“Don’t fall in love — it can hurt.” In Pattaya, even seasoned expats say it’s not about finding a fairy tale, it’s about knowing the rules. PATTAYA, Thailand – Amid rising chatter online and over Chang beers on Beach Road, one recurring topic always stirs strong opinions: dating Thai single moms. For many expats and tourists in Pattaya, the conversation is less about romance — and more about reading the fine print. On paper, there’s little controversy. As one seasoned Westerner put it: “She has a child? That’s okay, I love kids.” But three months later? “She’s gone, the kid’s new iPad is in your name, and you’re still paying rent for a room you’re no longer allowed in.” It’s not the presence of children that raises eyebrows — it’s the unspoken curriculum. As another long-term visitor quipped, “Pattaya’s bars and clubs are the world’s number one post-graduate university for honeypot grifters.” And with tourism numbers down and economic pressures rising, some say the students are getting even sharper. “Bar girls have a lot more time for homework now. And they’re desperate.” Many foreigners come expecting fun, companionship, maybe even a second chance at love. But reality often arrives in a wave of tangled relationships, unspoken boyfriends, and unexpected financial obligations. “What, and the boyfriend didn’t have issues?” one man jokes online — half serious, half scarred. Others offer cautionary tales wrapped in weary wisdom: “Learn the rules and try to understand them. Two single moms are OK — just don’t fall in love. It can hurt.” Yet, there’s a practical reality underlying these stories. America, like many places, is very easy when it comes to marrying a Thai single mother — “everywhere is easy for that,” some say. But why is Thailand full of single mothers? Are there that many deadbeat dads out there? The answer is more complicated — some call it “gutter life,” warning newcomers to “just stay single and marry until you have a big ATM.” For romantics still hopeful, advice comes with a stiff reality check: “Try to find a partner from your own race, language, and culture. Pattaya trips are just fun. Most girls here are working to support their families — not for romance.” One particularly infamous Pattaya tale, known locally as the “mosquito repellent incident,” sums up why love isn’t always easy here — a warning that even affection can come with a sting. So, is there something wrong with dating single moms in Pattaya? Not exactly. But as one reader bluntly put it: “No matter how nice, caring, or beautiful the girl is — never date a single mother in Pattaya. You’ll always regret it later.” Another adds, “Good luck. There’s only three left in the country.” For newcomers, it might be wise to pack a copy of Private Dancer by Stephen Leather — or at the very least, a good dose of skepticism. Because in Pattaya, even love needs a mosquito repellent warning label.