Mayor Poramet responded directly to long-stay tourist Alan French, saying he agrees with the call to prioritize infrastructure. PATTAYA, Thailand – Following a sincere letter published in Pattaya Mail by long-term visitor Mr. Alan French urging the city to “fix the foundations, not just hold festivals,” Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet has issued a detailed response outlining the city’s ongoing infrastructure efforts and acknowledging the concerns raised. “Thank you for your remarks, with which I fully agree,” Mayor Poramet began. “I would like to take this opportunity to share some aspects of Pattaya City’s work that many may not be fully aware of.” He explained that Pattaya City has been implementing a variety of projects aimed at developing the city’s infrastructure—both physical and digital—as it continues to grow and evolve without pause. “However, with every endeavor comes challenges and obstacles,” he noted. “As a globally recognized tourism destination and one of the fastest-growing cities in the region, Pattaya faces the constant challenge of keeping its infrastructure development in pace with its rapid growth,” Mayor Poramet continued. He acknowledged that negative perceptions are often tied to visible issues such as roadworks or flooding, which are difficult to avoid during major city transformations aimed at serving both locals and millions of annual tourists. The mayor further explained that some infrastructure projects may coincide with festivals and public events. These occasions require not just road preparations but also comprehensive safety and convenience measures, which can sometimes delay other development efforts. “Despite these challenges,” he assured, “Pattaya City is committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and welcoming experience for all visitors. We warmly invite everyone to visit Pattaya with confidence, assured of our readiness to offer the best in hospitality, services, and safety. We stand prepared to support and care for all our guests in every possible way.” Earlier Report: https://www.pattayamail.com/news/long-term-visitor-pens-sincere-plea-to-pattaya-mayor-fix-the-foundations-not-just-the-festivals-501928

Dangerous cable coils spotted across Pattaya have raised safety concerns among residents and tourists. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya City Council members, along with the city’s grievance unit and both public and private sector agencies, recently launched a joint operation to organize and remove unused or hazardous communication cables throughout the city. The initiative aims to improve public safety, urban aesthetics, and reduce fire risks caused by neglected wires. Local residents voiced their support while also calling for stricter regulations on cable installation and maintenance. Many noted that some providers leave large coils of unused cable hanging from utility poles, creating hazards and eyesores. The operation is part of ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure across Pattaya. Pattaya officials team up with private and public agencies to tidy up tangled, unused communication lines. Residents urge authorities to enforce fines for providers who leave messy or obsolete cables on poles. Locals call for biannual cleanups to ensure safer, more beautiful streets and prevent future accidents.

The woman confessed to inventing the story to avoid upsetting her British boyfriend over lost money. PATTAYA, Thailand – In a bizarre incident in South Pattaya, a 37-year-old department store employee, Ms. Rattana (surname withheld), filed a false police report claiming she had been robbed by knife-wielding drug addicts. She alleged the robbery occurred on Soi Siam Country Club in east Pattaya, where three men on two motorbikes supposedly stole 32,000 baht and her engagement ring as she was riding home. Banglamung Police, led by Pol. Col. Sarawut Nuchanart and Pol. Lt. Col. Kornpong Sukvisith, launched a swift investigation. However, after thoroughly reviewing CCTV footage from the area, they found no trace of the alleged crime — only recordings of police officers, reporters, and the woman at the scene. When called in for further questioning, Ms. Rattana initially avoided police contact but eventually appeared at the station. Under intense questioning, she broke down and confessed that she had fabricated the entire story to explain the missing money to her British boyfriend. Her goal was to obtain an official police report to avoid his anger, unaware that the situation would escalate into a criminal case and public attention. Ms. Rattana tearfully apologized to the police, explaining that she acted out of desperation. She is now facing legal action for filing a false report, and her relationship has ended as a result. A single mother, her actions have caused turmoil for herself and her family. Pol. Lt. Col. Kornpong reminded the public that Pattaya, as a major tourism hub, cannot afford to waste police resources on fabricated crimes. False reports not only strain law enforcement but also tarnish the city’s image. Authorities warn that filing false reports damages Pattaya’s reputation and will lead to prosecution.

“Have fun, but stay within limits” – The debate over loud molam concerts and events continues as many are left with no choice but to “endure the noise. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya is famous for its electric nightlife, pulsating festivals, and round-the-clock energy. For some, the sound of music pounding through the streets is a sign of life, fun, and tourism. But for many others, it’s a relentless assault on peace, turning what should be a relaxing holiday or a quiet evening at home into a battle of endurance. Recently, a mor lam concert near Soi Khao Talo became a flashpoint in the long-simmering debate over noise control in the city. After complaints flooded social media channels like the Pattaya Mayor’s Direct Line page and hotline 1337 Max, Pattaya authorities stepped in. Officials from the Public Health and Environment Division measured the noise and ordered that volume levels be kept under 90 decibels—an attempt to reduce disturbance to nearby residents. “You can have fun, but it must be within the boundaries of the law and not infringe on the rights of others.” While this sounds reasonable in theory, the reality on the ground is far more divisive. Voices from the Public: A City Divided Many residents welcomed the move. “That area is residential, with many homes—agree completely.” “At least now I can sleep. My windows were shaking before!” “Good step forward. Just don’t let the noise go past 2 a.m.” Others, however, questioned the selective enforcement: “Why do Chinese pubs on Pattaya Third Road get to blast music until 5-6 in the morning and no one checks?” “How about the fireworks shows by the city itself? Dogs, cats, people—everyone suffers, and the city never limits those.” “Noise from big bikes, emergency sirens, and waterparks—will those get controlled too?” “Whose rights matter?” – In a tourist city like Pattaya, loud events bring joy to some and sleepless nights to others. A significant number of commenters expressed frustration with double standards, where private organizers face scrutiny, but city-run events or Chinese-owned businesses seem to operate above the rules. “If you’re going to enforce the law, make it fair. Same rule for all—pubs, bars, fireworks, city concerts.” “When the city hosts events, no one talks about decibel levels. But when it’s a cultural show like mor lam, suddenly it’s a problem?” Cultural Clash or Class Divide? Some see the controversy as a deeper issue—a clash of values between modern entertainment and traditional culture. “Mor lam isn’t just loud music—it’s culture, it’s heritage. But we need proper venues, like stadiums or theaters, away from homes.” “I’m Isaan. I love mor lam and heavy bass, but I also understand people need sleep. We need compromise.” Yet others feel cultural respect is lacking: “People complain like mor lam happens every day. It’s just one night! But bars disturb every night!” “It’s not fair. You say you support tourism, but you kill the culture.” Real Solutions or Empty Promises? In a city that markets itself as an international tourism hub, the noise issue is complex. Tourism brings money, energy, and diversity—but without regulation, it can destroy the very communities it’s meant to uplift. “One person’s entertainment can be another’s nightmare” – Concert noise exceeding 90 decibels sparks complaints from nearby residents. Suggestions from the public include: -Establishing regulated performance zones for outdoor events -Creating a uniform city-wide noise policy that applies to public and private events alike -Transparency in enforcement, especially in nightlife hotspots -Limiting fireworks and sirens in residential zones -Involving communities in event planning, especially in cultural showcases like mor lam A Bigger Question One comment captured the core of the issue: “Why must we always ‘tolerate’? Why not find balance?” Pattaya’s noise problem isn’t just about decibels. It’s about fairness, respect, and a vision for a city that can celebrate life without deafening it. As one resident put it: “People who came to enjoy the music were a few dozen. Those who suffered from the noise? More than a thousand.” If Pattaya wants to be a truly inclusive tourist city, it must learn how to turn down the volume—without turning off the soul. “Can we have one standard for all?” – Locals question fairness in noise control across concerts, fireworks, clubs, and emergency sirens.

Pattaya clears sidewalks to improve safety, but locals say vendors will return within hours without strict fines or enforcement. PATTAYA, Thailand – In a renewed effort to improve pedestrian safety and reduce the number of tourists forced to walk on busy roads, Pattaya city officials have launched a footpath clearance campaign, removing vendor stalls, tables, and other obstructions from sidewalks in several high-traffic areas. Authorities say the goal is to return public walkways to their intended use and address a common complaint among both tourists and locals about having to navigate streets filled with moving vehicles due to blocked footpaths. While the campaign has been welcomed by some, many long-time residents and observers remain unconvinced of its long-term impact. “Won’t stop the usual suspects—they don’t care,” one resident commented on social media, reflecting a widespread perception that many sidewalk vendors will simply return once officials leave the scene. Others noted that the campaign often overlooks other safety issues. “Don’t forget awnings or signs that are hazards for running into,” another user added. “Then again, it never lasts long…” The skepticism is rooted in past experience. Similar operations have been launched before—often with a flurry of activity and media coverage—only to see footpaths reoccupied within hours. “They can do it every day and it still won’t make any difference,” a local business owner said. “Once the officials move off, they’re back. There is no respect for police or any law—just money.” One frustrated pedestrian suggested a stricter approach: “Totally useless to do… within an hour it will be blocked again. Fine them 5,000–10,000 baht. It will work then.” Despite the cynicism, city officials insist the campaign will be followed up with stricter monitoring and possible penalties for repeat offenders. Whether that will be enough to change long-standing habits remains to be seen.

Chinese tourists scammed with fake 2,540 baht taxi fare—real fare code misused to deceive passengers, warns Thai transport officials. PATTAYA, Thailand – The Ministry of Transport has clarified that Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport will not face any service shutdowns following reports that airport-registered taxi drivers threatened to walk off in protest of what they call “unfair competition” from app-based ride-hailing platforms like Grab and Bolt. While taxi driver representatives demand a more level playing field—claiming that app-based services undercut their pricing and operate with fewer regulatory burdens—the public reaction has been far less sympathetic. As taxi drivers at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport call on the government to crack down on app-based ride services, public reaction—especially from foreign tourists and even some locals—has been far from supportive. Travelers are quick to point out the long-standing issues they’ve faced with traditional taxis. Meter refusal, price gouging, and deceptive routing continue to tarnish the reputation of Thailand’s taxi industry. Calls for fairness from Suvarnabhumi taxi drivers spark backlash, with many travelers citing years of overpriced fares, meter refusal, and bad experiences. (File Photo) “Even using the meter, they’ll take a longer route to your destination—don’t they know there’s something called Google Maps?” one frustrated tourist commented. Others echoed the sentiment, calling for standardized pricing and digital fare transparency. “What’s needed is a clear, app-based pricing model like Grab or Bolt. When fair pricing exists, tourists will gladly use the service,” another traveler posted online. Far from isolated opinions, these complaints reflect a broader shift in consumer behavior. One user shared, “These taxi drivers now have a global reputation for being crooks. Develop all the rules you want, people are still going to use Grab or Bolt. I had the Bolt app installed within minutes of landing at Bangkok airport the first time.” Even Thai passengers have admitted turning to ride-hailing apps for convenience, safety, and price clarity. As the Ministry of Transport assures the public that there will be no airport service disruptions, it now faces growing pressure to balance taxi drivers’ demands with a clear-eyed response to widespread dissatisfaction from the very people the transport system is supposed to serve. The Ministry of Transport confirms no service shutdown at Suvarnabhumi Airport despite taxi drivers’ protest threats. (File Photo)

Living under the radar? Thai Immigration is watching — no matter if you’re hiding in the hills, on faraway islands, or the busy streets of Pattaya. PATTAYA, Thailand – As Thailand continues to attract international visitors and investors, immigration authorities are sending a firm message to those abusing the system: You will be found. You will be removed. In light of recent operations in Koh Samui and Phuket, Thai immigration has intensified its focus on so-called “stealth foreigners”—those who overstay, hide from criminal charges abroad, or run illegal businesses through Thai nominees. Pattaya, long seen as a destination for opportunity and second chances, is now under closer scrutiny. “Thailand welcomes lawful foreign investment and tourism, but those who come here to hide, commit fraud, or exploit the system will be found and removed,” a senior immigration official stated. Investigations have revealed a growing number of foreigners using Thai citizens as nominees to operate bars, real estate ventures, and entertainment venues without proper documentation or business licenses. Many of these individuals are fugitives or have been blacklisted in their home countries. Backed by partnerships with global agencies like INTERPOL, the FBI, and the UK’s NCA, Thai authorities are now coordinating efforts to cross-check identities, investigate financial trails, and dismantle illegal foreign-run operations. No matter where you run—whether you’re hiding in the quiet hills, setting up shop on faraway islands, or blending in among the crowds of Pattaya’s busy streets—Thai authorities are closing in. Immigration, in cooperation with domestic and international partners, is intensifying efforts to track down foreigners who abuse the system. Those involved in nominee scams, visa violations, or fleeing foreign convictions will be found. If you’re living in Pattaya, the warning is real—stay legal, stay transparent, or risk detention and deportation. The message is clear: Thailand is no longer a safe haven for stealth foreign offenders. Nominee abuse, visa fraud, hiding from justice — your time is up, whether you’re on remote shores or in plain sight. Thailand is done being your hiding place. Stay legal or face removal — even if you’re tucked away in mountain villas or blending in on Walking Street.

PATTAYA, Thailand – A fire broke out at the “Smoke Weed” cannabis shop on Soi 13/2 at approximately 4:00 PM on May 26th, 2025, causing alarm among tourists and locals in the bustling city center. The blaze, suspected to be caused by an electrical short circuit, originated on the fourth floor of a four-story commercial […]

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