Pattaya joins the ranks of the world’s safest destinations as Thailand is upgraded to Level 1 by the U.S. State Department. (Photo – Pattaya Beach, Thailand) PATTAYA, Thailand — Pattaya has solidified its position as one of Thailand’s most secure and welcoming tourist hubs, earning recognition under the U.S. Department of State’s latest Travel Advisory. Issued on June 9 and publicly shared on June 16, the update upgrades Thailand to Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions), the safest category in the U.S. advisory system — placing it alongside top-tier destinations such as Japan, Australia, Canada, and Singapore. The improved safety rating underscores Thailand’s robust public safety standards and its readiness to welcome international travelers. For Pattaya, a city that thrives on global tourism, the Level 1 designation comes as a timely endorsement of its evolving safety infrastructure and visitor-friendly atmosphere. Local officials and business operators welcomed the news, noting that the rating will strengthen international confidence and help stimulate a sustained tourism rebound. “Pattaya has worked hard to maintain international safety standards. This recognition validates our commitment and will help attract more long-haul, high-spending visitors,” said a representative from the Pattaya Tourism Office. While the southern provinces of Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat remain at Level 2 (Increased Caution), major destinations such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya continue to be recognized as safe zones under international guidelines. Pattaya’s inclusion in Thailand’s top safety tier boosts its appeal to high-spending tourists from the U.S. and beyond. (Photo – Pattaya Beach, Thailand) Thailand’s promotion to Level 1 is backed by a range of tourist-focused initiatives, including: -Tourist Assistance Centers offering real-time support in multiple languages -Compensation programs for affected foreign visitors -Specialized tourist courts that provide quick legal help during disputes or emergencies These nationwide measures help ensure that both first-time and returning visitors feel secure during their stay. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) views the upgrade as a major vote of confidence from the global community. The agency expects the advisory to influence travel decisions, particularly among American travelers, and support economic growth across accommodation, dining, retail, and transportation sectors. For Pattaya — long known for its vibrant nightlife, beaches, and festivals — the announcement reinforces its image as a dynamic yet safe destination ready to thrive in the post-pandemic tourism landscape. Minister Sorawong welcomes the U.S. Travel Advisory upgrade, highlighting its positive impact on Thailand’s tourism industry. “This isn’t just a safety badge — it’s a green light for Pattaya’s continued revival,” said one local hotel operator. “Visitors can now come with even more confidence.” Sorawong Thiengthong, Minister of Tourism and Sports, expressed his appreciation to the U.S. government for its recognition of Thailand’s safety and hospitality standards. “This is wonderful news for Thai tourism,” he said. “Being listed among the safest travel destinations by the United States significantly reinforces global confidence in visiting Thailand.” Sorawong added, “The new travel advisory is not only a boost for traveler confidence but also a strong signal for the Thai tourism industry. It benefits our hotels, restaurants, and tourism-related businesses across the country, creating job opportunities, stimulating grassroots economies, and driving Thailand forward as a ‘Quality Destination’ on the global stage.”