CONTENTS HISTORY OF PATTAYA
5
LEARNING THAI
6
USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS
7
GETTING AROUND
8
PATTAYA MAP
10
JOMTIEN MAP
12
GOOD FOOD GUIDE
14
ARE YOU GOD’S GIFT TO (THAI) WOMEN? 30
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.
NIGHTLIFE GUIDE
32
WACKY RACES
38
KOH CHANG
40
OUTSIDE PATTAYA
42
SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES IN PATTAYA
44
GOLF GUIDE
56
ACCOMMODATION
62
Email: thepattayaguide@gmail.com
HEALTH AND FITNESS
66
SERVICES GUIDE
68
Please feel free to contact us if you have any suggestions, we always like to hear from our readers.
VISA INFORMATION
81
SHOPPING GUIDE
86
REAL ESTATE GUIDE
89
4
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | contents
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
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 kitesurfing. 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
5
LEARNING THAI Always use
“KRUP” (for men)
One
“KA” (for women)
Two
KHORB KHUN
Three
Thank you Hello & Goodbye Goodbye See you again Good luck How are you? I am fine What is your name? My name is It’s ok I don’t want any don’t have any money Where are you going? I don’t believe you
NUENG SONG SAM
SAWAT-DEE
Four
SEE
LA-GON
Five
HAR
Six
HOK
LAO JER GUN
Seven
JED
SABAI DEE MAI
Eight
BAD
SABAI DEE
Nine
GAO
CHOK DEE
KHUN CHUE ARIA
SIB
Ten
PHOM CHUE.
Eleven
SIB ET
MAI BEN RAI
Twelve
SIB SONG
Thirteen
SIB SAM
MAI OW KHRAP/KA MAI MEE DTUNG
14 = 10 + 4
BAI NAI?
SIB SEE
15 = 10 + 5
SIB HA
MAI CHUE
20
YEE SIB
JING
21
YEE SIB ET
Expensive/Cheap
PANG/TOOK
22
YEE SIB SONG
Sorry
KHOR THOT
23
YEE SIB SAM
Really
(you will say it when you want to interrupt someone, when you want to pass by someone or when you do something wrong) Sorry
SIA JAI
(In this case it means a different thing. Like if someone died or got hurt, you say “phom di chan sia jai” which means “I am sorry”) 6
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Thai Phrases
24 = 20 + 4
YEE SIB SEE
25 = 20 + 5
YEE SIB HA
100 200 1,000 2,000 10,000
NUENG ROI SONG ROI NUENG PUN SONG PUN NUENG MUNG
USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS Pattaya City Phone Center
1337
Emergencies Police Emergency
191
Sawang Boriboon Foundation
038 488 882
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
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 086 832 3967 Useful Phone Numbers | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
7
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
9
PATTAYA MAP
Mini Siam
Police Box
P
To Chonburi & Ba
A.R.C.
H Bangkok Pattaya
Air Con Bus Station to BBK
North Pattaya Road
ngkok
Police Box Tesco Lotus
Thai Garden Resort & Moon River Pub
P
3rd Road Soi 1
Easy Visa Big C
Best To Naklua
Sanctuary of Truth
Garden Sea View
Woodland
1 Dusit
Asiawan Resort Garden Cliff
10
P.I. Hospital
Amari
Long Beach Garden
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Pattaya Map
2
3
4
H
Soi Nern Pl ub wan
KCR Homefinder
Bus Station to Northern Thailand
Fairways Golf Range & Resort
Sukhumvit Road Nick The Pizza Premi Air
Foodland
Soi Bongkot
Valentino Carrefour
Paradise City Properties
Modern Smile
X-Zyte Disco Newspaper Direct Soi Boukhao
Pattaya Memorial
H
Witherspoons
LK Metro
Take It Easy
Golden Homes
2nd Road
Big Horn Shenanigans
P
Tops 5
Soi Lenkee
TOT Telephone
Central Pattaya Road
Venus Lounge
Soi Diana
TBAC
Soi Chaiyapoon
KPK
6
Central Festival
Police Box
Sportsman Soi Yodsak
Siam Gentleman’s Club
Siam Country Club
Siam Golf
Tequlia Reef Nova Lodge
7
9 Police Station 8
P
Jewellery Zone-G/F 10
11
12
Beach Road
Five Star 13 Visa Runs
Pattaya Beach :- Real Estate
:- Shopping
:- Restaurant & Bar
:- Services
:- Activities
H :- Hospital :- Hotel
Pattaya Map | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
11
Soi Khaotalo
Soi Wat Tham Samakkee
JOMTIEN MAP Highway Police Station
P
P Police Box
P Police BoxTesco Lotus
Outlet Mall
d
Manhattans
Café des Amis
Roa
Thai Decor Beach Properties Pattaya Golf.com
Phr ata m
nak
Stork Club Ahaar Indian Soi Yamoto Soi Post Office
Open Advertising
Adventure Divers
South Pattaya Ro
7
Amor Restaurant Café New Orleans
Post Horn Bar
Walkin g
Blues Factory :- Easy Kart
Street
Siam Bayshore Mountian Beach
Ialand View
Sheraton Cosy Beach
12
17
d
i1
Roa
Northern Thai Reality & Export
So
7
asit
Soi Buakhao
P Police Box
pp The
ad
Big C
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Jomtien Map
Royal Cliff
Asia Pattaya
Pattaya Bay
Soi Norng Kraborg
Soi Chaiyapruk 2
To Rayong, Sattahip & U-Tapao Airport
Sukhumvit Road
Pattaya Properties
Simon’s Fish & Chips
Post Office
Grand Palace Hotel
Immigration
Shenanigans
Bus to Bangkok
9 5
7 ien Jomt
ad
h Ro
Beac
Pattaya Park
Police Box P
Jomtien Beach P
g
B tan
:- Shopping
Police Box
Adriatic
n Do
ruk
Welcome Jomtien
Soi Chaiyap
Royal Garden
n
North Shore
o at Bo Soi W
East Furniture & Interiors
Underwater World
e
h ac
:- Activities :- Real Estate :- Restaurant & Bar
:- Services
H :- Hospital :- Hotel
Jomtien Map | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
13
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. 14
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | good food guide
For Home Deliveries Please Call Door 2 Door 038 720 222
Phone:- 038 710 609
KPK FOOD SERVICE KPK FOOD SERVICE Fine Quality English Foods - Both Wholesale & Retail KPK Foods have been delivering the finest foods to hotels and restaurants for the last 4 years. We supply a wide selection of quality fresh and cooked meats, savoury pastries and all the accompanying food products to Pattaya and the Eastern Seaboard. As well as supplying hotels and restaurants KPK Foods also cater for your home cooking. Customers can buy direct from our retail outlet, located behind Carrefour, just off Soi Yume. The outlet is open from 10am - 6pm Monday to Saturday. There is plenty of parking space outside the shop. If you can’t get down to our outlet you can call our hotline 086 145 0147 and place an order. We have a comprehensive product and price list on our website www.kpkfoods.com All orders received will be delivered to you the next day and in perfect condition by our refrigerated vehicle delivery service. We will also do our very best to accommodate your needs in the case of any very urgent orders you may require outside this time-scale.
Some of our best selling products... Beef, Pork, Sausages, Burgers, Bacon, Gammon, Lamb, Veal, Pastry & Pies, also available Baked Beans (not Heinz but close to it) PG Tips, Tetley Tea Bags, Colmans Mustard, Branson Pickle plus new products every month!!!
www.kpkfoods.com 24-HOUR WHOLESALE HOTLINE - 038-416-470 (English : 086 145 0147) - Fax 038 416 471 Orders before 4pm - Guaranteed next day delivery Monday-Saturday Email us for more information - wholesale@kpkfoods.com - www.kpkfoods.com
KPK FOOD SERVICE FINE ENGLISH FOOD & FRESH MEAT Quality Assured Everytime
Wholesale & Retail Supplier to Hotels, Bars & Restaurants Bacon, Sausages, Black Pudding, Beef, Fresh Pork, Steaks & Imported Lamb
The Sportsman
FLAMBOYANT Creative Cuisine
Witherspoons
E-mail: info@kpkfoods.com Phone: 038 416 470 Mob: 086 145 0147 (English) Fax 038 416 471 www.kpkfoods.com
days a week Open t7ill 12 midnight n 12 noo One of the finest Indian Cuisine in the City of Pattaya Soi Post Office, off 2nd Road
Soi Post Office
Soi Yamoto
Tel: 038 711 151 Royal Garden Plaza
For Home Deliveries Please Call Door 2 Door 038 720 222
SERVING PATTAYA FOR THE PAST TEN YEARS, OUR
EXTENSIVE MENU OFFERS FINE DINING AT AFFORDABLE PRICES. SITUATED IN THE HEART OF SOUTH PATTAYA. VISIT US AND EXPERIENCE ELEGANT DINING IN A RELAXED ATMOSPHERE!
% 2.5 ns et 1 ectio ed) g l d d an se clu ad enu ot in s i m t th all ns n sen nt on otio e r P cou rom dis cial p e (Sp
NO ONE MAKES ’ EM LIKE US!
RESTAURANT
Soi Pattayaland 2 (13/4) Between the Royal Garden & the Walking Street Phone:- 038 710 805/6 Fax:- 038 710 283 www.cafeneworleans.info cafeneworleans@csloxinfo.com
MANHATTANS COMPETITION Manhattans Restaurant & Bar is the hottest new venue in Pattaya for lovers of great live jazz. Co-owner Dave Bowers says ‘We have taken great care with every step of Manhattans from the ambience of the Danny “Woody” Woodhams restaurant, the menu and wine selection through to the teamwork in the kitchen and the service at the tables. We have now turned our attention to offering the finest live jazz entertainment in Pattaya. Enjoy live jazz in the restaurant every Saturday night with the resident Manhattans band. The entertainment starts at 7.30pm until 11pm. On the first Saturday of every month, Manhattans holds a very special event; A jazz concert in the restaurant featuring top-drawer guest singers and the superb Manhattans Band. Whatever style of jazz is your delight you can hear it at Manhattans, from cool and smooth to ‘le jazz hot’ and even with a delicious Latin twist. (Reservations recommended)
COMPETITION Win a dinner for 2 with a bottle of wine and complimentary pick-up for the next Manhattans jazz concert... Simply answer the following question, email your answer to thepattayaguide@gmail.com and be entered into our special draw. Lucky winners will be notified by email
Which famous trumpeter and singer of the 1920's was nicknamed "Satchmo"?
Manhattans Restaurant & Bar
WORLD-CLASS CUISINE
Manhattans is famous for its top quality grain fed Angus steaks from the U.S. and Australia, flame grilled to perfection by their excutive chef. Also, recently introduced to the menu the famed Wagyu beef from Australia with more marbling, the flecks of fat within the beef, to ensure tenderness and flavour every time. But they have much more than just steaks, the seafood is fresh and succulent and the Thai food tantalizingly spicy. Other international dishes are superb, and the desserts are sinfully delicious. You’ll feel very relaxed in the stylish restaurant where the service is friendly and professional, and to complement your meal enjoy the extensive wine list, or the Wine by the Glass Menu. Enjoy a cocktail in the piano bar before dinner, or sit and relax with your favourite port or brandy after. Manhattans is also the hottest new venue in Pattaya for live jazz with Saturday night jamming sessions, in the bar and a jazz concert in the dining room on the first Saturday of every month. Discover us at Nirvana Place, The popular early dining menu is availiable Thappraya Road between Pattaya and Jomtien from 5pm with last food orders at 7.30pm. For more information and reservations Choose from 4 starters, 4 mains and 4 desserts. call 038 259 790 or visit the website 2 course 795 baht or 3 course 895 baht. www.manhattans-pattaya.com Manhattans has a complementary limousine Bar open 4pm - 00.30am to pick you up, and to take you home. It’s all Restaurant open 5pm - 10.30pm part of the service. Closed Monday’s
ARE YOU GOD’S GIFT TO (THAI) WOMEN? BY MARK VERRALL
MARKVERRALL@HOTMAIL.COM
When I was young, I was rather shy and awkward with the opposite sex. That changed in my mid-teens when a singer with a kind of gypsy charm called David Essex came along. He was very popular with the girls and I had the good fortune to look enough like him that I was too. I was even threatened with physical harm from an American Marine when I refused to sign an autograph for his daughter, who apparently had ‘my’ posters all over her bedroom walls. David, God bless him, gave me the confidence I was lacking before and I embarked on a wonderful time. Over the years I have had girlfriends of every description and colour from the whitest of white to the blackest of black and all the shades and hues in between. By the way guys, if you have never had an Indian girlfriend, you don’t know what you are missing! Fast-forward to more than 30 years on, I find myself at 51, overweight, with more chins than a Chinese phone book, more silver hairs than brown and a very long way from being ‘match fit’. In the U.K., my options for female companionship would be rather limited. However, in Thailand, even an old git like me can still find a nice (non-bar) lady to pass the time with. Some of them may be looking at me to see if I can offer a good longterm future for them and their family and I am wondering if they will be strong enough in 20 years to push me in my wheelchair down Walking Street or Rolling Street as it would be for me.
30
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Are you God’s gift to (Thai) Women?
I also look at my peers and wonder if they truly realize how lucky they really are to be here. We’ve all seen them, guys my age and considerably older, strolling around town with attractive girls half their age and one third their size. They seem to think that these girls worship the ground they walk on. Come on fellas, look at this from the other end of the telescope. Do you really think their fantasy man is an old, fat, balding or grey-haired farang? Nah, it’s those pretty Thai pop singers or actors. Do you think they love being dragged to pubs and bars and thoroughly enjoy watching, football, rugby, golf or even better, cricket? I think you will find they would much rather be curled up at home watching the dreadful Thai soaps. Do they appreciate waiting for you to come home at 3 or 4 in the morning after yet another ‘night with the boys’? Collapsing into bed without taking a shower or brushing your teeth so she can wake up next to a toxic dump snoring and farting next to her? Or even worse, waking her up for a bit of ‘romance’? You know how scrupulously clean Thai girls are, so imagine what that must be like. If this is hard to take, imagine how you would fare if you had to go back ‘home’ and get back into the dating game there (broke out in a sweat with that throught). So make sure you appreciate your loving Thai woman. REALITY SUCKS! HOW WE THINK THEY SEE US!
Are you God’s gift to (Thai) Women? | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
31
NIGHTLIFE GUIDE 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. 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, where the singers perform in a vast array of costumes & sing their way through songs in several languages. A little outside Pattaya you will find the Alangkarn Extravaganza. A show which features animals, pyrotechnics, acrobats etc. Alangkarn is now creating itself as one of the “must see” shows for visitors. 32
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Nightlife Guide
location north pattaya road, in front of the thai garden resort type live music venue phone 038 370 614-8 contact danilo becker www.thaigarden.com
For reservations, please contact Danilo Becker on 038 370 614-8 or with
Open
from 2pm
SUKHUMVIT ROAD
TOT
2nd ROAD
PATTAYA KLANG
3rd ROAD
BEACH ROAD
On 3rd Road Central Pattaya
Thai : 083 English : 087
254 7036 617 4053
www.venusloungepattaya.com info@venusloungepattaya.com
Considered by many to be the No 1 live music venue on the Eastern Seaboard and with traditional and modern music it combines to make The Blues Factory a truly excellent night time venue. Our first band “The Blues Machine” feature USA’s BB King awarding winning guitarist Ken “The Snowman” Minihan and along with the wonderful Mary and drummer Oy who was the first Thai to ever play the Montreux Jazz festival they will have you dancing to great music ranging from BB King & Muddy Waters to Etta James and Tina Turner. Our second band features the “Guitar King of Thailand” the one and only Lam Morrison Thailands most famous Rock guitarist and along with “The Rock Machine” featuring Pattaya’s hottest new guitar sensation “Nueng” they play a wide range of Rock n Roll & Classic Rock songs along with modern hits in their own inimitable style. So for a wonderful night of entertainment check out The Blues Factory on Soi Lucky Star (just off walking street and Marine Plaza), perfect for couples or singles looking for a great hassle free night out.
Many Beautiful Hostesses
Bar open from 12 noon till late ٭ The Coffee Shop Now open from 9am ٭ All day & late night breakfasts
WACKY RACES Dear Marjory @Pattaya guide whilst watching Driving Miss Daisy on some obscure cable channel last month I started to think what this film may have been called if it had been filmed in Pattaya,the above came to mind Whacky Races with Mutely instead of Morgan Freeman weaving on a Honda wave with the old boot clinging onto a rack of squid, driving here has to be seen to be believed, and even after 7 years I still drive with my feet dragging along the floor like the slag brothers in the bouldermobile with my thumbs on the ejector seat…I once thought about having an expandable arm fitted to my roof sporting a giant (professor Pack Pending) style boxing glove for the frequent Rufas Ruffcuts I see abusing the tarmac, of course there are some small mercies like motor bikes don’t have reverse gears and there are few roundabouts for Italian tourists to getstuck on. Bad driving kills people and we really do need Tufty Fluffytail, Jimmy Saville and the Green Cross Code bloke to come and fix it …so our boys in brown need to watch a dvd of c.h.i.p.s ..no not French fries sunning themselves but the U S highway patrol….ok a Yamaha nouvo and a tatty phantom don’t have the same appeal as two white Harleys but it’s a start…when I enter Suhumvit road I always meet Dick Dastardly and the Ant Hill Mob…why cant it be Penelope Pitstop…does anyone know what a flashing amber lights means on the back of a vehicle or a bright red light on an over hanging pole? Answers on a postcard to the department of transport Chonburi Rgds Stirling Toss
38
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Wacky Races
PASS THE PORT Dear readers if like me you have a Heinz 57(a duel nationality child) i.e. half Thai half Farang then like me some of you may have acquired two passports and registered your child at your embassy as a national of your country this can be dam expensive but for me it gives my son the option to return to the UK and freely travel the world, as a local passport is about as useful as a Michael Jackson ticket for the O2 London arena. Some Brits do it for the benefits our blind government hand out to every man and his dog but for me it was hassle free travel………. With the UK passport a picture of the baby is attached as per norm (although by the age of five he may have a beard a false nose and glasses so the purpose of this then being obsolete, but with the Thai passport they put a foot print of his big toe Where his signature would normally go…I think they got this idea from watching Rolph Harris paint and why not a finger or thumb print is there an international milk powder smuggling gang operating in Asia. Why not like in the old and sensible days don’t they let the child travel on the parents passport/ID…yep its just another money making scam. Letters to Yule Brenner Best rgds Al Fiad
Pass The Port | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
39
KOH CHANG The island of Koh Chang is a tropical marine national park. It consists of over 70% rainforest and is the best preserved tourist holiday destination in Thailand. Situated 4 hours from Pattaya, it’s Thailand’s second largest island after Phuket. Recently, with the surge of development and popularity, it has been elevated to Thailand’s new tourist haven. Koh Chang has everything, white sandy coves and beaches, pristine rain forests and abundance of wildlife and marine life, high mountain peaks, several scenic waterfalls, a rich variety of cuisine and great nightlife. Accommodation on the island ranges from simple beach huts and bungalows to luxury villas and apartments. If you drive, you can hire motorbikes, jeeps and cars to take you to any of the beaches along the coastal roads and, in the evening, there are plenty of restaurants, live music bars and nightclubs to choose from to spice up your stay. ACCOMMODATION Paddy’s Palms Resort, 32 room resort with hot water, air con, TV and fridge. The resort itself has a large swimming pool, excellent parking and is located 5 minutes from Whites Sands Beach. 1000 – 1300 baht Palm Garden Hotel, a small 12 room hotel with hot water, air con, TV and fridge. Just 50m from the beach in the heart of the main tourist spot, White Sands Beach. RESTAURANTS 15 Palms, a beautiful beach side restaurant on White Sands Beach serves European food with everything from pizzas, salads, pasta, burgers and of course Thai food. Paddy’s Palms, Koh Chang’s first Irish Pub is a well managed pub with a great atmosphere. They have a pool table, wireless internet, live sport on big screens, great Italian coffee, traditional Irish dishes, Kilkenny and Guinness on tap. The restaurant is the most popular on the Island and must be visited. 40
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Koh Chang
OUTSIDE PATTAYA SPONSORED BY KCR HOMEFINDER | PHONE 038 405 167-8 Entertainment Once again I am grateful for the chaps at the Guide for allowing me space to natter on about what life offers out here in the jungle. I have previously mentioned a good number of restaurants, bakeries and pie shops etc so this month I’ll mention a couple of places for lads on the loose. First though the Mabprachan Resort, now under new management and offering something for everyone. I have seen ‘off road’ motorbikes, a new BBQ pit and great improvements to the outside areas, swimming pool and car parks. The place is now 100% disabled friendly with rooms fitted out to Australian Disabled Association specification. The pool has a lift and there are ramps throughout the complex for ease of access. The management is planning sports events for disabled people again under Australian guidelines. It’s a friendly place with a decent menu, cold beers (obviously) and very smart rooms. Now onto the others, Way around the reservoir we have a clutch of lock up bars that are well worth a visit, starting with the Da bar, the Pepe Bar and four or five others all with free to use pool tables, big TV’s and clean bathrooms. All have nice reception staff and decent music, and of course the big games on TV. Then there is the Fisherman’s rest, this has good food, great staff and some of the best music round the reservoir. For a quiet no hassle no frills beer the 9999 shop is the place to go. It’s road front and very visible. Sam’s Bar owned by Billy and his wife is great, large, very friendly staff and again decent music. The Terrace bar has changed hands and I am told the new folks are planning some changes … watch this space. The place next to it has a fine reputation for its receptionists, I am told friendly and fun but the missus won’t let me go! To be honest there is something for everyone out here and the latest gossip is that Tesco are planning another Express outlet closer to the reservoir so shopping trips to town are beginning to become almost unnecessary. It’s good out here in the jungle.
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THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Outside Pattaya
OUTSIDE PATTAYA SPONSORED BY KCR HOMEFINDER | PHONE 038 405 167-8 Feature Property Showcase condo’s with interest free finance. We are delighted to offer for sale a number of studio, one bedroom and two bedroom condominiums with a special deal in place. These condos will come complete and ready to move into including first class kitchens, fixtures, fittings and furniture, air conditioning and some have beautiful sea views. The developer is offering these for sale under the 51% Thai ownership quota with down
payments of just 25% and the balance interest free over 10 years. This has to be the deal of the year both for investors and those wishing to live the condo life without breaking the bank.
Please contact Paul for a no pressure discussion and viewings. We will collect you from your hotel of course.
Outside Pattaya | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES IN PATTAYA The city of Pattaya has a wide variety of activities to suit all ages and preferences. If you want to try something new, Pattaya is a great place to start. Watersports are inexpensive and very popular, they include windsurfing, sailing, water skiing, parasailing, gamefishing, snorkelling and scuba diving. On land, high energy people can choose from tennis, go-karts, squash, badminton, bowling, horse riding and boxing! Lessons are available for most sports at reasonable prices also. We have put the following guide together for all your sporting needs‌ AEROBICS A free open-air aerobics class is held alongside the beach next to the junction of Beach Road and Soi 6 daily at 18:00. Aqua-aerobics exercise classes are held at the Dusit Resort Sports & Fitness Club (next to the Dolphin Roundabout) BADMINTON The Pattaya Guide Recommends – Pattaya Badminton Courts on Soi 17, 2nd road, they are open 1400 - 2400 daily, there are 4 courts. Hourly rates: 60Bt per hour, racquet rentals 20Bt, shuttlecocks 25Bt. Members fee is 500Bt month BOWLING There are 3 bowling alleys in the Pattaya area. 1) Pattaya Bowl is located on Pattaya 2nd Rd in North Pattaya (opp Big C) 2) PS Bowl is on the third floor of the PS Plaza (Tops) at the corner of the Central Pattaya traffic light between Central Pattaya Road & Pattaya 2 Rd. 3) The Avenue Shopping Centre plays host to a bowling alley
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THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Activities Guide
All alleys have a sufficient car parking, air-conditioning, snack bar and coffee shops, serving Thai and international dishes. Operating hours for all are from 10:00 am until late The Pattaya Guide Recommends – Pattaya Bowl, North Pattaya 20 lanes, price between 70-90 baht depending on the time of day. The complex also has 6 pool tables, 2 full-size snooker tables. 120Bt / table / hour It’sopen daily 10:0002:00, Tel: 038 429 908 FISHING For a quiet afternoon, you can fish in a local fishing parks; ponds or lakes which are all well stocked with local fish. You can hire equipment. The fishing parks charge around 80Bt / day and extra for rod hire, bait, etc., (Some parks also charge for fish caught by the kilo, if you want to take your fish away) The Pattaya Guide Recommends – North Pattaya Fishing Park also known as “Soi 3 Fishing Park” charges 100Bt / house rod, bait 20Bt / packet - and serves food and drink and has live music after dark. If you prefer to go for the big one! The waters around Manwichai, Rin and Kram islands are popular for marlin, king mackerel and barracuda. Offshore fishing trips are organised by many local operators. Enquire at the tour shops FITNESS You can keep yourself in shape during your stay here at one of the many gyms that admit people on a daily / weekly or monthly basis. Tony’s on 3rd Road, South Pattaya and also in Walking Street is the most famous and offers modern equipment, swimming, tennis, Thai boxing and more. GOLF / DRIVING RANGES Golf is a speciality of the region, with more than 20 courses within an hour’s drive (most within 30 minutes) of Pattaya, many designed by some of golf’s Activities Guide | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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most famous names, including Nick Faldo (Great Lakes), Jack Nicklaus (Laem Chabang), Gary Player (Sri Racha) and Robert Trent Jones (Eastern Star Resort and Country Club). All offer good facilities and value for money in the 500Bt (green & caddy fee) to 2500Bt range. For more details see our golf guide, if you can’t make it to the course but fancy hitting some balls, there are plenty of golf driving ranges in the area The Pattaya Guide Recommends – Fairways Golf Range and Resort, Top of Pattaya Klang 038 413 636 www.pattayagolfresort.com KARTING The Pattaya Guide Recommends – Easykart, Bali Pier (see map for location) There are 2 tracks 160 cc. (350 m.) for Kid and beginner, 270 cc. (750 m.) for Adult and advanced driver and the both track can be combined for the special event which support over 500 guest with the panoramic bar. Drivers are timed by special computerized equipment so you can also see who is the fastest in each lap. HORSE RIDING The Horseshoe Point Resort & Country Club offers several kinds of riding, including dressage, trail riding, jumping, polo and pony club riding for children. Located on a ranch spread of 1,500 acres with trails, paddocks and beautiful tropical gardens, the owners have turned a passion for horses into a full-fledged riding academy. It is one of South-East Asia’s largest and most respected riding schools, catering to all experience levels and offering private lessons for 1600Bt / hour (discounts available for groups of 5+ and multilesson-packages) Horseshoe Point, Tambon Pong tel 038 735 050. JET SKIS Jet skis can be hired directly from most beaches in Pattaya for around 900Bt / hour and fast speedboats can be hired by the hour or day for 1500 to 5000Bt 46
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Activities Guide
MOTORSPORT The Pattaya Guide Recommends – HIDESIDETOURS.COM Ride a superbike around a full size track. The guys provide the bikes, instruction and all safety gear. 7000 baht for 3 hours which includes bike, fuel, instruction, safety gear and hotle pick up. Call 089 119 0000 for further details MUAY THAI Tony’s Gym & Muay Thai Academy, Third Road is open 14:30 - 20:30. Two prices for everything - the lower price if you’re already paying to use the attached gym, otherwise the higher price: 180 - 280Bt / day, 950 - 1400Bt / week, 1500 - 2400Bt / fortnight, 2000 -1490Bt / 3 weeks, 2800 - 3900Bt / month - or 1500 - 2300Bt for 10 visits (no expiry date). PARASAILING / PARASCENDING Speedboat-towed parachute rides are available along the main beaches and in Pattaya Bay from several large floating platforms with speedboats ferrying customers out from the shore - typically about 500Bt / flight SAILING The most popular boats for hire are small Lasers, Prindles and Hobie Cats, which can be rented by the hour. You can sail year round in Pattaya’s waters. For further information regarding charter, boat hire and weather conditions The Pattaya Guide Recommends – Serenity Shipyard Tel: 081 577 4428 SWIMMING Most hotels and condos of any size have at least one swimming pool. Alternatively, if yours hasn’t, others are happy to have you as a daily
Activities Guide | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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guest of their pool for a small charge. Most people who come to this seaside resort also enjoy swimming in the warm tropical sea. Mike Shopping Mall also has a large rooftop pool available for public use take the elevator or stairs up to the 10th floor.There’s a very small snacks counter and a good view of most of Pattaya Bay. Get there early to grab one of the sun loungers, and don’t forget your swimming costume (shorts are not permitted). Open 11:00-19:00, 80Bt / adult, 60Bt / child, or 1600Bt for a one month pass. SCUBA DIVING Pattaya is also one of the oldest diving centres in this part of Asia. It has a year round diving season with good visibility, & a sea temperature of around 28C which means that there is a rich variety of marine life & coral. Scuba dive training and trips for a wide range of ability levels and interests, certified by a number of different organisations, including both NAUI and PADI, are available through numerous dive shops. Several diving courses are available in Pattaya. These range from one to four days, depending upon the proficiency one desires to reach and the type of diving one wants to learn. The islands far from the shore take longer to reach but are lot quieter and do not suffer from the speedboat and jet-ski traffic of the islands nearer to Pattaya. The Pattaya Guide Recommends – Adventure Divers and Watersports Tel: 038 364 453 (Tappraya Road) For all your diving needs PAINTBALL PARK The Pattaya Guide Recommends – Paintball Park, Off Thepprasit Road Paintball Park is Pattaya’s premier paintball venue. Large, open playing area with state-of-the-art equipment. Ample parking facilities for cars and 48
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Activities Guide
coaches. Cold drinks available. Their facilities include both toilets and showers. Jump suits available for rent. TENNIS Most of the major hotels in Pattaya have tennis courts. Although the facilities are opened to everyone, guests are given preference on court bookings. Tennis coaches are in residence at courts in most of these hotels. Instruction fees range from 100Bt to 150Bt / hour. Court rentals vary in each hotel, but in most cases play is free for guests. If you are not able to use the hotels facilities The Pattaya Guide Recommends Tony’s Tennis Club, Third Road WINDSURFING October through June are the best months for professionals. Beginners have a better opportunity to get started when the winds are light during the morning. There are about 20 surf schools, mostly on Jomtien Beach. Winds vary throughout the year from 5 km in the morning with stiffer sea breezes in the late afternoon. International tourneys are held in early December, the Siam World Cup with national races is usually held in mid-April. The Pattaya Guide Recommends Club Loongchat, located 1Km from ambassador hotel. Call Pop on 081 340 2180 for further information or visit clubloongchat.com Activities Guide | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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For Taxi:
Write a Pat t aya G ui d e We are asking any budding writers out there to write a Pattaya Guide about any Pattaya related subject i.e. Guide to Walking street, Pattaya Nightlife Guide, Guide to Bar Girls, Guide to your favourite soi etc The Guide can not be any more then 800 words but feel free to add any pictures you wish Please submit entries through
www.thepattayaguide.com
Win a meal for 2 at The Sportsman Pub & Restaurant
Adventure Divers & Watersports organisation padi location thappaya road, between Pattaya & Jomtien phone 038 364 453 or 089 252 5026 contact Robert www.pattayadivers.com
Maela Pla Phoa
A LA TURCA
Authentic Turkish Cuisine
FOOD DELIVERY SERVICE Pattaya’s most popular restaurants
lent l e c x E rvice! Se
Vientiane Restaurant
ight N e t La ill 3am T Menu
RUSSIAN RESTAURANT
Restaurant Bar Nong
Bar, Restaurant & Guesthouse
tequila reef cantina
Simply call: Order online: www.door2doorpattaya.com PATTAYA
&
J O M T I E N
ENGLISH, AMERICAN, MEXICAN, AND THAI FOOD
Globetrotter Black Bush Co,.Ltd.
YOUR LOCAL FROM HOME
GOLF GUIDE SPONSORED BY FAIRWAYS GOLF RANGE & RESORT | PHONE 038 413 636 1. Bangpra International | 18 hole par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 4 | Phone 038 341 151 2. Burapha Golf Club | 36 hole par 72 | Course 5 Clubhouse 4 | Phone 038 345 153 3. Chonburi Century C.C. | 18 hole par 72 | Course 3 Clubhouse 3 | Phone 01 304 1545 4. Crystal bay Golf Club | 27 hole par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 4 | Phone 038 349 365 5. Eastern Star Golf Club | 18 hole par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 4 | Phone 038 630 418 6. Emerald Golf Club | 18 hole par 72 | Course 3 Clubhouse 3 | Phone 038 941 044 7. Great Lake Golf Club | 36 hole par 72 | Course 3 Clubhouse 3 | Phone 038 622 630 8. Green Wood | 27 holes par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 3 | Phone 038 261 58 9. Khao Kheow C.C. | 27 hole par 72 | Course 5 Clubhouse 5 | Phone 038 298 226 10. Laem Chabang | 27 hole par 72 | Course 5 Clubhouse 5 | Phone 038 372 275 11. Mountain Shadow | 18 hole par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 4 | Phone 038 389 210 12. Pattana Sport Club | 27 hole par 73,74 | Course 4 Clubhouse 5 | Phone 038 318 999 13. Pattaya Country Club | 18 hole par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 3 | Phone 038 423 718 14. Phoenix Country Club | 27 hole par 72 | Course 5 Clubhouse 5 | Phone 038 239 391 15. Rayong Green Valley | 18 hole par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 4 | Phone 038 893 838 16. Royal Thai Navy | 36 hole par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 4 | Phone 038 701 843 17. Siam Country Club | 18 holes par 72 | Course 5 Clubhouse 5 | Phone 038 249 381-6 18. St Andrews 2000 | 18 holes par 74 | Course 4 Clubhouse 4 | Phone 038 893 838-42 19. Treasure Hills | 18 holes Par 72 | Course 4 Clubhouse 3 | Phone 038 488 349
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THEPATTAYAGUIDE | golf guide
To BANGKOK 34 7
To CHACHOENGSAO
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GOLF COURSE MAP
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CHONBURI
331 344
7
SI RACHA 3241
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3138
PATTAYA
GULF of THAILAND
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BAN CHANG SATTAHIP
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Siam Golf & Driving Range and Country Club is considered the number one driving range in Pattaya. It has the number one practice area for putting, pitching and sand practice and the number one fairway bunker, grass hitting facilities plus they use only the best golf balls. All areas are professionally kept to the very highest standards.
Plus Great Pro Shop!
Learn To Play Golf • The Swing • Addressing The Ball • Putting • Chip • Bunker • Fairway Driver With over 40 years experience within the golf profession, Harold is one of the best, most knowledgeable golf instructors in Thailand. Having played all the local (and not so local) courses hundreds of times gives Harold the unique insight into what each course has to offer any golfer, from beginner to professional.
Rates
One-to-One individual instruction 900 baht per half hour One-to-One individual instruction 1500 baht per one hour 2 Players 1600 baht per one hour 3 Players 2000 baht perone and half hours 4 Players 2500 baht per two hours
For Bookings Phone: Harold on 081 832 5338 or 038 405 166
GOLF GUIDE SPONSORED BY FAIRWAYS GOLF RANGE & RESORT | PHONE 038 413 636 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 Laem Chabang Course Golf Designer: Jack Nicklaus Course: 27 holes Par 72 This world class 27 hole golf course is set on 700 acres of natural mountain terrain.Everyone enjoys the feeling of being close to nature at this lush exotic course designed by famed golfer Jack Nicklaus.This perfectly manicured golf course will never disappoint and will provide you with plenty of challenging shots on any of its Mountain, Valley or Ocean loops. Considered Pattaya’s finest golf course! Facilities include Clubhouse with Thai and International menu, swimming pool, Golf Lodge, Jacuzzi, foot massage and full Banquet and Convention facilities. Golf Carts Compulsory 60
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | golf guide
Golf Range Price List
Room Rates
Daily Weekly Monthly
650 Baht 3400 Baht 8500 Baht
1 Tray (40 Balls) 40 Baht 3 Trays 100 Baht Golf Club Hire Free Golf Lessons from 500 Baht
For more information call
038 413 636
pattayagolfresort@gmail.com
ACCOMMODATION For those who are not familiar with the Pattaya and Jomtien geography, the South and Central Pattaya located hotels are the ones to chose if you are looking to be in the centre of the “action”. Lots of restaurants, bars, shopping etc. For those looking for perhaps a quieter night’s sleep, choose North Pattaya or Naklua, where there are several quality hotels down by the beach at Wongamat. If you really want to get out the city, then stay at Jomtien. The beach is better than that in Pattaya and it is easy to travel to Pattaya for evenings by taking one of the many “baht buses” which congregate at several points along the Beach Road. The Pattaya Guide Recommends - Sandy Springs Hotel, Soi 13 Room range from 1200 (Basic room) - 2500 (Superior Suite) The hotel is very clean, the staff are excellent and is you will struggle to find better value for money elsewhere in Pattaya. Call 038 414 752-8 62
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Accommodation
FOR SALE Studio Condo
* In Star Beach Condotel, Pratamnak Hill * 32 Sq Metres * Magnificent View of The Bay and Koh Lahn Island * Recently Refurbished * Partly Furnished * Very Large Communal Pool * Air Con * Full Security & Services
Absolute Bargain at
1.5m bt Enquiries To 089 936 6236
Jomtien Beach Properties
Studios, 1 - 2 bedroom units for rent or sale We own and manage all our properties No agents - No commission
Tel: 085 697 8245
www.jomtienbeachproperties.com
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. 66
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T HO
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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. 68
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Services Guide
TAKE IT EASY
MOTORCYCLE RENTAL
, 04 78 07 089 0
08 7
83 56 890
VERY COMPETITIVE RATES Opening Times:- 9am to 6pm everyday!
TRUCKS AND CARS AVAILABLE TO RENT
Pattaya New Plaza
50m
Soi 8
Soi 7
2nd Road
Contact:- 089 007 7804 for further details We are located at:Pattaya New Plaza, 50m off 2nd Road, Opposite Soi 7 - Soi 8, Central Pattaya
Take It Easy Low Season Rates
Bike CBR (150cc) Air Blade Click Fino Mio Step Nouvo MX Nouvo (old) X1 Wave
Daily 200 Baht 180 Baht 150 Baht 150 Baht 150 Baht 150 Baht 150 Baht 120 Baht 100 Baht
Weekly 1,200 Baht 1,100 Baht 1,000 Baht 1,000 Baht 1,000 Baht 1,000 Baht 1,000 Baht 700 Baht 600 Baht
Monthly 3,500 Baht 3,000 Baht 2,700 Baht 2,700 Baht 2,700 Baht 2,700 Baht 2,700 Baht 2,400 Baht 2,000 Baht
No need to bargain! The price you see is the price you pay * Long term rental discounts negotiable * Minimum rental 2 days
!!!!!! N”!! M OPE O W O R O “N OW MART . SH D A.R.C N, FOO G” TIE KIN JOM SY PAR “EA
When buying or selling a business in Pattaya contact “The Company You Can Trust”
Tel: 038 489 074-5 Mob: 087 283 5349 (Eng) Email: info@t-b-a-c.com Web: www.t-b-a-c.com
TOT
Central Road
Sukhumvit Road 3rd Road 2nd Road
Pattaya Beach Road
Do You Want More Customers? If the answer is NO, you don’t need to call this number
089 096 4011
Photography – Copywriting – Advertising Concepts – Website Content & More
Promotional Merchandise: Quality ‘T’ Shirts, Screen-Printed - XL 150 Baht or XXL 165 Baht Good Quality Polo Shirts, 366 gram with embroidered logo - XL 190 Baht or XXL 210 Baht
2009 is going to be TOUGH Make sure YOUR Advertising is effective!
Rent this brand new MAZDA BT-50
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1,400 Baht /Day Rate - 8,000 Baht /Week Rate 24,000 Baht /Month Rate
For information call: 085 945 9689
15 - 30 Second TV Ads Available Call Michael Strevens 083 317 7719
Located at the bottom of Thepprasit Road
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. WARNING: YOU ONLY GET 15 DAYS AT LAND BORDERS 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 Visa Information | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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country. The holder may then return to the Kingdom and will obtain a second 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
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permitted to change to a non-immigrant visa at an immigration office inside 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 2008): 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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PAUL KINGS
EASY VISA IMMIGRATION AND LAW CENTER WE SPECIALISE IN MAKING VISAS FOR YOUR THAI PARTNER TO TRAVEL HOME WITH YOU. * YOUR WIFE OF FIANCEE. * YOUR GIRLFRIEND FROM THE BAR. * PROBLEM CASES OUR SPECIALITY. * PREVIOUS REFUSALS OVERTURNED. * MARRIAGES ARRANGED. * LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT. * DIVORCES. * OVER 20 YEARS IN THAILAND. ONEY * U.S MIGRATION AGENTS. O VISA NO M LY
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CO
www.easyvisathailand.com CALL 08909-22692 or 038-414475 REGISTERED WITH THE I.I.L.S & THE EMBASSIES GOVERNING COUNCIL
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. MALLS
Big C Shopping Centre is a large mall on Second Road across from Soi 2. Mike Shopping Mall is on Beach Road between Soi 11 and Soi 12, New Central Festival Soi 9 Beach Road, next to the police station (you can’t miss it) Royal Garden Plaza is a large upscale mall adjacent to Pattaya Marriott Hotel on Beach Road between Soi Post Office (Soi 13/2) and Soi Pattayaland 1 (Soi 13/3) Tuk.Com (Com City) on South Pattaya Road is a new and predominantly IT mall. The Avenue is on second road directly opposite the entrance to soi 13
SUPERMARKETS
Best Supermarket At the corner of North Pattaya Road and Naklua Road Big-C South Pattaya Road (at the junction with Sukhumvit Road), Big-C Central Festival Center (opposite Soi 2). Carrefour Central Pattaya Road (between Third Road and Sukhumvit Road), Foodland Central Pattaya Road 24 hours Foodmart Thapphraya Road (near the junction with Theprasit Road). 24 hours. Friendship South Pattaya Road. Tesco-Lotus North Pattaya Road Tops at the junction of Second Road and Central Pattaya Road, 24 hours. Villa Market The Avenue Shopping Mall, 2nd Road. 24 hours.
MARKETS :- THERE ARE MANY BAZAAR-STYLE MARKETS IN PATTAYA
Made In Thailand Plaza on Second Road near Soi 10 - daily 08:00-23:00 Soi Buakhao Market - daytime, Tuesday and Friday; Thepprasit Market on Thepprasit Road (Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings)
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“Designs for life” Water Hyacinth Bamboo & Coconut Inlay Eco Friendly Products Rugs, Cushions & Textiles Custom Made Sofas Outdoor & Poolside Furniture Full Turn-Key Packages Available
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EAST Furniture & Interiors Next To Pattaya Properties Tel: 038 252 201 / 081 863 6752
Open (mon - sat) 10am - 6pm email: sales.pattaya@east-online.net
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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Emerald Palace ~ • 60 studio units, 17 one bedroom units and 2 two bedroom units • Starting at 28,000 baht per Sq/m • Own your investment in your own name. For more information • Stunning sea views from all call: 083 959 5698 remaining apartments, only 200 E:mail: meters from Cozy Beach haughton_richard@hotmail.com • Reserve now and let your www.emerald-palace.com investment start working right away
BUYING A HOUSE OR LAND SPONSORED BY PARADISE CITY PROPERTY | PHONE 038 373 966 Thailand has so many different types of properties for sale that whatever your dream home is, you can realize it here if you do the paperwork right. Prices are a lot cheaper than Western houses but some aspects need close scrutiny especially most importantly the deed title. Now that you want to buy a house what should you look for? The first thing you need to do is obtain the services of a reputable real estate agent or lawyer on your behalf. Check over the title deed and make sure the property is what it says. Some buyers have bought the house only to find the land is on a different title & vice versa. The same goes with the boundaries of the property which need to be the same as the title deed, If buying from a private individual we draw up a reservation or purchase option contract. This contract binds you and the vendor to the sale of the house at a specific price in accordance to schedules you have both agreed to make. Such an agreement will include any penalties for default of either party. This is a good idea to do as it then stops either party changing their minds & allows time to secure finance from a Bank. Although Thai law prohibits foreigners from owning land in Thailand, there are various ways in which you can structure establish a controlling interest in a Thai company that owns the land, or own a lease for the land in your own name, all complying with existing Thai laws: If owning a Thai company you can secure finance and also have the house in your Company name. Limited Liability Company - this form of purchasing property is the most popular with foreign investors as the Articles of Association can be varied to allow greater protection for foreign minority shareholders where majority Thai ownership is required under the Alien Business Law. Thai law requires that 51% of the shares be held by Thai juristic persons, however, any company 92
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with more than 40% foreign interest that purchases land will be investigated by the Central Land Office in Bangkok (under Section 74 of the Land Code) to ensure that the company has not been organized in an attempt to circumvent the prohibition against foreign ownership of land. This results in the foreign ownership of the company being limited at 39%, but with the recommended changes to the Articles of Association, the foreigner can be the only director of the company, and the only officer of the company who can commit or bind the company in any contractual dealings - effectively giving the minority shareholder control over the company. Nominee with Lease and Option to Buy - you can use a Thai Nominee to purchase the house/land and have a 30 year lease with a 30 by 30 year option from the nominee. In order to be enforceable, any lease for a period of longer than three years must be registered, which involves a modest payment of a registration fee and stamp duty based on a percentage of the rental fee for the whole lease term. The original registered lease remains in force and effect even if the property is sold. The drawbacks to a lease include the fact that the parties can contractually agree to renewals, but this right cannot be registered and is not effective against a purchaser of the property, and that the lessee cannot (without the lessor’s consent) sublease, sell or transfer his or her interest. Now that the title is all checked out you can go ahead and translate it into English just to make sure. If you are buying a new home from a developer, the developer will almost certainly have a standard contract format. The format may vary but always have your solicitor go over the deed and title and anything else in the contract regardless of what the developer shows you. Next month we will talk about payment options, different land title deeds and how to purchase land Gavin Perfect, Paradise City Property
ADVERTORIAL | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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HS 916. BRAND NEW AND READY FOR YOUR KITCHEN AND FURNITURE. FOUR BEDROOMS, EN-SUITE BATHROOMS, A LARGE KITCHEN ROOM. SMART BATH-SHOWER ROOMS AND LOVELY CERAMIC TILED FLOORS. SELLING AT 4.3 M. NEGOTIABLE WITH THE POSSIBILITY OF OWNER FINANCE. GREAT DEAL.
HS 957. LARGE FOUR BEDROOM, FOUR BATHROOM SEMI. MAID QUARTERS AND STORAGE. A LITTLE TIRED SO A COAT OF PAINT AND SOME NEW SHRUBBERY WOULD MAKE THIS AN EXCELLENT HOUSE. A LOT OF POTENTIAL AND A LOT OF HOUSE FOR JUST 3.3 MILLION BAHT CASH SALE. GREAT DEAL.