Unequal treatment and rising costs deepen expat frustration—without real change, Pattaya risks losing loyal long-term visitors and its status as a top destination. PATTAYA, Thailand – Long-term visitors and expats in Pattaya are increasingly vocal about persistent issues that local authorities and the Thai government continue to overlook. Many say these problems have become major reasons why they—and many others—are considering or have already chosen to leave, with cheaper and more appealing alternatives in Southeast Asia like the Philippines and Vietnam drawing their attention. From everyday scams to unfair double pricing, the frustrations run deep. “Definitely wouldn’t go to Thailand again,” one expat said bluntly. “There are so many better and cheaper places to go. Better beaches, hotels, restaurants, bars, nightlife. True, there are scams everywhere, but here it’s constant and draining.” Others highlight a frustrating sense of inequality and targeting. Despite living in Thailand for years, paying taxes, and transferring income into the country, some expats say they receive no benefits. At the same time, they face inflated prices at parks, shows, and tourist attractions. One expat shared, “I’ve stayed here and paid tax for 10 years, but I still pay 10 times the price for parks and shows. Meanwhile, a Thai person driving a 10 million baht Mercedes might pay only 20 baht or sometimes nothing at all.” The issue is not about locals receiving discounts, but the feeling of being singled out as foreigners. “It’s simply about greed,” another commented, pointing to widespread double pricing that targets tourists and long-term foreign residents alike. While some say obtaining a Thai driver’s license can grant access to local prices, many still feel the system is rigged against them. Adding to the frustration, many expats report that common transport options like baht-buses and motorbike taxis charge farang (foreigners) significantly higher fares than locals, making everyday commuting an expensive hassle. This price gouging in basic services only reinforces the sense of being treated as outsiders rather than valued community members. Responses vary, with some pushing back against complaints as typical migrant grievances faced worldwide. Yet the overwhelming consensus is that Pattaya’s problems—overpriced entertainment, aggressive scams, confusing and ever-changing rules, and a general lack of respect for long-term visitors—are genuine and worsening. “It’s sad, but the golden age of tourism has probably passed,” said one expat. “The tourism authorities live in their own world, doing what they think is right, but often missing the mark completely.” Other criticisms include overcrowding by tourists who contribute little economically, excessive and complicated regulations for foreigners, poor attitudes, and the erosion of Pattaya’s once-affordable charm. “Now it’s expensive, greedy, and frustrating,” said another. “The greed has gotten the better of them, and now they’re paying the price.” Many expats feel their voices fall on deaf ears. “Who would Pattaya listen to—if not its expats and long-term visitors, the very people who helped build it?” one asked. For now, Pattaya continues to struggle with these unresolved issues as foreign visitors weigh their options elsewhere. Without serious government action addressing the core concerns of the long-term community, the city risks losing the very foundation that helped make it a tourist hub in the first place.