รองผู้ช่วยผู้จัดการ ประจำสาขา "เทอร์มินอล 21 พัทยา"บริษัท เอส เอฟ คอร์ปอเรชั่น จำกัด (มหาชน)บริษัท เอส เอฟ คอร์ปอเรชั่น จำกัด (มหาชน)จ.ชลบุรีตามโครงสร้างบริษัทฯ

An Indian tourist’s stolen valuables highlight rising safety concerns on Pattaya’s beaches and nightlife hotspots, with visitors warned to be cautious of strangers, freelancing women, and beach scams as personal belongings remain at risk. PATTAYA, Thailand — Tourists visiting Pattaya are being urged to exercise extreme caution when engaging with strangers, especially those offering companionship along the beaches. A recent case involving an Indian tourist highlights the risks that can quickly turn a fun night into a distressing experience. At 00:36 on June 29, a 45-year-old Indian man reported to Pattaya City Police that all the cash he had was stolen from his hotel room. The tourist explained that he had hired a woman on the beach and brought her back to his place. Before any further activities took place, he went to the bathroom, and upon returning, discovered that 5,000 baht in cash and 30,000 rupees—equivalent to nearly 20,000 baht—had disappeared. CCTV footage clearly captured the incident, and police are using the evidence to track down the suspect. This incident serves as a stark warning for visitors to be vigilant. Many locals and tourists have voiced concerns about “freelance” women in Pattaya who appear well-dressed and trustworthy but may have hidden agendas. Public comments reflect a growing unease among both visitors and locals. Many warn against being fooled by freelancing women who may appear attractive but have questionable intentions. Concerns about theft are widespread, with numerous people noting that thieves are all too common. Visitors are advised to exercise caution and avoid being too lenient when negotiating prices on the beach. Some express frustration that many tourists don’t fully grasp the risks they are taking. While Pattaya is known for its numerous massage parlors and bars, some travelers choose to avoid these venues and instead turn to strangers on the beaches. Overall, despite Pattaya’s reputation as a world-class tourist destination, there remains a sense that safety—both personal and for belongings—is lacking, leaving many feeling they must rely heavily on police protection. As worries about personal safety grow, some tourists admit their mood to travel and spend in Pattaya has dimmed. Visitors are advised to avoid picking up strangers or strangers approaching them, to safeguard their belongings carefully, and to remain vigilant at all times. A carefree vacation can quickly turn into a nightmare if caution is ignored.

Caught on CCTV — Surveillance footage shows the woman stealing the phone, now used as evidence in the investigation. PATTAYA, Thailand – As nightlife returns to Pattaya’s bar-lined streets, police are urging tourists to be extra cautious with personal belongings like mobile phones and wallets — especially when seated at open-air bars or massage shops where items are left on counters. This warning follows a recent incident on Soi Chaiyapoon, where a middle-aged Thai woman posing as a street vendor stole a mobile phone just after midnight on June 29. The victim, Ms. Woraporn, 43, a massage shop employee, said the woman entered pretending to sell clothes and skin cream. While engaging staff in conversation, the thief slipped a blue Tecno phone worth about 5,000 baht into her bag and walked away unnoticed. Ms. Woraporn tried to retrieve the phone and offered not to involve police, but the suspect refused a search and fled. CCTV footage captured the theft clearly, and Pattaya City Police are investigating. This case highlights a broader issue: many open-front bars and massage parlors allow easy walk-up access, making phones, wallets, and bags left on counters — especially near sidewalks — vulnerable to quick thefts. Bar owners and locals caution visitors not to assume street-facing bars are secure. “One second of distraction is all it takes,” said a Soi Buakhao bar owner. “We see it often — someone walks by, snatches a phone, and disappears into the night.” Authorities advise keeping valuables in front pockets or anti-theft bags and never leaving items unattended or visible near the edge of counters. As Pattaya welcomes tourists back, officials say simple street-smart precautions can help keep the holiday spirit intact.

A violent clash on Soi Buakhao saw a Swedish man beaten following a dispute with a Thai woman, raising concerns among locals about Pattaya’s tourism image and safety. As police investigate both sides, calls are growing to blacklist violent offenders to protect popular tourist areas. PATTAYA, Thailand – A violent altercation occurred on Soi Buakhao, Central Pattaya, between a foreign man and a Thai woman at 3:50 a.m. on June 29. A video circulating shows the foreigner pushing the woman to the ground, which escalated into a group of Thai locals and nightclub security guards assaulting the foreigner until he collapsed on the street. Mr. Pong (alias), 37, who witnessed the incident, said the foreign man appeared intoxicated and argued violently with the Thai woman. He also knocked over a local’s motorbike and pushed the face of a nearby security guard before headbutting the guard, causing him to fall. This provoked the security guards’ friends to retaliate, leading to the mob assault seen in the footage. Mr. Pong admitted the violence was inappropriate but urged people to see the full context of the incident. Pattaya Police confirmed that complaints were filed by both parties. The foreigner is a 44-year-old Swedish national. The security guards and involved Thai individuals underwent medical examinations for injury certificates. Both sides will be summoned for mediation and legal proceedings. Local residents and witnesses expressed concern that the video doesn’t fully represent what happened and worry that such violent incidents damage Pattaya’s tourism reputation. Some suggest photographing and blacklisting violent offenders to prevent them from working in the area, aiming to foster more responsible behavior and reduce violence in this tourist hotspot.

“Medical use only — Supachai Jaisamut defends Bhumjaithai’s stance, warns re-criminalizing cannabis harms patients, not criminals.” PATTAYA, Thailand – Supachai Jaisamut, head of the legal affairs for the Bhumjaithai Party, has strongly criticized Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin for his recent moves to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic. He questioned the legal authority behind such actions and reaffirmed that Bhumjaithai supports cannabis use solely for medical purposes. Supachai responded to statements made by Trichada Srithada, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Health, labeling her claims that Bhumjaithai supports recreational cannabis and illegal dispensaries as false. He clarified that the party had submitted a Cannabis and Hemp Control Bill to Parliament, designed strictly for medical use, and that the draft had been reviewed and approved by a parliamentary committee composed of members from multiple parties — including Pheu Thai — as well as health officials, legal experts, and academics. The Ministry of Public Health later submitted its own draft, which, according to Supachai, largely copied Bhumjaithai’s version with only minor modifications. “Nowhere in either draft is recreational use mentioned,” he said, adding that those criticizing the bill without understanding its content “have only mouths, not minds.” Supachai further accused Minister Somsak of inaction during his tenure: “Illegal cannabis shops have been spreading like wildfire for two years under Somsak’s watch as Health Minister. Nothing was done until now. What were you doing for two years? Suddenly now there’s a crackdown — is it because Bhumjaithai left the coalition government?” He reiterated Bhumjaithai’s full support for shutting down illegal cannabis dispensaries and prosecuting those who abuse the system. However, he placed the blame for the proliferation of such shops squarely on the Ministry of Public Health’s failure to regulate the industry. “Bhumjaithai fires back: Supachai Jaisamut slams Public Health Minister for cannabis policy U-turn and two years of inaction.” In response to Somsak’s remark that the Cannabis Bill was a “fantasy,” Supachai asked pointedly what the minister meant. He warned that attempting to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic again — against the intent of the existing Narcotics Code, which removed cannabis from the list — would be an abuse of power. “The law doesn’t allow the minister to unilaterally reverse such decisions through a ministerial announcement.” Supachai argued that such a move would only drive cannabis back underground and criminalize patients once again. “In the past, patients who used cannabis for legitimate medical reasons were arrested. Do you really think reclassifying it as a narcotic will make people stop using it? If you criminalize medical cannabis use, the prisons will overflow with sick people.” He concluded by stressing that all policymaking must prioritize public benefit. While Bhumjaithai supports law enforcement against illegal operations, he opposes reversing policy in a way that would harm law-abiding medical cannabis users. Adding to the chorus of concern is Decha Siripat, a respected traditional medicine practitioner and founder of the Khao Kwan Foundation in Suphan Buri. Decha, who developed a well-known medicinal cannabis oil formula, warned that recent actions by the government risk plunging the industry and patients into chaos. “Since cannabis was removed from the narcotics list in June 2022, it has never truly been ‘free’,” Decha said. “Strict regulations still apply to cultivation and sales, and the real issue lies in weak law enforcement and inconsistent oversight — not legalization itself.” Decha questioned why authorities, particularly under Minister Somsak, waited two years before cracking down on illegal dispensaries, only to act aggressively after political alliances shifted. Traditional healer Decha Siripat warns that sudden cannabis policy shifts risk harming patients and pushing the market underground. He also strongly opposed the reclassification of cannabis as a narcotic, arguing that no country in the world has reversed such a decision after legalizing it. “This is about politics, not public health,” Decha said. “If you really care about health impacts, you should worry more about alcohol and tobacco. They cause far more disease and accidents, yet are promoted even on Buddhist holidays.” While Decha personally supports regulated recreational use, his core concern remains protecting patient access to affordable medical cannabis. “People use cannabis to manage stress, and stress leads to NCDs like diabetes and cancer. Isn’t it better to use cannabis than tobacco or alcohol, which actually cause disease?” He warned that sudden regulatory changes — such as reclassifying cannabis as a narcotic within 45 days — would devastate legal businesses and drive parts of the market back underground, fueling black-market sales, forged prescriptions, and increased prices. “If you must regulate, do it through a proper Cannabis Control Act passed by Parliament — not by unstable ministry announcements that can change at any time,” Decha added. “We need legal certainty and time for businesses and patients to adapt.” As the political debate intensifies, Decha and many in the medical cannabis community fear that a public health breakthrough is at risk of becoming yet another casualty of political gamesmanship.

Modified motorbikes and late-night activity continue to affect quality of life in Pattaya, especially in previously calm areas like Jomtien Beach. PATTAYA, Thailand – With its tropical setting, diverse amenities, and relatively affordable cost of living, Pattaya continues to attract both tourists and long-term residents. But despite the city’s many advantages, noise pollution remains a persistent concern — particularly for those seeking a quieter lifestyle. While nightlife has long been part of Pattaya’s identity, some residents say the volume and frequency of disturbances have increased in recent years, especially in areas once considered more subdued, such as Jomtien Beach. “If you live in Pattaya, you must get used to sleeping with earplugs,” said one retiree, citing late-night motorbike noise and loud music as key sources of disruption. Another local added, “Get rid of the big bike motorcycles in Jomtien Beach,” referring to concerns about modified exhausts and street racing. The issue isn’t unique to Pattaya. “So many of these bikes are in Bangkok too,” one resident noted, “but it feels worse here because the city never really goes quiet.” Despite repeated complaints from residents, noise pollution is rarely addressed as a top-tier concern by local authorities. National bodies like Thailand’s Pollution Control Department also place limited emphasis on urban noise compared to air and water quality. Some experts warn that this could come at a cost, citing potential health effects from chronic exposure, such as sleep disturbances, hearing impairment, and elevated stress levels. “So many of these big bikes are in Bangkok too,” one resident notes, “but it feels worse in Pattaya — the city never truly goes quiet.” One expatriate voiced frustration over what they perceive as a lack of enforcement: “The police choose to not enforce laws, so people do whatever they want.” Some commenters also expressed concern that long-term Western retirees – once a key demographic – may be receiving less attention in city planning and tourism development strategies. Nonetheless, Pattaya officials have signaled interest in rebranding the city as a more family-friendly and livable destination. Observers note that reducing noise in residential zones and tourist hotspots alike could support that effort. Pattaya’s appeal remains strong, but for many residents, a quieter environment would be a welcome improvement. As one social media user put it: “The city has so much to offer. Peace and quiet shouldn’t be too much to ask.” Despite known health risks, noise pollution remains a low priority for Thai authorities, say residents.

Same Sidewalk, Same Story – Businesses reclaim public walkways within days — or even hours — of city crackdowns. (File Photo) PATTAYA, Thailand – Despite yet another round of official warnings, sidewalks and public roads across Pattaya continue to be informally “claimed” by local businesses. Cones, chairs, food carts, and parked motorcycles are still blocking access to public walkways — often just meters from signs declaring such use illegal. This week, Pattaya authorities issued renewed notices reminding shopfronts, restaurants, and hotels that placing obstructions on public roads or pavements is against the law. Offenders, officials warned, will be fined — not for placing the items, but for reclaiming them from city custody. But to many residents, these announcements are nothing new. “Ah yes, just like when they made bold declarations about cracking down on motorcycle rental companies hogging public roads,” scoffed a long-term European expat. “We all saw how spectacularly effective that was.” Online, the skepticism was even sharper. “One day only. Then it all goes back to the same,” read one widely liked social media post. Another added, “Repeat every week… Thailand will forever warn people, but there’s no backbone to actually enforce the law.” One-Day Wonders – Locals scoff at hollow enforcement, saying fines mean little without daily follow-up. (File Photo) Critics argue that Pattaya’s enforcement campaigns are largely performative – photo ops and press releases with no sustained follow-up. The absence of regular inspections or meaningful consequences leaves many wondering whether authorities are truly serious. “How are you going to prevent it for good like this?” asked one local resident. “Fine for putting it there? Shouldn’t it be the other way around?” Others pointed to the surreal way space is controlled in the city. “They just have people outside saying ‘can’t park there.’ Happens a lot in Pattaya,” said one Thai commenter, referring to hotel or shop employees who act as unofficial traffic police. Some even questioned whether the campaigns were real at all. “Do you actually make these posts up?” asked one commenter under the city’s own announcement. “Just wondering. Follow-up photos would be nice.” And therein lies the core issue: Without public evidence or repeat inspections, the public sees little reason to believe things will change. “Do officials even come back the next day?” one frustrated resident asked. “That’s the only thing that would make a difference.” Until that happens, many believe the battle for Pattaya’s sidewalks is already lost – not to tourists or traffic, but to unchecked private interest. “Can’t park there” – Pattaya businesses rely on vague warnings, leaving tourists confused and frustrated. (File Photo)

Indian tourists bring a different rhythm to Pattaya — more thrills, more activities, and more spending. PATTAYA, Thailand — As Pattaya continues to grapple with economic pressure and slower-than-expected tourist spending from traditional Western markets, a new reality is setting in: Indian tourists may no longer be just a segment of the crowd — they might be the ones keeping the lights on. Once dominated by visitors from Europe, Russia, and China, Pattaya’s tourism landscape has undergone a noticeable shift. With the euro weak and Chinese group tours still recovering, Indian travelers — often arriving in groups, families, or bachelor parties — are filling hotel rooms, dining in local restaurants, and injecting much-needed cash into the economy. While their presence has sparked mixed reactions from longtime expats and some business owners, the numbers don’t lie. In the face of waning revenue, Pattaya’s dependence on Indian spending has grown — and so has the need to cater to them. “For better or worse, Pattaya has to accept the scenario,” said one hotel manager in Central Pattaya. “They may not be the ‘ideal tourist’ for everyone, but they’re the ones showing up, booking rooms, and spending money.” The differences in tourist behavior are also shaping how money flows. Indian tourists are drawn to activities like jet skiing, banana boating, and parachute rides. Their love for water sports means their money circulates through beachfront vendors, equipment rentals, and activity operators. In contrast, many European visitors are content to spend the day lounging under umbrellas with a drink in hand — relaxing, but not necessarily splurging. Indeed, while European visitors often travel more cautiously — booking shorter trips, negotiating harder, and skipping ladydrinks at bars — Indian tourists are seen spending freely on attractions, nightlife, and food. Their habits may differ, but their impact is undeniable. With Thailand’s ambitious tourism revenue targets still falling short, Pattaya finds itself at a crossroads. Embracing its evolving demographic may be less about preference — and more about survival. As European spending slows, Indian travelers are keeping Pattaya’s tourism engine running — one jet ski ride at a time.

Pattaya’s charm endures: affordable sea-view rooms, delicious street food, and nightlife with a freedom you won’t find anywhere else. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – The Europeans are back in Pattaya, filling hotels, lounging on beaches, and fuelling the massage parlours. Mostly older men, many of whom have been coming for decades, are returning — but something has changed. While the city once basked in easy-spending holiday bliss, this year’s tourists are far more measured — and more vocal about what’s different. This isn’t the carefree crowd of years past. These are seasoned returnees, veterans of Southeast Asian getaways, and many have arrived with calculators in hand and memories of better exchange rates. A combination of economic anxiety and currency frustration has shifted the dynamic. With the euro hovering around 38 baht — far from the golden years of 50+ — some shrug it off, but others count every baht. The mood: cautious, calculating, and not shy about complaining. Still, they’re chasing deals — from cheap massage parlours to discounted hotel rooms. “A 1-hour massage in Germany is €90. Here it’s just €6–8,” said one retiree, adding with a grin, “Add 10 more and the smile gets bigger.” But those small extras — whether it’s a “short time” behind curtains, a “long time” arrangement for companionship, or lady drinks in bars — are getting costlier. Bargains are now negotiated, not assumed, and value-for-money debates dominate café chatter. Some locals say the era of easy tips and flowing drinks is over. For bar owners, it’s a new challenge. Lady drinks, once handed out like party favours, are now met with hesitation. “They say they’re broke, but still drink five beers,” one bar girl said. “Just no drinks for us.” Even nightlife veterans are adjusting. A British visitor who’s been coming for 15 years shared, “I used to spend like a king. Now I think twice about every beer and every bar fine.” Still, Pattaya retains its magnetic pull. Rooms with sea views remain affordable, street food stays flavourful, and the entertainment — whatever form it takes — continues to offer more freedom than back home. Complaints abound, but so do return visits. As one Frenchman put it: “Sure, prices are up. But where else can you get sunshine, freedom, and a smile — all in the same hour?”

Tourists face choice: Budget-friendly authenticity or flexible modern convenience — which suits your travel style? PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya’s bustling streets have become a battleground for transportation as traditional baht-buses (songthaews) and modern ride-hailing services compete for tourists’ attention. Both options offer unique advantages, but travelers face a choice between affordability and convenience — and each comes with its own challenges. Baht-buses, the iconic open-air shared pickup trucks, remain a cultural symbol of Pattaya. Operating on fixed routes with low fares, they attract budget-conscious tourists eager to experience local life. Passengers enjoy chatting with locals and taking in the city’s sights firsthand. Baht-buses rarely face police checks or authorization issues, but they are often criticized for occasional overcharging, especially with tourists unfamiliar with standard fares. Their irregular schedules and occasional overcrowding can also make trips less predictable. Ride-hailing services such as Grab and Bolt offer door-to-door convenience, fixed pricing, and air-conditioned comfort. These services are popular with tourists who value flexibility and ease of use. However, ride-hailing vehicles are frequently subject to police inspections for proper licensing and authorization, which can cause delays or service interruptions. Additionally, surge pricing during peak times sometimes leads to higher fares, deterring some budget travelers. Each transport option thus presents distinct problems. Ride-hailing drivers must often deal with police checks and authorization requirements, adding a layer of complexity and potential delays for passengers. Meanwhile, baht-buses face fewer regulatory hurdles but sometimes draw complaints from tourists about overcharging and lack of clear fare information. This mix of pros and cons leaves visitors weighing what they prioritize most in their travel experience. Tourism experts say the choice depends on what visitors value most. “For those seeking efficiency and ease, ride-hailing is the clear winner,” said a local guide. “But if you want to feel the city’s pulse and save some baht, baht-buses offer an authentic experience — just be aware of the fare.” As Pattaya evolves, striking a balance between preserving traditional transport and embracing modern options will be key to satisfying the diverse needs of its visitors.