Chinese tourists vanish from Pattaya amid fear, scams, and rising costs—visitors now question if Thailand’s beach city is still worth the trip. (Photo – Pattaya Beach Road in June) PATTAYA, Thailand – Once a bustling magnet for global travelers, Pattaya is experiencing what many long-term visitors are calling its quietest low season in decades. While government tourism figures continue to show optimism, those on the ground paint a very different picture—one marked by shuttered bars, thinning crowds, and mounting frustration. “I’m here in Pattaya right now, and I’ve never in 20+ years seen a low season so quiet,” said one expat. “Countless bars with hardly any punters—it’s sad.” The most glaring absence is Chinese tourists. Once a dominant force in Pattaya’s visitor mix, their numbers have sharply declined, sparking speculation, concern, and no small amount of criticism. “It’s frankly weird how scared Chinese people are for completely no reason,” one long-term resident said bluntly. “Some Chinese dude struck a very iffy deal with some criminal compatriots in Myanmar and now Thailand is unsafe for regular families from China? That’s just not logical. Maybe Thailand just needs to wait until Chinese people develop some common sense.” Another theory is more economic. “The truth is that too many businesses are down in China, and clever Chinese aren’t spending their money on holidays.” Some blame perceptions of safety. “A tourist dies in Phuket every second day lately,” another commenter noted. “My Chinese friends say Thailand is just too dangerous and have chosen safer destinations to travel to.” The concerns aren’t limited to China. Western travelers are feeling the financial pinch too. “Flight prices are high when travelling with family—nearly £1,000 per person. A family of five will need £5,000 just for flights from the UK to Thailand,” wrote one European tourist. “I think the problem is on the West’s side: high taxes and crippling prices on holidays and flights outside the EU.” Others are disillusioned by what Pattaya itself has become. “Too many scams, violence, and young drunk men racing around on motorcycles at all hours—fighting and making ‘real tourists’ uncomfortable,” said another. “Ladyboys harassing everyone on beach roads… need more?” Even with a relatively strong Thai baht and regional competition heating up, many locals and visitors alike are asking the hard question: If it’s not the exchange rate, then what’s really keeping Europeans and Chinese tourists away from Pattaya? Until that answer is clear—and solutions follow—Pattaya’s quiet streets may continue to reflect a deeper turbulence beneath the surface of Thailand’s tourist economy.

Government stuck in reactive mode — locals doubt if Pattaya’s leaders can plan beyond next week to save the city’s tourism. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya now finds itself mired in uncertainty and debate over its future. As visitor numbers dwindle and the city’s famous nightlife cools, locals, expats, and tourists alike are left asking: who holds the key to reviving Pattaya? The finger-pointing game is in full swing. Some say the answer lies with tourists—especially Indian visitors who have recently surged—while others believe only the local businesses or the ever-present bar girls can save the city. Social media adds fuel to the fire, amplifying complaints and criticism in a 24/7 cycle of blame. One expat bluntly put it, “Only ladyboys and Indians will be able to save Pattaya.” Others hope for cooperation: “All of the above working together.” A hopeful voice jokes, “Maybe hats that say ‘Make Pattaya Great Again.’” Yet many lament the fading warmth once felt here: “Seems to be a coldness around the bars these days… nothing seems welcoming like past years, it’s all hassle and very little laughter.” For years, Pattaya thrived on a unique local charm. Now, some say it’s vanished. “The girls no longer act out real interest. They are ‘grab and go’ as fast as possible. Pattaya has become a hustler’s joint—colder and more expensive.” The feeling of value has shifted too: “Years ago one might exclaim wow because of good values. Now it is wow due to the high costs.” But what exactly is expensive? “The only thing I see with high costs is imported groceries. Transport, accommodation, drinks, food, tourist attractions—all extremely cheap in world terms and cheap compared to other Thai tourist areas.” Still, many expats have grown weary of the cycle. “After 30 years of visiting, I do not make any illusion. I am not waiting for a miracle. It was better already. Paradise is over forever.” Longtime residents are also frustrated with local governance. “I have lived here since 2008 and witnessed many trends and cycles. Pattaya’s government is in a permanent reactive transition phase. They struggle with uncertain outcomes. They don’t have the motivation or skill to plan beyond next week!” Pattaya has cycled through dominant visitor groups—from Americans in the ’70s and ’80s, Europeans in the ’80s and ’90s, Russians in the ’00s, Chinese in the ’10s, to now the current Indian wave. But as one expat notes, “It’s a deeper issue. No elected official can afford not to be re-elected. Can these officials balance mass tourism with premium offerings? My answer: sure, if they really want to.” Concerns arise about the city’s long-term viability. “Luxury Indian weddings are not the sustainable future. Nor are the Beach Road 7-11 tourists! While Indian, Chinese, and Russian tourists are vital to Pattaya’s short-term recovery, their current low spending threatens Pattaya’s longer-term economic diversity and global cultural appeal. Europeans are avoiding Pattaya—and even Thailand.” The complexity of Pattaya’s revival leaves many scratching their heads. “If Pattaya could redesign itself, what would it look like in five years? Do they just seek ‘kiss me quick’ tourists or families or whales? Or… they just don’t know—or don’t care? Are those in charge really strategic thinkers or struggling to balance too many vested interests?” Despite all, many expats still love the city. “I’ve lived here for 20 years and won’t leave. Partly because most other countries are equally confused. Good night! Zzzzzz!” One final reflection sums it up: “The greatness of Pattaya is that it’s never been great. By design. It’s a bottom line place, and everyone went along with it because they found exactly what they wanted, without pretending otherwise. Social media and its cohort of 24/7 finger-pointing prosecutors have changed all that by making a negative of what was simply the city’s M.O.—‘It’s not great but we have it!’” So, who will make Pattaya great again? Tourists, expats, local businesses—or the bar girls? The answer remains elusive as the city grapples with its identity and future.

Welcome to Pattaya: Where the prices went up, but the charm checked out. From rising lady drinks to falling service standards, longtime visitors say the magic isn’t what it used to be. PATTAYA, Thailand – After decades of projection and denial, it seems Pattaya has finally run out of rug space. The city long known for its seductive chaos is now facing something far more sobering — the judgment of its own loyal visitors. Across forums, comments, and digital soapboxes, one sentiment echoes loud and unfiltered: Pattaya is no longer worth it. And for once, nobody’s pretending otherwise. “Drop the bar fine to half, drop long time to 1,500 baht — maybe more tourists come back.” “Two chances of that happening: zilch and zero.” “Vietnam — half the price!” “Thailand’s new tourists don’t spend money. Most of them will only buy from 7-Eleven.” “All too greedy.” “Stop the lady drink rip-off.” The litany of complaints cuts across price hikes, falling service standards, and a scene that some say has simply outlived its era. “It’s not great, but we have it!” used to be Pattaya’s unspoken motto — a strange, honest magic that made the city thrive despite itself. But the illusion is crumbling. Social media has dragged the city into the daylight, and with it, an avalanche of reckoning. “Hotels, landlords, bars — super greedy.” “Not cheap anymore. Dual pricing. GREED.” “Gogos are now the biggest scam.” “Inflation’s one thing, but Pattaya raised prices far beyond demand. Suicide business model.” “I used to drink in Las Vegas complex — 80 baht for a beer. Went back this year, 95 baht. ‘Because it’s high season,’ they said. RIP-OFF B’s.” It’s not just about money. Longtime visitors complain the experience itself has soured. “These days 50% of the girls are overweight and glued to their phones.” “Half the bars feel like TikTok filming studios.” “Violence, weed, wannabe tough guys — the atmosphere’s ruined.” “No longer a relaxing place.” “Russian areas, Arab areas, Indian areas — intimidation, corruption, gangs.” “Even Thai police seem more focused on bribes than public safety.” “There’s no confidence in fair treatment anymore.” Perhaps most damning of all? The feeling that nothing is hidden anymore. “What used to be discreet is now live streamed.” “Every fight, scam, rip-off — caught on video.” “Even beach sleepers and tuk-tuk brawls make the feed.” Despite the noise, a quieter consensus emerges — the decline started long before 2020. The pandemic didn’t create the problem, it just exposed it. And yet, there’s still affection. In-between the hard truths, some users hold onto what Pattaya meant — or still could mean — if it took itself seriously. “Pattaya is still the best! You just need to know the good places.” “Thailand is still cheaper than the UK — if you live like a local.” “Yes, it’s changed. But I’m still here. I’ve lived in Pattaya 11 years.” That affection, however, doesn’t mean blind loyalty. “Everyone gets their moment. Yours has passed. Next please.” “Cambodia, here I come. Bye bye, Thailand.” “Thailand is no longer worth my time and money. Sorry.” In the end, there is no single villain. The falling pound, the strong baht, changing tourist demographics, and post-pandemic disillusionment all play a role. But one comment might summarize the tragedy best: “Thailand’s biggest problem is greed.” The rest of the world changed. Pattaya didn’t. And now, perhaps, the curtain is closing on an era when what happened in Pattaya stayed in Pattaya. Because today, it’s online — in full, unfiltered detail — and nothing is under the carpet anymore.

Sharp-eyed bank employees at a Pattaya branch noticed suspicious cash withdrawals totaling 900,000 baht, leading to the arrest of a 20-year-old woman accused of helping a call center gang steal money by impersonating a victim’s relative on Facebook. PATTAYA, Thailand – Police arrested a 20-year-old woman named Thanaporn for her involvement in a call center scam that defrauded a victim of 50,000 baht and involved the suspicious withdrawal of 900,000 baht in cash from a Pattaya bank branch. The arrest came after vigilant bank staff at a Pattaya branch noticed suspicious behavior when a large cash withdrawal was made. Officers from the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) were notified and launched an investigation. They discovered that the account used for the withdrawal was a “mule” account linked to a call center gang that had hacked the Facebook account of the victim’s relative. The scammers impersonated the victim’s niece on Facebook and asked to borrow 50,000 baht, supposedly to buy a phone. Believing the request was genuine, the victim transferred the money. However, when the victim later contacted the niece, they learned the request was fraudulent and reported the incident to the police. Investigators obtained a warrant and arrested Thanaporn at her home in Nongprue Sub-district, Banglamung District. During questioning, she admitted to selling two bank accounts to friends for 1,000 baht each, which were later used for illegal withdrawals. She confessed that a group of three to four people arranged for her to withdraw 900,000 baht from the bank and hand the cash over to them. Thanaporn received 7,500 baht as payment for her role. The police have taken her into custody at Samet Police Station and continue to investigate to apprehend the remaining members of the gang. The suspect admitted to selling her bank accounts and withdrawing money on behalf of the scammers, receiving 7,500 baht in return. Police continue investigating to arrest the remaining gang members.

Fugitive in deadly 2019 Bangkok motorbike gang clash arrested, reminding tourists that Thai authorities are serious about public safety. PATTAYA, Thailand – As Thailand welcomes a surge of international visitors in 2025, many travelers arriving in Pattaya — the country’s premier beach destination — naturally wonder: Is it safe here? On the surface, the sunny beaches, vibrant nightlife, and friendly locals paint a picture of paradise. But recent developments, including a dramatic arrest in Bangkok this week, remind us that public safety is an ongoing priority — and not one to be taken for granted. On June 12, officers from Thailand’s Crime Suppression Division (CSD) arrested Mr. Kwan, a 35-year-old fugitive wanted for his role in a violent motorbike taxi gang clash in Bangkok’s Udomsuk area — a case that shocked the nation back in 2019 when a young delivery worker was fatally struck by a stray bullet during the chaos. According to police, the deadly incident unfolded on June 15, 2019, when two rival groups of motorcycle taxi drivers clashed in broad daylight. Armed with handguns, knives, and other weapons, the gangs brawled openly in the middle of Udomsuk Road. The dispute — reportedly fueled by turf wars over pickup zones — escalated until a firearm was drawn. Tragically, a parcel delivery worker caught in the melee was shot and killed by a stray bullet. The violent episode stunned the public and raised serious concerns about law enforcement oversight over informal transport operators. While the event occurred in Bangkok, it triggered a nationwide crackdown on motorcycle taxi gangs, including in tourist hotspots like Pattaya. Officials in Chonburi province moved swiftly to tighten control over local win (motorbike taxi queues), install more surveillance cameras, and deploy more uniformed police — particularly in high-foot-traffic tourist zones. Fast forward to this week, and the fugitive, Mr. Kwan — the final suspect among 14 wanted individuals — was tracked down and arrested outside a condominium in the Bang Na district of Bangkok, where he had been quietly working as a motorbike taxi driver under a different identity. He now faces multiple charges including premeditated murder, attempted murder, and unlawful public assembly with weapons. After past violence involving motorbike taxi gangs, tighter enforcement and arrests show efforts to make Thai beach cities safer for all. For tourists planning to visit Pattaya, this arrest offers a reassuring message: Thailand does not forget — and it does not stop pursuing violent offenders, no matter how long it takes. The fact that authorities continued tracking this case years after the crime demonstrates the seriousness with which the government views public safety. In recent years, Pattaya itself has been the subject of significant safety reforms. Police patrols along Beach Road, Walking Street, and Jomtien have increased, especially during weekends and festivals. The city’s Tourist Police bureau operates a 24-hour hotline, and local officials regularly coordinate with embassies to assist foreign nationals. Still, visitors are advised to take basic precautions: avoid confrontations, especially involving informal motorbike services; stick to licensed transport; and report suspicious behavior immediately. But violent public clashes like the Udomsuk case are exceedingly rare in Pattaya, thanks in part to the preventative measures inspired by tragic cases like this one. The arrest of Mr. Kwan serves as a powerful reminder: Thailand’s justice system may move slowly at times, but it moves decisively — and public safety remains a top national priority, especially in cities that rely on the confidence of tourists. So, would tourists feel safe in Pattaya today? For the overwhelming majority, the answer is yes. And if trouble does arise, it’s becoming increasingly clear that Thailand is willing to go the distance to keep its streets — and its image — clean.

Shock in Jomtien: A mentally disturbed woman causes a scene, prompting swift action from municipal officers as tourists look on in fear. PATTAYA, Thailand – Residents and tourists were left shocked Wednesday afternoon after a mentally disturbed woman began shouting uncontrollably in the Jomtien area. The incident prompted local municipal officers to respond quickly. After a tense standoff, officers were able to calmly de-escalate the situation by speaking with the woman until she settled down. She was then gently warned and escorted out of the area without further incident. The situation drew strong reactions from local residents on social media, reflecting a deepening concern over Pattaya’s growing visible homelessness and mental health issues: “Sigh… this is what’s dragging the country down.” “She’s mentally unwell, don’t be so harsh on her.” “People are avoiding Pattaya and Jomtien because of people like this.” “She said she came to work in Pattaya – either you get rich or you go insane. Isn’t that right, admin?” “Go to Chaiyapruek 1… people like that are just wandering around.” “Go see Pratumnak Soi 5, it’s a hotspot.” “Salute to the officers. That 7-Eleven near Pratumnak has tons of homeless people.” “This is what public service really means. Thank you.” “Where exactly did they escort her? It’s like this every day.” Crisis on the Beach: Locals express growing concern as another public outburst highlights Pattaya’s deepening homelessness and mental health issues. “Pattaya is slowly becoming a sanctuary for the mentally ill. Come see around Wat Nong Or – same kind of scenes, yelling at random people, doing meth, disappearing for a bit, then reappearing again.” “It’s not just Pattaya – rural areas have people like this too. The meth epidemic is everywhere.” “There are so many homeless people in that area. Something must be done.” “The person filming was actually talking to her and she responded!” “Thanks to the officers. Your work is not easy – much respect.” “Looks like drug withdrawal symptoms to me.” Pattaya’s Hidden Struggle: Behind the tourist paradise, residents speak out about daily encounters with drug abuse, instability, and the lack of long-term solutions. “We meet so many homeless people asking for money. We give 5 or 10 baht and they curse at us. When foreigners don’t give, they get shouted at too. Can the government finally take serious action on this? They send them to the shelter in Rong Po, and a few days later, they’re back again.” “It happens every day.” “I was just in Pattaya a few days ago – saw the same thing.” “Meth heads, hallucinating, thinking they can fly – now a danger to the public.” This incident is far from isolated. Many Pattaya residents say such encounters are becoming all too common – a byproduct of drug addiction, mental illness, and ineffective social support systems. While municipal officers are praised for their professional handling of the situation, locals are calling on national and regional authorities to step in with lasting solutions — not just temporary removals, but real support for those suffering from mental health issues and substance abuse, along with measures to protect public safety and the image of Pattaya as an international tourist city. Commendable Response: City officials de-escalate a tense situation in Jomtien—citizens call for more than just quick fixes.

Teen girl finds mother’s boyfriend convulsing in bed after domestic dispute – shocking scene in Soi Nern Plub Wan PATTAYA, Thailand – Rescue personnel received an emergency call reporting that a foreign man had sprayed mosquito repellent into his own mouth and gone into severe shock in a rented room within a five-story commercial building located in Soi Nern Plub Wan, East Pattaya, on June10. Upon arrival at the room on the fourth floor, they found a 33-year-old Indian national in a state of shock, suffering from dizziness and severe vomiting. Emergency responders quickly provided first aid before rushing him to Pattaya Patthamakhun Hospital for further treatment. Inside the room, authorities found a nearly empty can of blue mosquito repellent spray discarded near the balcony. No signs of struggle were observed. The room contained a partially packed suitcase, suggesting he was preparing to travel. A 14-year-old girl, identified only as “Mon” (alias), was the first to discover and assist him. She explained that the man had been in a relationship with her mother. The night before, a heated argument broke out between the couple, after which her mother left and could not be reached. The next morning, concerned, the girl went to the room to look for her mother. When she entered, she found the man convulsing on the bed and foaming at the mouth. When she asked what happened, he reportedly replied, “I sprayed mosquito repellent into my mouth.” She immediately called emergency services. The motive remains unclear, and authorities have yet to determine whether it was a deliberate act of self-harm following emotional distress. Packed bags, unanswered calls, and a can of bug spray – mystery unfolds in Pattaya room drama.

Mayor welcomes National Emergency Medical Institute to boost tourism safety and investor confidence. PATTAYA, Thailand – Mayor Poramet Ngampichet welcomed Paisan Konjampa, Deputy Secretary-General of the National Institute for Emergency Medicine (NIEM), along with his team, to discuss the implementation of a project aimed at building confidence in investment and tourism through an enhanced emergency medical system in Pattaya. The NIEM highlighted Pattaya’s status as a special economic zone in the Eastern region and a world-renowned tourist city, especially famous for its beaches. They emphasized the importance of safety and emergency support for both local residents and tourists. The project, titled “CPR on The Beach,” aims to provide training on emergency reporting, basic first aid, and emergency vigilance to communities and tourism operators in Pattaya. Selected communities in major tourist areas will participate in the program, with a view to assessing their readiness and certifying them as “Safe Communities.” The initiative also plans to expand the network of Community Emergency Volunteers and promote public awareness about safety. Notably, the project includes preparations for emergency services at key locations, including the helipad at Koh Larn island. Mayor Poramet emphasized that the safety of life and property for residents and tourists is a top priority for Pattaya. The city has been continuously collaborating with related agencies to maintain a safe environment. Pattaya city fully supports this initiative and has assigned the Director of Pattaya Hospital to coordinate with all relevant agencies to prepare for the training activities. This cooperation is expected to elevate emergency medical services in Pattaya and the Eastern Special Development Zone, fostering sustainable confidence for investors and tourists alike. “CPR on The Beach” initiative launched to train pattaya communities in emergency response and first aid. Collaboration to enhance Pattaya’s emergency medical services and designate “Safe Communities” in key tourist areas. Pattaya City supports project to strengthen emergency healthcare and safety for residents and tourists alike.  

Pattaya’s iconic Walking Street sign comes down – city promises a “new look coming soon” under the Better Pattaya campaign. PATTAYA, Thailand – The iconic LED welcome sign at the entrance of Pattaya Walking Street is currently being upgraded as part of ongoing efforts to improve the city’s image and infrastructure. The removal marks the beginning of a new phase of urban development under the theme “Better Pattaya” – aiming for a cleaner, safer, and more vibrant destination for both locals and tourists. A simple update placed on-site reads: “Under demolition, new look coming soon.” The project has sparked a lively discussion online under the campaign with residents and concerned citizens sharing both their hopes and frustrations regarding the broader urban transformation. One popular suggestion reads: “Reviving the area to be a beach park would be better for the community.” Others are eager for visible progress: “Can’t wait to see the new look!” “How is the sports field coming along?” In response, city updates report that the new running track and turf installation at the Pattaya sports complex is ahead of schedule by 23 days, with completion expected by the end of 2025. Yet, not all feedback is optimistic. Several residents have voiced concerns about ongoing neglect in surrounding areas: “It’s still just as rotten, now surrounded by garbage.” “Trees near my village have been left untended for years. It’s become a hideout for thieves and a path for criminals to sneak in and steal wiring from the stadium.” A particularly frustrated commenter added: “The field has turned into a stray dog shelter, a base for criminals, and a dumping ground for waste.” Citizens have also questioned whether the city’s infrastructure plans will truly lead to tangible improvements. “Can you ask the mayor: Will Pattaya ever have decent roads?” Despite criticism, city officials reaffirm that these efforts are part of a broader push to elevate Pattaya as a world-class destination, with plans for improved lighting, walkways, public safety measures, and beautification stretching from Walking Street to other high-traffic tourist zones. As the LED sign makes way for a modernized entrance, the community now awaits signs of real, sustainable change beyond just appearances. “Will Pattaya ever have decent roads?” – public frustration surfaces as city moves forward with beautification efforts.

A 43-year-old Austrian man, Mr. Gantner Wolfgang, is rushed from Don Mueang Airport to a hospital in Suan Luang District after suffering severe seizures mid-transit. PATTAYA, Thailand – In a dramatic midnight incident, a 43-year-old Austrian man identified as Mr. Gantner Wolfgang was rushed from Don Mueang Airport to a hospital in Suan Luang District after suffering seizures. Medical staffs were stunned to discover 255 methamphetamine pills emerging from his intestines, apparently due to a ruptured drug packet he had allegedly swallowed to smuggle the narcotics. Doctors initially responded to a medical emergency involving an unconscious foreigner exhibiting seizures. Upon further examination, they noticed pink fluid leaking from his rectum and conducted a CT scan. The scan revealed several round-shaped objects lodged in his intestines. One of the suspicious items had already exited the body and bore the markings of methamphetamine tablets. Police were alerted immediately. Upon inspection, officers confirmed the objects were methamphetamine (Type 1 narcotic), red round-flat pills stamped with the letters “WY.” A total of 255 pills were recovered from the patient’s digestive tract. The suspect, who remains unconscious, is awaiting surgery while police secure the narcotics evidence. Authorities believe the man attempted to smuggle the drugs by swallowing them in plastic packets, but one of the containers may have burst in transit, causing his medical emergency. The seized drugs were handed over to investigators at Hua Mak Police Station for legal proceedings. In light of the incident, Bangkok Metropolitan Police have issued a stern warning to both tourists and long-term visitors in Pattaya and other parts of Thailand to avoid any involvement with illegal drugs. Authorities emphasized that not only do such actions carry severe legal penalties under Thai law, but they also pose extreme health risks, as demonstrated by this case. Tourists are reminded that drug offenses in Thailand can result in lengthy prison sentences, heavy fines, or worse — life-threatening consequences from trafficking attempts gone wrong. CT scan results showed multiple foreign objects in the suspect’s intestines — later identified as methamphetamine pills. Police secure the evidence before handing it over to Hua Mak investigators; charges are pending as the suspect remains hospitalized.

Pattaya to Cambodia same-day border bounce unaffected. Foreign tourists and expats needing a single day border hop to Cambodia report no problems at the Pong Nam Ron (Hot Water Spring) frontier post. It’s located in a semi-rural area of Chanthaburi province and a four hours drive from Pattaya. If you travel with an established agency, there is no long queuing or disorder of the kind publicized at some other border areas. UK tourist Philip Sawle said, “The territorial dispute between Thailand and Cambodia is not affecting foreigners at Pong Nam Ron. My girlfriend and I were obtaining a new 60 days visa exempt stamp and used the service provided by Thai Visa Center. We boarded the minibus at 7.30 am outside Jomtien immigration headquarters and were back in Pattaya well before dark.” He added that Cambodian immigration authorities conveniently handled the now-compulsory Thailand Digital Arrival Card. Border hops are not visa runs as explained by Jessataporn Bunnag, managing director of Thai Visa Center located next to the Jomtien immigration bureau. “A border hop is an in-out quickie for foreigners wanting a new visa exempt entry, or needing to refresh a 90 days non-immigrant visa which has two or more entries. On the other hand, a visa run is for those requiring a brand new permit issued only by a Thai embassy or consulate in a neighboring country.” Some confusion has arisen because Cambodian nationals entering Thailand visa-exempt by land now receive only seven days, but that restriction does not apply to other nationalities. Mr Bunnag explained, “Our customers must register with us first as we email in advance a copy of their passport. But we take care of all the bureaucracy and escort them throughout the exit and entry process in the two countries. Lunch is provided and the all-inclusive price (nothing extra) is 6,500 baht, or less than US$200. A recent trend is for foreigners with a single-entry student visa to cancel it by doing a border hop and returning with a 60 days visa exempt stamp. This is because student visas have become difficult to extend in Thailand because of a crackdown on perceived abuses. According to Mr Bunnag, they can subsequently (with the required paperwork) apply for a five-years validity soft-power Destination Thailand Visa in a neighboring country such as Laos or Cambodia. Border hops and advice on DTVs can be arranged at the Thai Visa Center office or by phoning Mr Bunnag on 0875133333.

“Make Pattaya Great Again?” — But who’s supposed to do the heavy lifting: tourists, expats, or struggling local businesses? PATTAYA, Thailand – “Make Pattaya Great Again” sounds like a noble call, but it begs the question: who exactly is responsible for that mission? Should it be the foreign tourists coming back in droves, the long-term expats still clinging to their Beach Road nostalgia, or the local business owners trying to adapt to a tourism economy under stress? “Because as it stands, many argue Pattaya is doing a fine job pulling itself down — ‘No need help,’ one commenter quips.” The price of a beer is no longer a joke. From 60-baht beachside beers on Koh Samet to 80-baht soda water in Pattaya’s music bars, inflation is real, and so is the pain of a tourist dollar not stretching as far as it used to. As one tourist put it, “In 2013, short time was 500 baht. Now it’s 1500. That’s 40 euros.” And the exchange rate rubs salt in the wound. The British pound once fetched 85 baht — now it’s hovering under 44. The Australian dollar? It’s lucky to hit 21 baht, compared to 19 in the late ’80s. Tourists grumble: “Stay away then, Cheap Charlie.” Others shrug and say, “Pattaya can be expensive, but it can still be cheap — if you know where to look.” Like Chang beer at 39 baht. But let’s be honest — those bargains are buried beneath layers of inflation, higher alcohol taxes, and services now more focused on grabbing money than offering value. At the heart of the matter is not just money, but attitude. Some say Thai hospitality has become a “filthy hustle,” where “hungry for money” Thai vendors and service workers have lost the charm that once drew tourists in droves. Others draw comparisons to other destinations. “Go to the Philippines,” one commenter says. “They understand you. They know what hard-earned money means. Thai gals just plunder.” Some say it’s time to stop trying to make Pattaya ‘great’ — at least in the nostalgic sense. “Let them learn the hard way,” one expat laments. “Stop trying to justify anything here. Without a weak baht, there’s no reason to choose Thailand at all.” There’s a strong undercurrent of cynicism: Pattaya is too far gone, its golden era buried under currency fluctuations, diluted services, overpriced nightlife, and a loss of authenticity. But others remember differently. “The baht was stronger in the past, and people didn’t complain this much,” says a seasoned Bangkok veteran. Perhaps it’s not just Pattaya that changed — it’s the travelers, the expectations, and the world economy. Beer’s still cheap, but the vibe isn’t. Rising prices and falling patience leave long-timers wondering if the golden days are gone for good. So Who Should Do It? If “Make Pattaya Great Again” is to be more than a meme, who’s supposed to do the heavy lifting? Foreign tourists? Many are being priced out by expensive airfares and a tough exchange rate. Expats? A lot are disillusioned and disengaged — or just tired of being called “Cheap Charlies.” Local businesses? Some are trying — but many are just trying to survive. So maybe no one can make Pattaya great again — not the way it used to be. Maybe it’s about making it work now, in a different time, with different tools and expectations. Until then, you can still find a 39-baht Chang and a few sunsets that don’t cost a thing — but you’ll have to look a little harder than before.