Wong Amat Beach in Pattaya offers a peaceful retreat with a quiet, private atmosphere — perfect for travelers seeking calm away from the crowds. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – Wong Amat Beach in North Pattaya remains a serene and tranquil spot for visitors seeking a peaceful getaway. Stretching approximately 1.3 kilometers along the Naklua-Wong Amat Peninsula, this beach was once a traditional fishing village but has since evolved into a charming destination that blends local culture with a private beach atmosphere. It is surrounded by a variety of restaurants and luxury hotels, making it an attractive spot for travelers who appreciate both comfort and calm. Even during the low season, Wong Amat Beach still draws a steady number of international tourists who favor its quiet environment. The beach becomes particularly lively during the high season from November to February, yet it never feels overcrowded, providing an ideal retreat for those who want to relax and enjoy the sea without the usual hustle and bustle of more crowded Pattaya or Jomtien beaches. Although Wong Amat faces some obstacles such as limited parking spaces, rocky areas near the curved sections, and a smaller beach area compared to other nearby beaches, several rows of large trees offer shade and a comfortable spot where families can still find peaceful places to unwind and enjoy quality time by the sea. Economically, Thailand is experiencing a slowdown with the Fiscal Policy Office forecasting a GDP growth of only 1.7–1.9% in 2025, reflecting challenges for tourism-dependent areas like Pattaya. Despite this, local business operators around Wong Amat Beach continue to adapt and remain hopeful that the upcoming peak season will bring more tourists, helping to revitalize the local economy. The tranquil vibe at Wong Amat Beach today signals a gradual return of foreign visitors eager to enjoy its peaceful shores — a true hidden gem for those seeking a quieter side of Pattaya. Once a fishing village, Wong Amat now blends local charm with luxury hotels and seaside dining along its 1.3 km stretch. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) Despite the low season, international tourists continue to visit Wong Amat Beach, drawn by its serene environment and relaxing vibe. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin)   Local businesses at Wong Amat hope the upcoming high season will boost tourism and help revive the area’s economy after recent challenges. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) Natural rock formations curve along Wong Amat Beach, adding scenic charm but limiting swimming areas compared to Pattaya’s wider shores. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin)

Explore Thailand’s five diverse regions—from bustling Bangkok to serene islands—where vibrant culture and nature meet seamless travel and top safety standards, welcoming travelers year-round with authentic experiences. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reaffirms that Thailand continues to warmly welcome visitors, offering rich cultural experiences, world-class hospitality, and seamless travel across the country. Recognized globally as a top year-round destination, Thailand has received multiple accolades from leading travel publications and international polls for its diversity, safety, accessibility, and heartfelt hospitality. Travel Made Easy All international and domestic transport services—including flights, trains, buses, highways, and ferries—are operating as normal. Thailand’s major airports, seaports, and public transportation systems remain fully functional, with no disruptions to visitor mobility. Travellers can move freely and confidently across the country’s five regions and beyond. International travel to and from Thailand is seamless and well-connected. The country is currently served by over 140 international and domestic airlines, offering thousands of weekly flights connecting Thailand to key global cities and regional hubs. The national carrier, Thai Airways International, continues to provide award-winning service with scheduled flights to major destinations across Asia, Europe, and beyond. Travellers can also connect to Thailand by international rail via Malaysia, or arrive by cruise ship at designated deep-sea ports, including Bangkok, Laem Chabang, and Phuket. Within Thailand, travellers benefit from a wide range of reliable and efficient transport options. A well-developed highway network links cities and provinces across the country, supporting self-drive itineraries and long-distance bus routes. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is expanding its national network through dual-track upgrades, the Bangkok Red Line suburban trains, and rail tourism routes that provide convenient access to historical towns and natural attractions. In urban centres like Bangkok, local travel is easy with the BTS Skytrain, MRT, and public bus systems. Meanwhile, Thailand’s coastal and river cruise services offer scenic alternatives for exploring select domestic routes by water. Explore Thailand’s Five Regions, All Year Round From the misty mountains of the North to the tropical islands of the South, Thailand’s five regions—Central, East, North, Northeast (Isan), and South—offer year-round travel experiences. The current rainy season is also the lush green season, when waterfalls flow, rice paddies glow, and nature is at its most vibrant. Key destinations across all regions remain open and continue to warmly welcome travellers. Central – Explore cultural heartlands, bustling Bangkok, and historical treasures such as Ayutthaya and Lopburi. • East – Enjoy coastal charm, fruit orchards, and quick beach escapes in provinces like Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Pattaya in Chon Buri. • North – Discover cool-climate highlands, ancient cities, and scenic national parks in places like Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son, and Lampang. • Northeast (Isan) – Experience authentic Thai traditions, historical ruins, and lively festivals across provinces like Khon Kaen, Loei, and Nakhon Phanom. • South – Relax on world-famous islands and beaches, dive into marine adventures, and explore lush rainforests from Phuket to Trang and Krabi. Notice: Enhanced safety protocols and temporary closures are in effect in areas near the Cambodian border, including Ubon Ratchathani, Si Saket, Surin, Buri Ram, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Travellers are advised to avoid affected zones until further notice. This travel advisory is monitored and updated regularly to reflect the latest official guidance. Top Experiences Not to Miss TAT invites travellers to uncover the essence of Thai culture and lifestyle through the “5 Must-Do Experiences”: Must Taste – Sample Thailand’s vibrant food scene, from street eats to fine dining, including Michelin-recommended restaurants. • Must Try – Immerse in local traditions like Muay Thai and artisanal crafts. • Must Buy – Discover fashion, design, and souvenirs with a Thai identity. • Must Seek – Explore hidden gems and lesser-known towns across all five regions. • Must See – Experience Thailand’s colourful festivals and cultural celebrations year-round. These experiences come to life through activities that reflect Thailand’s commitment to meaningful travel, cultural richness, and community-based tourism, such as: • Exploring Bangkok’s vibrant culture – temples, street food, riverside life • Island-hopping in the South – clear waters, marine adventures, hidden coves • Visiting ancient cities – Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, and their UNESCO-listed heritage • Embracing local life – homestays, weekend markets, village crafts • Travelling sustainably – joining eco-tours, nature treks, or volunteering on organic farms A Country of Good Hosts Renowned for its hospitality, Thailand welcomes visitors with genuine warmth, care, and cultural pride. Whether staying in a village homestay, a boutique guesthouse, or a luxury resort, travellers are met with friendly smiles and thoughtful service. Thai hosts go beyond expectations—sharing local traditions, offering personal touches, and creating a sense of belonging that turns each visit into a memorable experience. Your Safety Is a Priority Thailand maintains high safety standards across the tourism sector, with coordinated efforts from public agencies and local partners to ensure a secure and enjoyable travel experience. The Tourist Police, stationed in key destinations nationwide, serve as a trusted first point of contact for travellers needing assistance—offering multilingual support, safety tips, and 24/7 emergency help. In addition, dedicated visitor support centres and clear signage in tourist zones make it easy to access up-to-date travel information and guidance. Plan Your Trip with Peace of Mind Whether you’re coming for culture, cuisine, coastlines, or community, Thailand is ready to welcome you. For the latest travel updates and visitor information, visit: www.tourismthailand.org, or www.tatnews.org. For the latest travel guidance, please contact the TAT Call Centre at 1672, your local TAT office, or the Tourist Police at 1155.

Cleared for Takeoff Again — Thai Airways rejoins the Stock Exchange of Thailand on August 4 after completing its court-supervised business rehabilitation. PATTAYA, Thailand – Thai Airways International Public Company Limited is preparing to return to trading on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) on August 4, 2025, marking a new chapter of stable and sustainable growth after emerging from court-led business rehabilitation. Following a Central Bankruptcy Court order on June 16 lifting its rehabilitation status, the airline is now operating fully as a private company. The decision comes after over four years of comprehensive restructuring triggered by prolonged financial losses and the impact of the pandemic. Thai Airways entered rehabilitation in 2021 and has since made significant progress under a transformation plan. Key changes include resizing and modernizing the fleet, expanding routes and frequencies, enhancing customer service, integrating digital technologies, and converting debt into equity. The airline has consistently posted quarterly operating profits since 2023 and is now among the top three global carriers in terms of operating margin, according to Airline Weekly. The company has fulfilled all four rehabilitation plan requirements: recapitalization, compliance without default, strong earnings (EBITDA of 40.3 billion baht vs. 20 billion target), and a positive shareholder equity balance. Lavaron Sangsnit, newly appointed Chairman of Thai Airways, leads the airline’s bold comeback with a focus on innovation, efficiency, and global growth. Under a newly appointed board led by Chairman Lavaron Sangsnit, Thai Airways aims to position itself among the world’s leading airlines. Plans include expanding its fleet to 93 aircraft by 2026 and to 150 by 2033, with fewer aircraft models and engine types to optimize efficiency. Service upgrades will continue, including the introduction of Royal Silk Class flatbeds on Airbus A321neos, in-flight entertainment, high-speed Wi-Fi, and new catering concepts. A redesigned digital booking system is also set to launch in August. For the fiscal year ending December 2024, Thai Airways reported revenue of 187.9 billion baht (excluding one-time items), a 16.7% increase year-on-year. Q1 2025 revenue reached 51.6 billion baht, up 12.3% from the previous year, with an EBIT margin of 26.5%. Shareholders’ equity now stands at 55.4 billion baht, and the interest-bearing debt to equity ratio has improved to 2.23—down from 12.52 at the end of 2019. Thai Airways says its return to the stock exchange is not the end of its transformation, but a new beginning. The airline vows to maintain agility, strengthen risk management, and pursue continuous innovation as it seeks long-term, sustainable growth and global recognition. New Flight Path — With debt slashed and equity restored, Thai Airways eyes long-term growth and world-class status under fresh leadership. From Crisis to Comeback — After years of restructuring, Thai Airways posts strong profits and plans global expansion with a modern fleet and upgraded services. Thai Airways enhances passenger experience with Royal Silk Class flatbeds, modern in-flight entertainment, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a new digital booking system launching this August.

Clear skies return to Pattaya after days of rain, but the city’s sunlit beaches and ready-to-serve businesses still await the return of tourists. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – Sunshine has returned to Pattaya after days of gloomy, overcast skies, offering a much-needed break for the coastal city. Clear skies and warm temperatures are now setting the tone, with beach-friendly weather expected to continue in the coming days. According to the Thai Meteorological Department, overall rainfall has eased across much of the country. While heavy showers may still occur in parts of the upper Northeast, Pattaya and other central and eastern regions are experiencing drier, sunnier conditions. Pattaya is seeing daytime highs around 33–35°C, with mostly clear skies and only isolated chances of rain, and nighttime lows between 27–28°C. In Bangkok and surrounding provinces, only 20% of the area is forecast to see scattered thunderstorms, with daytime highs between 34–36°C and nighttime temperatures ranging from 26–27°C. Sea conditions are calm to moderate, with waves ranging from 1–2 meters in the upper Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand. Mariners are advised to remain cautious in areas with possible thunderstorms. Despite the improving weather, Pattaya’s beaches, restaurants, and tourist services remain quieter than usual. Many businesses are fully staffed and ready, hoping that the sunshine will bring back travelers. From beachfront cafés to island-hopping tours, the city stands prepared — now it’s just waiting for visitors to return and make the most of its renewed sunshine.

Pattaya remains a key tourism hub, showcasing both the potential and challenges of managing infrastructure and visitor services amid fluctuating tourist arrivals. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – This year has truly been a tough one for Thailand’s economy. It started with the U.S. President imposing reciprocal tariffs on many countries, including Thailand, followed by tourist arrivals falling short of targets. Internal political issues, along with border tensions used as economic leverage, have further pressured the border regions unnecessarily. The government has tried to address these urgent tourism and economic challenges by boosting domestic demand. However, digital platforms designed to support tourism have underperformed, crashing from day one. Let’s pause and analyze what’s really happening: The number of Chinese tourists coming to Thailand has drastically decreased. While officials attribute this to China’s economic slowdown, the reality is that domestic tourism within China is booming spectacularly, and outbound Chinese tourists reached 350 million trips in 2024—exceeding the pre-pandemic peak in 2019. Yet, only about 10 million Chinese tourists visited Thailand, indicating a clear shift. In fact, Japan has surpassed Thailand as the top foreign destination for Chinese tourists. Thailand must acknowledge that Japan offers a superior tourism experience, combining world-class attractions, excellent infrastructure, and cultural appeal. Historically, Japan’s higher cost made it less competitive, but the strengthening Thai baht and weakening yen have reversed that. Moreover, Japan’s user-friendly digital ecosystem and efficient transportation, including convenient car rentals and exceptional rail services, make it a more attractive option for independent travelers. Thailand cannot realistically compete directly with Japan in Asia on factors such as natural beauty, culture, cleanliness, hospitality, or proximity to major source markets like China, South Korea, and North America. Airlines, especially Chinese carriers, favor routes to Japan for better profitability. Turning inward, Thailand’s slow tourism recovery post-pandemic partly reflects a conservative government approach. The pandemic accelerated digital transformation and economic shifts globally, but Thailand has not fully leveraged this to modernize its tourism supply chain—especially in secondary cities and emerging tourist destinations. For example, public transport and logistics services remain inadequate for Chinese tourists and other independent travelers who rely on apps and shared mobility. Instead, Thailand continues to focus primarily on marketing campaigns by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), emphasizing demand generation while neglecting the supply side—such as infrastructure, accessibility, and sustainable tourism practices. Thailand’s tourism product still fails to reflect environmental awareness and resource conservation, which modern travelers increasingly seek. Safety concerns have also taken a toll. The 2018 Phoenix boat tragedy, where 40 Chinese tourists died, damaged Thailand’s reputation for maritime safety. Since then, repeated safety issues, kidnappings, and scams targeting Chinese tourists have surfaced. Reports of overpriced taxis, inflated food prices, and general scams circulate widely on social media, eroding trust. Today, tourists no longer rely solely on official marketing; social media heavily influences perceptions. China’s rapid domestic development means many Chinese tourists now see Thailand as less modern and convenient than before, especially compared to improvements at home. It is time for Thailand to develop its entire tourism supply chain to offer convenience and safety. For instance, Bangkok remains beautiful but struggles with odor problems from drainage. Secondary cities often lack clean public restrooms and reliable local transport—issues that independent foreign tourists find frustrating. While Thai tourists solve this by renting vans, foreign visitors face difficulties due to a lack of information and transportation options. Waste management on beaches and tourist spots also requires urgent attention. Government agencies responsible for tourism must reform the entire value chain. To build a sustainable tourism future, Thailand should pilot comprehensive supply chain improvements in 10 secondary destinations, such as Lampang, which boasts more attractions than Nan; Udon Thani with its famous red lotus bloom in January; Ubon Ratchathani with its natural beauty; and Phatthalung with the stunning Thale Noi wetlands. However, these places often lack secure boat access, clean restrooms, and basic infrastructure. Private investment in medium-sized hotels and support for convenience stores to provide public restrooms are also necessary. Additionally, AI-powered tools can create seamless experience tourism itineraries, including logistics and local transportation info at the provincial level. Community-based tourism development is often too narrowly focused. For smaller towns to grow as tourist hubs, they must work closely with local administrations to build strong urban infrastructure, support nighttime attractions, and develop surrounding rural tourism. Pattaya, as one of Thailand’s major tourist destinations, offers a useful comparison. It benefits from relatively better infrastructure, more frequent flights, and extensive services catering to international tourists. However, even Pattaya faces challenges like overcrowding, environmental stress, and fluctuating tourist numbers affected by currency strength and global trends. Pattaya’s ongoing efforts to upgrade services, diversify attractions, and improve safety standards illustrate the kind of proactive management needed in secondary cities to revive tourism growth.

โอปป้า อ้างถูก รุมตี ซอยสายสามตัดเพชรตระกูล พยายามปล้นเงินสามแสน แถมยัดพอตเค  เมื่อเวลา 04.06 น.วันที่ 1 สิงหาคม 2568 ร.ต.อ.อลิส พวงไสว รอง สวป.สภ.เมืองพัทยา รับแจ้งเหตุ มีนักท่องเที่ยวถูกทำร้ายร่างกาย ได้รับบาดเจ็บ เหตุเกิดที่ลานจอดรถของสถานบันเทิงแห่งหนึ่ง ภายในซอยสายสามตัดเพชรตระกูล เมืองพัทยา ต.หนองปรือ อ.บางละมุง จ.ชลบุรี หลังรับแจ้งจึงรายงานผู้บังคับบัญชา พ.ต.อ.เอนก สระทองอยู่ พร้อมนำกำลังรีบไปตรวจสอบ ที่เกิดเหตุพบMR. MYEONGSEOK อายุ 29 ปี สัญชาติเกาหลี อยู่ในอาการได้รับบาดเจ็บศีรษะแตก ฟกช้ำตามใบหน้า อยู่ในอาการหวาดผวา ให้การอ้างกับเจ้าหน้าที่ตำรวจว่า ตนเองถูกคนร้ายทำร้ายร่างกาย แล้วพยายามจะชิงเอาเงินไป 300,000 บาท ก่อนจะยัดยาเสพติด (พอตเค) ประมาณ 20 ชิ้น ใส่กระเป๋าให้ตนเอง หลังก่อเหตุจึงได้ขอให้ความช่วยเหลือจากเจ้าหน้าที่ตำรวจ สอบถาม พนักงานรักษาความปลอดภัยของสถานบันเทิง ให้ข้อมูลว่า ผู้บาดเจ็บที่เป็นชาวเกาหลี มาเที่ยวกับกลุ่มคนไทยรวมประมาณเกือบ […]

Pattaya joins hands in nationwide relief efforts, supporting war victims with organized donation points across the city. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya municipal officers have stepped up to assist at donation points collecting relief items for those affected by war. Officers are stationed near the X-Site area on Third Road to help ensure the donation process is smooth and safe. “When Thailand unites, no one faces crisis alone.” This campaign aims to deliver heartfelt Thai compassion from the land of love and concern, showing the power of unity in humanitarian missions. It reminds the world that in times of global despair, Thailand still stands as a beacon of hope. “Thais don’t leave each other behind.” Donation Period: July 25 – August 5 Donation Points and Hours: 1. Pattaya Beachfront, opposite Pattaya City Police Station 08:30 – 16:30 2. In front of Wat Chai Mongkol, across from the market, South Pattaya 08:30 – 16:30 3. Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation, Naklua Open 24 hours 4. Terminal 21 Pattaya (exact collection times not specified) Items Needed: 1. Cash donations (Note: No bank transfers are accepted) 2. Essential supplies such as rice, dried food, medicine, sanitary pads, toothbrushes, and toothpaste 3. Drinking water (Large–scale donations of water should be delivered directly to Sawang Boriboon Foundation) Clothing donations are not being accepted. Municipal officers ensure smooth and safe donation processes near key locations including Pattaya Beach and Wat Chai Mongkol. Essential items like food, medicine, and hygiene products are being collected from July 25 to August 5, with 24-hour donations at Sawang Boriboon Foundation.   The city urges compassion and unity, reminding all that “Thais don’t leave each other behind” during times of crisis.

Pattaya considers adding 4th boat drop-off zone to better serve elderly tourists and reduce long walking distances to piers. PATTAYA, Thailand – Mayor Poramet Ngampichet has pledged to explore the possibility of opening an additional boat drop-off point along Pattaya Beach to better accommodate tourists, particularly the elderly and children, following a formal request from the Pattaya Local Boat Association. Representatives from the association presented concerns over the current zoning regulations, implemented under the “Pattaya Model,” which designate only three official speedboat pick-up and drop-off zones: North Pattaya Beach, Central Pattaya Beach, and South Pattaya Beach. These regulations, in place since November 1, 2024, aim to ensure swimmer safety and maintain an orderly beach environment by prohibiting boat operations outside the designated zones. However, the association reports that this policy has inadvertently led to a decline in tourist usage, particularly among groups with mobility challenges. The longer distances between boat landings and popular destinations have discouraged use, while the time-consuming boarding process for seniors and young children has reduced the number of daily trips operators can make—directly impacting their income. In response, the association has proposed the addition of a fourth designated zone—located between Soi 10 and Soi 13 on Pattaya Beach—arguing that it would strike a better balance between operational efficiency and tourist accessibility. Local boat operators urge city to ease strict zoning rules, citing fewer passengers and declining income since November 2024 regulations. Mayor Poramet acknowledged the concerns, expressing sympathy for the economic hardship faced by boat operators. However, he clarified that the city does not hold direct regulatory authority over maritime zones, which fall under the jurisdiction of the Marine Department and the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources. Still, as a tourism-centric city, Pattaya is eager to support solutions that maintain safety while promoting economic activity. Mayor Poramet confirmed that the city will consider a pilot program to temporarily open the proposed fourth drop-off point. City officials will conduct site assessments to determine logistical viability and coordinate with the Pattaya Regional Marine Office to seek official approval for expanding the regulated zones from three to four—ideally in time for the upcoming high season. “This solution would not only improve convenience for tourists, especially the elderly and children, but also enhance safety and promote a more positive image of Pattaya as a tourist destination,” said Mayor Poramet. If approved, the additional boat point would offer greater flexibility for marine transport operators and potentially revitalize tourist engagement along Pattaya Beach’s central zones. Mayor Poramet vows to support trial boat stop between Soi 10–13, pending approval from Marine Department and Coastal Resources.   Balancing safety and accessibility — Pattaya prepares for high season with new plans to ease boarding for seniors and families.

From Static to Stunning — Pattaya’s New 3D LED landmark takes shape at Walking Street entrance. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya City is in the process of installing a new high-tech LED sign at the entrance of Walking Street, aiming to modernize the area and enhance its global tourism image. The project, currently underway, replaces the old deteriorated signage with a vibrant, cutting-edge LED billboard under the theme “Enjoy Pattaya Every Day — All Lifestyles, No Days Off.” There will be two upgraded locations: 1. The main entrance to Walking Street — where a static 8×4 meter sign is being transformed into a sleek 9×12 meter curved LED screen (P4.81 resolution). This high-brightness display will feature crisp, eye-catching visuals both day and night. The word “Walking Street” will appear in custom LED lettering, while the support pillars will be covered in aluminum composite panels and decorated with color-changing neon flex lights. Both sides of the sign will be fully visible to incoming visitors. 2. The Bali Hai pier-side entrance — will follow as the second phase. It will feature a 9×3 meter straight-facing LED screen (P4.81 resolution) on one side, while the other side will display illuminated metal letters spelling “Walking Street,” with customizable lighting. The LED upgrade is expected to become a bold new landmark that reflects Pattaya’s digital-age identity, creating a strong first impression for international visitors. The signage may also serve as a dynamic platform for content promoting Pattaya’s diverse attractions. Bright Lights Ahead — Walking Street’s new 3D LED gateway reflects Pattaya’s world-class tourism vision.

Pattaya veterans say low season is prime time for budget stays and beer deals — skip the gimmicks, find the quiet bars. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – As the monsoon clouds settle over Thailand’s eastern seaboard, Pattaya’s familiar rhythm shifts into low season mode. The crowds thin, the heat eases, and for many long-term visitors — or at least those who sound like them — it’s a prime time to stretch a baht and enjoy a more relaxed version of the city. Veteran visitors are sharing their tips and tricks for making the most of this quieter period. They suggest that those on a budget can still find good deals with a little street knowledge — from budget-friendly accommodation to bars offering nightly discounts. One regular insists that you can get a large bottle of beer for just 70 baht, despite skeptics saying otherwise. That particular debate sparked a mini-flame war online, with one commenter dismissing the claim outright: “Nowhere on Soi Buakhao can you get large bottled beer for 70 baht. Even at happy hours, small bottles cost 60 baht.” But others quickly pushed back, pointing out bars just off the main drag — like one described as being across from the “We’re Drug” store, near motorcycle-taxi stand — where 70-baht large bottles are still very much a reality. “You can’t miss it. It’s a guesthouse too, no girlie bar, just a great place to watch the world go by,” added another old hand. It reportedly stops serving at 1:30 a.m. Some even chimed in with questions about alcohol and religion, highlighting the city’s eclectic and sometimes contradictory social norms — but not everyone was interested in debating theology. The real takeaway for seasoned Pattaya-goers is that low season is a time when the city opens up to those who know how to move through it. “I’ve always preferred the low season in Pattaya,” said one longtime visitor. “It’s quiet — fantastically quiet this year — and far from being put off, if you come here for the nightlife, it’s time to buy a flight.” While prices and experiences can vary depending on where you go, the advice from those who’ve spent seasons here is clear: keep your expectations flexible, look beyond the neon, and you just might find the city at its friendliest — and cheapest.