.5% dip in unit volume and a 9% drop in total value compared to the same period in 2024, foreign demand in key provinces remains strong. Over 80% of the units transferred were located in just two provinces — Bangkok and Chonburi — with Chonburi being home to the coastal city of Pattaya, long a magnet for overseas buyers seeking a seaside lifestyle. Chinese nationals remained the largest foreign buyer group, acquiring 1,481 units worth more than 6.1 billion baht. Their continued dominance in the market highlights a consistent preference for Thai condominiums, especially in tourist-friendly areas. The top choice for foreign buyers remains clear: condominiums priced under 3 million baht. Since 2019, this price point has consistently led sales volume. Properties priced between 3–5 million baht come next in popularity, followed by those in the 5–7.5 million baht range. Interestingly, the most expensive units — those above 10 million baht — account for the highest total value of transactions, though they are fewer in number. In terms of size, the preferred condo units among foreigners are those between 31 to 60 square meters, typically one- to two-bedroom units — ideal for holiday homes, rental investments, or minimalist living. Studios and one-bedroom units smaller than 30 square meters also remain popular, especially among budget-conscious buyers. On the opposite end, large condos over 100 square meters — usually with three or more bedrooms — remain the least popular among foreigners, both in terms of volume and value. Among the top five provinces with the most condo transfers, Chonburi (where Pattaya is located) ranks second after Bangkok, recording 1,309 units, or 33.4% of the national total. Bangkok led the pack with 1,695 units, making up 43.3%. Combined, the two provinces account for 76.7% of all foreign condo transactions in Thailand. In terms of value, Bangkok also came first with over 9.55 billion baht in transactions (58.3%), followed by Chonburi at 3.8 billion baht (23.2%). Together, they represent more than 81% of the total foreign condo transaction value in the country. Other provinces rounding out the top five are Phuket, Samut Prakan, and Chiang Mai — all recognized for their tourism appeal and growing foreign communities. Even as overall volumes dip slightly, the fundamentals of Thailand’s foreign condo market remain solid. For international buyers, especially those from China and other Asian countries, Pattaya continues to deliver — offering the right mix of affordable prices, desirable locations, and compact units that fit the foreign lifestyle and budget. With two-bedroom units under 3 million baht still dominating demand and Pattaya’s beachside appeal holding strong, the city’s condominium sector remains closely aligned with what foreign buyers want.

Ammonia leak prompts evacuation in Chon Buri ice factoryLegacyAn ammonia leak at an ice factory in Soi Noen Plubwan, Nong Prue subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri, prompted emergency services to evacuate residents due to strong, irritating odours. The situation was controlled, and residents returned home after the smell subsided at 10.06pm yesterday, July 13. The Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Radio Centre in Pattaya received a report of the ammonia leak, coordinating with Nong Prue fire services, Nong Prue police, and volunteer rescue workers to investigate. The ice factory, located in a residential area, emitted a pervasive ammonia smell within a 100-metre radius, causing nasal irritation for those who inhaled it. Residents were evacuated to safer locations. Factory staff were called to inspect the premises and shut the ammonia tank valves, although residual odours persisted. Firefighters used water to prevent the gas from spreading further. No serious injuries were reported. Residents indicated that ammonia odours from the factory were common, but the intensity was unusually high this time, leading to discomfort and the need for evacuation. Rescue teams managed to control the situation, leading to a decrease in ammonia odour intensity. Residents were informed they could return home, with no major health impacts reported. Relevant officials were to investigate the cause and address the incident to ensure the community’s safety, reported KhaoSod. Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In similar news, a factory fire in Bangkok involving 300 tonnes of plastic pellets has led to severe air pollution and chemical emissions, prompting the evacuation of residents within a 300-metre radius. Officials also advised against using air conditioning, recommending fans for ventilation instead. At 1.30pm on May 12, Dr. Wantanee Wattana, Bangkok’s permanent secretary, addressed the media from the incident command centre at Lam Pa Ong School. She shared the latest updates on the blaze at a factory on Chalong Krung 55 in Lat Krabang district, noting that the factory owner had begun cooperating with officials. The story Ammonia leak prompts evacuation in Chon Buri ice factory as seen on Thaiger News.

Despite countless shutdowns, some Pattaya venues reopen within days, prompting near-nightly raids by authorities. PATTAYA, Thailand – In recent weeks, nearly nightly raids by police and district officers on Pattaya’s entertainment venues have become routine. Yet for many observers and residents, the question is not why so many raids — but why they’re still needed at all. The latest incident involved a joint raid on an unlicensed host bar in Pattaya where chaos erupted after one group of customers attacked another. The authorities not only found the venue operating illegally, but also uncovered drugs and signs of drug use. Eighteen people tested positive for narcotics — despite the venue having been busted “countless times” before. Public frustration over the cycle of raids and reopenings is evident on social media, where users express a mix of sarcasm and exasperation. One comment captures the recurring pattern: “Here we go again. No license. Drugs. Violence. Next week they’ll reopen and get raided again.” Others highlight the widespread nature of the problem, noting, “There are tons of illegal pubs in Soi Kor Phai already. This is just one of many,” while some emphasize the blatant disregard for the law, saying, “They don’t even hide it — these are full-on outlaw joints.” Concern also arises over enforcement timing, with one user asking, “Anyone bringing drugs into a club deserves the consequences. But where is the enforcement before things get violent?” The recurring pattern — unlicensed pub opens, gets raided, reopens under a new name or management — has exposed deeper flaws in the enforcement system. Many of these venues have long operated in legal gray zones or outright defiance of regulations, often without proper business licenses, safety permits, or adherence to operating hours. As new rogue pubs pop up across town, residents question whether enforcement is solving or recycling the problem. Some locals believe the problem goes beyond weak enforcement to structural complicity. “You can’t raid the same place ten times and pretend the system works,” said one local bartender. “It’s not broken — it’s working exactly as intended for the people making money off it.” Indeed, Pattaya’s nightlife economy is vast, profitable, and often operates on the edge of regulation. But the city’s reputation — especially as it tries to promote itself as a family-friendly, world-class tourism hub — is continually undermined by headlines of violence, drugs, and rogue venues. Officials insist the raids will continue. Pattaya police and Banglamung district officers say they are under orders to clean up “shadow businesses” and prevent further incidents like last week’s brawl. Yet few believe the nightly crackdowns alone will be enough to solve the underlying problems. For now, each raid seems to highlight a cycle that never ends — unlicensed venues pop up, trouble follows, the authorities sweep in, and everyone braces for the next round. Officers found drugs and unlicensed operations — the venue had previously been raided multiple times.   Locals Ask: “How many raids before the system works?” Recurring busts reveal deeper cracks in Pattaya’s nightlife enforcement and licensing oversight.

4 Thai and Chinese men arrested for kidnapping and extortion in PattayaLegacyPolice arrested two Thai men and two Chinese nationals for kidnapping and extorting a Chinese tourist in Pattaya. The 52 year old victim, Lin, was abducted by four men posing as police officers on July 10 while standing outside a noodle shop on Pattaya Sai Sam Road. The gang arrived in an SUV and forced him into their vehicle. According to Lin, the suspects accused him of being involved in a call centre scam, then threatened him with a firearm and demanded that he transfer 100,000 baht. They also stole an additional 15,000 baht in cash and two mobile phones valued at over 100,000 baht. The gang later abandoned Lin beside a railway track near a shooting range at approximately 6am. He immediately went to the police station to file a complaint. Officers from Mueang Pattaya Police Station reviewed CCTV footage from outside the restaurant to the location where Lin was left. They identified the suspicious SUV parked at a shopping mall in South Pattaya. Photo via Facebook/ หลังคาแดงตีแผ่ 2 Two bald men were seen exiting the vehicle and entering the mall, followed by two others wearing red and white shirts. The man in the white shirt was caught wiping paint off the vehicle’s registration plate in an apparent attempt to obscure its numbers before driving away. Yesterday, July 13, police successfully arrested all four suspects: 37 year old Chinese national Han Longding, 63 year old Chinese national Lin Yifan, 35 year old Thai man Siripong Chiablaem, and 28 year old Thai man Thitipong Pongpiriyakun. Photo via Facebook/ สายข่าวพัทยา The suspects claimed they had been hired by another Chinese national to carry out the crime. Officers seized the SUV used in the abduction and are continuing their search for the stolen belongings. A similar incident occurred on Pattaya Sai Sam Road in September last year. In that case, a Chinese victim was violently assaulted by over 10 fellow countrymen and lost his eyesight. The attackers attempted to force the man into a minivan, allegedly for further extortion, but he resisted. During the struggle, the victim lost a limited-edition necklace worth approximately 2 million baht. The story 4 Thai and Chinese men arrested for kidnapping and extortion in Pattaya as seen on Thaiger News.

Pattaya mechanic batters customer to death after row over partsLegacyA petty row over motorbike parts turned into a fatal street brawl in Pattaya, leaving a 33 year old man dead and his long-time mechanic friend facing a murder charge. The deadly drama unfolded in the early hours of Saturday, July 12 when 31 year old Somjet Sapprasert, allegedly bludgeoned his customer, 33 year old Sonthaya “Toomtam” Nuchlek, to death with a sharpened wooden stick during a fiery bust-up over spare part prices. Police said the pair, both well known in the Soi Wat Thung Krad area, had been arguing near the railway tracks around 11am. According to Lieutenant Wongsathorn Marknanta, Sonthaya’s relatives reported he had been rushed to Pattaya Hospital with severe head and back injuries. Despite efforts to save him, he later died. By 1pm, police had tracked down the suspect’s blue Mitsubishi Strada, the same vehicle used to ferry the dying man to hospital. Officers arrested Somjet, a local motorcycle mechanic, at his home and brought him in for questioning. After a two-hour grilling, he cracked, Pattaya News reported. Pictures courtesy of Pattaya News Somjet confessed to attacking Sonthaya with a stick after a heated row over pricing. “Sonthaya was moaning that my parts were too expensive. I told him to go to another shop if he didn’t like it.” The pair had apparently known each other for years. Sonthaya often brought his bike in for custom mods. But this time, tempers flared. Somjet claimed Sonthaya turned violent first, punching him and swinging a metre-long stick, which he said was “for hitting dogs.” Somjet said he wrestled the weapon away and lashed out in a blind rage. “I hit him until he dropped.” According to the mechanic, Sonthaya later gasped, “I give up, I’m sorry.” The two allegedly made peace but minutes later, Sonthaya began gasping for air and collapsed again. Panicked, Somjet sped off on his bike to fetch his pickup and rushed the injured man to hospital. He insisted he didn’t flee and had waited “several hours” before heading home, where police eventually picked him up. “I lost it. I didn’t mean to kill him. I’m sorry to his family.” Police seized the 60cm stick, the clothes Somjet wore, and carried out a reenactment at the scene. He now faces charges of causing bodily harm resulting in death and remains in custody. Meanwhile, reporters visiting the railway track where the alleged assault took place were met with scepticism from Sonthaya’s relatives, who said he had “no reason” to be in that area. The family plans to retrieve the body for funeral rites at Wat Thung Krad on July 13, vowing to seek justice for his death. The investigation continues. The story Pattaya mechanic batters customer to death after row over parts as seen on Thaiger News.

Tyred and fired! Pattaya garage inferno erupts after fuel blunderLegacyA routine fuel drain turned into a fireball fiasco in a Pattaya garage after a misfuelled Toyota Alphard burst into flames, torching five vehicles and sending plumes of smoke across Phonprapanimit Road. Emergency services rushed to the Somphot Service garage near Moo 7 at 3.30pm on Saturday, July 13, after a blazing inferno engulfed the car repair and tyre shop. Police Lieutenant Boorapha Jaihan, Deputy Inspector of Nong Prue police, dispatched five fire engines and rescue teams from the Nong Prue Municipality, Pattaya City, and Pong subdistrict to tackle the blaze. Upon arrival, firefighters found flames raging inside the garage and immediately shut down traffic on both sides of the road for safety. It took over 40 minutes of heavy hose work to bring the fire under control. The damage? Five vehicles, including a Toyota Alphard, a sedan, and a pickup, were charred. All workshop tools and machinery were wiped out in the blaze. Pictures courtesy of Pattaya News Two people were injured, one man suffered burns to his leg and was rushed to hospital, while 21 year old Than Sae-lor, the Alphard’s owner, sustained minor injuries. Than told Pattaya News he was en route back to Bangkok when he stopped to refuel at a Bangchak petrol station, only for an attendant to pump in the wrong type of diesel. The station advised him to get the fuel drained at Somphot Service. “As the fuel-draining was nearly done, flames suddenly shot out. Everyone ran: me, the workers, and even the guy from the gas station,” Than said. Pictures courtesy of Pattaya News Initial investigations suggest a rogue spark may have ignited the vapours during the fuel drain, triggering the firestorm. Police and fire investigators will conduct a full forensic probe to determine the exact cause. The drama follows another fire scare last month in Chon Buri’s Bang Lamung district, when a blaze ripped through a fresh produce shop at 4.06am on June 24, forcing the panicked owner to leap from the second floor. Locals rushed to help extinguish the flames, fearing they could spread to a nearby fireworks stockpile. The two-storey commercial building housed groceries, frozen foods, and meat products — and was left gutted. The story Tyred and fired! Pattaya garage inferno erupts after fuel blunder as seen on Thaiger News.

Packed despite rising competition — tourists still flock to Pattaya’s beer bars where slashed prices keep seats full. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – Long known as Southeast Asia’s beachside playground, Pattaya is now grappling with stiff competition from other destinations like Angeles City in the Philippines, Da Nang in Vietnam, and even emerging Thai provinces that promise lower costs and a different kind of experience. For many foreign tourists, where to travel is no longer just about sun and nightlife — it’s about authenticity, affordability, and atmosphere. Veteran travellers say the city’s appeal has shifted over time. “When I first visited Pattaya in the ’90s, it felt vibrant and reasonably priced — like a real escape,” one long-time expat recalled. “Now you have higher drink prices, staff asking for tips upfront, and cover charges just to sit with someone in a bar.” Some attribute the change to broader trends. “It’s not just here,” another visitor noted. “Across Thailand and elsewhere, you see bigger body types and maybe a different lifestyle. It feels less like the Pattaya of old.” Others compare Pattaya unfavourably to newer destinations. “I was just in Da Nang and Hoi An — beers were cheaper, food was varied, and there wasn’t the same pressure to tip or buy services,” said one frequent traveller. “It felt more laid-back and genuine.” A common criticism is that prices rose sharply after the pandemic and geopolitical shifts, while service quality did not keep pace. “Foreign-run bars that lower prices still fill up, but many local operators won’t adapt,” said one observer. “They’re holding on to high prices even as the customer base changes.” Some regulars also question Thailand’s pivot toward mass tourism from China and India. “You traded high-spending Western guests for groups that spend less per person,” one commenter argued online. “The focus is now on arrival numbers rather than the quality or spending power of visitors.” While Pattaya’s beer bar scene continues to draw crowds, many see it facing growing pressure. “Vietnam, Cambodia, the Philippines — they’re all catching up,” said another long-term visitor. “If you look beyond nightlife alone, you might have a better holiday elsewhere.” Yet others argue the evolution is natural. “Everyone has their own taste,” one woman said. “You can still have an affordable holiday here — you just can’t expect it to be like it was 30 years ago.” Ultimately, for tourists weighing where to spend their next vacation, it comes down to cost versus culture, and comfort versus crowds. For Pattaya, staying competitive isn’t just about slashing prices — it’s about keeping its unique charm in a changing market.