Pattaya sees a surge in job opportunities as European tourists return and spending rebounds. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – As international arrivals steadily increase, Pattaya’s once-quiet beachfronts and bustling streets are again alive with the energy of tourism. The return of European and other international visitors is not only reviving the resort town’s hospitality sector but also attracting job seekers hoping to benefit from a strengthening local economy. After years of pandemic-related setbacks and uneven recovery, Pattaya is showing promising signs of a rebound. Hotels are reporting higher occupancy rates, restaurants are expanding operating hours, and beachside vendors are seeing more consistent foot traffic. A wave of promotions, including discounted accommodation packages, buffet deals, and all-day happy hours, has successfully enticed foreign travelers — especially Europeans — to choose Pattaya as their mid-year escape. With the euro currently hovering above 38 baht, many European tourists are finding exceptional value in Thailand. This favorable exchange rate has also helped fuel demand in local businesses, indirectly creating more job opportunities across the city. “Right now, the jobs are more than the workers,” said one hotel owner in the Jomtien area. “We’re trying to hire more housekeeping staff and kitchen hands, but the labor pool is tight. It’s a good problem, and it shows Pattaya is bouncing back.” Employment in Pattaya is once again picking up in key areas such as hospitality, retail, food service, and transport. The demand surge comes at a time when the Ministry of Labor has also raised unemployment compensation for laid-off workers nationwide — from 50% to 60% of their daily wage — providing better security for those between jobs, and encouraging more mobility in the labor market. Though global economic uncertainties and domestic political tensions remain, Pattaya appears well-positioned to weather the coming months. Seasonal tourism tied to the European summer, combined with local promotions and favorable currency trends, could help sustain the current upswing through the year-end high season. As the city continues to walk the path of recovery, one thing is clear: Pattaya’s mix of affordability, accessibility, and tourism-friendly atmosphere is once again proving resilient — and attractive to both travelers and workers alike.