Holiday Guide to Pattaya, Thailand

Pattaya was a small fishing village until rich people from Bangkok discovered its beaches in the 60'. Soon, American soldiers from the U. S. Air Forces based in Utapao began taking tours to the area for "rest and recreation". The city grew quickly, mostly due to the numerous bars and other nightlife amenities. When the Americans left Thailand following the end of war against Vietnam in the city began the economic crisis but the rise of mass tourism in Europe brought prosperity to Pattaya in the recent years.

In 2005 Pattaya offered accommodation in more than 35,000 rooms, both in budget and luxury hotels. Despite to its former reputation as a holiday spot for sexual tourism, Pattaya transformed into a family-oriented vacation area in the recent years, being now one of the most popular tourist spots in Thailand amongst travelers from Russia, Eastern Europe and Scandinavia. The city houses also many foreigners drawn there by the low cost of living, as well as by the modern infrastructure which includes hospitals, shopping malls, supermarkets and fast-food restaurants.

Resort Hotels & Tours in Pattaya

The main tourist attractions in Pattaya are the beaches. Pattaya Beach is situated in the central area of the city, in close proximity to shopping malls, hotels and bars. The abundance of jet-ski and speedboat contributed to the severe pollution of the water along this beach. The section from the Central Road to the harbor is adjacent to the abundant nightlife area and as result this zone is less family-oriented than North Pattaya, Na Klua or Jomtien Beach.

Attractions in Jomtien Beach
Jomtien Beach is separated to the main part of Pattaya by the Buddha Hill, located in the southern end of the city. In contrast to Pattaya Beach, Jomtien Beach is a popular holiday destination for families and water sport enthusiasts, being a residential area with luxury hotels, bungalow complexes and villas. There are a wide range of aquatic sport amenities, including jet-skiing, parasailing, fishing and scuba diving.

Attractions in Ko Lan
Ko Lan is a small island situated at 7,5 kilometers west to Pattaya, being accessible only by speedboat and ferry. Still, tours to this island can be taken with ease because ferries depart hourly and make only 45 minute from mainland. A speedboat ride is more expensive but the island can be reached in less than 15 minutes! Ko Lan has several excellent beach resorts renowned for comfortable accommodation in luxurious resort hotels, clean surroundings, relaxing atmosphere, sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. In fact, it's a perfect holiday spot for tourists who want to spend peaceful family vacations in Thailand!

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