Pattaya, once a quaint fishing village, has transformed into a bustling tourist destination located in the southeast of Bangkok, along the picturesque eastern coast of Thailand. While it’s often dubbed “Patiya – the city of sins” for its vibrant nightlife, there’s a lot more to this city than meets the eye. In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through the diverse and exciting attractions that make Pattaya a fantastic destination for visitors seeking more than just a wild night out.
A Place for Everyone
Whether you’re planning a short weekend trip or an extended stay, Pattaya offers something for every traveler. It’s not just about the pulsating nightlife; the city boasts ancient royal temples, intriguing museums, exhilarating water parks, and captivating scenic viewpoints. Families with children and those in pursuit of a more relaxing vacation can find plenty of things to do in this city.
Travel Insurance: A Must-Have
Before embarking on your Pattaya adventure, consider investing in travel insurance, especially if you plan on participating in adventure trips and water sports. Insurance is essential for international travel, particularly in less developed areas like Thailand. It can make a significant difference in case of emergencies or accidents during your trip, providing you with peace of mind.
An Evolving Pattaya
Pattaya has undergone significant changes in recent years, attracting a more diverse group of tourists. However, it’s essential to note that some areas in the south of the city are still less recommended for tourists. The northern part of Pattaya is where most of the best hotels and resorts are located. Recommended hotels include Hotel Bay View, Siam@Siam Design Hotel, Central Festival Pattaya Beach, and Holiday Inn Pattaya.
Unveiling Pattaya’s Gems
Now, let’s delve into the treasures that Pattaya has to offer:
1. The Sanctuary of Truth: A must-visit attraction resembling a wooden temple-castle with elements of Buddhism and Hinduism. It features a handcrafted wooden statue inside and has been under construction since 1981.
2. Jomtien Beach: Located just 3 km south of Pattaya, it’s known for water sports and events.
3. Pattaya Beach: Stretching about 4 km, this beach offers various water activities and floating restaurants. Consider booking day trips to make the most of your Pattaya Beach experience.
4. Pattaya Floating Market: A popular attraction with four sections representing different regions of Thailand. It offers various food stalls, souvenir shops, and art galleries, with cultural shows held every afternoon. You can even rent boats to navigate through the market, which is open daily from 10 am to 11 pm.
5. The Alcazar Cabaret Show: A famous and colorful performance, known as the best transvestite cabaret show in Thailand. It features modern stage technology and creativity, providing an unforgettable experience.
6. Art in Paradise: An impressive 3D art gallery, the largest of its kind in the world. Visitors can interact with the art using the Art in Paradise AR app, creating spectacular photos and videos.
7. Nong Nooch Tropical Garden: This 2-square-kilometer botanical garden offers a variety of plants and wildlife. Originally intended to be a fruit plantation, it now features cultural ceremonies, elephant shows, a small zoo, restaurants, and Thai-style rental houses.
8. Mini-Siam: A famous attraction featuring miniature versions of landmarks from Thailand and around the world. It provides a condensed view of the beauty of Thailand and its architectural and natural wonders, with a dedicated section for Europe called Mini Europe.
9. Wat Phra Khao Yai (Big Buddha Hill): This hilltop temple complex with a massive Buddha statue overlooks the coastal area, attracting both locals and tourists. The Big Buddha statue stands at an impressive 18 meters, making it the largest of its kind in the region.
10. Walking Street: One of the liveliest places in Pattaya, it transforms from a busy street during the day into a bustling pedestrian zone in the evening. Many buildings along Walking Street house nightclubs, go-go bars, pubs, and restaurants. Each visit offers a chance to discover something new, or you can join private tours to uncover hidden gems.
11. Teddy Bear Museum: Dedicated to teddy bears, this museum is perfect for family visits. It features various teddy bear models, toys, and special exhibits, with multiple levels to explore.
12. Ramayana Water Park: Located 15 km from Pattaya, it’s one of the largest water parks in Southeast Asia, offering over 20 water slides and various exciting attractions. The park opened in 2016 after a 5-year construction period with an investment of $1.7 billion.
13. Delphinus Delphis Delphis: A top attraction in Pattaya, offering spectacular dolphin shows that adhere to international standards. Visitors can take photos with the dolphins and even swim with them, with the dolphinarium open from 9 am to 5 pm.
Pattaya is a city of endless possibilities, where you can experience both the thrilling and the serene, the traditional and the modern. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this vibrant and diverse destination that has something for every type of traveler. Your Pattaya adventure awaits!
