As India-ASEAN ties strengthen, Pattaya prepares to ride the next wave of Indian arrivals. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand — With Thailand taking center stage at the ASEAN-India Forum as Lead Country for Promotion and Marketing under the ASEAN-India Year of Tourism 2025, Pattaya is poised to reap the benefits of renewed focus on Indian travel. Following the forum in Bangkok from July 22–25, delegates, including Indian tour operators and ASEAN tourism leaders, joined a technical tour to Pattaya — one of Thailand’s most popular destinations for Indian visitors. The city, known for its beachside charm, vibrant nightlife, and growing event infrastructure, is betting big on capturing a larger share of the booming Indian market, especially wedding tourism and Gen Z travel. Indian arrivals to Thailand topped 2 million in 2024, placing India among the kingdom’s top three inbound markets. With travel trends shifting toward personalized, experience-driven holidays, Pattaya is positioning itself as a ready-made canvas for Indian family vacations, celebrations, and influencer-driven content. “This is an opportunity for Pattaya to evolve beyond its party-town image,” said one local tourism operator. “Indian travelers are looking for everything from luxury weddings to spiritual retreats, and we can deliver that.” Officials from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) emphasized Pattaya’s strategic location, wide accommodation range, and proven capacity to host large groups. As the ASEAN-India cooperation deepens, local businesses hope that investment in infrastructure, cultural tailoring, and digital outreach will keep Pattaya front and center in India’s travel imagination. With the Year of Tourism 2025 gaining momentum, Pattaya’s tourism sector is watching closely — and preparing to welcome the next wave. TAT highlights Pattaya’s strengths: diverse accommodations, beach appeal, and event-readiness

Our reporter’s weekday stroll down Pattaya Beach Road revealed a grim norm: helmetless riders, triple-loaded bikes, and motorcyclists recklessly weaving against traffic through crowds of tourists. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya’s streets have long been notorious for lax traffic enforcement, and the city’s tolerance extends beyond just motorcyclists riding without helmets. Overloaded motorcycles carrying multiple passengers and drivers taking dangerous wrong-way routes are also common sights, raising serious safety concerns. While helmet laws exist, many riders continue to flout the rules without consequence, putting themselves and others at risk. Adding to the danger, overloaded bikes—often carrying three or more people on vehicles designed for two—are regularly seen weaving through traffic. This practice not only violates traffic regulations but also severely compromises balance and control, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Another problematic behavior is wrong-way driving on one-way streets or highways. Some riders and drivers ignore directional signs, creating hazardous situations for oncoming traffic and pedestrians alike. To get a firsthand look, our reporter took a short tour along Pattaya Beach Road on a weekday afternoon. What he found, sadly, came as no surprise: motorcycles with three people squeezed onto one seat, many riders and passengers without helmets, and, perhaps most alarming, bikes riding against traffic — right through crowds of walking tourists. The lack of enforcement was glaring. Despite these clear violations, enforcement remains inconsistent. Locals and tourists alike have expressed frustration over the apparent tolerance, which undermines road safety efforts and tarnishes Pattaya’s image as a tourist-friendly city. Efforts to crack down on such behaviors have been limited, leaving road users vulnerable. Advocates urge authorities to strengthen traffic law enforcement and launch public awareness campaigns, emphasizing that road safety benefits everyone—residents, visitors, and businesses alike. Until stricter measures are implemented, Pattaya’s roads will remain a challenge, marked by risky behavior that continues to threaten lives daily. Calls grow louder for Pattaya authorities to crack down on dangerous driving habits and improve safety. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin)

Pattaya Beach on Wednesday: peaceful, umbrella-free, and at the center of a tourism debate. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – As the sun rose over Pattaya Beach on Wednesday, the usual rows of colorful umbrellas and beach chairs were nowhere to be seen. In line with Pattaya City’s long-standing policy that bans beach chair services every Wednesday — a rule in place since 2015 — vendors were absent, leaving the shoreline wide open, clean, and naturally scenic. But is it good or bad for tourism? The answer depends on who you ask. On Wednesday, July 23, reporters visited Pattaya Beach and observed a tranquil atmosphere under the low season skies. The absence of beach vendors revealed the full expanse of golden sand and uninterrupted views of the sea — a peaceful scene that some travelers cherish. A few tourists laid out mats, went swimming, or simply watched the sunset in quiet solitude. “It’s peaceful and relaxing. I come here to unwind, not to be surrounded by noise,” said one foreign visitor who preferred the minimalist setting. However, others weren’t so sure. With the southwest monsoon in full swing, the weather was occasionally gloomy and the beach was sparsely populated. The lack of events and midweek timing meant most tourists stayed away. Local beach chair vendors, who lose income every Wednesday due to the policy, expressed frustration. Many argue the ban on services disrupts their livelihoods, particularly during the already difficult low season, when tourist numbers drop and spending slows. “Some tourists like convenience. Not everyone wants to carry mats or sit on bare sand,” said a beach vendor, noting a noticeable decline in midweek foot traffic. Vendors lose income while some tourists enjoy the quiet—Wednesday’s beach policy divides opinions. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) The policy, originally introduced to give the beach a “rest day” and return it to its natural state, has sparked ongoing debate. While it appeals to certain travelers seeking serenity, others view it as inconvenient — especially families and older tourists who rely on shaded seating. Across Pattaya, the broader tourism situation remains sluggish. Hotel occupancy, restaurant traffic, and tour bookings are down. Businesses have responded with discounts and promotions, but recovery remains slow, particularly among Chinese tourists, whose numbers have yet to rebound fully despite government stimulus measures. Sources in the nightlife and entertainment sector say revenue is under strain. Some have cut hours, while others are quietly waiting out the storm — both literal and economic. Yet even now, there’s a silver lining. For some travelers, low season is the best time to visit. They point to the cheaper prices, lack of crowds, and slower pace as reasons to return year after year. “Low season gives you space — space to breathe, space on the beach, and more personal service,” said one regular visitor from Europe. “I’ll take that over packed crowds any day.” So, is Pattaya Beach on a Wednesday good or bad for tourism? It depends — on your budget, your expectations, and how much sand you’re willing to sit on. Low season brings empty shores and discounted rates, but recovery remains slow, especially among Chinese tourists. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin)

Flashing zebra crossing turns heads in PattayaLegacyPattaya has rolled out a new traffic safety innovation that’s turning heads and slowing traffic. On Wednesday, July 23, the city launched a high-tech pedestrian crossing system on Second Road near Soi 6 in North Pattaya, designed to make road crossings significantly safer. The crossing features a push-button system that activates flashing lights, alerting oncoming vehicles to slow down or stop. This small but impactful change aims to reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents, particularly in high-traffic areas popular with tourists. “Crossing the road used to be risky because cars wouldn’t stop,” said Sompong Phurimanak, a local vendor near the crossing. “Now, with these flashing lights, drivers will hopefully stop.” The system has already received positive feedback from locals and tourists, who say the improved visibility and added warning signals make a noticeable difference in road safety. According to Pattaya City officials, this crossing is the first of several planned installations. The city intends to roll out similar smart zebra crossings in other busy locations, including Beach Road and Walking Street, as part of a broader initiative to enhance public safety and promote a more pedestrian-friendly environment, The Pattaya News reported. “Our goal is to make Pattaya a safer and more walkable city,” said a spokesperson from Pattaya City Hall. “We’re focusing on tourist-heavy areas and roads with a high volume of foot traffic.” While some residents have expressed doubts about whether drivers will consistently obey the new system, city officials have assured the public that traffic police will be stationed in key areas to enforce the rules and issue fines to motorists who fail to yield. The initiative is part of Pattaya’s ongoing efforts to modernise its infrastructure and adopt smart city technologies. By improving pedestrian safety, officials hope to enhance the overall visitor experience and set a new standard for road safety across Thailand. The story Flashing zebra crossing turns heads in Pattaya as seen on Thaiger News.

Pattaya slashes spaghetti wires in major city makeoverLegacyPattaya is finally tackling one of its biggest eyesores—those tangled telecom cables hanging from power poles—by cutting them down in a citywide cleanup drive. Yesterday morning, July 24, Pattaya City Mayor Poramet Ngampichet led the launch of the 2025 Telecommunications Cable Organisation Project, aimed at removing disused wires and improving both public safety and visual appeal. The initiative, carried out under the supervision of the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) Pattaya Branch, began with a formal kick-off event chaired by Assistant Governor of PEA Region 2 Somak Wongwaiphanich. Attendees included Bang Lamung District Chief Phatcharaphat Sritanyanon, senior city executives, telecom firms, cable providers, and other agencies. “This project supports the government’s push to enhance urban aesthetics by removing cluttered, abandoned wires that make the city look untidy,” said Somak. “As part of the Ministry of Interior, the PEA is working closely with Pattaya City to streamline and manage telecommunications cables.” The opening phase focuses on a 1.4-kilometre stretch of Sawang Fa Road, near the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation. A total of 60 utility poles will be cleared, with 16 telecommunications companies participating. As part of the project, cable markers will also be installed to identify each provider’s lines. Mayor Poramet praised the joint effort between Pattaya City, the PEA, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), and all involved. “We’re not just cleaning up the skyline,” he said. “This project also boosts public safety and protects property by reducing the risk of cable-related incidents.” Alongside the overhead removal, Pattaya continues to push forward with its long-term plan to bury power and telecom lines underground. Of the nine planned underground routes, six or seven have already been completed. Two more sections—Jomtien Second Road and the Naklua area, from the Dolphin Roundabout to the Bang Lamung District Office—are next in line. This will bring the total to 11 underground corridors aimed at modernising infrastructure, improving safety, and creating a cleaner cityscape, The Pattaya News reports. The story Pattaya slashes spaghetti wires in major city makeover as seen on Thaiger News.

อุบัติเหตุ รถจักรยานยนต์ ชนกัน 3 คันซ้อน บนถนน 331 เขาไม้แก้ว หนุ่มวัย 49 ย้อนศรชนสาหัส หญิงสาวซ้ำซ้อนอีกระลอก เมื่อเวลา 22.00 น. วันที่ 24 กรกฎาคม 2568 เจ้าหน้าที่กู้ภัยมูลนิธิสว่างบริบูรณ์ธรรมสถานเมืองพัทยา ได้รับแจ้งเหตุรถจักรยานยนต์ชนกันหลายคัน บริเวณถนนสาย 331 ขาเข้าสัตหีบ พื้นที่หมู่ 1 ตำบลเขาไม้แก้ว อำเภอบางละมุง จังหวัดชลบุรี หลังรับแจ้งจึงเร่งประสานกำลังอาสาสมัครกู้ภัยเข้าตรวจสอบและให้การช่วยเหลือผู้บาดเจ็บอย่างเร่งด่วน ที่เกิดเหตุพบรถจักรยานยนต์ ขับขี่โดย นายบุญเฉลิม อายุ 49 ปี ซึ่งขี่รถย้อนศรออกมาจากตลาดเขาไม้แก้ว แล้วพุ่งชนกับรถจักรยานยนต์ ที่วิ่งสวนทางมาอย่างแรง จนทำให้รถล้มคว่ำและนายอำนาจ อายุ 52 ปีได้รับบาดเจ็บสาหัส มีแผลฉีกขาดขนาดใหญ่ที่ขาซ้าย ศีรษะแตก และเปลือกตาด้านซ้ายฉีกขาด เจ้าหน้าที่กู้ภัยรีบปฐมพยาบาลเบื้องต้นก่อนนำส่งโรงพยาบาลอย่างเร่งด่วน ขณะเดียวกัน รถจักรยานยนต์ ขับขี่โดย นางสาวศิริลักษณ์ อายุ 28 ปี ที่ขับตามหลังมา […]

Clarification about Thai visas and driving licences is expected next week. PATTAYA, Thailand – Banglamung and Rayong Land Transportation Bureaux are to re-examine the latest regulation that a five years driving permit now depends on having at least a year remaining on your visa. Panic had set in amongst retired and married expats living in the Pattaya region after some reports suggested that annually renewable visas might not be good enough if less than 12 months remained at the date of renewing the driving licence. Expats complained loudly about the ambiguities on social media, whilst several Thai-only chat lines expressed surprise. For example, some internet warriors were concerned that even those with a variety of longstay Elite or Privilege visas would be restricted to two years (instead of five) since there is an annual immigration review. Some foreigners with non-immigrant business visas and work permits needing annual renewal were also taken aback. Others toyed with the distinction in the English translation between a visa which has 12 months validity and one which has 12 months to run. Not a simple task in the context of Thai immigration issues. MOTS, a popular service provider in East Pattaya, has today confirmed that Land Transportation in Rayong and Banglamung will soon issue an updated version of their latest rule. Pattaya Mail can confirm that visitors to those offices are being reassured that more detail is in the pipeline. There are very few visas in Thailand which have a passport-printed date beyond 12 months ahead. Examples do include the 10-years Long Term Residence (5 years x 2) and some work-related authorizations. Permanent residents, a special category, do not have end dates in their passports, but require a re-entry permit before they go abroad. The reason for the regulation change, awaiting an update, is not known. Pattaya Mail has speculated that visa exempt tourists, tourist visa holders and Destination Thailand Visa holders (who receive six months on entry) will be formally and categorically restricted to a two years driving licence on an ongoing basis. But clarification is expected within days. Thai time that is.

Most public services, including all immigration offices nationwide, will be closed on Monday, July 28, to celebrate the birthday of King Maha Vajiralongkorn. Most public services, including all immigration offices nationally, will be closed on Monday July 28 to celebrate the birthday of King Maha Vajiralongkorn.  They will reopen the following day, July 29, at 8.30 a.m.

หวิดสลด! ไฟไหม้รถเบนซ์ตำรวจยศใหญ่กลางสี่แยก ถนนสุขุมวิทพัทยา นาเกลือ หนีตายรอดหวุดหวิด  เมื่อเวลา 02.40 น. วันที่ 25 กรกฎาคม 2568 ศูนย์วิทยุกู้ภัยสว่างบริบูรณ์ธรรมสถานเมืองพัทยาได้รับแจ้งเหตุเพลิงไหม้รถยนต์กลางสี่แยกโรงไม้ขีด ถนนสุขุมวิทพัทยา ตำบลนาเกลือ อำเภอบางละมุง จังหวัดชลบุรี จึงรีบประสานรถดับเพลิงจากเมืองพัทยาและส่งเจ้าหน้าที่กู้ภัยเข้าตรวจสอบทันที ที่เกิดเหตุ พบกลุ่มควันดำหนาทึบพวยพุ่งทั่วบริเวณด้านหน้ารถ พร้อมแสงเพลิงลุกไหม้บริเวณห้องเครื่องของรถยนต์หรูคันหนึ่ง เจ้าหน้าที่กู้ภัยพยายามใช้น้ำจากแหล่งน้ำใกล้เคียงเพื่อควบคุมเพลิงเบื้องต้น แต่เนื่องจากไฟลุกโหมอย่างหนัก จึงต้องประสานขอกำลังเสริมจากรถดับเพลิงเข้าช่วยระงับเหตุกว่า10นาทีสามารถระงับเหตุไว้ได้ จากการตรวจสอบเบื้องต้นพบว่า รถที่เกิดเหตุเป็นรถยนต์ยี่ห้อเบนซ์ ซึ่งมีเสื้อเครื่องแบบตำรวจและทรัพย์สินส่วนตัวภายในรถ ระบุว่าเป็นของข้าราชการตำรวจระดับสูงรายหนึ่ง โดยเจ้าของรถสามารถหนีออกมาได้ทันก่อนที่ไฟจะลุกลามทั่วคัน โชคดีที่เหตุการณ์นี้ไม่มีผู้ได้รับบาดเจ็บ เบื้องต้นทางด้านเจ้าหน้าที่ตำรวจ สภ.บางละมุง ได้ลงพื้นที่ตรวจสอบที่เกิดเหตุ พร้อมประสานพนักงานสอบสวนเพื่อหาสาเหตุของเพลิงไหม้อย่างละเอียด โดยจะดำเนินการตามขั้นตอนทางกฎหมายต่อไป

Cops bust Chon Buri grocery store fronting drug ringLegacyIn a dramatic crackdown on drug trafficking in Chon Buri, Bang Lamung Police joined forces with local officials to raid a seemingly ordinary grocery store that was secretly operating as a hub for illegal narcotics. The bust, which took place in Village 5 of the Takhian Tia area, led to the arrest of five suspects and the seizure of a significant quantity of methamphetamine. The operation kicked off when officers stormed the store and detained 55 year old Nookon Boonsala from Sisaket province. Police found 290 methamphetamine tablets hidden on the premises. Authorities say the store was being used as a front to mask its involvement in drug distribution. Following the initial raid, Police Colonel Sarawut Nuchanart, Superintendent of Bang Lamung Police Station, ordered a wider investigation. Under the command of Police Lieutenant Colonel Pakorn Muensi-ngern and Police Lieutenant Thongthawat Phonlakorn, officers traced the supply chain and uncovered links to a major local dealer identified only as “M.” The expanded operation resulted in the arrest of four more suspects: 40 year old Ek Wiramud, who was found with 368 meth pills, 43 year old Bang-on Ruenrot (3 meth pills), 42 year old Suphannika Thaenduang (220 meth pills and 0.75 grammes of crystal meth), and 33 year old Adisak Boonmuang (50 meth pills). The police recovered 638 meth pills and just under a gramme of crystal meth in total. During questioning, all suspects reportedly admitted to possessing the drugs and confessed they were dealing primarily to teenagers and factory workers in the area. The drugs were typically sold in batches of three to five bags at roughly 3,300 baht each, The Pattaya News reports. Police believe the network is part of a broader operation and are now working to track down the main dealer and remaining associates. Police have pledged continued raids and strict enforcement to root out the drug trade in Takhian Tia and the surrounding areas. The story Cops bust Chon Buri grocery store fronting drug ring as seen on Thaiger News.