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.