Pattaya’s beach smoking crackdown wins cautious support — as long as enforcement applies equally to locals and tourists. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – A recent crackdown on smoking at Pattaya’s beaches and footpaths has sparked a wave of reactions from local expats and long-term visitors. While many say they support a cleaner, smoke-free shoreline, others are raising concerns over how the ban is being enforced — and whether it’s yet another poorly thought-out move that could further damage the city’s dwindling appeal to tourists. The new rule imposes a 5,000 baht fine on anyone caught smoking on the beach or nearby footpaths. On paper, it’s aimed at protecting the environment and improving public health. But in practice, many wonder if officials will actually enforce the ban or just issue warnings and move on, reflecting a common skepticism among expats. Some have sarcastically dismissed the crackdown as just another ridiculous policy, especially criticizing the perceived inconsistency in enforcement and noting the lack of penalties for rowdy shirtless tourists. For many, the issue goes beyond smoking, touching on broader concerns about priorities and double standards. Questions have been raised about why unsanitary behavior and shirtless tourists remain unchecked, while smokers face steep fines. Comments such as “Nice penalty. Cannot be shirtless on the beach? Are you OK?” and blunt remarks about other public nuisances highlight the frustration. Concerns about selective enforcement have emerged, with several expats suggesting that the smoking rules may be applied more strictly to foreigners and tourists than to locals. Some also raised questions about transparency, citing allegations of unofficial fines that have fueled skepticism about the policy’s implementation. A few commenters expressed frustration in stronger terms, with one remarking that local incomes are no longer reliant on European tourists — though such views remain on the fringe of the broader conversation. Concerns grow over selective enforcement and potential exploitation as new beach smoking penalties kick in. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) Others have offered more constructive suggestions, emphasizing the need for better infrastructure like more trash bins and increased staffing to maintain cleanliness. Some proposed addressing larger pollution sources such as smoke from buses and trucks rather than focusing solely on individual beachgoers. The lack of basic amenities, especially public toilets on the beach, has been a common complaint, with some questioning why the city can afford a smoking patrol but not proper facilities. A number of long-term visitors see the ban as part of a broader pattern of increasingly strict rules, and some worry it could unintentionally impact tourism. While many support efforts to improve cleanliness and public health, they urge policymakers to consider how such regulations are implemented. Comments like “The country is doing everything it can to reduce people’s reason to come… a sad demise” and “It’s already no tourists anymore, but let them do. Will see when commerce will not work anymore” reflect concerns about whether new rules are always aligned with traveler expectations and practical realities. At the same time, some remind that smoking bans in public places are common in many parts of Europe, though they stress that successful enforcement depends on clear signage, fair treatment, adequate facilities, and a shared sense of civic responsibility. Others raised questions about why vaping is not included in the ban, highlighting the lack of clarity and consistency. Overall, while most expats support the idea of a smoke-free beach in principle, many advocate for a more holistic and consistent approach to public policy. They suggest that enforcement should extend to broader standards—such as appropriate public behavior, cleanliness, and equal treatment for both locals and tourists. Additionally, improvements in basic infrastructure, including waste bins, public restrooms, and beach maintenance, are seen as essential. Without these accompanying measures, some fear the smoking ban could be perceived as symbolic rather than impactful, potentially undermining its long-term effectiveness.

As heavy rains batter much of Thailand, Pattaya’s sun breaks through, keeping spirits high for locals and tourists. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand — Even as much of northern and northeastern Thailand brace for heavy rains and possible flooding, Pattaya continues to see moments when the sun peeks through the clouds, brightening up the city’s skies despite the seasonal showers. The Meteorological Department issued warnings on July 15 about heavy rains in areas including Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, Nong Khai, and Bueng Kan. Residents there are urged to be cautious of flash floods and sudden landslides, especially in mountainous and low-lying areas. Meanwhile, Bangkok and its surrounding provinces are also experiencing scattered heavy showers. Thailand is currently under the influence of a monsoon trough stretching across the upper northern region and northern Laos, combined with a strong southwest monsoon covering the Andaman Sea, the Gulf of Thailand, and much of the country. The seas around the Andaman coast and the Gulf are experiencing rough conditions, with waves reaching 2-3 meters high, and over 3 meters in thunderstorm areas. Fishermen and boat operators have been advised to exercise extreme caution and avoid venturing out, particularly smaller boats in the upper Andaman Sea. Back in Pattaya, however, despite the overcast skies and occasional rain, residents and tourists often witness bright patches of sunshine slipping through the cloud cover. This fleeting sunlight provides a much-needed boost to outdoor activities, tourism, and the city’s signature beach atmosphere. Local vendors and visitors say that while the monsoon rains bring cooler temperatures and fresh breezes, the sun’s intermittent appearances remind everyone that the city’s warm and vibrant character persists through the wet season. For now, Pattaya remains a place where the sun always seems to sneak through the clouds — a beacon of brightness amid the rainy season’s more serious weather warnings elsewhere in Thailand.

Helmet-wielding lunatic causes chaos in Pattaya fast food jointLegacyA helmet-wielding lunatic sparked panic on a busy Pattaya street after attacking innocent bystanders in a bizarre bid to make headlines, so his estranged wife would notice him. Police scrambled to Soi Nern Plab Wan at 11.06pm, yesterday, July 14 after reports of a deranged man lashing out with a safety helmet outside a fast-food joint. The scene was already a spectacle, with stunned locals and teenagers crowding round as the drama unfolded. Officers found the suspect clearly agitated, rambling incoherently and gripping a battered helmet like a weapon. He declared he wanted to be famous, telling police and press alike: “I want my relatives to see me on the news. I want my wife back.” One victim, 52 year old building maintenance worker Somjet, was left shaken after being walloped repeatedly. “I was just leaving work. He came up to me asking why I was looking at him, then started smacking me with the helmet!” Picture of the helmet-wielding suspect courtesy of Pattaya News The worker ran for his life, shouting for help. Locals stepped in, and the man fled, only to be cornered in the nearby fast-food restaurant, where police finally brought his bizarre rampage to an end, Pattaya News reported. Police say the man’s story kept changing, and they’re unsure if he was drunk, high, or mentally unwell. He’s now undergoing medical checks at a local hospital, while Somjet has been urged to file a formal complaint. Police investigations are ongoing. In a separate Pattaya shocker, a 21 year old woman has been left traumatised and housebound after being viciously kicked in the head during a savage, unprovoked bar attack. The victim, known only as Piano, had been out with two mates in the Nong Prue area in the early hours of July 11 when she was blindsided by a stranger in a dress. CCTV footage, now doing the rounds on social media, shows the horrifying moment a woman creeps up behind Piano and boots her in the back of the head, sending her staggering forward in terror. All because someone thought she was staring. The story Helmet-wielding lunatic causes chaos in Pattaya fast food joint as seen on Thaiger News.

Most nightlife workers rely solely on drink commissions and bar fines — meaning no income when bars are empty. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – A recent aid distribution event for entertainment workers in Pattaya has sparked debate online, with many questioning whether bar girls — often seen as earning well during peak seasons — actually need help during the quieter months. Critics asked why workers in nightlife venues, especially popular beer bars and go-go clubs, would need financial support. One commenter wrote that they don’t understand why aid is necessary if these workers are bar employees, questioning whether managers are paying their salaries. But those familiar with the industry say the reality is far more complicated — and often harsh. “Most bars don’t pay the girls any salary at all,” noted one longtime resident. They explained that the girls only make money from lady drinks bought for them and, of course, when they go with customers. While cashiers, mama-sans, and greeters may receive fixed wages, most bar girls rely entirely on commissions and bar fines. That model works during high season — but collapses when tourist numbers drop. Others pointed out that some bars have shifted toward providing basic salaries, especially in Pattaya. “Not true anymore — most are now on salary,” said one commenter. However, wages tend to be low — around 10,000 baht a month — and often come with conditions. Someone with experience working with bar staff in Phuket said that in some places, if they don’t sell enough lady drinks, their salary gets cut. “It’s a cruel life for these girls,” they added. One group of Chinese-owned bars reportedly employs over 200 women without paying base salaries at all, offering only commissions from drinks and bar fines. Despite public perception, many bar girls face low base pay, salary cuts, and zero job security during low season. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) A common response is that there are jobs available and the girls choose to work in bars. That’s true, but the financial comparison is stark. “Factory jobs can pay 20,000–30,000 baht a month, working 12 hours a day, 6 days a week,” wrote one commenter. They noted that some girls can make five times that in bars — if the tourists come. When they don’t — like during the current slow season — the earnings dry up fast. While the sight of nightlife workers receiving aid may spark criticism, others argue it sheds light on a broken support structure for informal workers. Few bar girls have contracts, social security, or any protection during downturns. One longtime expat commented that it’s less about charity and more about visibility. “You see the workers when times are good, but ignore them when they’re struggling.” As Pattaya rides out its low season, and with tourist numbers still inconsistent, it’s clear that the nightlife economy — and those who work in it — are far more vulnerable than they appear from the outside. Whether it’s a flawed business model, a lack of worker protections, or simple supply-and-demand economics, one thing is clear: bar girls in Pattaya don’t always need help — but when they do, it’s often because the system they work in never guaranteed them stability in the first place.

Over 1.7 million Thais join the ‘Half-Half Travel Thailand’ scheme, boosting Pattaya’s tourism amid the rainy months. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – Despite the rainy season, Pattaya remains one of Thailand’s top destinations for domestic travelers, offering lush green landscapes, cooler temperatures, and vibrant cultural experiences. The city’s unique charm during the wet season presents excellent photo opportunities — from misty beach mornings to dramatic stormy skies, making it a favorite among photographers and tourists alike. Adding momentum to Pattaya’s wet-season appeal is the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) ‘Half-Half Travel Thailand’ campaign, which has already generated over 30 billion baht in domestic tourism revenue. More than 1.7 million people have signed up to benefit from co-payment support of up to 3,000 baht per person for travel-related expenses, encouraging more Thais to explore local destinations like Pattaya. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool reported that 1.725 million people have registered for the program, with nearly 120,000 entitlements redeemed in just the first two weeks. A total of 5,748 businesses have joined, including 3,223 hotels and over 2,500 restaurants, attractions, and spas, providing ample options for travelers seeking wet-season getaways. This initiative not only makes travel more affordable but also supports local businesses and helps drive economic recovery by stimulating spending across the tourism sector. For those looking to capture Pattaya at its most atmospheric, the wet season — backed by government incentives — may be the best time to visit yet. TAT Governor Thapanee highlights how the ‘Half-Half Travel Thailand’ scheme is driving strong domestic tourism growth in Pattaya during the wet season.

No More “My Spot”: Pattaya cracks down on residents blocking public parking with chairs, cones, and even laundry racks. PATTAYA, Thailand — Pattaya city officials are intensifying efforts to stop residents and businesses from placing objects like chairs, tables, cones, and laundry racks on roads and sidewalks to illegally reserve parking spots. The campaign calls for respect of public spaces and aims to improve urban cleanliness and order. Authorities warn that such actions violate municipal regulations and inconvenience others. Residents are encouraged to report offenders via the city hotline 1337, while enforcement officers conduct daily patrols to remove illegal markers. The campaign has sparked widespread discussion on social media, where many locals have expressed strong support for the crackdown. Some commented that the practice of reserving spots is “really ugly” and suggested offenders should be fined 500 baht per violation. Others criticized neighboring municipalities like Nong Chok, noting that enforcement there is lacking as some people block streets in front of their own homes. Despite repeated cleanups, many remarked that the more authorities clear, the more objects appear again. Nevertheless, there were calls to keep up the efforts. Residents praised the campaign with comments like “Great job!” and urged officials to expand enforcement to neglected areas such as the South Pattaya mosque sidewalk, which remains half-occupied despite multiple complaints. Others asked when the crackdown would reach North Pattaya’s area in Soi Paniad Chang 3. Many observed that while city officials work hard to maintain order, selfish individuals persist in placing objects to reserve spaces daily. Some even suggested that enforcement should extend to Sukhumvit Road near the railway and the Naklua Post Office alley, which are notorious for illegal parking markers. “Great job, Pattaya!” say locals as the city targets selfish parking practices clogging sidewalks and roads. Several comments lamented how such selfish behavior harms the city’s appearance, with some noting that this problem is widespread across all provinces. At the same time, many expressed that the crackdown is much needed and should be carried out firmly but kindly. The public widely agreed that Pattaya is becoming cleaner and more livable thanks to these efforts. Specific locations like Naklua Pothisarn 3 were mentioned, where parking is banned along the entire stretch, yet people still place laundry racks, car covers, and other obstacles. Many locals hope the cleanup will continue until all such items are removed to restore beauty and order. Enthusiasm for the campaign was clear, with some residents urging officials to check other busy streets such as Soi Buakhao, where cars frequently block traffic and some vendors do not give way. Positive remarks like “Good team!” and “Excellent job!” were common, alongside requests to extend patrols to Pattaya Klang Road, which some feel remains overlooked. Others pointed out blocked areas near Naklua market and warned about items like tables screwed into roads at Soi 9 on Second Road, which should be removed. Although a few expressed frustration about parking availability, the overall public mood supports the city’s crackdown, calling for continuous and expanded enforcement. Many are hopeful that Pattaya will soon be a cleaner, more orderly city where public space is respected by all. Calls grow to expand the crackdown to Sukhumvit, Naklua, and Soi Buakhao — “Don’t stop now,” one user urges.

Highway: Foreign tourist tries to pay Pattaya taxi fare with marijuanaLegacyA foreign tourist tried to pay his 2,000-baht taxi fare from Bangkok to Pattaya with a giant bag of marijuana, leaving the stunned cabbie out of pocket and steaming mad. The bizarre incident unfolded in the early hours of today, July 15, when 54 year old veteran driver Prachuap, picked up the man at Suvarnabhumi International Airport for a trip to a hotel in Central Pattaya. The passenger, speaking confidently, promised that his wife would cough up the fare upon arrival. But once they reached the hotel just after midnight, things quickly went up in smoke. “The foreigner only had 900 baht,” Prachuap told police. “And the woman he claimed was his wife had just 50. I asked for the remaining 1,050 baht, but instead, he pulled out a massive bag of ganja and tried to offer that instead of cash.” Shocked and insulted, the driver flatly refused the herbal payment and threatened to call the police. The tourist, unfazed, simply shrugged and walked off into the hotel lobby, leaving the driver standing alone in the street, unpaid and furious, Channel 7 reported. “I’ve helped passengers without money before because I felt sorry for them,” Prachuap added. “But this time I felt completely taken for granted. People always talk about bad taxi drivers, but who’s protecting us from foreigners who pull stunts like this?” He filed a formal complaint at Pattaya City Police Station around 1.30am, hoping officers will take action against the ganja-grubbing guest. The case flips the script on Thailand’s taxi tales, where it’s usually the drivers accused of dodgy behaviour, like the driver last week who watched cartoons while taking a female passenger on a six-hour detour from Kanchanaburi to Pattaya before screaming “I can’t take it anymore!” and trying to throw her out of the car. In a country where the line between comedy and chaos is often paper-thin, Prachuap’s story shows that not every rogue on the road is behind the wheel. The story Highway: Foreign tourist tries to pay Pattaya taxi fare with marijuana as seen on Thaiger News.

กู้ภัย กุมขมับ ห้ามกันวุ่น ชาวอาหรับ จยย.ล้ม เจ็บ แก๊งเพื่อนนับสิบจะตามขึ้นรถไปโรงพยาบาลด้วย เมื่อเวลา 00.06 น.วันที่ 15 กรกฎาคม 2568 ศูนย์วิทยุหน่วยกู้ภัยสว่างบริบูรณ์ธรรมสถานเมืองพัทยา รับแจ้งอุบัติเหตุรถจักรยานยนต์เสียหลักล้ม ได้รับบาดเจ็บ เหตุเกิดภายในซอย วีซี พัทยาใต้ ต.หนองปรือ อ.บางละมุง จ.ชลบุรี หลังรับแจ้งจึงนำกำลังเจ้าหน้าที่อาสาสมัครกู้ภัยฯรีบไปตรวจสอบ ที่เกิดเหตุพบรถจักรยานยนต์ ล้มอยู่ริมทางได้รับความเสียหายเล็กน้อย ข้างกันพบนักท่องเที่ยวชาวตะวันออกกลาง เป็นผู้ชายวัยรุ่นชาวอาหรับ อายุประมาณ 18-25 ปี เป็นคนขี่ได้รับบาดเจ็บที่ขาซ้ายเล็กน้อย เจ้าหน้าที่กู้ภัยฯให้การช่วยเหลือปฐมพยาบาลเบื้องต้น ก่อนเคลี่อนย้ายส่งโรงพยาบาลเมืองพัทยา แต่ในขณะที่เจ้าหน้าที่กู้ภัยฯกำลังปฐมพยาบาลอยู่นั้น กลุ่มเพื่อนของชาวอาหรับ พยายามกรูกันเข้ามาดูเพื่อน จะอุ้มขึ้นรถกู้ภัยเอง เท่านั้นยังไม่พอ ยังจะขึ้นรถกู้ภัยไปด้วยสิบคน สร้างความโกลาหลให้กับเจ้าหน้าที่เป็นอย่างมาก จึงต้องช่วยกันห้ามปรามกันเป็นการใหญ่ ซึ่งทุกคนก็เข้าใจและยอมปฏิบัติตามที่เจ้าหน้าที่ขอความร่วมมือ สอบถามชาวบ้านที่เห็นเหตุการณ์ ทราบว่าหนุ่มอาหรับผู้บาดเจ็บ ขี่รถจยย.มาถึงจุดเกิดเหตุ แล้วเสียหลักล้มเอง จนได้รับบาดเจ็บดังกล่าว

โชเฟอร์แท็กซี่โร่แจ้งตร. ถูกต่างชาติแสบหลอกส่งพัทยา ขอจ่ายเป็นกัญชาห่อใหญ่  เมื่อเวลา 01.36 น.วันที่ 15 กรกฎาคม 2568 นายประจวบ อายุ 54 ปี โชเฟอร์ขับรถแท็กซี่บุคคล กรุงเทพฯ เดินทางเข้าแจ้งความร้องทุกข์กับ ร.ต.อ.ชานันท์ เกษรบัว รอง สว.สอบสวน สภ.เมืองพัทยา หลังถูกชาวต่างประเทศหลอกให้มาส่งที่พัทยากลาง แล้วจ่ายค่าโดยสารไม่ครบตามที่ตกลงไว้ โดยให้ข้อมูลว่า ตนเองได้รับผู้โดยสารเป็นชาวต่างประเทศ ไม่ทราบสัญชาติให้มาส่งที่โรงแรมแห่งหนึ่งในพื้นที่เมืองพัทยา ตกลงค่าโดยสารจากสนามบินมาถึงพัทยา ในราคา 2,000 บาท โดยผู้โดยสารแจ้งขอให้เก็บเงินเมื่อถึงพัทยา จะให้ภรรยาเป็นผู้จ่ายให้ เมื่อมาถึงจุดหมายปลายทาง ตนเองก็ส่งตั๋วรับ ส่ง ผู้โดยสารให้ เพื่อเรียกเก็บเงิน ปรากฎว่าชาวต่างชาติรายนี้ มีเงินเพียง 900 บาท และภรรยาที่ลงมารับก็มีเงินเพียง 50 บาทเท่านั้น ตนเองพยายามทวงถามเงินค่าโดยสารที่เหลือ แต่เจ้าตัว กลับบ่ายเบี่ยงพูดเพียงไม่มีเงิน ก่อนที่จะหยิบกัญชาห่อใหญ่ ออกมามอบให้กับโชเฟอร์ เป็นการเสนอจ่ายแทนเงินสด แต่ตนเองตอบปฎิเสธพร้อมขู่ว่าจะแจ้งตำรวจ เจ้าตัวก็โมโหเป็นการใหญ่ก่อนจะเดินหนึขึ้นตึกไป โดยไม่สนใจค่าโดยสารที่เหลือแต่อย่างใด ตนเองจึงตัดสินใจเจ้าแจ้งความร้องทุกข์ดังกล่าว นอกจากนี้นายประจวบ […]

Wrong fuel refill on minivan leads to garage fire in Chon BuriLegacyInvestigating officers reported that a minivan, refuelled with the wrong type of fuel by a petrol station attendant, was behind the fire at a garage in Chon Buri on Sunday, July 13. Residents living near the garage on Porn Prapa Nimit Road in Bang Lamung district were alarmed when the blaze broke out at around 3pm. Five fire engines rushed to the scene and took approximately 40 minutes to bring the fire under control. Police reported that five vehicles were damaged in total, including a Toyota Alphard minivan and four pickup trucks. Two people sustained injuries, one suffered burns to the leg, while another sustained a hand injury from broken glass windows. The 21 year old owner of the minivan, Tarn Saelor, told ThaiRath that the fire originated from his vehicle. He had been driving from Chon Buri to Bangkok and stopped at a roadside petrol station to refuel. Unfortunately, the attendant mistakenly filled the tank with diesel instead of petrol. Other workers advised Tarn to have the incorrect fuel drained at a nearby garage. Photo via ThaiRath Tarn stated that the garage technician had nearly completed the fuel removal process when a fire suddenly ignited and quickly spread to other parked vehicles. He and others at the scene fled in panic to save themselves. Local police are now investigating the exact cause of the fire. Some online users speculated that someone nearby may have been smoking, which could have triggered the blaze. Photo via Siam Car In a separate incident, another car fire was reported in the southern province of Songkhla last week. The white SUV, which belonged to former Democrat Party MP Sirichok Sopha, initially appeared to have caught fire due to a suspected battery malfunction, an issue seen previously in electric vehicles. Photo via MGR Online However, police later found evidence suggesting the vehicle was deliberately set on fire and subsequently arrested a suspect. The suspect’s mother claimed her son’s actions were the result of mental illness, not politically motivated as the former MP had feared. The story Wrong fuel refill on minivan leads to garage fire in Chon Buri as seen on Thaiger News.