Lucky escape for Swedish tourist caught flying a drone over Pattaya Beach; received a warning instead of legal action and explained he was unaware of Thailand’s nationwide drone ban, having just arrived in the country. PATTAYA, Thailand – A Swedish tourist was detained by Pattaya municipal officers at around 10 PM on August 3 after flying a drone along Pattaya Beach in violation of Thailand’s nationwide drone ban. The ban, imposed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) from July 30 to August 15, is in effect due to ongoing border security concerns involving the Thai–Cambodian frontier. Authorities spotted the drone and quickly located the foreign tourist operating the unmanned aerial vehicle. He was detained and taken to Pattaya City Police Station along with the seized drone. Through a translator, the tourist explained that he had just arrived in Thailand and was unaware of the temporary ban. He said he only intended to capture the beauty of Pattaya’s coastline. After issuing a formal warning and educating the tourist about the drone regulations, police released him without charges. Officials emphasized that the no-fly order is crucial for national security and urged the public to report illegal drone activity to the national security hotline 1374, available 24/7. Pattaya municipal officers seize drone from Swedish tourist for violating temporary national flight ban during ongoing border tensions.

Locals demand tougher crackdowns and deportations as police struggle to dismantle begging networks in Pattaya, threatening the city’s tourist image. PATTAYA, Thailand – In the bustling streets and popular tourist areas of Pattaya, beggars remain a persistent presence, many using young children to elicit sympathy and donations. This distressing reality weighs heavily on residents and visitors alike. Although police have arrested and deported some of these individuals, they often return within a few months, driven back by poverty, illness, or abandonment in their home countries. Community members note that many of the same faces repeatedly cycle through the system. It is common knowledge that some beggars earn between 400 and 2,000 baht per day, sometimes exchanging small bills for larger denominations and accumulating thousands in a single day. This has led to growing confusion and frustration among locals, especially as the beggars return soon after being caught. Enforcement efforts are widely viewed as insufficient, with residents believing that police have the resources, such as patrol units and undercover officers, to round up and deport these individuals but lack the will to do so. Some locals point out that many beggars rent rooms in neighborhoods like Soi Noen, where one man reportedly sends five to eight children to beg across the city, perpetuating a cycle that is well known within the community. The ongoing presence of beggars has sparked concern over Pattaya’s reputation as a top tourist destination. Many believe that the city’s image is at stake unless more serious action is taken to clear the streets and send repeat offenders back to their countries. There is also deep empathy for the young children involved, viewed as victims trapped in a harmful cycle, with little outside support. Locals emphasize that giving money to beggars only perpetuates the problem, noting that some beggars make more in a day than many workers, sometimes up to 3,000 baht. They argue that withholding donations might help reduce the numbers, as beggars often hide in alleys and emerge only when they feel safe from police attention, outnumbering those who work legitimately. Underlying the frustration is a reflection on the kindness of Thai people, which some say is sometimes taken advantage of by those exploiting the generosity as a weakness. This sentiment highlights a complex social challenge that blends compassion with the need for order and enforcement. Without stronger policing, deportation efforts, and support mechanisms for vulnerable families, the cycle of begging and re-entry is expected to continue. As a result, Pattaya’s hard-earned image as a welcoming, vibrant city remains under threat, with locals calling for urgent, decisive measures to address the issue once and for all.

Times Have Changed: After 20 years of visits, a long-term foreign guest reflects on Pattaya’s evolving nightlife, rising prices, and why he still returns to reconnect with old friends and familiar places. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – After spending a month soaking in the sights, sounds, and social rhythms of Pattaya, a returning tourist from Australia shared his impressions of a city he’s visited on and off for over two decades. “It’s still got its charm,” he said, sipping a cold beer on Soi Buakhao. “But it’s definitely changed. The streets are busy — especially Walking Street, Chaiyapoon, and parts of Buakhao — but other areas like Tree Town feel quieter than usual. Some bars are struggling.” He pointed to rising costs as a potential reason. “A beer in Walking Street can run you 130–140 baht. Go-go bars and regular venues on Buakhao are offering 65-baht beers or even Heineken for 50 in some cases, so it’s worth exploring. Even a Maccas quarter-pounder meal now costs around 300 baht — prices have definitely gone up.” While he noted that nightlife is still active, especially with new crowds arriving from India and other countries, he observed shifts in the social dynamics. “You see a lot of affluent Indian tourists in prime spots like Walking Street now, and they seem to be spending well. Things evolve — it’s the nature of popular destinations.” He also reflected on broader trends. “Some of us older guys feel the traditional beer bar vibe might be fading a bit. Clubs and high-end venues seem to be the new draw. Maybe it’s just the next phase.” Despite his mixed feelings, he emphasized he wasn’t bitter. “I’m mainly here to catch up with mates and enjoy the beach. Pattaya’s still got magic, especially if you know where to look. But yeah — it’s growing fast. Maybe it’s just time for a change of pace. Rayong and Ban Chang have some great golf and quieter beaches too.” With a final shrug, he added, “It is what it is. The world’s changing. But there’s still something about Pattaya that brings me back.” Changing Tides and Observations from the Ground – As some bars stay bustling while others quiet down, a seasoned traveler reflects, “It is what it is,” capturing how Pattaya’s charm and energy shift with the seasons and global tourism trends. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin)

Pattaya from Above – Cameras click as visitors soak in the panoramic beauty atop Pratumnak Hill under hot, humid weather and dripping sweat. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – Tourists in Pattaya and other parts of Eastern Thailand can expect relatively dry weather this week, as the Thai Meteorological Department reports a weakening of the southwest monsoon over the country, the Andaman Sea, and the Gulf of Thailand. Only 20–30% of areas nationwide are forecast to see scattered thunderstorms. In Pattaya and Chonburi province, rainfall is minimal, with light winds and temperatures reaching up to 36°C. The more stable weather is likely to be welcomed by tourists enjoying beachside relaxation and local outdoor attractions. Elsewhere, Bangkok and central provinces will also see isolated thunderstorms in about 20% of areas, while coastal regions like Rayong and Trat may face slightly higher rain chances and moderate sea waves, especially during thunderstorms. The Andaman and Gulf waters remain calm with wave heights of 1–2 meters in some areas, prompting authorities to advise small boats to proceed cautiously near storm zones. With pleasant weather continuing, Pattaya’s dry spell adds another reason for beachgoers to take advantage of the low season charm.

Pattaya’s low season charm wins hearts, but tourists call for better airfares and hotel deals to bring visitors back in full force. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – As Pattaya waits for a tourism rebound in the latter part of the year, the voices of foreign visitors reveal a mix of affection for the quieter months and frustration over rising costs and accessibility challenges. Many long-term travelers say they enjoy the calm of the low season but call on airlines and hotels to offer more attractive deals if they want to bring tourists back in force. One frequent visitor noted that while Pattaya’s beaches feel less crowded than in the past, there’s still plenty of variety in the area to satisfy all tastes. Visitors point out that North Pattaya, Naklua, Pratumnak, Jomtien, and even nearby Bang Saray offer diverse experiences, “something for everyone really.” Several tourists lament that the real influx of visitors usually doesn’t begin until October. A local resident who has lived in Pattaya for 24 years explains that August has “always been the quietest month of the year,” adding “and we love it.” Others agree that the months of May, June, and July saw even fewer visitors, which some describe as “dead.” Comparisons to other destinations also surface: “I saw about thousands of Indian tourists at Bali’s high pier yesterday, lots of money being spent,” one visitor observed, highlighting how competing destinations continue to attract strong international spending. Meanwhile, many Europeans and Australians are said to be favoring Phuket or Vietnam over Pattaya in recent seasons. Travelers also emphasize the role of cost and convenience. “You know what the problem is? Not Pattaya or the baht,” said one long-term visitor. “Airfares are way too high compared to a few years ago, and renting a studio for a few weeks is practically impossible anymore; you have to sign a six-month or one-year contract to get a good price. Not everyone can stay for six months or longer, and getting a visa can be a hassle.” However, other voices dispute that notion, arguing that “there are plenty of places to rent for a few weeks, and a 60-day visa is no problem at all.” Some tourists insist that flight prices remain similar to pre-pandemic times. While a few comments reflect pessimism — “Thailand shifted its tourism policy,” or “the authorities encouraged Indian tourist groups; the rest of us left” — many tourists remain hopeful. “It’s normal,” said one. “In three more months, they’ll all be back. Every place in Thailand is a paradise in its own way. I love them all.” Several call for better airfares and hotel deals to stimulate demand during the off-peak months. “Make Pattaya great again?” one hopeful traveler joked, reflecting the desire for a return to the city’s vibrant tourism heyday. Others emphasize the importance of stability: “They will come when you have a stable government and no war,” and “Fix the city, and the tourists may come back.” Meanwhile, some who are currently visiting find the city “buzzing” and “great,” underscoring how experiences can vary widely. As Pattaya’s tourism sector looks ahead to the final quarter of 2025, these mixed perspectives underscore the challenges and opportunities. With a strong baht making Thailand less price competitive, and travel costs high, the consensus is clear: to revive tourism fully, Pattaya needs more than just natural beauty — it needs affordable access, flexible accommodation options, and a renewed push to offer value to visitors year-round.

As the baht strengthens to 32.45 against the dollar, hopes for Thailand’s tourism revival hinge on a high-energy final quarter — but it’ll need more than sunshine and smiles to stimulate spending. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – As Thailand’s struggling tourism sector pins its hopes on a strong rebound in the final quarter of 2025, economists warn that a cocktail of currency volatility, weak global demand, and geopolitical unease means the road ahead still requires substantial stimulus and smart policymaking. According to TMBThanachart (ttb), the Thai baht opened stronger Monday morning (4 August) at 32.45 baht per U.S. dollar, appreciating from Friday’s close of 32.87 baht. The current trading range is estimated between 32.35 and 32.65 baht per dollar. The baht’s strength is partially fueled by disappointing U.S. jobs data, which showed only 73,000 new jobs created in July — well below the market forecast of 110,000 — and a rise in the U.S. unemployment rate to 4.2%. Adding to investor speculation, the U.S. Federal Reserve may cut interest rates twice this year, possibly beginning in September, prompting further weakening of the dollar. Markets were also shaken by news that Fed Governor Adriana Kugler will resign early, potentially giving President Donald Trump a quicker-than-expected opportunity to nominate a dovish successor should he win re-election, fueling more talk of looser monetary policy. Against this backdrop, Thailand’s outbound and inbound tourism dynamics remain fragile. In July, foreign investors were net sellers in both Thai bonds (2.2 billion baht) and equities (1.89 billion baht), reflecting ongoing caution. And while hotel operators in cities like Pattaya have seen modest weekend upticks, sustained momentum is lacking. Industry analysts say the final quarter – October to December – will be pivotal. Major events like Pattaya’s Fireworks Festival, international conferences, and the high season for European and Russian tourists may help. However, insiders argue that without targeted incentives, visa facilitation, and promotional campaigns, Thailand risks falling short of its tourism revival goals. Moreover, a stronger baht could hurt the country’s price competitiveness, particularly as regional rivals like Vietnam and Indonesia continue to draw long-haul visitors with more favorable exchange rates. “Tourism may be emotional, but the spending decisions are rational,” said one Pattaya hotelier. “If your baht goes too far up, your beds go empty.” For now, all eyes are on global economic indicators, Thailand’s July inflation report, foreign fund flows, gold price trends, and the evolving Thai-Cambodian border situation — all of which could shape whether Pattaya’s beaches end 2025 as a story of recovery, or a missed opportunity.

Doing nothing has never felt so right — foot massage by the sea, cold drink in hand, and no itinerary but the sunset stroll back to dinner on a street where every corner smells like home. Pattaya Beach is worth every mile. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – Not much — and some would say it’s worth traveling halfway across the globe just to do exactly that. No crowds shouting over loud music. No relentless tours or tick-box itineraries. Just hours spent stretched out on a rented bench under the shade of a big umbrella — yours for a couple hundred baht — watching the sea breathe in and out like a meditation. Your biggest decision? Whether to sip fresh coconut, iced coffee, or a cold local beer. Maybe all three. Maybe in that order. A vendor passes with grilled prawns or mango sticky rice. You nod, they serve. No rush. No pressure. Then comes a quiet kind of bliss: a foot massage, right there by the shore. For a few hundred baht, trained hands ease away jet lag, stress, and the stiffness of long flights. If you feel like spoiling yourself further, there’s always a full-body massage under a beach canopy — gentle waves as your soundtrack. You could do this for a week. Maybe two. And many do — travelers with no packed schedule, just a one-way ticket to simplicity. No alarms. No meetings. Just a loose rhythm of sea, sun, massage, food, and sleep. By sunset, you rise slowly from your lounge chair and stroll back to your hotel or apartment — most likely within walking distance. The streets come alive with sizzling woks, seafood grills, fruit stands, and local eateries ranging from budget bites to fine Thai cuisine. Food here doesn’t hide. It spills out onto the sidewalks, from top to bottom of every block. And as the sky turns gold and the city lights flicker on, you realize: this wasn’t just a lazy afternoon. It was everything you needed. So what’s more pleasant than doing nothing on Pattaya Beach for half a day? Only doing it again tomorrow.

Cambodian beggars with babies flood Pattaya streetsLegacyBeggars clutching babies have returned to Pattaya’s bustling streets, as Cambodian women flood tourist zones in desperate bids for survival. On Sunday night, August 3, reporters uncovered scores of Cambodian beggars scattered throughout the city, particularly outside convenience stores and nightlife hotspots. Despite repeated crackdowns, the same faces reappear just weeks after being deported. This time, they’re back — and they’ve brought their children. A 24 year old mother was found nursing her two month old daughter outside a 7-Eleven store. She said her village lies near a conflict zone close to the Thai-Cambodian border, and described life back home as unbearable. Abandoned by her husband and earning only 200 baht that day, she said, “It’s still better than being in Cambodia.” Another woman, initially fleeing with her young son when approached, later admitted she had been arrested and deported before. Within a month, she was back in Thailand, citing her diabetes, lack of work, and no other option for survival. Locals, including a woman from Surin province, roughly 70 kilometres from the Cambodian border, said the beggars were a constant presence. “They’re scared of the police, but going home means starvation. They’re just trying to send money back to their families.” Observers noted the beggars’ tactics — most were women with children, posted near high-footfall tourist areas. Some acted as lookouts, ready to signal others to scatter at the first sign of police or media. While generally non-aggressive, the women were often reluctant to speak and quickly retreated into alleyways when approached, reported The Pattaya News. Motorbike taxi drivers and shopkeepers confirmed a familiar cycle: the women get arrested, disappear for a month or two, then reappear in the same spots. “It’s become normal,” one driver said. “People don’t notice anymore.” Despite the illegality of begging, the practice thrives. Locals estimated the beggars can earn between 400 and 500 baht a day, sometimes raking in up to 2,000 baht during peak hours. Most operate from early evening until late at night, relying heavily on tourists’ sympathy stirred by the sight of children in tow. Pattaya’s Cambodian beggar problem isn’t new — but its persistence reflects deeper issues tied to economic hardship, illegal migration, and ongoing instability across the Thai-Cambodian border. The story Cambodian beggars with babies flood Pattaya streets as seen on Thaiger News.

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