CONTENTS HISTORY OF PATTAYA
5
USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS
6
GETTING AROUND
8
PATTAYA MAP
10
JOMTIEN MAP
12
GOOD FOOD GUIDE
14
TOP TEN NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS
27
NIGHTLIFE GUIDE
32
KOH CHANG
40
OUTSIDE PATTAYA
42
ACTIVITIES GUIDE
44
BAR GIRLS EXPLAINED
49
GOLF GUIDE
56
ACCOMMODATION
62
HEALTH AND FITNESS
65
SERVICES GUIDE
68
VISA INFORMATION
80
SHOPPING GUIDE
84
REAL ESTATE GUIDE
89
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 Please feel free to contact us if you have any suggestions, we always like to hear from our readers. 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
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 6
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Useful Phone Numbers
199 1719
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
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
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Soi Khaot
Soi Wat Tham Samakkee
JOMTIEN MAP
Highway Police Station
P
P Police Box
P Police BoxTesco Lotus
Pattaya Aquatics
d
Manhattans
Café des Amis
Roa
Thai Decor Beach Properties Pattaya Golf.com
Phr ata m
nak
Sports Lounge
Ahaar Indian
Soi Yamoto Soi Post Office
Open Advertising
Adventure Divers
South Pattaya Ro
7
17
d
i1
R oa
Northern Thai eality & Export
So
7
asit
P Police Box
pp The
ad
Kangzen-Kenko
Soi Buakhao
Outlet Mall
Big C
Amor Restaurant Café New Orleans
Post
V2O
Walkin g Teazers
Blues Factory Utopia
Street
:- Easy Kart Siam Bayshore Mountian Beach
Ialand View
Sheraton
12
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Jomtien Map
Cosy Beach Royal Cliff
Asia Pattaya
Pattaya Bay
Soi Norn Krabor
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 ach R
n Be
ie Jomt
oad
Pattaya Park
Police Box P
Jomtien Beach P
h ac
e nB
a
gt
:- 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
:- Activities :- Real Estate :- Restaurant & Bar
:- Services
H :- Hospital :- Hotel
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. 14
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | good food guide
For Home Deliveries Please Call Door 2 Door 038 720 222
Phone:- 038 710 609 - www.thesportsmanpub.com
Enquiry / booking / pick up service
08402 64989 & 038 364 327
location: end of soi 11, Tappraya road
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!
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NO ONE MAKES ’ EM LIKE US!
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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
For free pick-up and reservations call 038 259 9790 www.manhattans-pattaya.com - Closed on Mondays
Magical Ambiance...
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Great Steaks...
DOOR 2 DOOR 2010 Menu
Now Open Till 3am
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Simply call:
ORDER ON LINE - www.door2doorpattaya.com
TOP TEN NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS THE PATTAYA VERSION The New Year’s holiday is the only one that celebrates the passage of time. Perhaps that’s why, as the final seconds of the year tick away, we become reflective. Inevitably, that reflection turns to thoughts of self-improvement and the annual ritual of making resolutions, which offer the first of many important tools for re-making ourselves. Here are our top ten New Year’s Resolutions… the Pattaya version 1. LOSE WEIGHT AND GET IN BETTER PHYSICAL SHAPE Most people make the resolution (every year!) that this will be THE year when they finally get into great shape. Fitness centres love January, when they generally have a stampede for new memberships, most of which fizzle out after a month or so. It’s a shame because even a workout of 30 minutes 3 or 4 times per week will make a considerable difference to the way you look and feel. Physical activity builds physical vitality. With every year of your life, you have more to gain from being physically active. If going to the gym is not your thing, why not take up golf this year? Golf is a great way to keep active and there is no better place to start than Pattaya. Pattaya has 19 superb golf courses within 45 minutes of the city (see our golf guide), 5 golf driving ranges and well over 40 golf societies. For more information visit www.thairewardsgolf.com or join the Sportsman Golf society who play every Wednesday from the Sportsman Pub and Restaurant, Soi 13. Call 0859459689 for directions and further info 2. STICK TO A BUDGET It’s been said that the best defense is a good offense. Developing and sticking to a realistic budget is a brilliant offensive move as it prevents overspending and ensures peace of mind. Many people find it very difficult to stick to a budget especially when on holiday in Pattaya. You were all told how cheap Thailand was, weren’t you? Top Ten New Year Resolutions | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
27
Well the guide book didn’t include nights down Walking Street buying a multitude of lady drinks. It does take hard work and a lot of self-discipline, at least in the beginning. The good news is that most people find the longer they can stick to a budget, the easier it becomes. Now more than ever it is important to live within your means. Use credit cards only when absolutely necessary. Credit cards encourage people to buy things they don’t need at prices they can’t afford. If you own more than one it is even more of a burden, dragging you into a downward credit spiral until you are effectively working for the credit card companies. 3. ENJOY MORE QUALITY TIME WITH YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS Generally we are so tied up dealing with each day’s activities that we neglect the most important thing, spending enjoyable time with those closest to us. If you are living in a foreign country, friends are perhaps even more invaluable, as generally you are away from your family, so set aside some time to show how much you appreciate them. Here are a few ideas; - Invite your friends out for a meal at Manhattans Restaurant and Bar - Take a trip down to Koh Chang. - Organize a Go Karting session at the new Easykart track by Bali Pier 4. FIND MY SOUL MATE You might find it difficult to find a soul-mate in Thailand due to the considerable cultural differences, which put you on a different wavelength. It is possible however. The biggest mistake most men make (both expats and tourists) is to look for that special someone among the many bar girls in the resort and completely miss the sweet young lady on reception or in a restaurant who are also looking for a guy just like them. Finding your real soul-mate is a cosmic improbability, but if you do, the relationship is so deeply satisfying on every level, emotional, physical and even spiritual, that it really is worth searching for. 28
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Top Ten New Year Resolutions
5. CUT DOWN ON DRINKING It is vey easy in Pattaya to wake up and hit the booze after a heavy night because of the abundance of bar and restaurants but resisting the temptation could help you lead a longer, healthier life. Why don’t you set yourself a time of day that you consider a sensible time to start drinking, lets say seven o clock (in the evening!) and try not to drink before that time throughout the year The benefits to your health, relationships, finances, vitality and to your sense of self-esteem for having conquered a really hard-to-kick habit will make all of your efforts and determination more than worthwhile. 6. FIND A BETTER JOB It’s a cliché but true -- most of us get reflective at this time of year particularly with regard to our career: Am I in the right job and position to make the most of my abilities? Is the company heading in the right direction? Am I happy? So you’ve been hearing that voice again, the one that says you’re not doing what you were born to do. That may be true, but how do you figure out what you should be doing? To begin answering this question, examine whether your current career path matches your core interests, beliefs, values, needs and skills. Resolve to ask and answer those questions before making any new career changes. 7. LEARN SOMETHING NEW People throughout the world are realizing that a strong resolve to lifelong learning is more than just education and training beyond formal schooling. A lifelong learning framework encompasses learning throughout the life cycle, from cradle to grave and in different learning environments, formal, non-formal and informal. Why not learn Thai? It will make visiting or living in Thailand much easier and more enjoyable. It could help you land a job or even help in the search for a soul-mate. Below are some language schools in Pattaya that offer individual and group lessons: Top Ten New Year Resolutions | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
29
Walen School of Thai – Their school is conveniently located in soi Yume across Carrefour in central Pattaya. See www.thaiwalen.com for further information Pro Language – Their school is located opposite Carrefour on central Pattaya road. See www.prolanguage.co.th 8. VOLUNTEER AND HELP OTHERS A popular, non-selfish New Year’s resolution, volunteerism can take many forms such as spending time helping out at your local library, sponsoring a child, or helping to build a house to name but a few. Resolve to replace or at least incorporate, the pursuit of success and materialism with the pursuit of contribution and generosity. The Mercy Center is a very worthwhile Pattaya based charity. The work of MERCY began in the year 2000 with our growing desire to help the “street children” of Pattaya. There are the hundreds (perhaps thousands) of children and youth who live most of their young lives “at risk”, as a result of direct abuse, severe neglect, or the danger of being swallowed up in the life threatening environment of crime, drugs and sexual abuse that surrounds them on a daily basis. Visit www.mercypattaya.com for further information 9. REDUCE STRESS OVERALL It’s easy to say just relax and deal with your stress, but the reality for most people is that they don’t really know how, and the kind of stress we experience today is actually very different than it was years ago. It seems that stress has become a chronic condition and is literally built into the fabric of our society: rush-hour traffic, constant deadlines, sirens and loud noises, girlfriend problems, financial and family pressures. Everything seems urgent. I get stressed just writing about it. If you don’t spend your time relaxing at the beach every day, you might want to consider having regularly scheduled massage visits. Massage is a known antidote for stress. If you are looking for stress relief, try one of the many different massage parlors available.
30
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Top Ten New Year Resolutions
The Pattaya Guide recommends – Health Land on Pattaya North Road. Call (038) 371 473-7 10. GET ORGANIZED Resolve this year to plan your days, reduce interruptions, clean off your desk, say “No”, and make detailed lists. The benefits of getting more organized include being able to save time, as you no longer look for the same things over and over again or need to replace things you can’t find at all. One easy way, is every evening make a list of the tasks you have to complete the following day, documents you need to look at, phone calls you have to make (business and personal) e-mails that need to be sent and even household items you need to purchase. This will take a few minutes, and then take a few minutes more to put them in order of priority. Anything on the list that you didn’t have time to do, can go on the list for the next day. You will be very surprised at how this will increase your productivity. It is also good for your mind, freeing it from mundane tasks so that it is clearer for more creative and appreciative thinking, which will help you enjoy life even more. So, take your pick from the above or try them all, but most of all, have an excellent and fulfilling 2010!
Have a healthy, happy & prosperous 2010
Top Ten New Year Resolutions | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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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
UTOPIA ROCK HOUSE Presents
Claim
Climax
ed by our cu stom
ers to be the best r ock gr oup
in Patt aya
SOI 16
Soho Square
SOI HAPPY
Come and Enjoy 7 Nights a Week 9pm - 3am
SOI DIAMOND
info: 087 106 3576 www.climaxpattaya.com Here!! UTOPIA
WALKING STREET
Under New Management
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
present & future patrons!
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.
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.
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THEPATTAYAGUIDE | A Guide to Koh Chang
OUTSIDE PATTAYA SPONSORED BY KCR HOMEFINDER | PHONE 038 405 167-8 Entertainment
It’s been quite a year with businesses in and out of town struggling to survive and sadly some going under. For the survivors, determination and raw guts will hopefully see us through the next 12 months at which time we can only hope world and local financial and political events may have calmed down. I said last month I would begin listing places of entertainment and eateries out here in the jungle, there are far too many to list in one issue so will start with a few old favourites and move onto others February. Mulligan’s restaurant is becoming more and more popular with it’s Tuesday quiz nights, Friday live music and golf societies. They have a decent menu and the staff a delight. Moving along we arrive at the Lakeside. This new venture has set the benchmark for good food, excellent pastries, fresh bead from the Deli Bean but above all a staff that are some of the best trained in the area. Good roasts and an extensive menu. Just a short drive away is the Fisherman’s rest. Indian food, Tandoori and pizza are the main specialties however they have retained their Western and Thai menus offering a good selection at sensible prices. The peacock Place is hanging in there, well priced rooms, a free swimming pool and two superb bars and the restaurant. Our favourite here are the pastas. Freshly cooked and delicious. Another fine staff who serve up a crisp draught Heineken in a glass or jug. There’s also a golf society here as well. Speak to the girls for details. Probably the busiest golf pub out here is the Outback Bar. These guys are out every day visiting courses on the doorstep and further afield, good rates and an entertaining bunch of blokes. Great grub, TV sorts and nice staff. New on the block is the legend restaurant and Gary’s bakery. We’re talking some serious grub here, excellent chefs, great staff, home made pies and pastries and their English sausages the best I have tasted in Pattaya. More next month. So that wraps up 2009, on behalf of the management and staff of KCR Homefinder may I wish you the best of health and fortune for 2010. 42
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Outside Pattaya
OUTSIDE PATTAYA SPONSORED BY KCR HOMEFINDER | PHONE 038 405 167-8 Feature Property
Located in a secure development behind Mabprachan reservoir. Convenient for town and local amenities. The house has been well built and has been very well maintained by the owners who bought it from new. Sat on a large plot with off road car parking, nicely planted gardens and a good sized private swimming pool with a built in spa. 3 double bedrooms, 3 well appointed bathrooms, a full European kitchen and air conditioning. The house has been redecorated inside and out and is beautifully presented and a credit to the owners. This was priced at 6.95 million baht but now reduced to just 5.5 million negotiable for a decision maker. Not one to prevaricate as it is a deal and a half.
Outside Pattaya | 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. 46
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.
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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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BAR GIRLS EXPLAINED
BY TERENCE DOYLE
Gentlemen! Are you finding yourself too often baffled by what your latest darling companion in Pattya is saying, even when her English is reasonably good? There is a simple reason for this: you already know that women everywhere talk a different language from men and in Pattaya’s bars that difference is multiplied many times over by those cultural differences. So in Pattaya even the simplest words – “shy, angry, hungry, mama, mao, money” – can have unusual meanings and become portals to dangerous misunderstandings with these otherwise sublime creatures. One simple example would be the offering of “jewellery”. You may be thinking of buying her a simple gold band, but in her terms that gift is known as “gold” whereas “jewellery” means diamonds and such like, at least 5 times as pricey, so you could be paying dearly. The point is, that in delightful Pattaya misunderstandings happen between even the best intentioned couples as easily as you can get wet in the sea. And both happen in the blink of an eye. Yet these disagreements can easily be avoided by bering in mind four simple points which most repeat visitors know very well. If you can’t be bothered to master all four rules, focus on this one fact: that YOUR farang way of thinking assuming that 2 + 2 must always equal 4 and that the world really is flat – indeed, everything you take for granted - does NOT apply in Thailand. Find that hard to believe? Try this test: would your favourite Pattaya Bar Girls Explained | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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girl give you the time of day back home? Ha! I rest my case: in Pattaya, the world is turned on its head. None of the following four points should be taken as a criticism the wonderful Thai girls. Their ways are not necessarily better or worse than farang ways, but they are certainly different. One: they may behave as if they can wrap you around their lovely little fingers but actually you are a total mystery to them, an alien from a different planet, incomprehensible. Two: Confused by you, they are reluctant to say what they really feel – all Thais are reluctant to do so, and Thai girls are more “Thai” than they are “girls”. This means, of course, that much of what they say is far from the truth and, if not quite an out and out lie, at least irrelevant to reality. It is the kind of idle chit chat you might have with a stranger back home. They are not deceiving you, just as you are not deceiving the stranger, you are both just passing the time of day. Three: However much you might love your parents – or your children – your Thai girl will love her parents and children more, in ways you can not even begin to imagine. In the day-to-day world, your darling’s affection for her parents and children will surpass both of those two put together. This may be hard to fathom but it has a silver lining – nothing can raise your profile more than a gift for the family, not even a gift for your darling, because a gift to the family is the best gift you can give her. Four : The word “shy” in Thailand means something totally different from anything you have ever learned. Think of how confusing words like “love”, hate, war” and “peace” can be. In Thailand, “shy” is equally multi-layered. Yes, it can mean she does not want you to see her dressing even though you have just been carousing in bed. Mystifying but true. But more importantly, it can
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mean that she is afraid to tell you what’s on her mind, even if it is nothing more harmless than a need to go to the toilet. So go forth with confidence tonight to enjoy Pattaya glittering streets, knowing that to have fun with the girls the only thing you need to know is that you know nothing. Terence Doyle is author of Thailand Love Talk, a guide to farang / bar girl chat, published on January 10 by Bangkok Books in English and Thai, price 295TB, available in Pattaya at DK Bookmart, Asia Books-Bookazine, B2S, Friendship Supermarket, Villa Supermarket, and some smaller outlets as well as online at www.bangkokbooks.com
Advertise here for only 2500 baht per month, discounts available with 3, 6, 9 or 12 month contracts For more information call 086 832 3967 or e:mail: thepattayaguide@gmail.com
Dive Trips Are What We Do Best Adventure Divers and Water sports
is your best and most friendly dive shop in Pattaya. We have our own boat with experienced captain • PADI Training and crew with an intimate knowledge of reefs and wrecks in the area.“ MV SAIFON” has all • Snorkeling the comforts you could want. Our train staff gives attentive service to make • Swimming your trip not only fun, but luxurious. Diving here will introduce you to beautiful • Game Fishing reefs, endless types of fish and other maries life. • Catamaran Charter Whatever your level or interests, we are happy to assist. Our instructors can lead you on dives • Boat Charter of all skill levels. Just tell us your interests and we will do the rest!
• Scuba Diving
Location : Thappaya Rd soi 13 Naklua Rd So i 18 Phone : 038-364453 038-371568 Contact : Robert 089-2525026 Phillip 087-1317094 Email : info@pattayadivers.com www.pattayadivers.com
For Taxi:
GOLF GUIDE SPONSORED BY FAIRWAYS GOLF RANGE & RESORT | PHONE 038 413 636 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 8. Fairways Golf Range & Resort | Driving Range | Clubhouse 4 | Phone 038 413 636 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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THEPATTAYAGUIDE | golf guide
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GOLF COURSE MAP
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PATTAYA
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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 Pattana Golf & Sports Resort Designer: Gussan Course: 27 Holes Par 72 and 73 This highly modern and luxurious resort offers 27 holes that have been skillfully crafted upon 360 acres of beautiful, natural rolling terrain, providing an enjoyable challenge for golfers of all abilities. Whilst fairways are generous in width, large and contoured greens demand a strategic approach and a skillful touch. Offers island greens and a par 6 as signature holes. Facilities include a 9000sq.m clubhouse incorporating international restaurants, Spa,offering massage and body treatments, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms. Along with a 222 room 4 star Hotel offering a variety of rooms to suit all, Pattana is unmatched in regards to luxury and facilities. 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
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
08-100-100-36
08-1000-66-01
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. Health and Fitness | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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Facial massage treatments using UP5 technology Kangzen-Kenko Product Outlet Including beauty products, household & dietary supplements
SKINCARE
SYSTEM
Contact Ajjima Yoophu (Winnie) 085 285 6531 Kangzen-Kenko 590/2, South Pattaya Rd E-mail: numwan007@yahoo.com
Soi 10
Soi 12 Soi Bongkok
Third Road
South Pattaya Road
Sukhumvit Road
Soi Kho Pai
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
, 04 78 07 089 0
TAKE IT EASY MOTORCYCLE RENTAL
08 7
MOTORCYCLE RENTAL
83 56 890
VERY COMPETITIVE RATES
TRUCKS AND CARS AVAILABLE TO RENT
Pattaya New Plaza
50m
Soi 8
2nd Road Soi 7
Opening Times:- 9am to 6pm everyday!
Second hand bikes bought for cash
For further details contact 089 007 7804 or 085 698 4277 We are located at:Pattaya New Plaza, 50m off 2nd Road, Opposite Soi 7 - Soi 8, Central Pattaya
Take It Easy Rental Rates Bike Daily 200 Baht CBR (150cc) Air Blade 200 Baht Nouvo elegance 200 Baht Click F1 200 Baht Fino 180 Baht Nouvo MX 180 Baht Icon 180 Baht Mio / Step 180 Baht Click 180 Baht Nouvo (old) 120 Baht X1 Wave 120 Baht
Weekly 1,250 Baht 1,250 Baht 1,250 Baht 1,250 Baht 1,100 Baht 1,100 Baht 1,100 Baht 1,100 Baht 1,100 Baht 800 Baht 800 Baht
Monthly 3,500 Baht 3,500 Baht 3,500 Baht 3,500 Baht 3,000 Baht 3,000 Baht 3,000 Baht 3,000 Baht 3,000 Baht 2,400 Baht 2,400 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
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
2010 is going to be TOUGH Make sure YOUR Advertising is effective!
Rent this brand new MAZDA BT-50
* Fully Insured
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
Chanphen Thaweesri Business Solutions Business Consultancy & Complete Accounting Service * Work Permit * Company Registration * Administration * Taxation * Auditing Chanphen Thaweesri (B.A., M.B.A.) * Bookeeping A professional, reliable, English speaking service with many years experience in Pattaya
Some of my existing clients include: * The Pattaya Guide * Door 2 Door * The Sportsman Soi 6 * * Shoot Pool * Tropical Berts * Manhattans * Greg’s Kitchen * * Erik and Rosa Co., Ltd * Pattaya Aquatic * M & D Asia * * East Furniture * Nail Studio * Curtain Design Studio * * Sky Top Internet * Escape Car Rental * The Sportsman * * Queen Victoria Inn * JPM Asia * Pavati Co, Ltd * Five Star *
We take care of time-consuming financial & legal paperwork, leaving you free to run your business Please contact Khun Pen: Mobile: 081 295 3827 Phone: 038 711 022 - Fax: 038 710 104 - sman@mailcity1.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. 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 80
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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
Visa Information | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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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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THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Visa Information
Laos Visa Run Now Available Tourist Visa Non ‘O’ Visa Non ‘B’ Visa Education Visa
Visit Us For More Information
Penang Visa Run Return flights All transfers in Penang 4 star hotel in Penang Breakfast included Visa fees & application done for you by our visa specialist in Penang
Cambodia Border Run
2500 Baht
Breakfast & lunch provided Six luxury seats per mini bus Watch movies with personal headphones Priority visa processing at the border
Book your visa trip at
Soi 13 between Beach Road & 2nd Road
Call 038 416 088
BIG DISCOUNTS FOR REGULAR USERS
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.
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New Pattaya Beach Central Festival Shopping Complex Finally, just what Pattaya needed, a good shopping centre for all the needs of tourists, locals and expats has 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 Pattaya Beach Central Festival Shopping Complex is the biggest beachfront mall in Asia and really is a welcome addition to the City.
“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
www.islandviewr esidence.com
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
PLACES TO GO SHOPPING 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) Outlet Mall on Thepprasit Road on the corner of Sukhumvit Road 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 Tesco-Lotus Sukhumvit Road near Thepprasit 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) Naklua Market go 4km’s down Nakula Rd to the 2nd set of traffic lights & turn right
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THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Shopping Guide
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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Finance Now Available For All! Up to 70% over 2, 5, 7 or 10 Years! Low Deposit—Low Payments!
Showroom Now Open!
Soi 2, Pratumnak Hill
086 1122 850
www.tudorcourtthailand.com
sales@tudorvillas.co.uk
Emerald Palace ~
• 60 studio units, 17 one bedroom units and 2 two bedroom units • Starting at 28,000 baht per Sq/m • Stunning sea views, only 500 meters from the Beach • Wood flooring, upvc windows, fitness centre, outdoor pool & sauna www.emerald-palace.com
40% developer assisted finance available
Contact: +66(0)898677969 ПО-РУССКИ: +66(0)871490938
Phase II www.siamdevelopments.com
“View our Virtual tour now at www.siamdevelopments.com/virtualtour/ “
100% legal ownership structure To receive your complimentary E-brochure, simply email info@siamdevelopments.com
NEW YEAR SPECIAL OFFER HS 812. THIS DELIGHTFUL BUNGALOW IS LOCATED BEHIND MULLIGAN’S RESTAURANT AT MABPRACHAN. NICELY BUILT AND IN EXCELLENT ORDER THROUGHOUT. WITH THREE BEDROOMS AND TWO CLEAN BATHROOMS, A FULL EUROPEAN KITCHEN, VERY NICE FURNITURE AND AIR CONDITIONING IT HAS ALL YOU NEED TO MOVE IN WITHOUT ANY FURTHER ADDITIONS. WELL DECORATED AND PRESENTED BOTH INSIDE AND OUT. THERE IS OFF ROAD SECURE CAR PARKING, A NICELY MATURING GARDEN AND A VERY PRIVATE SWIMMING POOL BETWEEN THE WINGS. THIS WAS ORIGINALLY PRICED AT 4.9 MILLION BUT NOW OFFERED AT 3.5 FOR A SPEEDY DECISION MAKER. MOTIVATED SELLER SO OFFERS MAY BE CONSIDERED
NEW YEAR SPECIAL OFFER HS 976. A VERY SPECIAL OFFER INDEED. THIS 2 BEDROOM, 3 BATHROOM END UNIT TOWN HOUSE IS LOCATED IN ONE OF EAST PATTAYA’S BEST VILLAGES. VERY SECURE, WELL MAINTAINED FACILITIES AND MANAGED BY THE RESIDENTS. THE HOUSE HAS A FULL EUROPEAN KITCHEN, NEAT AND TIDY FURNITURE, AIR CONDITIONING AND IS BEING CLEANED AND POLISHED AS I WRITE. BEING AT THE END OF A RUN OF JUST FOUR IT IS QUIET AND PEACEFUL AND THERE’S CAR AND MOTORCYCLE PARKING AT THE FRONT. OUTSIDE THERE IS A SMALL TERRACE TO THE FRONT AND TO THE SIDE A TROPICAL GARDEN WITH A SALA FOR OUTSIDE ENJOYMENT WITH PRIVACY. PRICED TO SELL AT 2.6 MILLION WITH FURTHER DISCOUNT OR FINANCE AVAILABLE
NEW YEAR SPECIAL OFFER HS 1031. A VERY NEAT AND TIDY END UNIT TOWN HOUSE LOCATED JUST OFF SIAM COUNTRY CLUB ROAD. BEING AN END UNIT THERE IS AMPLE SPACE AT THE SIDE TO EXTEND THE LIVING ROOM OR EVEN ADD A THIRD BEDROOM. INSIDE WE HAVE A DECENT LOUNGE DINER WITH A EUROPEAN STYLE KITCHEN AT THE REAR. THE FURNITURE IS FINE AND ALL ROOMS AIR CONDITIONED. THE SHOWER ROOMS ARE FINE AND THE UPSTAIRS HAS HOT WATER. PLENTY OF SCOPE HERE FOR EITHER MOVING IN AS IT IS OR INDEED UPGRADING TO INCREASE THE LIVING AREAS. THE OWNER MUST RETURN FOR MEDICAL REASONS SO REDUCED THE PRICE FROM 1.6 MILLION TO 1.4 MILLION FOR A QUICK SALE. NICE LITTLE INVESTMENT PROPERTY
NEW YEAR SPECIAL OFFER HS 1033. THIS IS A SPECIAL HOUSE LOCATED JUST OFF SIAM COUNTRY CLUB ROAD. OUTSIDE THERE IS A NICE GARDEN WITH A SALA AND OFF ROAD CAR OR MOTOR BIKE PARKING. INSIDE WE HAVE A DECENT SIZED LOUNGE DINER WITH A VERY SMART EUROPEAN KITCHEN. THE FURNITURE IS AN AS NEW CONDITION AND THE HOUSE HAS BEEN WELL MAINTAINED THROUGHOUT. IT COMES FULLY AIR CONDITIONED AND WITH THREE BEDROOMS AND TWO BATHROOMS IDEAL FOR A COUPLE OR FAMILY. THE BATHROOMS ARE NICE, FULLY TILED FOR EASY CLEAN AND EVERYTHING WORKS. BEDROOM 3 IS UNUSUAL, ALMOST CHALET STYLE AND PERFECT FOR AN OFFICE OR A KIDDIES ROOM. OVERALL A LOVELY PLACE AND WELL UNDER PRICED AT 2.6 MILLION
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