‘Hamburger Crisis’ Hits Hard – Restaurateurs squeezed by soaring costs and shrinking spending, warns industry leader Sorrathep Steve. PATTAYA, Thailand – A wave of rising kitchen costs is battering Pattaya’s once-thriving restaurant scene, leaving owners scrambling to stay afloat amid surging prices for gas, raw ingredients, and labor. Many restaurateurs now warn that 2025 is shaping up to be even worse than the COVID-19 era — a dire scenario fueled by weak consumer spending, spiraling costs, and a perceived lack of effective government intervention. Sorrathep Steve, President of the Restaurant Business Club and honorary advisor to the Hostel Association of Thailand, voiced deep concern over what he called a “hamburger crisis” — a perfect economic storm where restaurants are being squeezed from both ends: unsustainable overheads and vanishing customer purchasing power. Speaking on behalf of struggling operators, Sorrathep made an urgent appeal to Prime Minister Paetongtarn and her economic team, urging them to act before the sector collapses entirely. He proposed five emergency measures to help keep businesses alive: Scrap the third round of digital wallet giveaways and instead reinstate the Khon La Khrueng co-pay scheme for six months to directly support daily food expenses and stimulate spending at food vendors of all sizes.   Allow tax deductions for food receipts, so individuals and companies can claim back expenses — a budget-neutral solution that would encourage formal spending and boost state revenue. Control energy and raw material costs, especially as Thailand heads into another dry season likely to send produce prices soaring.   Cut Social Security contributions for businesses by half until the end of 2025, to reduce payroll pressure.   Implement short-term tourism stimulus plans while laying out a 15-year integrated strategy to promote sustainable tourism, instead of simply holding sporadic seasonal events. “The government during pandemic at least tried to manage the country with the people in mind,” said Sorrathep. “Now, between 2023 and 2025, restaurant operators have repeatedly called for targeted tax relief. For example, allowing individuals to deduct up to 20,000 baht and corporations up to 100,000 baht in food-related expenses. But this administration is silent, as if it’s not even thinking.” According to him, the government’s earlier cash handouts — worth hundreds of billions of baht — have failed to reach street food stalls, SMEs, and fresh markets. “The money disappears into debt repayments,” he said, “while restaurant costs keep climbing and customer numbers keep falling. The end result: closures, layoffs, and a decimated food service chain — from farmers and delivery drivers to vendors and staff.” As tourism — long considered Thailand’s economic engine — continues to sputter, restaurant revenues are dropping by more than 50% in many cases. The much-anticipated ‘We Travel Together’ or Rao Tiew Duay Kan travel subsidy program has also been delayed to the point of irrelevance, missing the critical Q4 2024 window and arriving just as consumers run out of disposable income. “Restaurants form one of Thailand’s largest supply chains,” Sorrathep emphasized. “When they thrive, so do markets, farmers, logistics providers, and employees. A strong economy depends on strong SMEs — but it seems like the Prime Minister and his cabinet either doesn’t understand this or have no interest in learning.” The message from Pattaya’s restaurant community is now loud and clear: the plate is empty, the bills are piling up, and time is running out.

Jomtien’s beachfront turns into a construction nightmare, driving tourists and businesses away. PATTAYA, Thailand – What was once a peaceful seaside stretch and a favorite spot for tourists is now a dusty, chaotic construction zone, as ongoing roadworks along Jomtien Beach Road and Second Road grind into yet another frustrating phase. While city officials tout the infrastructure overhaul as a much-needed upgrade, the reality on the ground paints a different picture — one of tradeoffs that many say are costing the area more than they’re worth. Locals and long-term visitors are sounding the alarm over the worsening conditions. Dust clouds, construction debris, and gaping holes dominate the scenery. Footpaths are either broken or blocked, forcing pedestrians to walk dangerously close to traffic. Songthaews — a crucial part of Pattaya’s public transport system — are rerouting or skipping the area altogether, leaving both tourists and locals stranded. Business owners along the beachfront and Second Road are reporting sharp downturns in revenue. “People aren’t coming here like they used to,” said one café owner. “They can’t park, they can’t walk, and there’s no view. It’s not Jomtien anymore — it’s a construction site.” Tourists have taken to social media and expat forums to vent their frustration. One particularly blunt comment captures the growing sentiment: “Jomtien Beach Road is a freaking disaster. A kilometer at least still doesn’t have the beach walk. There’s construction garbage everywhere. There’s 20-30 people that call the Pattaya Jomtien Beach sign at the curve home. The one-way road is a mess, completely disrupting songthaews and impacting businesses. Who wants to bring their family there? Anybody that’s been in the last year is never coming back. Nor are their family or friends.” “A cleaner Jomtien? Not really — they’re still pouring sewage and filthy water into the sea. I’ve lived in Thailand for 15 years, 12 of them in Pattaya and Jomtien, and I’ve never once swum in the sea here. But in Phuket or Samui, I’m in the water every day. The parking is a nightmare — illegal double-parked cars all along Beach Road, and just one sad little sign near Soi 4 telling people not to do it. The one-way system is a disaster and it’s killing local businesses. Honestly, it feels like the authorities already have a fixed plan and couldn’t care less about what residents or business owners think,” said a longtime Jomtien resident. The city’s silence on clear timelines for completion is adding to the frustration. Without regular updates or visible progress, many worry that the damage to Jomtien’s reputation — and to the small businesses that rely on steady foot traffic — may be lasting. While some still hold out hope that the construction will ultimately improve drainage, sidewalks, and overall infrastructure, the current state of Jomtien is pushing tourists and locals alike to take their business elsewhere. The question now is whether those who’ve left will ever return once the dust finally settles.

Police links cases: 2 Thai teenagers sexually assaulted in PattayaLegacyTwo Thai teenagers filed a sexual assault complaint with Mueang Pattaya Police Station at a similar time in the early hours of this morning. The perpetrator is suspected to be the same person. The first victim, 20 year old Dao, arrived at the police station with her colleague at 2.21am, today, May 21, to report the rape and theft. The incident occurred at about 10pm when she was on her way to work at a bar in Pattaya Soi 6. Dao explained that she was about to cross the road from Pattaya Beach to Pattaya Soi 6 and encountered the attacker. She was unsure about his nationality as the man could speak Thai, but his accent was unclear. According to Dao, the man asked her to go to his accommodation, which she agreed to. She got on his motorcycle and headed to northern Pattaya. The man suddenly turned into a dark alley. He parked the motorcycle and threatened her with a knife, forcing her to walk to an abandoned bathroom. The suspect then reportedly raped her and forced her to hand over her bag. He abandoned Dao at the spot and sped away on his motorcycle. She then walked to her workplace to seek help from her colleagues. Dao stated the bag contained cash, a mobile phone, and personal documents. Photo via Facebook/ จับตาพัทยา Shortly after that, a 17 year old victim, whose name remains undisclosed, filed a sexual assault complaint at the police station. The teenager explained that she was waiting for an app-based motorcycle rider on Pattaya Beach, opposite Soi Pattaya 3, when the suspect approached her. Photo via Facebook/ จับตาพัทยา The man mistook her for a sex worker and asked her for a service fee. She told the man she was not offering sex services and informed him that she was waiting for the app-based rider to return to her accommodation, not a client. The suspect volunteered to take her home, so she got on his motorcycle. The man took her into a dark roadside forest and demanded sex from her. He also threatened her with a knife while forcing her to walk deeper into the forest. Photo via Facebook/ จับตาพัทยา The teenage victim said she fought back and managed to run away from him. She met a motorist on the road and sought help from the person to take her to a police station. Mueang Pattaya Police Station officers reported that the two complaints were filed within one hour, leading police to suspect that the perpetrator in both cases was the same person. Officers have not yet identified the suspect. The story Police links cases: 2 Thai teenagers sexually assaulted in Pattaya as seen on Thaiger News.

Stark raving nude: Naked men run riot on Pattaya streetsLegacyPattaya locals were left gobsmacked this week after not one, but two stark-naked men caused chaos on the streets, one reportedly defecating near schools, the other hurling furniture at cops in a midnight meltdown. Concerned residents in Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri, are calling for urgent action after a homeless man, believed to be around 50, was repeatedly spotted wandering around completely naked near schools and government buildings. The mystery man has been seen loitering in the buff near Bang Lamung School and Pattaya City School 2, as well as outside key municipal offices. Disturbed locals have recorded videos of his antics, raising fears for the safety of children and tourists. “He’s often completely naked or wearing donated clothes,” said a local vendor, who asked not to be named. “Some days he walks around naked, and sometimes he even defecates on the roadside without regard for the location. This is right near schools with lots of students. The police need to step in before something bad happens.” The area, popular with tourists and packed with schoolchildren in the mornings and afternoons, is now the focus of public concern. Residents have urged police, public health officials and the local municipality to step in before things spiral further, Pattaya News reported. But the naked chaos didn’t stop there. Pictures courtesy of Pattaya News Just after midnight on May 18, officers from Bang Lamung Police Station were called to another bizarre scene, this time involving a Russian man, aged between 30 and 40, who had escaped from a nearby hospital in the nude. Officers received reports at 12.08am that the man had stripped off and fled the facility near Naklua Market. He was seen staggering through Soi Naklua 9 wielding a rock and a plastic chair, which he allegedly used to damage property along the way. Footage broadcast on Channel 7 showed two police officers and two rescue workers chasing the naked suspect down a dark alley. The man reportedly refused to cooperate and launched the chair at officers, though thankfully, no injuries were reported. Police are now investigating both incidents as locals demand stronger mental health interventions and enforcement to keep Pattaya’s streets safe and clothed. The story Stark raving nude: Naked men run riot on Pattaya streets as seen on Thaiger News.

Pattaya waitresses battered by foreigner in beach bar bust-upLegacyTwo Pattaya waitresses were left bloodied and bruised after a polite request to “keep it down” sparked a violent seaside scrap, with beer bottles flying and tourists looking on in horror. The two waitresses have gone public with shocking claims of a violent attack that broke out after they asked a rowdy group to lower their voices during a quiet meal. Ms Rosukon, and her friend, 33 year old Ms Rungtiwa, (surnames withheld), spoke to reporters on yesterday, May 20, at 2.06pm, sharing CCTV footage and bruises from the brutal bust-up. The pair said the incident happened the night before in the Jomtien area, not at their workplace, but at a nearby beachfront eatery where they’d gone for dinner after work. While waiting for their food, the pair said they were disturbed by a loud group at a nearby table, made up of two women, one reportedly a foreigner, who were drinking, eating and shouting. “I asked them nicely, ‘Could you please keep it down?’” said the 26 year old Rosukon. But the request didn’t go down well. The two women allegedly erupted into a foul-mouthed tirade, hurling abuse including, “Are your father and mother dead?” “Yes, my father is dead, but my mother is alive,” replied one of the victims, which only seemed to pour fuel on the fire. That’s when things turned ugly, Pattaya News reported. Pictures courtesy of Pattaya News According to the victims, one of the attackers grabbed Rosukon by the hair and dragged her towards the beachfront, trying to smash her with a beer bottle. As she grabbed a chair to defend herself, another woman allegedly launched a flying kick that knocked her to the ground. “They just kept hitting us,” the women claimed, saying stunned tourists and locals shouted for them to stop. Bystanders eventually stepped in, breaking up the chaos. Shockingly, the assailants then returned to their table as if nothing had happened, continuing to drink without a care. The injured waitresses went to a local hospital for treatment before filing a police report. They also handed over CCTV footage to back up their claims, fearing their status as “just waitresses” might lead to the case being brushed under the carpet. “We’re scared they’ll get away with it,” they told reporters. Pattaya police confirmed they have received the footage and are now working to track down and identify the suspects. The victims say they hope their public plea will push the case forward and ensure their attackers face justice. The story Pattaya waitresses battered by foreigner in beach bar bust-up as seen on Thaiger News.

Pattaya cracks down on cars blocking wheelchair pathsLegacyPattaya officials are finally parking the problem for good. In a bold crackdown that’s earning applause across the city, municipal officers and traffic police have launched a campaign to fine drivers who illegally park on wheelchair-accessible pathways. The first sweep took place on Soi Paniadchang, located behind Big C Central Pattaya, where enforcement teams issued tickets and fines to motorists blocking designated paths meant to ensure safe passage for people with disabilities. “This has been happening for years in our neighbourhood,” one frustrated local said online. “It’s about time something was done.” The campaign was sparked by multiple complaints from residents, who say footpaths and wheelchair lanes are frequently obstructed by careless drivers, forcing the disabled to risk their lives by navigating through traffic. “The aim is to return these public walkways to the people they were made for,” an officer on the scene said. “Everyone deserves safe, unobstructed access.” Online reaction has been overwhelmingly supportive. Residents flooded social media with comments praising the effort and sharing horror stories about near misses and daily struggles. “Some of these drivers even drive through the wheelchair lanes. It’s disgraceful,” one user wrote. Another added, “These people have full use of their arms and legs, yet they’re completely selfish. Tow the cars and fine them properly. Enough is enough.” One resident argued that the key to lasting change lies in consistency: “If people know they’ll be fined every time, they’ll start obeying the rules. But if it’s hit-or-miss, no one will take it seriously.” Many praised the campaign not just as a matter of enforcement but as one of basic human decency. “Returning the road to disabled people is excellent. This is how it should’ve been from the beginning. Show some compassion.” With the campaign now underway, locals are calling for even tougher measures, including more visible signage, heavier fines, and routine patrols to prevent repeat violations, reported Pattaya Mail. Pattaya’s initiative could soon set the standard for other Thai cities—a place where accessibility matters and selfish parking comes at a price. The story Pattaya cracks down on cars blocking wheelchair paths as seen on Thaiger News.

Pattaya cracks top 10 safest cities in ASEANLegacyIn a surprising twist that’s turning heads across Southeast Asia, Pattaya, long known for its wild nightlife, has been named one of the Top 10 Safest Cities in ASEAN for 2025. The ranking, released by Numbeo, a global database that tracks cost of living and quality of life, placed Pattaya at 9th with a Safety Index score of 53.9. The list measures residents’ and visitors’ perceptions of crime, safety during the day and night, and concerns like theft, assault, burglary, and vandalism. Top of the list? Chiang Mai, crowned as the safest city in ASEAN with an impressive 78.2, narrowly beating Singapore, which scored 77.4. Thailand’s bustling capital, Bangkok, also earned a spot in the top 10, landing at 7th with a score of 60.7. “Numbeo’s Safety Index reflects how people experience safety in real life, not just what the official statistics say,” the report noted. Photo of a beach in Pattaya courtesy of Focus Asia Travel Pattaya’s presence in the rankings is a remarkable turnaround for a city often associated more with party culture than public safety. The result underscores ongoing efforts by local officials to reshape Pattaya’s image, attract more families and digital nomads, and make the beach town more liveable and secure. Recent years have seen major investments in public infrastructure, law enforcement, CCTV systems, and family-friendly tourism initiatives. This transformation appears to be paying off, not just in public perception but in global recognition. The news comes as Thailand rides a wave of tourism success. Between January 1 and May 11, the country welcomed nearly 13 million international tourists, raking in over 613 billion baht in tourism revenue, reported Pattaya Mail. Photo of cityscape in Pattaya courtesy of Thomas Cook The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has set its sights even higher, aiming for 39 million international visitors and a staggering 3.4 trillion baht in revenue by year’s end. A reputation for safety could prove to be a key selling point. Top 10 Safest Cities in ASEAN – 2025 (Numbeo): Chiang Mai, Thailand – 78.2 Singapore – 77.4 Davao, Philippines – 71.6 Penang, Malaysia – 69.7 Hanoi, Vietnam – 65.9 Makati, Philippines – 61.5 Bangkok, Thailand – 60.7 Iloilo, Philippines – 59.3 Pattaya, Thailand – 53.9 Johor Bahru, Malaysia – 51.3 The story Pattaya cracks top 10 safest cities in ASEAN as seen on Thaiger News.

Cops bust Pattaya branch linked to Chinese scam syndicateLegacyPattaya locals were left stunned yesterday when more than 20 police officers—some in uniform, others in plainclothes—stormed a bank on Sukhumvit Road in a dramatic midday raid. The operation, linked to an investigation into a massive Chinese call centre scam network, sent shockwaves through the city’s financial and expat communities. The surprise raid was spearheaded by Major General Thirachai Chamnan, Commander of the Region 2 Investigation Division, alongside officers from the Region 2 Investigation Unit and Bang Lamung Police Station. Officers searched the premises and collected evidence, focusing their attention on the branch manager and two staff members, one male and one female, responsible for opening customer accounts. “Following the search, the manager and two employees were taken to Bang Lamung Police Station for further questioning,” police confirmed. According to investigators, the bust was triggered by intelligence gathered during the recent arrest of a major Chinese call centre gang in Bangkok. Further investigation revealed that a group of Chinese nationals, entering Thailand on tourist visas, had opened over 100 bank accounts at the Pattaya branch in question. These accounts were allegedly used to launder funds and facilitate scams, duping unsuspecting victims across Thailand. “The manager and employees claimed they were unaware the accounts were being used for illegal activities,” police added. Officers confirmed the raid was carried out under three official arrest warrants, although they declined to disclose further details. Officials said Police General Thatchai Pitaneeyabut, Inspector General of the Royal Thai Police and Deputy Director of the Technology Crime Suppression Centre, will personally address the media at a later date, reported The Pattaya News. While no formal charges have yet been announced against the bank staff, they remain under investigation as police continue to gather evidence and determine whether there was any negligence or complicity. “This is a complex case involving multiple suspects and layers of criminal activity,” said a spokesperson. “We ask the public for patience as we expand our investigation.” With more arrests and twists likely, this banking scandal could soon blow wide open, raising serious questions about internal controls and how scam syndicates infiltrate local institutions. The story Cops bust Pattaya branch linked to Chinese scam syndicate as seen on Thaiger News.

Transwoman nicked after Pattaya Beach brawl with Israeli touristLegacyA Thai transwoman who fled the scene of a violent late-night brawl with an Israeli tourist has been arrested by Pattaya police. The suspect vanished shortly after chaos erupted on Pattaya Beach Road during the early hours, where at least five transgender women were caught on video attacking an Israeli tourist in a black T-shirt. The row reportedly kicked off over a failed deal and quickly spiralled into an all-out street scrap involving kicks, slaps, flying bottles and even rocks. The transwoman, whose name has not been released, slipped away as police arrived, fearing arrest. But officers from Pattaya City Police’s Special Operations Unit finally caught up with her yesterday, May 19, bringing her in for questioning alongside other suspects already in custody. The viral footage, which lit up Thai social media, shows the Israeli tourist being surrounded, punched and kicked by the group as his friend in elephant-print clothes tried in vain to stop the attack. As the men fled, one transwoman can be heard shouting, “The black shirt! The black shirt!” while Thai bystanders appeared to help block the tourists’ escape. Police confirmed both the tourists and the transwomen were charged with “jointly causing a fight” after what they described as a dispute over an alleged street deal that went sour, Amarin TV reported. Pictures of the police arresting a transwoman courtesy of Amarin TV The arrest came just hours after a major crackdown on sex work along Pattaya Beach. Last night, more than 20 officers were deployed to sweep Bang Lamung district in a bid to stamp out crime and improve tourist safety. As word of the raid spread, beach workers, both cisgender and transgender, bolted in all directions, with some even darting into nearby alleys. But police managed to detain over 50 people, recording their details and delivering what they called “attitude adjustments” before releasing them. Police say more operations are planned to curb illegal activity and protect the city’s image following a string of recent violent incidents involving foreign tourists. The story Transwoman nicked after Pattaya Beach brawl with Israeli tourist as seen on Thaiger News.

Dead tide: Mystery man washed up on Pattaya BeachLegacyA chilling mystery is unfolding in Pattaya after the body of an unidentified man was found washed up on the sand late Sunday morning, just weeks after two similar tragedies struck Phuket. The victim, believed to be aged between 30 and 40, was discovered face down on Pattaya Beach opposite Soi 13, dressed in a black T-shirt with foreign writing and denim shorts. Officials say a preliminary inspection showed injuries to his right eyelid and cheekbone, with blood around the nose and mouth and foam at the lips, raising suspicions of possible drowning or foul play. A mobile phone found in his possession has been seized as evidence. The alarm was first raised by a local speedboat operator who reported seeing a body floating offshore. Pattaya’s Marine Disaster Prevention Division launched a search, and the man was later found washed ashore. Police have sent the body for a full autopsy at Pattaya Patthamakhun Hospital to determine the exact cause of death, while efforts continue to identify him, the Pattaya Mail reported. Beach of grief The discovery adds to a string of tragedies hitting Thailand’s tourist beaches this month. In Phuket, Australian holidaymaker Anthony John Heathcote, was found dead on May 10 after vanishing two days earlier during a swim at Freedom Beach. The 41 year old father-of-two, from Mount Gambier, South Australia, had been enjoying a two-week getaway with his wife when he was believed to have been swept away by strong currents, said Police Lieutenant Colonel Wiwat Chamnankit. Just days before, on May 6, a 22 year old Aussie also died off Racha Island after reportedly entering the water while intoxicated. Though CPR was initially successful, he was later pronounced dead at a local hospital. Thai officials have since urged swimmers to take extra caution, particularly during the monsoon season when rip currents and rough waters can prove deadly. The story Dead tide: Mystery man washed up on Pattaya Beach as seen on Thaiger News.