Pattaya – A Destination Review by Simon Angove

Pattaya City is a popular coastal beach destination on the Gulf of Thailand; located on the southeast of Bangkok with easy access just over an hour’s drive. In recent years, the closest major beach destination to Thailand’s capital has been redefining its identity from being famous for its nightlife scene to a destination for wider audience; couples, families or business travelers alike. The destination is home to some renowned hotel brands such as Lifestyle branded Pullman Pattaya Hotel G, Mövenpick and Renaissance. Further to this, the destination welcomes a large number of diverse visitors from across the world, there’s no surprise that modern travelers are still seeking multicultural experiences where in the present day, Pattaya has all the characteristics of the needs of a globetrotter: superb restaurants, good entertainment and countless leisure pursuits, amazing Golf Experiences and some of Asia’s largest Water Parks including Cartoon Network and Ramayana. I personally enjoy the lifestyle that Pattaya has to offer. From magnificent sunsets, entertainment precincts, island hopping, sailing in gulf, beautiful beaches and local food options, especially that of the fresh seafood, Pattaya has lots to offer. With over 24 quality Golf Courses within a 40-min drive from the city to choose from, it is certainly a major attraction to Pattaya. One of my personal favorites is the newly appointed Chee Chan Golf Course which provides the perfect golf challenge and settings. With sweeping views over the Pattaya skyline, temples and the famed Khao Chee Chan Buddha, it really is a fantastic experience and day out of the course with perfectly manicured fairways, greens and caddies. Also, the recently opened Siam Country Club Rolling Hills course will surely challenge you in many ways. With additional direct flights being added to U-Tapao airport, located 30-min from the city centre, the convenience of the city is growing from key markets. Flights from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam in accordance with VietJet Air commenced from the 23rd December 2019 with four return flights a week with a duration of only 1h30m this is opening many opportunities to and from an emerging destination. Kuala Lumpur direct connect continues with increased flights domestically such as Phuket the destination, accessibility remains key and with year-round tropical climates. Pattaya is the heart of paradise and has something for everyone, so whether it be golf, watersports, drinking cocktails or shopping, there is always something in Pattaya for you.