Ladies’ night bust-up in Pattaya leaves serial sleaze in cuffsLegacyPattaya police have appealed for more witnesses after a suspected serial sleazebag, dubbed the “Boom Khunphaen Rider,” was dramatically restrained by a group of angry women in the heart of Pattaya on Saturday night. He has been accused of blackmail, threats and physical violence. The 26 year old motorbike courier, named as Phonlawat, was reportedly chased down and cornered outside a bike rental shop near Central Pattaya Road on Saturday, July 12, then handed over to police by a furious mob of alleged victims and their friends. Lieutenant Colonel Suchart Dusadee, head of Pattaya City Police’s crime suppression division, said officers found around ten people holding Phonlawat at the scene after receiving multiple complaints. Among them were five women who claimed to have been targeted by the same man. One alleged victim, 30 year old Oranong, said she first met the suspect through a dating app and Facebook. She said the relationship started off normally but quickly spiralled into violence and threats. “He assaulted me and told me he’d post our private videos online unless I gave him what he wanted.” Picture of the suspect courtesy of Pattaya News She was not alone. Another woman, 32 year old Jiraporn, told police she had already filed three complaints against Phonlawat, accusing him of spraying graffiti on her motorbike, threatening to leak explicit clips, and attacking her physically. Her warning post on Facebook, shared after the latest incident, went viral, attracting more than 1,000 comments and prompting other alleged victims to come forward. Phonlawat, meanwhile, admitted meeting several women through online platforms and confirmed he’d been in relationships with some. But he insisted everything was consensual and denied making or threatening to share any recordings. “I never filmed anyone or damaged any property,” he told police. Lt. Anirut Jehrah of Pattaya City Police Station said all parties had been questioned and Phonlawat’s personal information recorded as the investigation continues. To avoid further chaos, officers later dispersed the group and urged any additional victims to report what they know. Officers are now weighing possible charges, including assault, criminal damage, blackmail and harassment. Police have appealed for more potential victims or witnesses to come forward with information, Pattaya News reported. The story Ladies’ night bust-up in Pattaya leaves serial sleaze in cuffs as seen on Thaiger News.

GI dough! Retired American blows a fuse in Pattaya bar brawlLegacyA retired American soldier turned English teacher went berserk at a South Pattaya bar last night, frightening staff and sending security into full alert. But, his fury ended up in handcuffs after a full-blown meltdown on Soi 5. The former American GI, James, thought to be around 60, is accused of spitting at bar girls, smashing a pot of incense, and booting over a menu sign after a woman allegedly refused his advances yesterday, July 13. Police told Channel 7 News that he returned shortly after wielding an iron bar and a sharp object, prompting bouncers to subdue him before handing him over to officers. “He started shouting and cursing, then spat at the girls waiting out front,” said Uracha, a 27 year old cashier at the venue. “Then he kicked over the sign and stormed off. But he always comes back. He acts strange and talks nonsense.” She said it all started when one of the female staff refused to entertain his repeated pestering. The situation escalated when the former GI returned moments later, armed and clearly agitated. “He came back with a metal rod and a blade,” said a security guard. “We followed our training, charged, disarmed and pinned him until the police arrived.” Patrol officers from Pattaya City Police Station said James was still too agitated to be questioned. He was taken away to cool down and will face legal action once fit to be interviewed. Officers say if compensation cannot be agreed for the damages, the matter will proceed through the courts. Officers are also investigating whether James has a history of erratic behaviour or prior run-ins with the law. Last week, the shoe was on the other foot when a foreign bar owner in Pattaya reportedly physically assaulted an American tourist in the early hours of the morning allegedly for recording a video on the premises. The 38 year old American man, identified as Raf, reported the assault at Mueang Pattaya Police Station at 2.50am, on, July 11. He arrived with visible injuries and presented a video of the incident as evidence. The story GI dough! Retired American blows a fuse in Pattaya bar brawl as seen on Thaiger News.

GI dough! Retired American blows a fuse in Pattaya bar brawlLegacyA retired American soldier turned English teacher went berserk at a South Pattaya bar last night, frightening staff and sending security into full alert. But, his fury ended up in handcuffs after a full-blown meltdown on Soi 5. The former American GI, James, thought to be around 60, is accused of spitting at bar girls, smashing a pot of incense, and booting over a menu sign after a woman allegedly refused his advances yesterday, July 13. Police told Channel 7 News that he returned shortly after wielding an iron bar and a sharp object, prompting bouncers to subdue him before handing him over to officers. “He started shouting and cursing, then spat at the girls waiting out front,” said Uracha, a 27 year old cashier at the venue. “Then he kicked over the sign and stormed off. But he always comes back. He acts strange and talks nonsense.” She said it all started when one of the female staff refused to entertain his repeated pestering. The situation escalated when the former GI returned moments later, armed and clearly agitated. “He came back with a metal rod and a blade,” said a security guard. “We followed our training, charged, disarmed and pinned him until the police arrived.” Patrol officers from Pattaya City Police Station said James was still too agitated to be questioned. He was taken away to cool down and will face legal action once fit to be interviewed. Officers say if compensation cannot be agreed for the damages, the matter will proceed through the courts. Officers are also investigating whether James has a history of erratic behaviour or prior run-ins with the law. Last week, the shoe was on the other foot when a foreign bar owner in Pattaya reportedly physically assaulted an American tourist in the early hours of the morning allegedly for recording a video on the premises. The 38 year old American man, identified as Raf, reported the assault at Mueang Pattaya Police Station at 2.50am, on, July 11. He arrived with visible injuries and presented a video of the incident as evidence. The story GI dough! Retired American blows a fuse in Pattaya bar brawl as seen on Thaiger News.

Boot and run: Thug kicks young Thai woman in Pattaya bar assaultLegacyA 21 year old woman was left traumatised and housebound after being viciously kicked in the head by a stranger during a shocking unprovoked attack at a Pattaya bar, all because someone allegedly thought she was “staring.” The victim, known only as Piano, had been enjoying a night out with two friends in the Nong Prue area of the resort town when things turned ugly in the early hours of July 11. CCTV footage, now widely circulated online, shows the chilling moment a woman in a dress creeps behind Piano and boots her in the head, sending her lurching forward in shock. Moments earlier, the attacker and her two companions, another woman and a man, had confronted the group, snapping: “Why are you staring at me?” without any provocation. Before anyone could respond, the violent trio fled the scene on a white Vespa, leaving Piano shaken and stunned. Picture courtesy of Pattaya News Speaking through tears yesterday, July 13, the freelance product promoter said she didn’t know her attackers. I was just sitting there with my friends, and suddenly they came over, accused us of staring, and attacked me. I’m still in shock and feel scared to go out now.” The CCTV clearly shows the two groups sitting less than a metre apart inside the bar. After settling their bill, the attackers paused at Piano’s table and, without warning, one of the women launched a savage right-footed kick to her head before strolling off as if nothing had happened. Since the assault, Piano has been holed up at home, traumatised and scared, receiving visits from concerned friends. She says watching the video has only made it worse. “This was a violent act, and I don’t even know them. I just want justice.” A complaint has been filed with Pattaya City Police, who are now working to track down the suspects. The attackers are still on the run, Pattaya News reported. The story Boot and run: Thug kicks young Thai woman in Pattaya bar assault as seen on Thaiger News.

MC Ren Lexander presents the PCEC’s Certificate of Appreciation to Ron Cartey for another informative, inspiring, and humorous presentation to the Club. PATTAYA, Thailand – On July 9, 2025, Ron Cartey delivered an engaging and motivational presentation to the Pattaya City Expats Club (PCEC). He provided his insights on life, health, and the power of a positive mindset. The presentation, titled “More Pearls of Wisdom,” was loaded with his personal stories, practical advice, and motivational insights drawn from Ron’s life and career. Ron began his talk by acknowledging the diverse experiences of the audience and emphasizing that his message was not about personal success or wealth, but about sharing lessons learned to inspire others. He highlighted the value of mentoring, both receiving and giving, as a key theme of his message. Ron encouraged the audience to reflect on how their accumulated life experiences could be shared to benefit younger generations and peers alike. In addition to his personal stories, Ron recounted his journey from a nervous novice to an accomplished public speaker. He highlighted the importance of practice, building confidence, and learning from mistakes. Ron shared humorous incidents to illustrate that even experienced speakers face challenges, and that perseverance is key. He also discussed his work in training others, emphasizing communication and leadership skills as essential for managing people effectively. He also discussed his travels and work in various countries, including South Africa and Malaysia, and the lessons learned from cross-cultural interactions. Throughout his presentation, Ron encouraged the audience to embrace challenges and new experiences, sharing his own ventures such as children’s dance schools and sports team ownership. He stressed the importance of goal-setting at any age and the value of participation and engagement in life’s activities. Health was a recurring theme in Ron’s talk, presented as the most valuable asset in life. He discussed the benefits of exercise, proper nutrition, and regular check-ups, sharing personal injury stories and recovery experiences. Ron highlighted group activities like beach tennis and pickleball as ways to maintain fitness and social connection, emphasizing that physical activity is critical to quality of life as one grows older. Having lived in Thailand for 15 years, Ron shared cultural insights, including language tips, driving hazards, and social quirks. He advised embracing the local culture with humor and positivity rather than complaint, stressing the importance of respect as a guest in another country. After the presentations, MC Ren Lexander brought everyone up to date on upcoming PCEC events and conducted the Open Forum where the audience may ask questions or make comments about Expat living in Thailand, especially Pattaya. For more information about the PCEC and their meeting location, visit their website at https://pcec.club. To view a video of the Ron’s current and previous presentations, visit the PCEC’s YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@pcecclub6255/search?query=ron%20cartey.

A 22-year-old man high on cannabis sparked a two-hour police chase across six districts in southern Thailand after filling up his tank and fleeing without paying. Officers had to shoot out his tire to stop him. PATTAYA, Thailand – Authorities are warning riders and drivers in Pattaya and other tourist-heavy cities that skipping out on fuel bills will not go unnoticed — and definitely won’t end well. This follows a dramatic case in Nakhon Si Thammarat, where a 22-year-old man led police on a two-hour chase across six districts after filling up his tank and speeding off without paying. The incident began when the driver of a white box truck topped up at a petrol station in Kaew Saen, Nabon District — then bolted without paying a single baht. Officers tracked him through Thung Song, Ron Phibun, Phra Phrom, and into the city center, eventually disabling the vehicle by shooting out its tire. The driver, later identified as Pansa “Boat” Niltam from Surat Thani, told police he smoked cannabis daily and had no license — which is why he panicked and ran. “I thought if I kept driving, I might get away,” he told officers in a dazed state after arrest. Police were not amused. They’ve since hit him with multiple charges: reckless and dangerous driving, fleeing police, and failure to pay for services — a clear message to would-be fuel thieves. With cameras installed at most petrol stations and police units increasingly alert to such behavior, local authorities in Pattaya say there’s zero tolerance for cunning riders who think they can outsmart the system. “Whether you’re local or a tourist, don’t think this city is a free ride,” one officer said. Some motorbike riders and delivery drivers in Pattaya have reportedly tested the limits, sneaking away from stations late at night or faking QR code errors. Officials now warn that any attempt to evade payment — whether at a gas pump or anywhere else — could land you in serious legal trouble. Police brought the wild chase to an end by shooting out the suspect’s tire, forcing his vehicle to a stop after a two-hour pursuit across six districts.

Longtime visitors say weak foreign currencies, high airfares, and inflated hotel rates are keeping travelers away during Pattaya’s slow season — and you have to be quick to grab the good deals. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand — As Pattaya moves deeper into its traditional low season, local businesses and long-term visitors are reporting an unusually subdued atmosphere — with many attributing the slowdown primarily to unfavorable currency exchange rates. The Australian dollar has dropped below 21 baht, down significantly from the 32-baht range seen in the early 2010s. The British pound is also underperforming, compounding travel costs for UK tourists already facing rising expenses at home. For many would-be travelers, the math simply doesn’t add up — when flights alone can cost upwards of £1,000, the casual two- or three-trips-a-year tradition has become far less attainable. Although some visitors point out that Thailand itself isn’t to blame — noting the issue lies more with global economic shifts than with local pricing — the impact on tourist numbers is nonetheless being felt on the ground. Among veteran visitors and business owners, confidence in the traditional high season is waning. Many now question whether Pattaya’s once-reliable winter tourism boom still exists in a post-pandemic, inflation-hit world. This past April’s Songkran festival brought a temporary spike in activity, but several local operators say business quickly tapered off afterward. Some are hopeful for a rebound in November, citing Pattaya’s history of resilience, but others remain skeptical — noting that recent “high seasons” have felt increasingly muted. Tourism demographics are also shifting. Some regulars have observed a decrease in Western travelers, offset partially by increases from Indian and regional markets. Meanwhile, hotel rates in central Pattaya remain elevated — in some cases comparable to prices in the UK — leaving many price-sensitive tourists to explore alternatives such as long-term condo rentals. While the exchange rate is a major factor, rising airfares and accommodation costs are compounding the problem. Air travel prices have fallen slightly from post-pandemic peaks, but many travelers say they’re still far too high, particularly given limited airline competition and added fees. Calls grow for Thailand to ease long-stay visa rules and recognize the economic role of foreign residents. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) Hotel rates, too, have remained stubbornly high. What were once affordable escapes are now prompting cost comparisons with destinations closer to home. For many, the solution is shifting toward longer stays in rented condos, where monthly costs offer better value. For some long-term expats, Pattaya’s current challenges reflect a broader disconnect between nostalgic expectations and present-day realities. The era of 30-baht street food, 50-baht beers, and budget flights is long gone — but a segment of visitors still compares today’s prices to those from 10 or even 15 years ago. While some argue that local prices for food, transport, and general living remain relatively stable — especially compared to inflation in Western countries — they acknowledge that entertainment and nightlife costs have noticeably risen. Coupled with weakened currencies, this creates a perception that Pattaya has become “too expensive,” even if the numbers don’t fully support that claim. Beyond prices, many expats believe Thailand needs to rethink its visa policies and approach toward long-stay tourists. There is a growing sentiment that Western visitors, particularly retirees and seasonal residents, contribute significantly to the local economy — and should be treated less like short-term tourists and more like stakeholders. There’s also a call for greater consistency in policy-making, with some suggesting that easing visa requirements or improving clarity around long-stay options could help stabilize tourism numbers in uncertain economic times. Despite the quieter streets and uncertain forecasts, some residents caution against declaring a downturn too soon. Pattaya, they note, has seen similar lulls before — only to bounce back stronger a few months later. For now, the city remains in a holding pattern, with many eyes on the final quarter of the year. Whether the traditional high season returns in full force may depend less on Thailand’s actions, and more on global currency trends, airline pricing, and travelers’ sense of value in an increasingly competitive tourism market.

Despite safety measures, pedestrians face challenges crossing Pattaya’s busy streets, as many drivers fail to stop at red lights and crosswalks. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand — Walking across Pattaya’s streets continues to be a challenge for both locals and tourists, even at well-marked crosswalks with traffic lights and colorful paint. While the city has made visible efforts to improve pedestrian safety, many still find that drivers and motorcyclists often fail to stop — or even slow down — when people are trying to cross. Residents have expressed frustration, saying that painted crossings and signage are not enough without consistent enforcement. Some noted that even with red lights, vehicles frequently drive through pedestrian zones, leaving people to navigate fast-moving traffic with caution. A common concern among locals is that police presence appears limited. One resident remarked that enforcement is lacking, while others suggested stronger penalties might help — such as fines or license suspensions for those who ignore pedestrian rights. Major roads like Beach Road and Second Road remain hotspots for risky driving. Many pedestrians report seeing cars and motorcycles speeding well beyond posted limits, even in areas with heavy foot traffic. The concern isn’t just about speed, but about a general disregard for road rules. Residents believe this contributes to near-misses and minor accidents that often go unreported. Community members have offered several suggestions to help improve the situation. While crosswalks are in place, many argue that physical deterrents would be more effective. Speed bumps before crossings — the kind that slow cars to a crawl in other countries — were mentioned as a practical solution. Others pointed to countries like Australia, where prominent speed bumps near pedestrian zones make it almost impossible to ignore the crossing. Some suggested using barrier-style crossing arms — similar to those at train crossings — to physically prevent cars from moving while pedestrians are crossing. It’s not just infrastructure that needs attention, residents say, but also education and attitudes. A local pedestrian commented that respect for traffic laws should be reinforced through better training and stronger community awareness. Reckless driving and inconsistent enforcement continue to undermine pedestrian safety on Pattaya’s main roads, where even painted crosswalks offer little protection. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) The discussion also extends to local driving habits. Some feel that standards for obtaining a driver’s license need to be raised. Meanwhile, others noted that tourists aren’t always careful either, sometimes ignoring rules or riding unfamiliar motorbikes in ways that increase risks for everyone on the road. Traffic signage and one-way systems have also been tried, but their effectiveness is questioned. A few community members said that without strong enforcement, even well-intentioned traffic changes won’t make a lasting difference. Calls for greater police visibility are widespread. Many believe that if officers were stationed near crosswalks more often — especially at busy intersections — driver behavior might improve. However, some remain unsure whether enforcement will be consistent. One commenter noted that in some Western countries, traffic laws are strictly upheld by officers, while in Pattaya, visible action is less common outside of accidents or occasional checkpoints. Despite skepticism, residents generally support crosswalk safety campaigns and agree that encouraging respect for pedestrian zones is the right direction. Still, there’s a shared sense that more practical steps — both infrastructural and cultural — are needed to make streets safer. Until then, crossing Pattaya’s streets remains a cautious endeavor. For many, it’s about watching carefully, waiting patiently, and hoping the next vehicle will actually stop.

Despite concerns over drink pricing and shifting expectations, many tourists continue to return to Pattaya for the sense of recognition and community — even as other destinations become more competitive. PATTAYA, Thailand — While Pattaya has long been famous for its vibrant nightlife and easygoing bar culture, a growing number of tourists are voicing concerns about changing experiences in the city’s entertainment venues. Many still enjoy the atmosphere and social interactions that define Pattaya’s nightlife, but some say the overall dynamic has become less clear and more transactional. Much of the discussion centers around the tradition of “lady drinks,” where customers buy beverages for staff as a gesture of appreciation or conversation starter. Though familiar to returning visitors, some now feel that the practice has become more aggressive in its execution. Several tourists have mentioned feeling pressured when asked to purchase lady drinks even before settling into their seats, noting that these drinks often cost significantly more than their own. One returning guest shared that while he appreciates the custom, he prefers when it follows a few minutes of conversation rather than being prompted immediately. There have also been occasional reports of misunderstandings around billing. In one case, a tourist said he was surprised by a high tab that included several drinks he hadn’t agreed to. After calmly addressing the issue and asking to check CCTV footage, the situation was resolved. Such cases, while not widespread, have led some to suggest that greater transparency would help both customers and staff feel more at ease. For many women working in Pattaya’s nightlife sector, lady drinks represent an important part of their income. Each drink typically earns them a commission, and some venues offer a basic salary that is often supplemented through drink sales and bar fines. A longtime expat familiar with the system explained that this arrangement, while different from traditional employment models, is well established and understood by those who participate in it. Some tourists prefer a more direct and transactional approach, opting to clarify expectations early on to avoid confusion. One visitor shared that he usually confirms arrangements upfront and then offers drinks as a gesture afterward. Others echoed this method, saying it helps them avoid misunderstandings while still showing appreciation when appropriate. Not all venues are the same, and tourists have emphasized the importance of choosing the right location. While some bars offer a relaxed, conversational environment, others may be more sales-focused. One recent visitor described leaving a venue after being asked to buy drinks within moments of sitting down, but noted that he found a more comfortable experience just around the corner. Online discussions also suggest that tourists are increasingly comparing Pattaya to other destinations in Southeast Asia. Some feel that prices in places like Vietnam, the Philippines, or Bali offer better value, while others continue to return to Pattaya for the familiarity and sense of community they find in certain venues. Charity events and food giveaways for nightlife workers during low season have sparked thoughtful discussion. While some view them as signs of economic strain, others see them as community support efforts that help informal workers during quieter periods. One observer commented that it was a reminder that the industry, like many others, experiences seasonal shifts. Still, what continues to draw many back to Pattaya is the feeling of being welcomed and recognized. Some visitors said they appreciate being greeted by name and feeling part of a community, highlighting that the social side of the bar scene remains meaningful. For these guests, it’s less about the drink itself and more about the connection. As regional competition for tourists grows and travel habits evolve, Pattaya’s nightlife businesses may benefit from adjusting to the changing expectations of both new and returning visitors. With clear communication, fair practices, and a continued focus on hospitality, many believe the city can maintain its appeal while offering better experiences for everyone involved.

Public health and narcotics teams ramp up inspections to keep illicit products off the market. PATTAYA, Thailand — Authorities in Pattaya are intensifying efforts to limit the spread of cannabis-infused food products, with a particular focus on cannabis gummies that may pose serious health risks to children and young adults. The initiative is part of a nationwide policy to restrict cannabis use to authorized medical and research purposes only. Deputy Government Spokesperson Sasikarn Watthanachan stated that the government is especially concerned about gummies that often resemble ordinary sweets but may contain high levels of THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis. These products, she warned, can cause nausea, rapid heartbeat, hallucinations, and other side effects — particularly in young or first-time users. The Ministry of Public Health has directed the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and provincial health offices to conduct continuous inspections, including in major tourist destinations such as Pattaya. Businesses caught producing or selling cannabis-laced food and drinks without proper licenses face fines, arrest, and license suspensions. Cases falling under criminal law are now being referred to the police. Health officials noted that violations involving unapproved cannabis use or mislabeling carry penalties of up to 30,000 baht or three years in prison. Products that exceed safe THC levels or are made or imported without proper approval may be deemed contaminated food, which can result in additional legal consequences. In recent months, joint inspections by health and narcotics authorities have already led to enforcement action against several Pattaya-based vendors operating outside legal boundaries. Sasikarn also urged parents to be vigilant, warning that cannabis gummies — which often contain both THC and CBD — are particularly dangerous because they may be mistaken for regular candy by children. The government is encouraging public cooperation in identifying and reporting illegal products. “All sectors must work together to monitor and prevent the spread of unsafe cannabis items,” she said. “This is essential to safeguard the health of our children and communities.” With Pattaya drawing millions of tourists each year, authorities say they will maintain a strong regulatory presence and continue educating businesses and consumers about the risks associated with unregulated cannabis products. Sasikarn urges vigilance as the government steps up enforcement in Pattaya, citing risks to children from unregulated THC-laced edibles.