Pattaya bookings bounce back as tourists do their bit — still cheaper than Europe, if you skip the bar scene PATTAYA, Thailand — As global travel steadily rebounds, Pattaya is once again appearing on the radar of international tourists, with bookings ticking up and optimism cautiously returning to the city’s vital tourism sector. While exchange rates and rising costs are still a point of discussion, many long-time visitors and newcomers alike are finding reasons to return — or at least give Pattaya another chance. “Pattaya is still miles cheaper than the UK, especially if you don’t eat western food,” noted one British visitor. “It’s even cheaper if you self-cater.” That sentiment is echoed by many Europeans who say that, despite creeping price hikes, Thailand remains a value destination — particularly compared to Spain, Italy, or Greece. “I’d rather be in Thailand than being in Spain etc!” wrote another. While some grumble that the magic isn’t quite what it used to be, many others see positive shifts. “There are still plenty of new bars and shops opening up in the Pratamnak Hill area,” observed one expat. “Agree — as time marches on, we just adjust and still enjoy… life is good.” Still, not everyone is entirely sold on the “new Pattaya.” Some feel the red-light image lingers too heavily, even as the city evolves. “I’m here now. Pattaya isn’t just a red light area,” one visitor emphasized. “Five minutes to Naklua hotels and beaches, 15 minutes up to Jomtien — lovely beachside hotels.” But nostalgia casts a long shadow. “Best times were pre-2010,” sighed another. “While the fun was cheap, it was a good place to go.” Others point out that the issue isn’t just the Thai baht. “Yes, the exchange rate isn’t good — but that’s not the main reason. In 2015, the rate was worse. It’s the jump in short-time/long-time prices, lady drinks, and bar fines. That’s the killer.” The vibe has shifted, too, as demographics evolve. “The women are strictly business, can hardly hold a conversation,” said one seasoned visitor. “The novelty wears off after one year in Asia, sitting on a barstool.” Still, others argue Pattaya’s unique mix of chaos and charm remains unmatched. “Vietnam, Philippines, Cambodia aren’t to be compared with Thailand if you want to have fun,” one loyal tourist wrote. Yet some cracks show. “Pattaya’s future hinges entirely on tourism success — no Plan B if recovery falters,” warned one observer. Another was more blunt: “When you bite the hand that feeds you, this is the result.” Still, there’s cautious hope. “We’re going in October,” wrote one couple. “I’ll do my bit to help out next month,” said another. “I’m there in August for 8 days,” added a third. Notably, fewer Chinese tour groups have returned — a trend some welcome. “No Chinese anymore. Many will be happy with less crowds?” Comparisons have also been drawn to Japan’s booming tourism, aided by a weakened yen. “Maybe Thailand could learn something!” And what of the pensioners complaining about dwindling purchasing power? “Let me get this straight,” one commenter scoffed. “Pensioners are still whining that money doesn’t go as far as it did (briefly) in 1997 when the Asian currency crashed?” At the end of the day, Pattaya may not be the bargain paradise of decades past — but for many, it’s still a place to enjoy life, if you know how to adapt. As one visitor summed it up: “Still a good place to go.”