CONTENTS HISTORY OF PATTAYA
5
USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS
6
GETTING AROUND
8
PATTAYA MAP
10
JOMTIEN MAP
12
GOOD FOOD GUIDE
15
NIGHTLIFE GUIDE
21
KOH CHANG
43
GUESS WRITER
44
PAGS
46
GUEST WRITER
48
ACTIVITIES GUIDE
50
GOLF GUIDE
58
SHOPPING GUIDE
60
HEALTH AND FITNESS
63
SERVICES GUIDE
66
VISA INFORMATION
87
REAL ESTATE GUIDE
93
4
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | contents
The Pattaya Guide is a monthly publication which is on display in many hotels, shopping centre’s, restaurants and entertainment venues throughout Pattaya, Jomtien and Naklua. Created & Published by: The Pattaya Guide Company Limited, 482/14 Moo 10, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150 Email or Call us if you would like to be added to our distribution list Telephone: 085 945 9689 Email: thepattayaguide@gmail.com All contents of this guide are the copyright of The Pattaya Guide Company Ltd, all rights reserved. Reproduction, use of editorials and use of pictures in any manner is prohibited without written permission of The Pattaya Guide Co Ltd.
HISTORY OF PATTAYA Pattaya - Thailand’s capital of fun is a popular resort on the North Gulf Coast of Eastern Thailand, 150 km south-east of Bangkok. Once a sleepy fishing town, Pattaya first boomed as an R & R spot during the Vietnam War and has been a popular tourism destination ever since. Currently, Pattaya is booming and the opening of the Suvarnabhumi Airport has made visiting easier than ever. Pattaya is popular not only as a beach resort and for its entertainment, nightlife and shopping, but also for the broad selection of recreational activities it caters for, from golf and horseback riding to bungee jumping, karting and shooting - not to mention a wide variety of watersports such as scuba diving, jet-skiing, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and kite surfing. Pattaya, unlike other beach resorts, shows no respite after sundown, Pattaya’s nightlife is unique and fascinating with Walking Street, South Pattaya in the centre of it all. This is the most popular place to go amongst tourists and expats here you will find many go go bars, beer bars, discos, street entertainers and the odd ladyboy. Food is another one of the highlights of any trip to Pattaya. From giant prawns to spicy som tam salad, there is every imaginable cuisine here. Cajun, Chinese, Indian, Italian, English, French, Vietnamese, German, Russian and many more. Today Pattaya attracts annually more then a million tourists from all over the world. Pattaya provides high standard hotels, restaurants, sports, entertainment and shopping. It really has it all and a whole lot more. history of pattaya | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS Pattaya City Phone Center
1337
Emergencies Police Emergency
191
Sawang Boriboon Foundation
038 222 474
1669
Tourist Police
038 425 937
1155
Pattaya Immigration
038 410 24
Police Station (Pattaya)
038 420 802-5
Police Station (Jomtien)
038 232 330-1
Police Station (Banglamung)
038 221 331
Fire Brigade (Pattaya)
038 425 943
Fire Brigade (Naklua)
038 221 000
Hospital (Bangkok- Pattaya) Hospital (Banglamung)
038 429 244
Hospital (Pattaya International)
038 428 374-5
Hospital (Pattaya Memorial)
038 488 777
AA (Alcoholics anonymous)
084 564 8479
199 1719
Transport Bus Station (to Bangkok)
038 429 877
Pattaya Railway Station
038 429 285
U-Tapao Airport
038 245 593-5
Bangkok Airways
038 412 382
Thai Airways International
038 425 934-7
Suvarnabhumi Airport Phone Centre 021 321 888 Please text any useful phone numbers that you come across to 0859 459 689 6
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Useful Numbers
GETTING AROUND Pattaya is a very easy city to get around although the busy traffic causes frequent hold-ups at peak times (07:00 – 09:00 and 15:00 – 18:30), particularly on the major roads. Unusually, for Thailand, there are no tuk-tuks in Pattaya, so everyone usually gets around on the baht-buses (songtaews) or on motorbike taxis. There are literally hundreds of both all over Pattaya. MOTORBIKE TAXIS Motorbike taxis are a way of life in Pattaya. They are your best bet of getting around if you want to get somewhere quickly or conveniently, particularly at busy times. On every corner in Pattaya, no matter how small the Soi (street), you will find a gathering of motorbike taxis. They are operate 24 hours a day 7 days per week and provide a very convenient service. However, this option is not for the faint-hearted and can be dangerous. These guys, and the occasional lady will take you anywhere but agree on a price first! RENTING CARS AND MOTORBIKES Another practical way to get around Pattaya is by renting a motorbike. Most people simply don’t have the nerve to tackle the traffic and bizarre driving habits here, but if you do, renting a motorbike is your best option for getting around Pattaya. You can rent a motorbike for around 200 baht a day or cheaper for longer periods. There are scooter type bikes which are actually extremely easy to ride, with no clutch when changing gears, and very reliable, larger motorbikes are freely available as well, but obviously more expensive. 8
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | getting around
In Thailand it is illegal to ride a motorbike or to be a passenger without a helmet, to ride with more than two passengers, to undertake in traffic, to go the wrong way down one-way streets, to exceed the speed limit, or, to jump red lights, which means very little to anyone in Thailand and driving habits here are dreadful. If you decide to rent a motorbike, make sure your medical insurance is up-to-date as accidents here are a daily occurrence. Cars can be hired too, but driving them in and around the city is likely to be a frustrating experience, particularly at school times, market days, rush hours and on Sukhumvit Road. There are many car rental companies around the city with prices starting at around 500 baht a day for the older cars, to a more realistic 1200+ baht for more modern or four wheel drive vehicles. WARNING… Driving habits in Thailand are appalling and most drivers are quite irresponsible and ignore simple safety rules. In contrast to the Thai’s usual polite and peaceful behaviour, they become quite inconsiderate behind the wheel. Be very wary of your speed and always look out for bad drivers, Pattaya is full of them. Unlike many Western countries, it’s very easy to pass a driving test here, so many drivers have little or no experience of driving either in town or on main roads. Many simply don’t have a licence at all or any awareness of road rules. Be prepared at any time for other drivers to suddenly pull out in front of you without even looking, stop without warning, overtake dangerously (and on the inside) and ignore motorcyclists. Some people just stop and park where it suits them, weave through the traffic with a death wish, ride the wrong way up the road into oncoming traffic and more. Do pay careful attention and drive conservatively. Accidents are regular in Pattaya and when they do occur, the offender is usually reluctant to accept any responsibility, should the worst happen however, the Pattaya police and ambulance services are exceptionally good, as well as being very quick to the scene.
getting around | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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PATTAYA MAP
Mini Siam
Police Box
P
To Chonburi & Ba H Bangkok Pattaya
Air Con Bus Station to BBK
North Pattaya Road
ngkok
So
3rd Road
Tesco Lotus
P
Soi 1
Police Box
Big C
Best To Naklua Tiffany’s Show
Sanctuary of Truth
P.I. Hospital Garden Sea View
1 Woodland
Asiawan Resort Garden Cliff
Long Beach Garden
The Palm
10
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Pattaya Map
Amari Dusit
2
3
4
H
Soi Nern Pl ub wan
Siam Country Club
Bus Station to Northern Thailand
Sukhumvit Road Newspaper Direct Foodland Soi Bongkot
Easy Corner Bar
Booze Lounge
Soi Lenkee
TOT Telephone
Witherspoons Soi Boukhao Easy R-Con Oscars Bar Murphys Law Robin’s Nest Pattaya Paradise Memorial LK Metro Crystal H Avenue Break Club Take It Easy Soi Diana
My Girl Massage
Soi Chaiyapoon
Big C
Central Pattaya Road
oi Yume
2nd Road
P
Tops 6 Soi Yodsak
5
Central Festival
Police Box Alibaba Tequila Reef
Nova Lodge
CTBS The Sportsman
Police Station 8 9
7
P
Five Star Visa Runs
10
11
12
Beach Road
13
Pattaya Beach :- Real Estate
:- Shopping
:- Restaurant & Bar
:- Services
:- Activities
H :- Hospital :- Hotel
Pattaya Map | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
11
Soi Wat Tham Samakkee
Highway Police Station
Ornate Plaster
Soi Khaotalo
JOMTIEN MAP Police Box
P Police BoxTesco
Wiggle Town
Key Visa
Lotus
Outlet Mall
Big C
ppa The
7
i1
17
German Dental
7
Thai T- Shirt Factory News Steaks & Grill
Thapp hraya Road
Swiss Food
Phr ata m
Pattaya Rent A Car Tudor Court
Sapphire Agogo Alcatraz
V2O
Walkin g The Glass House
nak
Roa
d
Tuk Com
Soi Diamond
Soi Yamoto Soi Post Office
Soi 15
Post
South Pattaya Ro
Soi 33
o
Cafe Des Amis
P Police Box So
oad
Soi Buakha
ad
sit R
CarrĂŠ Blanc
9
Street
Blues Factory
Nova Ocean
Easy Kart
Utopia
The Pier
Amari Residences
Heaven
Royal Cliff Sheraton Cosy Beach
12
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Jomtien Map
Pattaya Bay
Soi Norng Kraborg
Soi Chaiyapruk 2 To Rayong, Sattahip & U-Tapao Airport
Sukhumvit Road Underwater World
n
o at Bo Soi W Welcome Jomtien
Soi Chaiyapruk
Royal Garden
Immigration Post Office
Grand Palace Hotel
Just Burgers
Bus to Bangkok
Planet Earth Beach Club (Soi 15)
Just Burgers (Between Soi 18 & Soi 19)
9
8 View
5
Pattaya Park
ien Jomt
ad
h Ro
Beac
Jomtien Beach
P
Cosy Beach View
B tan
Asia Pattaya
D
g on
:- Shopping
Police Box
Adriatic
e
h ac
Police Box P
:- Activities :- Real Estate :- Restaurant & Bar
:- Services
H :- Hospital :- Hotel or Condo
Jomtien Map | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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GOOD FOOD GUIDE With a wealth of international restaurants offering delicious food. Pattaya is truly the crossroads of cuisine in Asia. French, Mexican, German, ltalian, Indian, Chinese, Scandinavian, Korean, Japanese and of course, Thai plus many other varieties of restaurant are located within the city. For most visitors to Pattaya the experience of new and interesting dishes is an exciting alternative to the traditional foods available at home. However, along with wonderful Thai dishes, one should sample the culinary delights available from other countries. Try “Kimji” a type of Korean spicy salad or maybe “sizzling Fajitas” a popular Mexican dish. Also, why not take this opportunity to find new ways of cooking traditional ingredients… there are now several cooking schools around the city where for a nominal fee you can learn to cook local dishes as well as go shopping to local markets and buy the ingredients you will need. Local specialities include: Tom Yam Gung (spicy prawn soup), Gaeng Kiewan (green spicy curry). If you like your food “hot” then try some of the food served from the vast number of vending carts across the city. At these you can sample such delicacies as: Som Tam (spicy salad) or Hoy Tord (fried mussels or oysters with egg) and the amazing variety of seafood. good food guide | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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Tandoori & Curry Restaurant “Serving Delicious” VEGETARIAN & NON VEGETARIAN INDIAN, MUGHALAI & PUNJABI CUISINE
Open 11am till 12 Midnight
Pattaya Beach Road
Soi 8
Second Road
Soi 7
Nova Lodge Hotel
Pattaya Central Road
14th century inspired the famous legend “Alibaba and the 40 thieves” architecture provides the perfect setting for Pattaya’s most famous Indian restaurant 1/13-14, Pattaya Central Rd, Opp. Nova Lodge Hotel, Pattaya City, Thailand Phone:- 038 361 620 For Home Deliveries Call
038 423 227
Just Burgers Jomtien Beach Road
JOMTIEN BEACH ROAD
Metro Jomtien Condotel
Just Burgers
Soi 19
Soi 18
Soi 17
Jomtien Garden Hotel
CHAIYAPHUK 1
Just Burgers
Soi 9
Jomtien Palm Beach Hotel
Soi 8
THAPPRAYA ROAD
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NIGHTLIFE GUIDE
Cheap drinks 24 hours a day, all beer under 60 baht As you would expect from one of the most exciting vacation destinations in the world. Pattaya offers the visitor a kaleidoscope of entertainment possibilities. Live music & be enjoyed at several clubs around the city. These venues provide the visitor with wonderful atmosphere, cold beer & cocktails & the opportunity to see artists from various parts of the world playing a wide selection of popular & new music. There are also a number of traditional nightclubs in the city. These nightspots also offer live entertainment… the live music is usually performed by Thai singers & bands with regular interludes where the resident DJ will play a selection of dance/house or other forms of music.
Lots of friendly staff and great service
For visitors who like to sit back & watch a truly spectacular show, check out Alcazar & Tiffany’s located on 2nd Road, Pattaya. These are the lady-boy shows, Also serving cheap where the singers perform in a vast array of costumes & sing their way through western and Thai food songs in several languages. A little outside Pattaya you will find the Alangkarn Extravaganza. A show which features animals, pyrotechnics, acrobats etc. available Alangkarn is now creating itself as one of theRooms “must see” shows for visitors.
www.easyrconbar.com
WELCOME TO HEAVEN
lotherheaven@gmail.com
COME IN AND FIND OUT
086 1080 145 Heaven Lother @
SOI BUAKHAO
Soi 21
The Booze Lounge
Soi Buakhao
www.alcatrazpattayagogo.com
Alcatraz A GoGo bar was designed with a professional design team to make it ooze sensuality; an electrifying dance and music scene in Pattaya's Walking Street, world-renown for its GoGo bars
Walking Street: Between Soi 14 and 15 Pattaya Beach: 3 minutes walk / Jomtien Beach: 15 minutes taxi ride
FREE 1 HOUR BODY MASSAGE
with any girl of your choice
Enjoy a stimulating and fulfilling massage with any of the twenty-two beautiful ladies willing to give you a satisfying experience
For Taxi
Open 11am Until Late
เขา้ซอยยเูมะ (บก๊ิซี พทัยากลาง) เลย้ีวซา้ย โครงการรตันากร (ตรงขา้ม Dental Loft) เลย้ีวซา้ย ตรงไปจนสดุ (ตกึ My Girl จะอยแู่ถวท่ี 2)
ALL MASSAGE GIRLS MINIMUM 18 YEARS OF AGE
038 411 024 ~ 087 541 5085 mygirlmassage.com
www.
PARTY! GIRLS! FUN!
Soi Diamond
For The most Fun In Walking Street
Walking Street
Glasshouse A Go Go Walking Street (opp Soi Diamond)
REAL IRISH PUB & GUESTHOUSE
LAW
NEVER GOIN’ HOME • Central Location • Food • Free WiFi • Sports Bar • Hurling and Football Live • Open Late • Quality Rooms 500 baht + • Facebook / stevemurphyslaw
Murphy’s Law Soi LK Metro
Soi L.K. Metro Champagne a-Go-Go
Soi Diana
Soi Buakhao
Pattaya 2nd Road
(just off Soi Buakhao) Kiss Restaurant
Open Until 5am Call: 084 100 9016 www.irishpubpattaya.com
Pisshead Irish Owner
Pattaya’s only real live blues & rock club with live bands 7 days a week
THE BLUES MACHINE ROCKS BAND THE ROCK MACHINE featuring POP on guitar Pattaya’s hottest rock musicians
& “the Guitar King of Thailand”
Lam Morrison • Rock Nights & Bikers Nights • Blues & Rock Jam Nights • Great Video D.J. • Friendly Hassle Free Staff • The Perfect Place For Couples & Singles Soi Lucky Star, Off Walking Street www.thebluesfactorypattaya.com
Open 1pm to 12 Midnight Soi 33, Pattaya 3rd Road
HAPPY HOUR EVERY FRIDAY
Bar Club Relax “ONE GLASS PAID ONE FREE GLASS” EXCEPT LADY DRINK
SOI 16
Soho Square
SOI HAPPY
SOI DIAMOND
Claimed by our customers to be the best rock group in Pattaya
UTOPIA Here!!
WALKING STREET
Avenue Break
Play pool and relax in our pool hall, watch live sports and enjoy a beer at the bar
FREENG I PARK
FREENG I PARK
399/9, The Avenue, Pattaya 2nd Road, Pattaya City We can be found on Avenue Break Pool Facebook Time 11:00 - 02:00 Open 7 Days a week
GUEST GUESS THE SONG WRITER SAM...SORRY SONGKRAN The Song Sam.... sorry Songkran festival is celebrated in Thailand as the traditional New Year running from the 13th of April to the 15th, however in Pattaya they celebrate it until the 18/19th that’s why its known as the extreme city. The date of the festival was originally set by an Indian astrologer, a sort of Punjabi turban wearing Russell Grant way back when flares were still in fashion. Songkran falls in the hottest time of the year in Thailand, at the end of the so called dry season. Until 1888 the Thai New Year was the beginning of the year in Thailand (13th); thereafter the 1st April was used until 1940, then someone found an old page 3 calender and they reverted back to the christain dates, Songkram is now observed nationwide, even in the far south. However, the most famous Songkran celebrations are still in the northern city of Chiang Mai, where it continues for six days and even longer. It has also become a mass party for foreigners who can’t stomach anymore hot cross buns or Easter eggs, its also an additional reason for many to visit Thailand for immersion in alcohol. The most obvious celebration of Songkran is the throwing of water. Thai’s roam the streets in packs like vigilantes with concealed containers of H20 or water guns Guest Writer | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
43
(sometimes mixed with mentholated talc) now that stings! or post themselves at the side of roads with a garden hose and drench each other and passers by. Foreigners have taken it a step further with intercontinental ballistic rocket launchers.... for a country which suffers from acute water shortages it seems a strange event and for a week at 6pm no fly zones operate and official battles must cease whilst man made rivers flow down the soi’s like a little Venice.... This, however, was not always the main activity of this festival. Songkran was traditionally a time to visit and pay respects to elders, including family members, friends and neighbors. Besides the throwing of water, people celebrating Songkran may also go to a Wat (Buddhist temple) to pray and give food to monks. It is believed that doing this will bring good luck and prosperity for the New Year. In many cities, such as Chaing Mai the Buddha images from all of the city’s important monasteries are paraded through the streets so people can toss water at them, ritually ‘bathing’ the images as they pass by on ornately decorated floats. Some people make New Year resolutions - to refrain 44
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Guest Writer
from bad behavior, or to do good things. yeah right! And some link arms and sing auld lang syne.... ok that’s a lie but they do do the Thai Okey Cokey . Among young people the holiday evolved to include dousing strangers with water and themselves in whiskey to relieve the heat, since April is the hottest month in Thailand (temperatures can rise well over 100°F or 40°C on some days). This has further evolved into water fights and splashing water over people riding in vehicles. Occasional handbags have known to occur but the majority take it in fun.... if you don’t like the thought of getting drowned for 5 days stay in and read war and peace. Nowadays, the emphasis is on fun and water-throwing rather than on the festival’s spiritual and religious aspects, which sometimes prompts complaints from traditionalists. In recent years there have been calls to moderate the festival to lessen the many alcohol-related road accidents and deaths as well as injuries attributed to extreme behavior such as water being thrown in the faces of traveling motorcyclists, water was meant as a symbol of washing all of the bad away and is sometimes filled with fragrant herbs when celebrated in the traditional manner.... but that is rarer than a honest jet ski operator. Happy holidays sg Guest Writer | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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PAGS SPONSORED BY PATTAYA AMATEUR GOLF SERIES Pattaya’s best kept secret is undoubtedly the quality and value of its golf courses, there are 20 championship standard courses within 45 minutes of Pattaya, designed by the very best golf architects and designers. Clubhouse facilities are excellent with everything you might need and more, including great restaurants, swimming pools, massage facilities, superb shower and locker rooms. All courses provide caddies to guide you through your round with words of advice and encouragement. Quite simply, golfing in Pattaya is a match for anywhere in the world at a fraction of the cost with each course offering a fantastic experience for golfers of all abilities (with no course requiring a handicap card). So, whether you are a low handicap golfer, one who enjoys a challenge or a complete novice there is no better place to play than the courses around Pattaya.
Course of the Month Phoenix Golf Club Designer: Dennis Griffith Course: 27 holes Par 72 Enjoy a challenging game in 3 different settings. This 27 hole golf course was created for you to provide a challenging yet enjoyable round of golf in 3 spectacular settings. The Mountain 9 has stunning views of rolling hills and mountain ranges. The Lakes 9 is laid out amid shady natural woodlands and shimmering lakes to ensure a memorable golfing experience. The Ocean 9 has beautiful distant views of Pattaya City and its blue seas and beaches. Facilities include Large Clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis courts, golf driving range and full seminar, convention and banqueting service.
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THEPATTAYAGUIDE | pattaya amateur golf series
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PATTAYA GUIDE
Sign up at Shenanigans or Call Shane on 085 9459 689
038 412 228
Cafe des Amis
GUEST WRITER GRANDAD WE LOVE YOU “Where’s your dad Ryan asked Somchi?” as the two six year olds skipped through the playground, Somchi pointed at a Thai man in his mid twenties waiting on his Honda wave by the side of the soi. ”Where’s yours enquired Somchi”.... Ryan looked sheepishly to the school entrance where a geriatric with an iron lung and incontinent pants clung to life on the school gates. Somchi shrugged “oh farang”and ran off to his father, Ryan kicked a stone and with head bowed dragged his bag towards his dad where a group of old fossils hung around like exhibits from the British history museum. If like me you are married to a Thai with mixed children you are probably middle to old aged maybe with a grown up family back home. My wife will give birth to our second child by the time this goes to print and I must admit I am not filled with joyous anticipation or clambering to open my box of Havanas, don’t get me wrong I love my son to bits but running a business in Slyland and looking after a hyperactive three year old makes me wish I was 28 not 48. So when I see mixed race children filling the isles of Tesco with the walking dead it often crosses my mind why these old men father children when they probably wont live to see them in a cubs uniform. We all know why the Thai women have them.... no not for their cuteness or to extend their blood line but for financial security, for any man worth his salt will lay down provisions for his child’s future before he departs for heavens agogo on cloud 9 whilst 48
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Guest Writer
his Thia wife/girl friends will already of have had her talons firmly on his estate. When my son was born I didn’t cart wheel through the delivery room or rush down the nearest bar and ring the bell and get drunk with a bloke from wrexham I had just met.... I felt kinda.... oh well.... its a blob with a pound of sausages hanging out of its gut.... look when you’ve seen one William Hague you’ve seen them all. For the first year they are about as useful as a local tradesman and changing nappies, vomiting down your real Lacoste polo and night time crying take there toll even on the fittest, I don’t believe Harold Steptoe ever mucked out Hercules at 3am and he didn’t consume a crate of chang every night, having said all that when they start to walk and talk they do become fun and develop their unique personalities and very soon there hoofing a football around the garden with the over 60’s dads never straying offside as they’ll be staying in goal. My point is Viagra has a lot to answer for, many 50-50 Thia/Farang children will be deprived of a father whilst growing up so why cant you old farts play Crown Green Bowls or grow some radishes and in the evening stay in and watch a DVD of last of the summer wine.... like you used too,.... “Clive Dune if your reading this “.... take note.... you can look but don’t touch....
Brgds SG
Guest Writer | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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ACTIVITIES GUIDE Get Active in Pattaya. There’s a wealth of activities to enjoy during your stay. If you’re the watersports type, then check out both Jomtien and Pattaya beaches where you can find windsurfing, parasailing, jet skis and canoeing, the mild to strong winds make for excellent windsurfing and sailing conditions throughout the year. It is possible to rent a small sailboat or boards and sail at several locations both in Jomtien and Pattaya. PATTAYA PARK For a wonderful family day out, why not go to Pattaya Park at jomtien, they have water slides, tower jumps and the tower shot a great choice for all adrenalin junkies, the park also caters for families with kiddies pool and a larger pool that has a very gentle current to float around on a lilo and a small restaurant to have refreshments. Pattaya Park Tower has a revolving restaurant, which offers a wonderful panoramic view of Pattaya. Phone 038 364 110-20, visit www.pattayapark.com for more information.
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THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Activities Guide
NONG NOOCH GARDEN Located approximately 18km south of Pattaya, the Garden can be reached by taking a left turn from Sukhumvit Road at the Km 163 marker. The Garden is a sprawling recreation park in a typical Thai setting. A group of traditional Thai pavilions and gardens of different flowering plants are positioned around the beautifully landscaped site. Daily cultural and elephant shows and elephant rides are available for tourists with show times at 9.45am, 10.30am, 3pm and 3.45pm, admission fee is 400 baht. Nong Noch Garden Phone 038 709 358-62 Pattaya Office Phone 038 429 321or 038 429 958 Bangkok Office Phone 02 252 1786 Visit www.nongnoochtropicalgarden.com for more information.
Activities Guide | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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THE SI RACHA TIGER FARM The farm, which is situated at 20km marker on highway No.36, raises a large number of Bengal tigers, as well as large crocodiles. Visitors will be amazed to witness tigers, pigs and dogs living together in the same quarters. The Si Racha tiger farm opens daily from 8am till 6pm. Admission fee is 350 baht for adults and 200 baht for children, phone 038 296 556-8, for more information visit www.tigerzoo.com MILLION YEAR STONE PARK AND CROCODILE FARM The Million Year Stone Park and Crocodile Farm, which is located approximately 9km from Pattaya City and has beautifully landscaped grounds with elaborate flower and rock gardens in addition the farm has hundreds of crocodiles as well as some rare animals. Crocodile shows, magic performances and animal shows run 7 times a day from 9am till 5pm. Open daily from 8am till 5pm, admission fee is 300 baht and 150 baht for children. Phone 038 249 347-9 or 025 794 008 - 025 795 033 for more information. Getting there, drive along the Sukhumvit Road until you come to the km 140 marker near Sawangfah temple, then turn into Chaiyaporn Vidhi (Route No. 3240) and proceed for 5 km then turn left on Soi 21. 52
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Activities Guide
SANCTUARY OF TRUTH The compound, which covers an area of more than two rais, is situated by the sea at Laem Ratchawet on Naklua Road in North Pattaya. Within the compound is a gigantic temple like structure entirely made of wood that is 105 metres high at the highest point which was constructed to withstand wind and sunshine on the seashore, with exquisite architectural features, the sanctuary was conceived out of the vision that human civilization has been achieved and nurtured by religious and philosophical truths. Open daily from 8am till 6pm, admission fee is 500 baht and 250 baht for children, with dolphin training shows at 11.30am and at 3.30pm Phone 038 367 229 or visIt www.sanctuaryoftruth.com UNDERWATER WORLD A must see tourist attraction in town is the largest and most modern ocean aquarium in Asia, boasting a 100m long, 6.4 cm thick acrylic pedestrain tunnel through an underwater filled with dozens of marine species. The aquarium itself houses more than 4000 marine animals, comprising more than 200 different species from the region as well as some rare creatures from over seas, top of the visitors list is the rare shovelnose ray a hybrid between a shark and a stingray. Located just 200m south of Tesco Lotus on the Sukhumvit Road. Open from 9am till 6pm (tickets are on sale until 5.30pm) admission fee for adults is 450 Baht and children 250 Baht, for more information and booking phone 038 756 879.
Activities Guide | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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MINI SIAM Located opposite Bangkok Pattaya Hospital on the Sukhumvit Road is a wonderland of miniture replicas of such outstanding architectural works as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Democracy Monument, the Bridge Over the Kwai, Prasat Hin Phimai also replicas of places of world significance are displayed in the mini world area these include the Tower Bridge, Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty and Trevi fountain. Open daily from 7am till 10pm admission fee 250 baht and 125 baht for children, shows at 6.30pm and 8pm, for more information phone 038 727 333 or 038 421 628. BUDA MOUNTAIN The Silver Lake Vineyard attraction is conveniently situated next to the famous laser-sculptured Buddha image at Khao Chi Chan Cliff, so it is easy to see two attractions in one trip. Easy to get to from Pattaya. The garden areas at Silver Lake Vineyard are relaxing, superbly landscaped, with plenty of seating areas to either enjoy a snack or simply take in the views. There are a few small food shops and you can also get drinks of your choice or ice creams and of course you can have an ice-cold drink of grape juice. Needless to say, the grape juice is produced from the fresh grapes at Silverlake Vineyard. How to get to Silverlake. You can get to Silverlake Vineyard by driving along Highway 3 - Sukhumvit Road towards Sattahip. Silverlake is signed - but not too well on the left hand side, around 6 km out of South Pattaya - maybe 4km past the Floating Market. Also follow signs for Khao Chi Chan - The laser Buddha.
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"See us at Jomtien Beach"
We provide you with a meal & refreshments, fishing & snorkelling equipment & a fun packed day.
For tours, package deals and private hire contact: Call: 083 463 1003 (English) ~ 086 314 6295 or 080 110 6032 (Thai) web: www.panpacific1.com
Visit Koh Rin & Monkey Island
Pan Pacific 1 Island Tours
GOLF GUIDE 1. Bangpakong |18 hole par72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 3 | Phone 038 513 525 2. Bangpra International | 18 hole par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 4 | Phone 038 341 149-50 3. Burapha Golf Club | 36 hole par 72 | Course 5 Clubhouse 4 | Phone 085 288 8226-7 4. Chonburi Century C.C. | 18 hole par 72 | Course 3 Clubhouse 3 | Phone 081 304 1545 5. Crystal Bay Golf Club | 27 hole par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 4 | Phone 038 349 370-8 6. Eastern Star Golf Club | 18 hole par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 4 | Phone 038 630 410-6 7. Emerald Golf Club | 18 hole par 72 | Course 3 Clubhouse 3 | Phone 038 941 111 9. Great Lake Golf Club | 36 hole par 72 | Course 3 Clubhouse 3 | Phone 038 626 148 10. Green Wood | 27 holes par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 3 | Phone 038 263 158-60 11. Khao Kheow C.C. | 27 hole par 72 | Course 5 Clubhouse 5 | Phone 038 318 000 12. Laem Chabang | 27 hole par 72 | Course 5 Clubhouse 5 | Phone 038 372 273 13. Mountain Shadow | 18 hole par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 4 | Phone 038 389 210-6 14. Pattana Sport Club | 27 hole par 73,74 | Course 4 Clubhouse 5 | Phone 038 318 999 15. Pattaya Country Club | 18 hole par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 3 | Phone 038 423 718-9 16. Phoenix Country Club | 27 hole par 72 | Course 5 Clubhouse 5 | Phone 038 239 400 17. Pleasant Valley | 18 hole par 72 | Course 3 Clubhouse 3 | Phone 038 260 825-6 18. Rayong Green Valley | 18 hole par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 4 | Phone 038 030 660-2 19. Royal Thai Navy | 36 hole par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 4 | Phone 081 003 3811 20. Royal Lakeside | 18 hole par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 3 | Phone 038 573 275 21. Siam Country Club-Old | 18 holes par 72 | Course 5 Clubhouse 5 | Phone 038 909 700 22. Siam Plantation | 18 hole par 72 | Course 5 Clubhouse 5 | Phone 038 909 600 23. St Andrews 2000 | 18 holes par 74 | Course 4 Clubhouse 4 | Phone 038 030 660-2 24. Treasure Hills | 18 holes Par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 3 | Phone 038 420 766-7
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To BANGKOK 34 7
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HEALTH AND FITNESS A healthy lifestyle can be achieved anywhere in the world and Pattaya is certainly one of the most popular places people choose. Thailand has a tropical climate and is therefore ideal for the pursuit of outdoor activities: volleyball, soccer, sailing plus many more. However, for and in indoor healthy lifestyle, Pattaya is also among the best and the vast number of 5 star health massage organisations, beauty parlours, plastic surgery clinics, spas and fitness centre mean that Pattaya really is the place to improve your overall health and look. Many people now choose to partake of the various treatments from facials, to waxing and detox to botox in order to gain that healthier looking body and due to the current price of treatments in many western countries, Thailand has found itself an entire new market in patients arriving for plastic surgery treatment and general medical operations which in their own country would cost much more than locally in Thailand. 60
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SHOPPING GUIDE Pattaya has numerous large malls, small malls, supermarkets, bazaar-style markets, and thousands of other shops. Expect to find plenty of clothes shops and coffee shops but do not expect to find variety as most shops are selling the same things. Pattaya actually has a long way to go to catch up with Bangkok for variety and volume of shops but it is trying with several new shopping centres opening in recent years, and there is a lot more to come. Bargaining is a way of life here but don’t worry if you don’t know your Thai numbers as most shop keepers will carry a calculator to show the price. As a general rule what ever their first price is, half it and you will be closer to what they are actually willing to sell the item for. If you are not happy then simply walk away as the shop keeper down the street will be selling the same thing. Try to have some fun when bargaining because if the shop keeper likes you they may give you a better price and never get aggressive, it doesn’t pay. 62
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Central Festival Shopping Complex Pattaya got just what needed, a good shopping centre for all the needs of tourists, locals and expats is now opened between Beach Road and Second Road next to Soi 9. The 7 billion baht Complex set in 22 Rai of land has 7 floors of retail space, usual restaurants and shops, food court and the new SFX Cinema which has First Class screening room (600 Baht per seat). There is also quite a large Central Food Hall and A five-star Hilton hotel with 350 guestrooms being built on the top. Lots of car parking space for both cars and motorbike. WARNING for tall people, watch your head after parking your motorbike
The Central Festival Shopping Complex is the biggest beachfront mall in Asia and really is a welcome addition to the City.
Darren 087 135 4654 087 067 7834 www.ornateplastercraft.com Designed & Decorated by Ornate Plaster Craft
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SERVICES GUIDE You will find during your visit to Pattaya that a vast network of businesses now operate within the city, everything from dentists and doctors to air conditioning companies and lawyers. There are thousands of companies offering a whole range of diverse services for both expats and visitors. Many tourists during their brief stay in Pattaya “Fall in Love with the City” and are determined to make the move to Thailand more permanent. They typically choose to invest in either a condominium or purchase land and house. Once they have purchased their dream home in Pattaya or jomtien, they then find themselves in need of a number of services; cleaners, accountants, electricians, builders and schools among others. We have decided to devote a small section of this publication to promoting a number of these services to help those who are in need. A little piece of advice for those “new arrivals” in town check out your own Chamber of Commerce and expat clubs, they are able to offer lots of help and information.
Services Guide | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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WAITER
N WHEELS
FOOD DELIVERY SERVICE
038 410 699
W!!OOTT oW W Wo G WG NOOW
HHAASS N R...... BEETTTTEER NB EEVVEEN
NO MARK UP FOOD DELIVERY Pay Exactly The Same Price As You Would In The Restaurant To View New Restaurants and SAVE MONEY Visit: www.wowpattaya.com
RENTING A CAR MADE EASY
Hatchback, Saloons, Trucks and Mini Buses
Toyota Fortuner 2 Day Rental Just 2999 baht All inclusive
Hotline: 083 077 6928 or visit us online at
www.pattayarentacar.com
Daily, Weekly, Monthly or Long Term Hire First Class Rental Insurance Delivery and Collection Service
Low Cost Car Hire
Chanphen Thaweesri Business Solutions Complete Accounting, Business Consultancy & Property Service
Chanphen Thaweesri (B.A., M.B.A.)
* Taxation * Auditing * Bookkeeping * Administration * Work Permit * Company Registration * Consultations
A professional, reliable, English speaking service with many years experience in Pattaya We offer a complete property buying and selling service
Please contact Khun Pen: Mobile: 081 295 3827 ~ Phone: 038 711 022 Fax: 038 710 104 ~ E-mail: chanphenthaweesri@yahoo.com
Simply Call
ORDER ON LINE
www.door2doorpattaya.com
Open 11am - 3am 03
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Call for your free 2014 menu
ANNIVERS
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Thai Nash Hash 2014 May 2nd - 4th Town in Town Hotel Pattaya Klang Main event Saturday 3rd & Sunday 4th
Pattaya Jungle Irregular Lunar Run Friday 2nd May All in Cost Only 2400 baht Commemorative shirt and all the beer you can drink, plus dinner Saturday night and lunch on Sunday 4th
Registrations close 18th April www.thainashhash2014.com
GUEST WRITER
Robin’s Nest, Soi Diana (next to L.K. Metro) Every Monday & Tuesday relive the old days 70’s & 80’s music videos played all night from 7pm Sportsman Pub & Restaurant, Soi 13, Beach Road Every Thursday is quiz night starting at 9pm, all welcome with free pie and chips at the interval P.A.G.S. (Pattaya Amateur Golf Series) Royal Lakeside Golf Club Wednesday 26th February 1650 THB Price includes green fee, caddy fee plus FREE BBQ from 7pm at Jomtien. Prize Presentation 8pm. Sign up at Shenanigans or call Shane on 085 9459 689
Advertise in the Pattaya Guide discounts available with 3, 6, 9 or 12 month contracts
For more information call 085 945 9689 or e:mail: thepattayaguide@gmail.com
VISA INFORMATION SPONSORED BY FIVE STAR VISA RUNS | PHONE 038 416 088 A visa is fundamentally a document affixed into the passport issued to a foreigner by the Thai government allowing a foreigner to travel to the Kingdom and a granted permission to stay for a certain period of time. Visas can only be obtained outside of the Kingdom from a Royal Thai Embassy consulate. A visa has a validity period which denotes the period within which the visa may be used to apply for entry. The validity period is NOT the length of time you will be permitted to stay in the Kingdom. A’ permission to stay’ stamp is entered into your passport upon arrival into the Kingdom. Whatever visa you hold, you will always receive this stamp. It will include the date of entry and date when you MUST leave the Kingdom or make alternative arrangements. The ‘length of stay’ will be dependent on what type of visa you hold. The majority of Foreigners that enter the Kingdom without a visa will be granted a ‘permission to stay 30 day’ stamp only, which is free of charge. At the discretion of the immigration officer this permission to stay 30 day stamp may be extended for up to 7-15 days (THB 1900) at an immigration office after which time the holder must leave the Kingdom. This stamp is NOT a visa. DIFFERENT TYPES OF VISAS Single entry tourist visa will permit the holder a 60 day’ permission to stay’ stamp upon entry. If required, this type of visa may be extended by 30 days (THB 1900) at an immigration office, but after that time the holder must leave the country. After one entry, the visa is used. Multiple entry tourist visa will permit the holder a 60 day ‘permission to stay’ stamp upon entry (only visa exempt countries listed overleaf ) or 30 days if not listed below. If required, this type of visa may normally be extended by 30 days at an immigration office, but after that time the holder must leave the country. The holder may then return to the Kingdom and will obtain a second
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60 day ‘permission to stay‘ stamp which can also be extended and then the holder must leave. After the stipulated number of entries the visa is ‘used’. Single entry non-immigrant visa will permit the holder a 90 day ‘permission to stay’ stamp. This visa can be extended up to one year for specific reasons and with the required documentation. Multi-entry non-immigrant visa will permit the holder a 90 day ‘permission to stay’ stamp upon entry. Each time the holder enters the Kingdom whilst the visa is valid, he/she will obtain a further 90 day ‘permission to stay stamp’. Such visas can be issued for students/work/family etc., but normally require supporting documentation. This visa can also be extended up to one year for specific reasons and with the required documentation. Although most multi-entry non-immigrant visas are obtained in your home country they may also be obtained from some Royal Thai embassies outside your home country, if you can provide evidence of your marriage to a Thai citizen (marriage certificate) or support of a Thai citizen. 12 month extension to a non-immigrant visa: If you are holding a nonimmigrant visa, you have the option of extending this by 12 months based on either retirement (50 years old or over) or support to a Thai citizen, work, education and the like. This may only be accomplished at an immigration office inside the Kingdom and certain criteria has to be met. If you are residing in the Kingdom under and extension to a non-immigrant visa and wish to leave the Kingdom at any time, then you will need to obtain a re-entry permit to avoid losing the extension and having to re-apply. If you are residing in the Kingdom under an extension to a non-immigrant visa it is a legal requirement that the holder reports current address to an immigration office using form TM.47 (in person or by registered mail) every 90 days. Re-entering the Kingdom is the equivalent of a 90 day report. If you are in possession of a valid tourist visa or a 30 day visa exempt entry stamp and qualify for an extension of stay and plan on doing so you may be permitted to change to a non-immigrant visa at an immigration office inside
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Thailand. This change of ‘status’ has certain restrictions depending on your particular circumstances therefore you should check with an officer first. LIST OF VISA EXEMPT COUNTRIES (SEPTEMBER 2009): Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Brunei, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Netherlands, Norway, New Zealand, Oman, Philippines, Portugal, Qatar, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United States of America, United Kingdom. IMPORTANT NOTES 1. Always check the stamp that the immigration officer gives you. If the officer gets your stamp wrong you may have to return to your port of entry 2. Check your passport and make sure you know when you need to leave Thailand. You can contact 5 star Visa Runs and we will log you into our computer and remind you 7 days before your visa expires as part of our service. 3. Never work in Thailand without a work permit. Even if you are not getting paid, you still need a work permit because you are taking a job from a Thai national. 4. You can convert your 30-day visa exempt stamp to a Non-immigrant Visa by going to Immigration with the proper documents and 21 day stay remaining, meaning you have up to 9 days after your entry. Application fee THB 2000.-Please note that your passport needs to remain valid for at least another six months for any visa applications. 5. Overstay charges are currently THB 500 per day to a maximum of THB 20,000. 6. The information given above is for guideline purposes only. Each individuals circumstances may differ greatly depending on your age, financial position, what port of entry you use, what country you are from, what embassy you are visiting, what you are doing here and of course how long you have been here and, remember the final decision on visa application/issue or entry into the Kingdom will always be at the discretion of the immigration officer. 7. For full information please read the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs Website
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REAL ESTATE GUIDE More than one hundred new housing or condominium development projects are currently underway in the Pattaya and Jomtien districts. Many of these projects are aimed at the “higher end� market. Properties offering large spacious accommodation some with private swimming pools, top end air conditioning units, Jacuzzis etc. These properties are typically around the 8-25 million price range and many represent very good value for money. One of the more up and coming development areas is just south of Jomtien, where several developers are now constructing projects near to the beach at Bang Sare and Baan Amphur. Because of the local laws in Thailand with regard to property ownership by foreigners, condominiums are still as popular as ever with something in the region of 5,000 condominium units currently in construction. Some of the better quality condos are La Royale, Northshore and North Point. However, it is possible to find cheaper units especially in South Pattaya and Jomtien. If you are thinking of a permanent move to Thailand remember to do your homework and seek a reputable real Estate Agent. Real Estate Guide | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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Condominium @ Cosy Beach
Ready to move in
2013
Buy or long term rent
Contact Darren 08 999 33 689 Office: 038 250 868 www.elegancepattaya.com
Studios, one, two & three bedroom Prices from just Best location on Pratumnak Hill Just 200 metres to Royal Varuna Yacht Club
E-mail: info@elegancepattaya.com