Expats call for change as Pattaya’s nightlife faces challenges — better service, fair prices, and higher standards could bring back loyal customers. (Photo – Pattaya Beach Road, Thailand) PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya’s nightlife is feeling the pinch as a strong baht, high costs, and changing tourist habits lead to emptier bar stools and colder beers. Expats who frequent the city’s bars and restaurants say they want to help local businesses survive—but they have clear conditions for what needs to change. One common complaint is poor service. As one expat bluntly put it: “How about getting staff off their phones and serving the customers, maintaining consistency in the food served, stopping customers playing stuff on loudspeaker from their phones, stopping weed smokers stinking up the terrace, and don’t let people in if they don’t have a shirt on. That might help.” Others are less forgiving about the business model itself: “They chose their bed… now they have to lie in it. Should have chosen a better business model.” But the reality is tougher, as another commenter pointed out: “Doesn’t matter what model you have—the costs are very high and customers are few.” Price remains a major sticking point. Tourists often seek cheap food, but that doesn’t translate into sustainable income for businesses. One expat criticized the trend of trying to attract bargain-hunting tourists: “When you welcome tourists that try to beat restaurants down on 40 baht food, did you really think those tourists will pay 150 baht for the same dish in a fancy restaurant? You chased off all those who just ate and paid the bill in favour of a higher number of tightwads, and those tightwads are setting up their own restaurants too.” Living costs for expats also factor into the nightlife decline, as one noted: “Stay in Pattaya with 1,000 euros per month? Stay back in Europe and ask there for government money.” Another echoed the sentiment: “Below 2,000 euros/month, don’t even think about living in Pattaya.” The quality of entertainment and companionship is also under scrutiny. Many expats lament that some bar girls no longer meet expectations, with one saying: “I’m not going to empty my wallet for a 29-year-old mother of two. Try offering a better product than that if you want to make money.” Others added: “There are lots of stunning little young sweeties that have never had a kid, some have barely had more than a couple of guys, you just have to sift through the average stuff.” And on the more cynical side: “I legit ask the girls ‘how many kids do you have?’ if they have more than one, and I’m being nicer now than I was before. I just don’t believe in helping irresponsible women who work the bars but go home to some lazy dude.” The influence of foreign visitors is also changing the scene. Many note a shift toward Korean tourists who buy drinks but don’t often pay for companionship, leading to fewer patrons for Farangs. One expat described this as a “death spiral,” likening it to what happened in Angeles City, Philippines: “The bargirls don’t want to go with Farangs, preferring to sit in the bar and wait for a 40-drink Korean ‘whale’. As more Farangs are rejected, traffic on Soi 6 declines, and some ladies leave for other venues. Fewer ladies mean fewer Koreans. If this continues, Soi 6 will be sold off for hotels in a few years.” Yet some expats still find value in the scene, noting: “If you want the best value, your odds are most definitely best on Soi 6.” And despite complaints about prices—*“It’s like this in the low season. Farangs are very seasonal, mainly Nov to April”—*they recognize the challenge in the wider market. Overall, expats are clear: Pattaya’s nightlife can survive and even thrive—but only if bars and restaurants improve service, reconsider pricing strategies, clean up the atmosphere, and offer better quality in both food and entertainment.

A beach vendor watches quietly as a lone foreigner sips from a coconut — one sale made, but the worry in her eyes says it’s not enough. PATTAYA, Thailand – The sun still scorches. The roads are slick with monsoon drizzle. But what’s biting hardest in Pattaya this week isn’t the weather — it’s the strengthening Thai baht, which many say is putting fresh pressure on local businesses and driving tourists to think twice before spending. Thursday morning, the baht opened at 32.59 to the dollar, stronger than the previous day’s close of 32.70. Market analysts expect it to fluctuate between 32.40 and 32.70 throughout the day. The recent appreciation comes after a series of disappointing U.S. economic reports — including weaker-than-expected private sector job growth and a contraction in the U.S. services PMI, which dropped to 49.9, below the 50-point threshold that signals expansion. The weakening of the U.S. dollar, coupled with falling 10-year U.S. bond yields and rising global uncertainty, has further boosted gold prices — which in turn supports the baht’s strength. Investors are also adjusting expectations for the U.S. Federal Reserve to potentially cut interest rates three times this year, up from earlier forecasts of just two cuts. Back in Pattaya, though, the economic theory translates into daily hardship. “Everything is more expensive now for foreigners,” said one bar owner on Soi Buakhao. “My regulars are complaining about the baht — they used to tip more, stay longer. Now they drink slower and leave earlier.” Beach vendors echo the sentiment. Santi, who sells 80 baht fruit shakes near Pattaya Beach, said, “Farang say it’s too expensive now. They don’t buy like before. Before, five or six a day. Now? Two.” Even longtime beach operators are feeling the squeeze. “I sit here all day with ten empty chairs,” said an older woman renting out sunbeds along the beach. “They ask the price, then walk away. No one wants to pay 100 baht anymore. And I sell maybe one or two coconuts — some days, none.” Wet season weather hasn’t helped, with fewer people lingering outdoors. “It’s hot and wet at the same time — and quiet,” one motorbike taxi driver said. “We wait long time for customers. Then, when they come, they say price too high.” The recent currency shift also comes amid ongoing concerns about rising costs in Pattaya overall — including everything from food and drink to hotel rates and entertainment. Many European visitors who once stayed for months are now cutting their trips short or considering cheaper destinations like Vietnam or Cambodia. “Pattaya isn’t cheap anymore,” one long-term tourist said. “It’s Thailand’s exchange rate that decides if I stay — not the women, not the beach, not the nightlife.” Even within the local expat community, there’s a growing divide between those who have adjusted and those who are rethinking their future here. “I love Thailand, but when the euro gets weaker and the baht keeps getting stronger, it just doesn’t add up,” said a retiree from Germany. “I might go back to Europe this year instead of renewing my visa.” As the baht climbs and the tourists tighten their wallets, Pattaya is learning a hard truth: even paradise can price itself out of reach.

Locals learn bad habits young, tourists copy them fast — and until the law applies to everyone, Pattaya’s traffic chaos won’t stop. (Photo – Pattaya Beach Road, Thailand) PATTAYA, Thailand – In Pattaya, where streets teem with buzzing scooters, loud exhausts, and helmetless riders, the question of who should police target to improve road safety—Thai locals or foreign visitors—has sparked heated debate among residents, long-term visitors, and tourists alike. The city has attempted crackdowns, such as the June 1st enforcement push, but many say the chaos remains unchanged. “Still three on a bike. No helmets,” one local said bluntly. Another added, “Tell them to come to 2nd Road. Hasn’t made the slightest difference.” Many argue that the issue lies with everyone. As one comment put it, “Law breakers — it’s as simple as that.” Others insist enforcement shouldn’t discriminate: “The law should be equally applied. It’s the country’s law, not just one group’s law.” But reality on Pattaya’s roads tells a different story. Tourists often report being pulled over more frequently than locals—some claiming it’s less about safety and more about money. “Only foreigners can pay off fines and bribes. Safety is not a concern,” said one European resident. Another echoed the frustration: “Police will also chase their money so they go for foreigners. Got pulled on many occasions… bikes all legal, license all legal.” Yet many locals aren’t spared either. Side cart drivers from neighboring countries like Laos and Cambodia are also in the mix. “No license, no registration, speeding,” a commenter warned about the chaos on Thepprasit Road. Some call attention to cultural habits learned early, where helmets are seen as optional and speed is a rite of passage. “It’s called the lack of teaching. When you don’t tell them, they learn from their environment,” one Thai-based expat said. Meanwhile, long-term visitors say Pattaya’s roads have never truly made sense. “Does anyone do a road rules and driving test in Thailand? As an observer for over 16 months, I still can’t work it out,” someone joked. Others described the licensing process as little more than symbolic. “You get your license in 3 days, including ‘driving’ and ‘theory.’” Even more absurd, one user quipped, “They sell driving licenses at 7-Eleven?”—a satirical jab at how loosely traffic laws are enforced. Critics also pointed fingers at Pattaya’s baht bus drivers, notorious for pulling in and out of lanes without warning. Others took issue with big bike riders, shirtless tourists, and “ladyboys without helmets.” Still, some found it relatively calm compared to other hotspots: “Actually it’s quite chill here. Phuket is absolute madness… suicide drivers everywhere. And 99% are foreigners.” Ultimately, Pattaya’s two-wheel dilemma isn’t about nationality—it’s about accountability. Helmets, speed limits, licenses, and basic road manners are often ignored across the board. As one frustrated commenter summed it up: “Is this really a question? How about targeting all the people that break the law?” Until that happens, it’s clear: Pattaya’s roads will remain a free-for-all on two wheels—equal parts danger, spectacle, and frustration.

Candid tourists and expats reveal why they’re walking away from Pattaya’s once-thriving bar scene — from declining entertainment quality to soaring prices and disappointing experiences. PATTAYA, Thailand – As the low season rolls on and bar stools sit increasingly empty across Pattaya’s nightlife zones, many long-term foreign visitors and frequent holidaymakers are speaking out — not just about prices or the economy, but about the changing quality of entertainment and companionship in the city’s once-thriving bar scene. Online forums, comment threads, and late-night terrace conversations reveal that disappointment runs deeper than the strength of the baht or the cost of a beer. “The girls don’t even look up from their phones,” one expat grumbled. “No greeting, no service — they just scroll TikTok like you’re invisible.” But it’s not just service that’s under scrutiny. Many say the charm and companionship that once defined Pattaya’s allure has faded, replaced by a transactional culture that’s overpriced and underdelivers. “I’m not going to empty my wallet for a 29-year-old mother of two,” one candid visitor stated. “Try offering a better product than that if you want to make money.” Some were even more direct about their personal criteria. “I legit ask the girls ‘how many kids do you have?’” said another. “If they have more than one, I move on. I just don’t believe in helping irresponsible women who work the bars but go home to some lazy dude.” Others noted that while good options still exist, they’re harder to find. “There are lots of stunning little young sweeties that have never had a kid, some have barely had more than a couple of guys,” wrote one long-timer. “You just have to sift through the average stuff.” Still, not all the blame was placed on the women. Some foreigners pointed out that Pattaya’s nightlife industry itself has failed to adapt. Overpriced drinks, inconsistent food, loud phone speakers, and the growing presence of weed smoke have all turned off customers. And then there’s the issue of image. “You’re charging premium prices, but letting shirtless dudes stink up the place, blast music, and light up joints like it’s a back alley. That’s not nightlife — that’s chaos,” said one frustrated bar owner trying to hold onto foreign clientele. Some voiced empathy for the women, but called for better standards overall — in atmosphere, service, and honesty. As high season inches closer, it remains to be seen whether Pattaya’s bars will take the feedback to heart — or keep losing ground to Grab rides, quiet condos, and home-delivered beers.

From lady drinks to legal weed—longtime visitors say Pattaya has lost its magic and affordability. PATTAYA, Thailand – Once a magnet for Western travelers drawn by cheap prices, friendly faces, and easy fun, Pattaya is now facing a chorus of discontent from returning tourists and long-term visitors. Yes, tourists are back—but many aren’t staying long, and they’re spending less than ever. “It’s not Pattaya anymore,” one visitor bluntly posted online. “The Thai government has allowed it to turn into little Mumbai.” It’s a sentiment echoed often in comments and barstool conversations. While some chalk the change up to shifting demographics, others point to broader issues: sky-high airfares, expensive hotels, and the soaring Thai baht that’s chipping away at foreigners’ spending power. “Everything is double since the last time I was here,” said a frustrated tourist. “I found a better place—cheaper, safer.” Even among those who love Pattaya, the mood has changed. “We have guests again,” said one small hotel operator, “but we’re working twice as hard to earn half as much.” Many bars and clubs that once relied on long-term Western regulars now struggle to adapt to shorter-staying, cost-conscious travelers. And while the town still pulses with music and neon, some say the soul has shifted. “Thailand has become Mumbai,” one commenter posted. “Time to holiday in another place.” There’s also tension over who’s coming—and how they’re spending. “Most tourists will buy a beer and a lady drink,” one bar regular said. “But Indians will buy one beer and four straws.” Another added, “I’ve seen Indian men haggling with the baht bus—it’s 10 baht, ffs.” Yet others push back, saying the complaints mask deeper issues. “Westerners have always complained about too many non-Westerners in Pattaya,” one expat commented. “First Arabs, then Russians, then Chinese, and now Indians. If you can’t get along with others, maybe the problem isn’t them.” Still, the criticism isn’t just about nationalities. It’s also about value. “It’s too expensive in Pattaya,” said one longtime visitor. “Restaurants cost as much as the UK. Bars want too many lady drinks, and the entertainment has dropped in quality.” “More quantity, less quality,” said another. And for many, the legal weed boom hasn’t helped the vibe. “Big families who used to spend on tours and nice restaurants are gone,” one observer noted. “Now it’s mostly young guys staying in hostels, eating McDonald’s.” Even loyal fans of Pattaya are eyeing the exit. “Next time, Cambodia,” one man said flatly. As costs rise and expectations shift, the warning signs are clear. Pattaya isn’t just dealing with a tourist slowdown—it’s facing a reputation crisis. Or as one frustrated visitor put it: “You reap what you sow.”

While storms loom over other regions, Pattaya enjoys cool weather and peaceful beach strolls. PATTAYA, Thailand – As much of Thailand braces for heavy rain, Pattaya is enjoying a spell of cool, breezy weather, drawing visitors and locals alike to its beaches. A gentle stroll along the shore, with soft waves lapping at the sand and salty air swirling in the breeze, feels like heaven on earth. While Pattaya remains calm and inviting, the Thai Meteorological Department has issued warnings for heavy rain in parts of upper northeastern Thailand and the western coast of the south. Residents in those areas are advised to watch out for flash floods and other rain-related hazards. The forecast for the next 24 hours notes that thunderstorms and isolated heavy rainfall are expected in the affected regions due to a moderate southwesterly monsoon over the Andaman Sea, the south, and the Gulf of Thailand. A weak monsoon trough is also present across upper Myanmar, northern Laos, and into northern Vietnam. In Bangkok and surrounding provinces, scattered thunderstorms are expected to cover around 40% of the area, with temperatures ranging between 27–28°C minimum and 34–37°C maximum. Meanwhile, maritime conditions are moderately rough in the upper Andaman Sea, with waves reaching up to 2 meters, and even higher where thunderstorms are active. Mariners are urged to proceed with caution and avoid storm-affected zones. For now, Pattaya remains a bright spot, offering pleasant coastal weather that makes it a perfect escape — at least for today — from the monsoon gloom elsewhere in the kingdom.

Crypto fraud suspect leaps from Pattaya police station window in daring escape — manhunt underway. PATTAYA, Thailand – A dramatic escape unfolded at Pattaya City Police Station after a 38-year-old Chinese national, identified as Mr. Li, fled custody by jumping out of a second-floor interrogation room window during a late-night police interview. Mr. Li had been arrested earlier at Don Mueang International Airport by immigration officers as he attempted to board an AirAsia flight to Da Nang, Vietnam. He was wanted under an arrest warrant issued by the Pattaya Provincial Court on charges of fraud. The case stems from a complaint by a Thai victim who claimed Mr. Li lured them into exchanging yuan for USDT (a digital cryptocurrency), leading to a loss of approximately 1.26 million baht when the promised funds were never transferred. After his arrest, Mr. Li was transferred to Pattaya Police Station for further legal processing. However, at around 12:50 a.m. on June 5, during questioning in Interrogation Room 19 on the second floor, he seized an unguarded moment, opened a window, and leapt out. An officer attempted to follow but was injured and unable to apprehend him. Mr. Li fled toward the back of the police residential flats in Soi 9, heading in the direction of Pattaya Second Road. Despite a three-hour search operation involving multiple patrol units and the use of CCTV footage, he remains at large. Chinese national wanted for 1.2M baht crypto scam escapes custody mid-interrogation in Pattaya. Chonburi Provincial Police later issued a formal statement, confirming the suspect had escaped by exploiting a lapse in supervision. Authorities have since alerted Immigration Bureau offices nationwide to prevent him from fleeing the country and have formed a special investigative team to trace his whereabouts. Police Major General Thawatkiat Jindakhuansanong, Commander of Chonburi Provincial Police, has ordered a full investigation into the escape and emphasized the urgency of recapturing Mr. Li. A disciplinary inquiry has also been launched into the officers responsible for his custody. Later that same day, Mr. Li’s brief escape came to an end. After paying a taxi driver 4,000 baht to take him from Pattaya to Chanthaburi, he checked into a hotel in the Mueang district. Acting on a tip-off from a concerned citizen, local police tracked him down and found him lying in bed. He was arrested without resistance. Mr. Li is now undergoing further questioning before being transported back to Pattaya Police Station — this time under heightened security to face legal proceedings. Pattaya police under fire after detainee flees by jumping from second-floor window — public urged to report sightings.   Dramatic Escape Foiled — Chinese fraud suspect recaptured in Chanthaburi after 4,000-baht taxi getaway from Pattaya Police Station.

เมืองพัทยาเปิดโครงการ “กิจกรรมว่ายน้ำเยาวชน”เสริมสร้างศักยภาพ สร้างนิสัยที่ดีผ่านกิจกรรมกีฬา วันที่ 5 มิถุนายน 2568 นายปรเมศวร์ งามพิเชษฐ์ นายกเมืองพัทยา เป็นประธานในพิธีเปิดโครงการกิจกรรมว่ายน้ำเยาวชนเมืองพัทยา พร้อมด้วยคณะผู้บริหารเมืองพัทยา หัวหน้าส่วนราชการ ครู นักเรียนชั้นประถมศึกษาปีที่ 4 โรงเรียนเมืองพัทยา 5 และ6 โดยมีนายกฤษณะ บุญสวัสดิ์ รองนายกเมืองพัทยา กล่าวรายงานวัตถุประสงค์ ณ โรงเรียนเมืองพัทยา 11 (มัธยมสาธิตพัทยา) จังหวัดชลบุรี เมืองพัทยา โดยสำนักการศึกษา กำหนดจัดโครงการกิจกรรมว่ายน้ำเยาวชนเมืองพัทยาในระหว่างวันที่ 5 มิ.ย. - 15 ส.ค. 2568 เพื่อส่งเสริมให้เด็กและเยาวชนทำกิจกรรมที่เป็นประโยชน์ เพิ่มศักยภาพตนเองทางด้านกีฬา โดยใช้กิจกรรมนันทนาการพัฒนาสุขภาพและ สมรรถภาพซึ่งเป็นการสร้างสุขลักษณะนิสัยที่ดีให้แก่เยาวชนได้ประพฤติดี คิดดี ทำดี มีจิตใจที่ดีงาม สามารถอยู่ในสังคมได้อย่างมีความสุข นายปรเมศวร์ นายกเมืองพัทยา กล่าวถึงความสำคัญของโครงการฯ ซึ่งมีเป้าหมายเพื่อส่งเสริมให้เด็กและเยาวชนได้ทำกิจกรรมที่เป็นประโยชน์ พัฒนาทักษะด้านกีฬา และส่งเสริมสุขภาพ ซึ่งเป็นทั้งนันทนาการและการสร้างเสริมสมรรถภาพทางกาย มุ่งเน้นให้เยาวชนได้เรียนรู้การใช้เวลาว่างอย่างสร้างสรรค์ ฝึกระเบียบวินัย และมีจิตใจที่ดีงาม ซึ่งจะช่วยปลูกฝังพฤติกรรมที่ดีให้สามารถอยู่ร่วมกับผู้อื่นในสังคมได้อย่างมีความสุข และเป็นพื้นฐานสำคัญในการพัฒนาประเทศในอนาคตให้สมกับเป็นเมืองกีฬา Sports City และ Sport Torism อีกด้วย

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