Pattaya rolls out expanded odd-even parking zones in South Pattaya to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow. PATTAYA, Thailand — In a renewed effort to tackle traffic congestion and bring order to the city’s streets, Pattaya officials are expanding the odd-even day parking rule along South Pattaya Road, with plans to implement it on more roads across the city. The campaign, branded as “You Park, We Tow,” is being strictly enforced and aims to ensure smoother traffic flow. Officials from Pattaya City Hall emphasized that this is not a one-off campaign. “We’ve done it. We’re doing it. And we’ll keep doing it,” they said in a statement promoting ongoing enforcement. The rule allows parking only on alternating sides of the road depending on the day — odd-numbered days on one side, even-numbered days on the other. But while clamping has been the go-to method for enforcement, many long-term foreign residents are urging the city to take a stronger stance: tow, don’t clamp. One expat resident said, “Clamping just leaves the car sitting there, still blocking traffic. Towing clears the obstruction and teaches a real lesson.” In line with that sentiment, towing fees are no small matter — drivers found violating the parking rule can face a fine of up to 1,000 THB plus towing and storage charges, which can exceed 2,000 THB depending on the duration and location. Residents have generally welcomed the move. Reactions on social media ranged from “Good!” to “Will this be a daily routine duty?” and “Why do drivers still not know the rule?” Some also raised concerns about signage. “Sorry, is there not a sign on the pavement to tell drivers?” one commenter asked, highlighting the need for better public communication. Despite the concerns, officials say the enforcement will continue — and intensify. More streets across Pattaya are being reviewed for inclusion in the odd-even parking plan to ease gridlock and bring greater discipline to urban traffic. Foreign residents urge clearer signage, asking City Hall to better inform drivers of alternating parking days.

Pattaya police arrest one suspect, hunt continues for two others who fled Thailand after ransom attack. PATTAYA, Thailand — Police in Pattaya are intensifying efforts to track down members of a Russian gang accused of abducting and assaulting a fellow national — a 26-year-old journalist — in a shocking ransom case involving violence, Bitcoin extortion, and luxury watches worth over 2 million baht. The case came to light when David Blank, a Russian journalist, was seen fleeing for his life from a hotel in Jomtien on June 26. Witnesses said he ran into a café inside a gas station, his hands still shackled with handcuffs, begging for help. According to his statement, he had been lured to the hotel by fellow Russian nationals, where he was handcuffed, beaten, and had a black bag placed over his head. His attackers reportedly recorded videos of the assault and sent them to his girlfriend, demanding she transfer Bitcoin and surrender high-end luxury watches valued at around 2 million baht — or else face worse consequences. Pattaya police later arrested one of the suspects at the scene — Anton Lokotkov, 26, who had booked the hotel room. Officers believe the room was intentionally used as the site of the assault. Lokotkov, however, has reportedly not cooperated with the investigation and denies knowing the victim. Victim alleges Bitcoin and luxury watches worth 2 million baht were extorted in chilling gang assault. As of June 27, police confirmed that two of the remaining three suspects had already fled Thailand, while one is believed to still be hiding in the country. Police, in cooperation with Chonburi’s transnational crime unit, are actively tracing their movements. Deputy Superintendent Pol. Lt. Col. Arut Saphanon said Lokotkov has been charged with overstaying his visa, and investigators are working to verify whether the missing assets match the victim’s claims. Authorities also suspect deeper connections between the victim and assailants, despite both parties denying they knew each other. Evidence reportedly places them together before the attack, casting doubt on their claims and raising the possibility of an internal dispute within a known circle. Police vow to unravel the truth behind what appears to be a case of transnational criminal activity staged in a popular beach city — and bring the perpetrators to justice. Authorities suspect deeper ties between victim and attackers despite both denying prior connection.   Russian journalist escapes brutal abduction in Pattaya, handcuffed and begging for help at gas station café.

“Rainbow roads, pothole problems – Pattaya paints over priorities ahead of Pride Parade.” PATTAYA, Thailand – As Pattaya gears up to welcome the Pride Festival 2025 this week, city workers have been busy unveiling bold new rainbow road markings along major routes, including the Dusit Curve in North Pattaya, aiming to brighten up the streets and show support for inclusivity and diversity. But not everyone is cheering. While the bright stripes may look good in photos, many residents are asking a more practical question: Why not fix the potholes first? “Many dangerous hole in the road but no have money for repair…,” one longtime local wrote online. Another remarked, “Obviously too much cash left in the budget, so let’s paint the road pretty colors instead of doing something useful, like repairing the roads.” Critics have voiced concerns not only about misplaced priorities but also about the potential hazards. “That should be good for the bikes when it’s wet,” one motorcyclist joked, while another added, “Hopefully slippery enough to cause some parade goers broken ankles.” Some residents have taken aim at the artistic execution itself: “What I find more irritating is that it’s not really a rainbow. No pink in rainbows and they’re missing the violet at the far right. So really more rainbow-themed. If you are going to do it, at least do it right!” “Colorful stripes but crumbling streets – locals ask why not fix the potholes first?” And in true Pattaya style, the snark came in strong: “Perfect for doing burnouts,” one person quipped. “It’s getting boring,” said another. “So stupid and unnecessary,” echoed a frustrated driver. Still, amid the backlash, others defended the initiative. “Love it. Troll the smooth brains,” commented one supporter, viewing the rainbow road as a cheerful addition and a symbol of progress—however flawed its paint job may be. As Pattaya prepares to host thousands for the Pride Parade, the city continues to walk a fine line between celebration and civic frustration. Festive as it may be, the question lingers on many lips: Do we really need rainbow roads, or just safer ones?

Pattaya remains a top European favorite as summer searches surge — Germans and Britons lead the wave to Thailand. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand has once again secured its status as Europe’s favorite summer getaway in Asia, with Pattaya emerging as one of the top destinations for July–August 2025, according to Agoda’s latest travel search data. The popular coastal city stands proudly alongside Bangkok and Koh Samui in the top three destinations most searched by European travelers heading to Thailand. This marks the second consecutive year that Thailand ranks No. 1 in Asia for European holidaymakers, beating out other popular Asian destinations like Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, and Vietnam. The data was collected based on travel searches conducted in April 2025 for bookings during the upcoming July–August vacation period. Travelers from Germany top the chart in interest for Thailand, followed by tourists from France, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Spain. Notably, there’s also a surge in interest from countries like Greece (+67%), Czech Republic (+26%), and Poland (+16%), signaling a growing appetite for Asian experiences across wider regions of Europe. “Thailand holding the top spot for two years running proves the country’s enduring appeal,” said Akkhaphorn Rodkhong, Agoda’s Country Director for Thailand. He noted that the trend reflects European travelers’ desire to seek out unique cultural, lifestyle, and natural experiences in Asia. While Bangkok continues to dominate the top destination spot, and Koh Samui rides high on global attention thanks to HBO’s The White Lotus, Pattaya remains a consistent favorite for its affordability, accessibility, and vibrant mix of beach life, nightlife, and family attractions. “Pattaya’s got the buzz, the beach, and the bookings” — City stays hot on Europe’s travel radar this July–August. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) With its close proximity to Bangkok and improving infrastructure, Pattaya offers European travelers a balanced holiday — whether they seek excitement on Walking Street or tranquility along the shores of Jomtien or Pratamnak. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), European markets are booming, even as Chinese arrivals level off. In the first four months of 2025, over 3.5 million European tourists visited Thailand — a nearly 19% increase year-on-year. Top-performing markets include Russia, the UK, Germany, and France. TAT is also eyeing strong growth from Israel (+91%), Uzbekistan (+62%), Poland (+39%), and Romania (+33%), thanks to increasing connectivity and direct flight routes. As Thailand prepares for the year-end high season, confidence is high that the surge in European interest will carry through — with Pattaya poised to benefit heavily from the spotlight.

Coastal city Pattaya remains largely unaffected by inland flooding due to its flat terrain and effective drainage. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – While heavy rains and flash floods are expected to batter northern and northeastern Thailand, including provinces like Chiang Rai and Nan, the impact on coastal cities like Pattaya is likely to be minimal. According to the Meteorological Department’s warning issued on June 28, intense rainfall is forecasted in the north and northeast, with potential flash floods and sudden mountain runoff especially in hilly and low-lying areas. The weather disturbance is driven by a monsoon trough stretching across upper Myanmar and northern Thailand, interacting with a low-pressure system over northern Laos and Vietnam, combined with a moderate southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand. This has created heavy rain conditions primarily inland, while southern regions experience occasional thunderstorms. For the seas, moderate winds are present with wave heights ranging from 1 to 2 meters in the upper Andaman Sea, and around 1 meter in the lower Andaman and upper Gulf of Thailand, rising above 2 meters in thunderstorm zones. Mariners are advised to navigate cautiously and avoid sailing in stormy conditions. However, for Pattaya, a well-established coastal city on the Gulf of Thailand, heavy rain usually does not cause severe flooding. The city’s flat coastal terrain and well-managed drainage systems help reduce the risk of flash floods that often trouble mountainous inland provinces. While rain showers may occur, residents and visitors can generally expect the weather impact to be far less disruptive compared to the more vulnerable northern and northeastern regions. Mariners urged to exercise caution as moderate waves and thunderstorms affect the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin)

Pattaya’s evolving rhythm draws in retirees, revelers, and residents from around the world — walking a fine line between retirement dreams and nightlife extremes. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand — Once known primarily as a nightlife and entertainment hub, Pattaya has long attracted retirees from around the world seeking a warm climate and affordable living. But as the city evolves, questions are swirling: Does Pattaya still hold its place as a retirement haven — or is it losing ground to quieter, more family-friendly alternatives? Some longtime residents and visitors remain loyal. “I do both — works for me,” said one expat who enjoys both the city’s vibrant nightlife and quieter moments. Others have raised concerns about air quality in busier parts of the city. “It may not be ideal for retirees with respiratory conditions,” noted one health-conscious visitor. However, Pattaya’s geography offers options — from the breezy hills of Pratamnak to quieter stretches near Jomtien or Huay Yai, many areas still enjoy good air flow and open green spaces. For retirees who prioritize wellness, it’s less about avoiding Pattaya and more about choosing the right part of it. Meanwhile, alternative retirement spots are gaining traction. “As a retirement retreat, Hua Hin is a much better place,” one commentator said, praising the coastal town’s calmer vibe and family-oriented atmosphere. However, Hua Hin’s distance — taking nearly triple the travel time to reach Bangkok or major airports compared to Pattaya — remains a tradeoff. Still, Pattaya’s appeal persists for some despite its flaws. “Pattaya shifts gears from nightlife hub to retirement retreat,” remarked another, noting the city’s ongoing efforts to diversify its image. One hot-button topic remains taxation. “But they are planning to tax them,” said a wary retiree about new pensioner tax proposals. “Then why tax pensioners?” questioned another, expressing frustration at policies perceived as unfriendly to retirees. The city’s unique mix of party culture and attempts at reinvention leaves opinions divided. “Full of drunken hooligans, weed heads, motor race track — yeah, pensioner friendly,” joked one critic, highlighting the contrast between Pattaya’s rowdy side and its retirement community. Geopolitical shifts are also subtly reshaping the city’s demographics. Pattaya continues to attract a mix of foreign residents and long-term visitors, with growing numbers from Russia, India, and South Korea contributing to its evolving international character. Just keep in mind — the city is, and likely always will be, a melting pot of global travelers and cultures. That’s part of its enduring identity.

Russian journalist robbed, escapes hotel in Pattaya with 2 million baht lossLegacyOn June 26, 26 year old Russian journalist David allegedly escaped from a hotel on Jomtien Soi 14 while handcuffed. He reported being attacked by fellow Russians who covered his head with a black bag, assaulted him, and sent a threatening video to his girlfriend. They forced him to transfer Bitcoin and stole a luxury watch worth over 2 million baht (US$61,350). After the robbery, he managed to escape and sought help. One suspect is detained but denies involvement, despite CCTV evidence. Major General Thawatchakiat Jindakhuansanong, the Commander of Chon Buri Provincial Police, stated that Pattaya City Police and the Chon Buri Transnational Crime Suppression Centre are investigating the incident. They have arrested 26 year old Russian Anton Lokotkov, an acquaintance of the victim, who allegedly lured him to Pattaya, where four Russians robbed him. Lokotkov denies all charges and claims he is not the person seen in the CCTV footage, refusing to answer basic questions. He was found to have overstayed his visa by 13 days and faces charges for residing in Thailand without permission. Additional charges are under consideration as evidence is gathered. CCTV footage from the hotel indicates that the victim and perpetrators were acquainted. The victim, accompanied by another Russian, travelled from Bangkok to meet Lokotkov at a hotel in Jomtien. Upon arrival, two men in black assaulted him, handcuffed him, and forced him to transfer Bitcoin. They also stole 40,000 baht (US$1,225) in cash and a luxury Rolex watch valued at over 2 million baht. The robbers fled while the victim sought police assistance. Police assert that the victim and the suspects knew each other. CCTV shows two men entering the room around 2.57am on June 26. The victim briefly left and returned before the attack. Discrepancies between the victim’s and the suspect’s statements complicate the case. It remains unclear why they travelled from Bangkok to the victim’s room. Police suspect two people have already left Thailand, reported The Pattaya News. The identified suspects are: Anton Lokotkov, who was apprehended in Jomtien Beach and denies the charges; Evgenii Latyshev, who reportedly fled to Malaysia; Ioann Berdanov, believed to have fled to Hong Kong and possibly en route to Turkey; and two unidentified foreign males seen on CCTV in black attire. Pattaya City Police are gathering evidence to legally pursue the remaining suspects. Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News The story Russian journalist robbed, escapes hotel in Pattaya with 2 million baht loss as seen on Thaiger News.

Pattaya man’s motorcycle stolen by coworker, suspected sold for drugsLegacyIn Pattaya, Thailand, a 25 year old man named Sarawut Phuthotham has called for assistance in retrieving his stolen motorcycle, which vanished after being borrowed by a former coworker. Sarawut believes the motorcycle may have been sold to finance drug purchases. The incident took place on June 24 when Sarawut’s former coworker, identified as Beer, requested to borrow his red and black Honda MSX motorcycle with the registration 1 กณ 1253 Kalasin, claiming the need to pick up a friend. Having known Beer for only two to three months through work, Sarawut agreed, only to be left waiting for hours as Beer disappeared. Despite Sarawut’s efforts to locate his motorcycle, both the vehicle and Beer were nowhere to be found. Visits to Beer’s workplace and residence yielded no leads, and further investigation uncovered Beer’s alleged history of motorcycle theft and drug involvement. This led Sarawut to suspect that his motorcycle had been sold on the black market for drug money. Without his motorcycle, Sarawut faces challenges commuting to work. He has appealed to the public, urging anyone who spots the motorcycle, particularly if it is being ridden by Beer, to contact him or report to the nearest police station. Sarawut has expressed his willingness to forgive the incident and refrain from pressing charges if his motorcycle is returned, reported The Pattaya News. Police have not yet provided a statement on the situation, and the search for the missing motorcycle is ongoing. Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News In similar news, a trusting mother was devastated after her neighbour stole her cherished motorbike, but police solved the case within hours, uncovering a drug-related betrayal close to her home. Sudaphon Sungnoen from Phitsanulok discovered her red-and-black Honda Wave missing early on June 17, just as she was preparing to take her child to school in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung. CCTV footage captured the theft in the early hours, confirming her worst fears. The story Pattaya man’s motorcycle stolen by coworker, suspected sold for drugs as seen on Thaiger News.

PATTAYA, Thailand – At 12:36 AM on June 29, 2025, Mr. Sudip, a 45-year-old Indian national, filed a complaint with Sub-Lieutenant Suteeraphan Thapsri, an investigating officer at Pattaya City Police Station, after being robbed of valuables worth over 20,000 baht in a hotel room in Pattaya. Mr. Sudip reported that he had met a woman […]

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