Pattaya looks forward to a new era as Thailand’s tourism shifts focus from volume to value, promising sustainable growth and authentic experiences. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – As Thailand charts a new course for its tourism industry with the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) recently unveiled 2026 strategy, Pattaya stands at the crossroads of anticipation and transformation. Under the theme “Value is the New Volume,” TAT’s ambitious plan signals a decisive shift from focusing on visitor numbers to prioritizing quality, sustainability, and authentic experiences — a vision that many here hope will breathe fresh life into the city’s tourism landscape. Long known internationally as an energetic beach destination with a reputation for nightlife, Pattaya has often faced challenges balancing mass tourism with sustainable growth. Now, with TAT’s emphasis on redefining Thai tourism through integrity, safety, and cultural connection, the city’s stakeholders see an opportunity to reshape its identity and appeal. The strategy’s core pillars — prioritizing value over volume, balancing tourism across regions and seasons, advancing creative and thematic tourism, and embedding measurable sustainability standards — resonate strongly with Pattaya’s evolving ambitions. Local entrepreneurs and officials alike recognize that Pattaya’s future lies in delivering more meaningful and diverse experiences rather than simply attracting larger crowds. “The new focus on quality and sustainability aligns perfectly with what Pattaya needs,” said a local business owner involved in cultural and wellness initiatives. “We’ve already started to diversify, hosting more family-friendly festivals, arts events, and eco-tourism activities. Now, with TAT’s support, we hope these efforts will grow into something that truly changes how visitors see and enjoy the city.” TAT’s strategy also highlights the importance of targeting high-potential traveler segments, including Millennials seeking immersive experiences, Gen Z driven by digital engagement, luxury tourists, and health-conscious travelers attracted to holistic wellness. For Pattaya, this means expanding beyond its traditional markets to attract visitors who value cultural depth, nature, and wellness — areas in which the city has begun to invest but can further develop with stronger national backing. Moreover, the plan’s focus on enhanced connectivity through new travel routes by land, sea, air, and rail promises to better link Pattaya with other regions and international markets. Improved visa facilitation and partnerships with airlines are expected to open doors to high-value travelers from Europe, the Middle East, and emerging Asian markets, offering hope for more balanced and resilient tourism flows. City officials are already aligning local initiatives with TAT’s vision, emphasizing smart tourism measures such as digital payment systems, safety enhancements, and AI-driven visitor management. Beach clean-ups, infrastructure improvements, and collaborations with creative agencies to stage international events aim to create a more welcoming and sustainable environment for both tourists and residents. Yet, amid the optimism, some local operators express cautious realism. “We’ve heard grand plans before, but what we really need now is timely action and concrete support,” said a guesthouse operator near Jomtien beach. “If the incentives, infrastructure, and marketing efforts come quickly, Pattaya can adapt and thrive in this new era. But delays could mean missed opportunities.” The 2026 strategy’s embrace of Thailand’s cultural soft power — focusing on Food, Film, Fashion, Festivals, and Fight (martial arts) — offers Pattaya a platform to elevate its diverse offerings, from culinary tours and international music festivals to Muay Thai events and film productions. This holistic approach aims not only to attract visitors but also to foster deeper connections and lasting impressions. As Pattaya prepares for the upcoming tourism seasons, the mood is one of hopeful vigilance. The city is poised to move beyond its legacy as a party hotspot toward becoming a multifaceted destination that embodies the new Thai tourism ethos: sustainable, authentic, and value-driven. With Thailand’s broader tourism landscape evolving rapidly under TAT’s bold 2026 blueprint, Pattaya’s future success hinges on the effective translation of strategy into on-the-ground realities. For a city that has weathered many ups and downs, the promise of “Value is the New Volume” offers a compelling vision — one that Pattaya is eager to help realize.

Storm clouds and rough seas temporarily disrupt Pattaya’s usually sunny skies and calm waters. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya residents and visitors may notice the skies darken as Tropical Storm Wipha brings scattered showers and gusty winds to the region. However, this brief weather disruption is expected to pass within a few days, allowing the sun to return and beach activities to resume. The Meteorological Department has issued a warning for 15 provinces, including nearby areas, about heavy rains that could trigger flash floods and sudden runoff. These provinces are Chiang Rai, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, Tak, Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Kanchanaburi, Chanthaburi, and Trat. The heavy monsoon combined with the powerful Tropical Storm Wipha—currently moving toward northern Vietnam—is responsible for these conditions. Residents in mountainous foothills, near waterways, and low-lying areas are advised to stay alert for flood risks. Coastal waters in the Andaman Sea and upper Gulf of Thailand will experience rough seas with waves up to 4 meters high in some areas, urging caution for all boaters and a ban on small boats leaving ports. In Bangkok and surrounding areas, thunderstorms with strong winds are expected with temperatures ranging from 25 to 32 degrees Celsius. While Pattaya’s skies may seem gloomy for now, this weather phase is temporary. Authorities and residents should stay vigilant and prepared, but soon enough, clearer skies and calmer seas will return, welcoming visitors back to enjoy the city’s attractions.

Mayor Poramet tours Pattaya Pattamakun Hospital to observe integrated healthcare systems aimed at improving local public health services. PATTAYA, Thailand – Mayor Poramet Ngampichet visited Pattaya Pattamakun Hospital in Chonburi Province and was welcomed by Dr. Vichai Thanasophon, the hospital’s director, along with hospital executives and medical personnel. The visit aimed to observe and study the hospital’s operations, including inpatient and outpatient services, ward management, cleanliness, safety standards, and its integrated healthcare service systems. As part of the tour, the mayor also observed the hospital’s commitment to sustainability through its solar rooftop system, which helps reduce energy costs while promoting environmental responsibility. He also inspected a new building currently under construction, aimed at expanding capacity and improving the range of medical services available to the public. This visit is part of Mayor Poramet’s ongoing commitment to strengthening public health services in Pattaya. He emphasized the importance of learning from successful hospital management models to enhance care for residents and long-term visitors alike. The city also continues to encourage the public to report issues or seek assistance through the 24-hour Pattaya City Hotline at 1337, reflecting a broader effort to improve community wellbeing across the region. Hospital staff brief the mayor and city officials on ward management, cleanliness protocols, and safety standards during a walk-through of inpatient facilities. Mayor Poramet emphasizes the importance of public feedback and encourages residents to use the 1337 city hotline for health-related concerns and service improvement.   The delegation also observed the hospital’s solar rooftop system, highlighting a push toward energy efficiency and sustainable healthcare infrastructure in Pattaya. Mayor Poramet inspects a new hospital building under construction, part of ongoing efforts to expand medical capacity and meet the growing healthcare needs of Pattaya’s residents and visitors.

Malaysia’s tourism boom, driven by strategic visa policies and market diversification, offers key lessons for Pattaya as it seeks to boost its international visitor numbers. PATTAYA, Thailand – Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism announced a 20% increase in foreign tourists during January to May 2025, with a total of 16.9 million international visitors compared to the same period in 2024. About half of the visitors came from neighboring Singapore (8.34 million), followed by Indonesia (1.82 million), China (1.81 million), and Thailand (1.06 million). Tourists from long-haul markets such as Australia and the United Kingdom also rose by 16.6% and 8.7%, respectively. The ministry credited this growth to strategic initiatives, including visa exemptions and support incentives for tourism operators. Malaysia welcomed just over 25 million tourists in 2024 and aims to attract 47 million by 2026, focusing on core markets in Central Asia, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Europe, and Oceania. For Pattaya, these results highlight the potential benefits of progressive policies and diversified marketing efforts to revitalize tourism. By adopting similar strategies—such as easing travel barriers and expanding target markets—Pattaya could strengthen its appeal to both regional and global travelers.

Mayor Poramet tours Pattaya Bhattamakun Hospital to observe integrated healthcare systems aimed at improving local public health services. PATTAYA, Thailand – Mayor Poramet Ngampichet visited Pattaya Bhattamakun Hospital in Chonburi Province and was welcomed by Dr. Vichai Thanasophon, the hospital’s director, along with hospital executives and medical personnel. The visit aimed to observe and study the hospital’s operations, including inpatient and outpatient services, ward management, cleanliness, safety standards, and its integrated healthcare service systems. As part of the tour, the mayor also observed the hospital’s commitment to sustainability through its solar rooftop system, which helps reduce energy costs while promoting environmental responsibility. He also inspected a new building currently under construction, aimed at expanding capacity and improving the range of medical services available to the public. This visit is part of Mayor Poramet’s ongoing commitment to strengthening public health services in Pattaya. He emphasized the importance of learning from successful hospital management models to enhance care for residents and long-term visitors alike. The city also continues to encourage the public to report issues or seek assistance through the 24-hour Pattaya City Hotline at 1337, reflecting a broader effort to improve community wellbeing across the region. Hospital staff brief the mayor and city officials on ward management, cleanliness protocols, and safety standards during a walk-through of inpatient facilities. Mayor Poramet emphasizes the importance of public feedback and encourages residents to use the 1337 city hotline for health-related concerns and service improvement.   The delegation also observed the hospital’s solar rooftop system, highlighting a push toward energy efficiency and sustainable healthcare infrastructure in Pattaya. Mayor Poramet inspects a new hospital building under construction, part of ongoing efforts to expand medical capacity and meet the growing healthcare needs of Pattaya’s residents and visitors.

Vape and raid! Thai customs puff out chest in black market bustLegacyThai customs chiefs struck a major blow against the black market, seizing a mountain of illegal goods worth more than 88 million baht in a dramatic operation at one of the country’s busiest ports. Over 88 million baht (US$2.4 million) worth of contraband was nabbed at Laem Chabang Port in Chon Buri, including e-cigarettes, fake designer bags, unlicensed cosmetics, and even illegal hazardous waste. At a press conference yesterday, July 22, officials proudly displayed their haul, with Assistant Finance Minister Surachai Thienthong declaring: “This crackdown supports our mission to protect public health, national safety, and the economy.” The operation was part of a nationwide push, spearheaded by Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira and his deputy Julapun Amornvivat, to clamp down on dodgy imports. Laem Chabang Port, a crucial gateway for Thai imports and exports, has become a hotbed for shady shipments, said deputy customs boss Direk Kacharak. “We’ve seized 120,000 e-cigarettes and accessories, 2.3 million cigarettes, 200 claw machines, 17,000 unlicensed cosmetics, and 1,300 tonnes of hazardous waste—all in just three months.” More than 9,000 fake products, including knock-off bags, shoes and printer ink, were also rounded up, many mimicking big-name brands. Pictures courtesy of Pattaya News Direk added that 189 illegal claw machines and parts, worth over 2 million baht, were recently destroyed to stop them reaching arcades. The government is now doubling down with artificial intelligence and X-ray scanners to beef up inspections at ports. Officials are also joining forces with brand reps to sniff out fakes and copycats, Pattaya News reported. Surachai said the clampdown is about fairness for businesses and safety for the public. “We’re working with agencies at home and abroad to stop illegal trade and show investors Thailand means business.” The public is being urged to report any suspicious goods via the Customs Department’s 1164 hotline. Thailand’s customs chiefs say their mission is far from over and they’ll keep on sniffing out smuggled goods until the black market goes up in smoke. The story Vape and raid! Thai customs puff out chest in black market bust as seen on Thaiger News.

สาวขับเก๋งถูกกระบะชนกลางแยก ซอยหนองใหญ่ ตกใจเหยียบคันเร่งพุ่งชนร้านส้มตำ เจ็บ 2 ราย เมื่อเวลา 18.06 น. วันที่ 22 กรกฎาคม 2568 ศูนย์วิทยุหน่วยกู้ภัยสว่างบริบูรณ์ธรรมสถานเมืองพัทยา ได้รับแจ้งเหตุรถยนต์เฉี่ยวชนกันที่บริเวณสี่แยกถนนเลียบทางรถไฟ ซอยหนองใหญ่ ตำบลหนองปรือ อำเภอบางละมุง จังหวัดชลบุรี และมีผู้บาดเจ็บจากการที่รถพุ่งเข้าไปชนร้านอาหารในพื้นที่ดังกล่าว หลังรับแจ้งจึงส่งเจ้าหน้าที่อาสาสมัครกู้ภัยเข้าตรวจสอบทันที ที่เกิดเหตุพบรถยนต์เก๋ง ขับโดย น.ส.ธัญญาวรรณ อายุ 38 ปี ซึ่งไม่ได้รับบาดเจ็บ ตัวรถเสียหลักพุ่งชนร้านอาหารอีสานชื่อดัง บริเวณริมทาง ทำให้ร้านได้รับความเสียหายอย่างหนัก โดยมีผู้บาดเจ็บ 2 ราย เป็นแม่ค้าภายในร้านที่กำลังปรุงอาหาร ทราบชื่อคือ นางบุญเพ็ง  อายุ 59 ปี และ ด.ญ.รุ่งฤดี อายุ 14 ปี เจ้าหน้าที่กู้ภัยได้ปฐมพยาบาลเบื้องต้นก่อนนำส่งโรงพยาบาล ส่วนรถคู่กรณีเป็นรถกระบะตู้ทึบ ขับโดย นายสถิตย์ อายุ 70 ปี ยืนรอให้การกับเจ้าหน้าที่ตำรวจในที่เกิดเหตุ จากการสอบถาม น.ส.ธัญญาวรรณ […]

Crash test dim-sum! Car ploughs into Thai eatery in Pattaya, 2 injuredLegacyDiners at a bustling Isaan restaurant in Pattaya were left stunned after a runaway car smashed into the building, injuring a food vendor and a teenage girl in a chaotic rush-hour crash. The terrifying incident unfolded at 6.06pm yesterday, July 22, at the railway road intersection in Soi Nong Yai, where a bronze Honda Jazz sedan lost control after a collision with a pickup truck. Rescue teams from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation rushed to the scene to find the sedan embedded in the side of the restaurant. Behind the wheel was 38 year old Thanyawan Chaijam, who escaped unhurt but admitted to panicking after the initial collision. “I thought the pickup was slowing down, so I crossed carefully. But it hit my car, and I panicked, pressing the accelerator instead of the brake.” The result was a dramatic crash that injured 59 year old food vendor Boonpeng Phajwang as he prepared meals inside the restaurant. A 14 year old girl was also caught in the chaos. Both were given first aid at the scene before being taken to hospital. The second vehicle, a bronze Nissan Navara pickup, was driven by 70 year old Sathit Mayong, who stayed at the scene and cooperated fully with police. “I was behind another car, and when it slowed to turn into a soi, I moved to overtake. I didn’t see the Honda crossing until it was too late.” CCTV footage captured the entire sequence, which police say will be used as key evidence in the investigation to determine responsibility, Pattaya News reported Pictures courtesy of Pattaya News In a separate, heart-breaking incident, a porridge vendor and an elderly cyclist were both killed in a horror smash in Samut Songkhram. The fatal crash happened at 7pm on July 7 in Bang Kon Tee district. Nineteen-year-old Damrongchai was riding his motorbike home when he collided with 72-year-old cyclist Surasak. Both men suffered catastrophic injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene. Deputy Inspector Ruengwut Imm-em and medics from Naphalai Hospital attended the grim scene alongside Sapparachen Foundation rescue workers. Damrongchai suffered a broken neck and facial injuries, while Surasak had multiple fractures and severe head trauma. Police are continuing their investigation into the cause of the crash as families mourn the devastating loss of two lives. The story Crash test dim-sum! Car ploughs into Thai eatery in Pattaya, 2 injured as seen on Thaiger News.

สยาม@สยาม ดีไซน์ โฮเทล พัทยา

Nut job nabbed! Coconut crook caught hiding in cassava patchLegacyA coconut crook has been busted in a cassava field after being caught red-handed stealing fruit from a plantation in Chon Buri. Thanakorn Noondee was nabbed yesterday, July 22, at 4.36pm by 30 year old eagle-eyed village headman Phattharaphon Phiwanoi, and his trusty 48 year old sidekick Phaisan Srimanee, after days of coconut disappearances left locals stumped. The 39 year old sticky-fingered suspect had stashed more than 20 coconuts in fertiliser sacks hidden among the cassava near the trees in Moo 5, Khao Mai Kaew. Thanakorn admitted to the theft, claiming desperation drove him to it. “I needed money to buy food for my wife, she’s suffering from HIV. I was going to husk them and sell them later.” The coconuts belonged to 59 year old Jiraphorn Onkham, who owns the plantation nestled within the cassava field. “They’ve been vanishing almost every day,” she said. “I’ve lost at least 200. I’m so relieved they finally caught the culprit.” Officers from Huay Yai Police Station arrived at the scene shortly after the arrest and took Thanakorn in for further questioning. Legal action is now under way, Pattaya News reported. Pictures courtesy of Pattaya News Meanwhile, Thailand’s multi-billion-baht coconut industry is trying to shake off another sort of bad press, monkey labour. In a major U-turn, top producers have pledged to ban the use of monkeys to harvest coconuts following a global backlash. Years of international outrage, fuelled by disturbing footage of primates forced to collect coconuts, has triggered supermarket boycotts and a whopping 2 billion baht in annual export losses. Now, the Thai Coconut Industry Group, made up of four major companies, has teamed up with the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT) to put an end to the controversial practice. The sector, worth over 25 billion baht a year and supporting 300,000 households, is desperate to clean up its image and win back customers abroad. Campaigners have welcomed the move, calling it a long-overdue step towards ethical farming in a nation where coconuts are big business, and even bigger headlines. The story Nut job nabbed! Coconut crook caught hiding in cassava patch as seen on Thaiger News.