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
LOY KRATONG FESTIVAL
28
NIGHTLIFE GUIDE
30
KOH CHANG
36
THINGS NOT TO DO IN PATTAYA
38
OUTSIDE PATTAYA
40
ACTIVITIES GUIDE
42
GOLF GUIDE
52
ACCOMMODATION
58
Email: thepattayaguide@gmail.com
HEALTH AND FITNESS
61
SERVICES GUIDE
64
Please feel free to contact us if you have any suggestions, we always like to hear from our readers.
VISA INFORMATION
79
SHOPPING GUIDE
83
REAL ESTATE GUIDE
87
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
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
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
038 222 474
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
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
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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
11
Soi Khaotalo
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
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
So
7
asit
Northern Thai Reality & Export
P Police Box
pp The
ad
Kangzen-Kenko
Soi Buakhao
Outlet Mall
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
Under New Management
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!
% 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
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
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
LOY KRATONG FESTIVAL Loy Kratong is one of the most popular and romantic of Thailand’s traditional festivals. The festival is held on the night of the 12th full moon, which lands sometime in November. The festival is held to pay homage to the goddess of rivers and waterways, Mae Nam. Loy literally translates to “float”, while Kratong is the Thai word for a sort of tray made out of banana leaves. Loy Kratong is celebrated by floating elaborate kratongs decorated with flowers, candles and incense on just about any waterway in the kingdom. The romance is provided by a legend from the origins of the festival in 13th century, Sukhothai. According to the story, Nang Nopamas, a royal consort of King Ramkhamhaeng (the founder of Sukhothai), made the first kratong as an offering to Mae Nam. She set it afloat on one of the canals of the palace so that it would drift past her lover the king. The king was delighted with the creation, and thus was the origins of the saying that if two lovers set a kratong adrift and it stays afloat until out of sight, their love will last forever. In Thailand, people enjoy creating their own Krathong made from natural resources, such as leaves and trunks of banana adorned with flowers. Some might use bread instead of synthetic materials showing their concern for the environment. Other than flowers, a candle and incense sticks, people often put some coins on their Krathongs for luck, however they normally get their Krathong raided for the money by kids shortly after it is set down in the river or sea. 28
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | loy kratong festival
The act of floating away the candle raft is symbolic of letting go of all one’s grudges, anger and defilements, so that one can start life afresh on a better foot. People will also cut their fingernails and hair and add them to the raft as a symbol of letting go of the bad parts of oneself. Many Thai people believe that floating a krathong will create good luck, and they do it to honour and thank the Goddess of Water, Phra Mae Khongkha. In the old time of traditional Thai culture young men and women did not have opportunity to meet each other except on religious events. Loy Krathong day was the very enjoyable day for the community that brought young men and women together. Many of them had built relationship from that evening. Some couples used floating Krathong as a prediction for their future marriage and family life. They believed if their Krathongs float away together, they would love and stay together forever. A multitude of Lanna-style hot-air lanterns (khom fai) are also launched into the air where they resemble large flocks of giant fluorescent jellyfish gracefully floating through the skies. Thai people use this act to show respect to the rivers, although they use fire to do so. These are also believed to help rid the locals of troubles and are also taken to decorate houses and streets. Loy Krathong Festival remains the most romantic and favourite occasion for a number of Thai people. The festival starts in the evening when there is a full moon in the sky. For visitors to Thailand, the Loy Krathong Festival is an occasion not to be missed. The festival is listed in the tourist calendar. Everyone is invited to take part and share the joy and happiness. loy kratong festival | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
29
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. 30
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.
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.
36
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | A Guide to Koh Chang
THINGS NOT TO DO IN PATTAYA BY MARK VERRALL
MARKVERRALL@HOTMAIL.COM
Pattaya has built an international reputation as a fun town with a nightlife that most writers discreetly refer to as ‘vibrant’. Thousands of tourists return every year to enjoy the unique atmosphere, have a great time and return home with great memories . There is however a dark side to the resort, which can be avoided with just a little common sense. The following is a list of some of the things not to do in Pattaya. 1/ Do not walk along Beach Road late at night/early hours of the morning, especially if you find it difficult to walk in a straight line after a good night out. There are a number of ‘ladies’ of the night, you know, the ones with unusually large hands and feet for Thai women, that prey on people weaving across the pavement. They are experts at relieving these people of their holiday cash. The police have cracked down on criminal gangs operating on Beach Road but there is still good reason to be careful. 2/ This is so obvious, I am almost embarrassed to mention it, but I have to, because people still do it. Do not wear expensive jewellery, watches etc or flash your money around, ever. It’s just not a good idea. 3/ Single guys, if you are looking for a companion and an experience of the casual kind, I would advise against going with ‘freelancers’ in outside bars. Some of these girls carry knock out drops which they will attempt to put in your drink back at the hotel. The following afternoon/evening depending on your dosage, you will find that you have been relieved of all cash, watch, rings etc with a headache that would kill an elephant. At least if you meet 38
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Things Not To Do In Pattaya
someone that actually works in a bar, there is some possible recourse. 4/ Be careful if you rent a motorcycle in the street and never leave your passport as security. You may find when you return the bike that your passport is withheld until you pay for certain ‘repairs’ and unless you are experienced, don’t rent a ‘monster’ that you can’t handle. My friend saw a little guy, biker wannabe, roar off on a huge chopper, lose control and then lay beneath it, pinned, unable to lift the machine off of himself. Not only dangerous but very humiliating. Speaking of bikers, Pattaya is the proud home of the oldest bikers in the world, zipping around town on their gleaming Harley choppers, their wizened brown bodies with more silver hair on their chest than on their heads. Still, if they think they look cool, who am I to take the P***? 5/ If you feel you have been heavily ripped off in a bar, go and speak to the Tourist Police, generally, they will be able to sort out a genuine grievance and get your money back. Never get aggressive unless you think you can beat 15 to 20 Thai guys as they tend to stick together. Even the motorcycle taxi guys will run and join in when it is a foreigner against a Thai. I don’t mention the above to put you off, but just to make sure that you keep your common sense head on while you are here. Keep safe, have a good time and we will see you again next year!
Things Not To Do In Pattaya | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
39
OUTSIDE PATTAYA SPONSORED BY KCR HOMEFINDER | PHONE 038 405 167-8 Entertainment This month we have something different to start with. Located on the reservoir next door to Mulligan’s Irish pub we have a recently opened Taekwondo gym and training center. They hold classes for children from 4 years, adult at 15 plus and an adult self defence class for 25 and upwards. Sadly ‘ole boys’ like me are not catered for. They have a complete range of equipment and I am told the proprietor and chief instructor is a world class athlete and expert in his field. 081 002 2744 for details and an appointment. I have been fortunate to have used Khun Na’s Rendezvous bar on restaurant a few times recently. The place is first class, the food excellent and the management and staff some of the best we have out here. They do a daily special off the English menu and I haven’t been disappointed yet. Good sized portions and well cooked. Next door Gary’s Bakery are building up their range of pies, pastries and other tasties to eat in with a cuppa or take away. They even do English style cakes and tarts for those with a sweet tooth and these are especially nice. You can’t miss it on the right hand side of the road. Don’t forget the Courtyard restaurant, turn right at the X roads with the very large 7/11 and it’s just along on the right, built of red/brown brick and very visible. It’s an excellent place, exceptionally well ran and the food very good with the choice of internal or al fresco dining. A friend of mine has just praised the Korean restaurant along the road from my offices. Being a HK veteran with the appetite of a horse he knows his way around most menus. He says this is as good as he has had in Seoul or HK. More next month when we have had the chance to visit. I have noticed a large number of small cafeteria type places opening up along the Siam Country Club road, far more than I can feature here however we will take the plunge and make a start on these next month. So, I reiterate what I have been saying these past three years, there is life out here in the jungle and you should take a trip out here and sample our hospitality. We are quite nice really.
40
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Outside Pattaya
OUTSIDE PATTAYA SPONSORED BY KCR HOMEFINDER | PHONE 038 405 167-8 Feature Property POutside Pattaya Feature Home HS 1030. Occasionally something very special comes along and this fits into that category superbly. Located behind Jomtien Beach and all it offers this particular home is ideal for those who appreciate quality and style. Sat on 111 TW of land and a living area of 395 M2 with a feature wrap around swimming pool and maturing shrubbery. It comprises of four bedrooms, five bathrooms, a state of the art European kitchen, air conditioning and ultra modern bathrooms. The rooms are large, light and airy and have the most beautiful high gloss durable hard wood floors. Altogether a force to be reckoned with and if anything under priced at 15,000,000 baht . THERE IS A 10 YEAR INTEREST FREE MORTGAGE AVAILABLE ON THIS HOME MAKING IT EVEN MORE AFFORDABLE DETAILS ON REQUEST
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. 44
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Activities Guide
SANCTUARY OF TRUTH The compound, which covers an area of more than two rais, is situated by the sea at Laem Ratchawet on Naklua Road in North Pattaya. Within the compound is a gigantic temple like structure entirely made of wood that is 105 metres high at the highest point which was constructed to withstand wind and sunshine on the seashore, with exquisite architectural features, the sanctuary was conceived out of the vision that human civilization has been achieved and nurtured by religious and philosophical truths. Open daily from 8am till 6pm, admission fee is 500 baht and 250 baht for children, with dolphin training shows at 11.30am and at 3.30pm Phone 038 367 229 or visIt www.sanctuaryoftruth.com UNDERWATER WORLD A must see tourist attraction in town is the largest and most modern ocean aquarium in Asia, boasting a 100m long, 6.4 cm thick acrylic pedestrain tunnel through an underwater filled with dozens of marine species. The aquarium itself houses more than 4000 marine animals, comprising more than 200 different species from the region as well as some rare creatures from over seas, top of the visitors list is the rare shovelnose ray a hybrid between a shark and a stingray. Located just 200m south of Tesco Lotus on the Sukhumvit Road. Open from 9am till 6pm (tickets are on sale until 5.30pm) admission fee for adults is 450 Baht and children 250 Baht, for more information and booking phone 038 756 879.
Activities Guide | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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MINI SIAM Located opposite Bangkok Pattaya Hospital on the Sukhumvit Road is a wonderland of miniture replicas of such outstanding architectural works as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Democracy Monument, the Bridge Over the Kwai, Prasat Hin Phimai also replicas of places of world significance are displayed in the mini world area these include the Tower Bridge, Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty and Trevi fountain. Open daily from 7am till 10pm admission fee 250 baht and 125 baht for children, shows at 6.30pm and 8pm, for more information phone 038 727 333 or 038 421 628. BUDA MOUNTAIN The Silver Lake Vineyard attraction is conveniently situated next to the famous laser-sculptured Buddha image at Khao Chi Chan Cliff, so it is easy to see two attractions in one trip. Easy to get to from Pattaya. The garden areas at Silver Lake Vineyard are relaxing, superbly landscaped, with plenty of seating areas to either enjoy a snack or simply take in the views. There are a few small food shops and you can also get drinks of your choice or ice creams and of course you can have an ice-cold drink of grape juice. Needless to say, the grape juice is produced from the fresh grapes at Silverlake Vineyard. How to get to Silverlake. You can get to Silverlake Vineyard by driving along Highway 3 - Sukhumvit Road towards Sattahip. Silverlake is signed - but not too well on the left hand side, around 6 km out of South Pattaya - maybe 4km past the Floating Market. Also follow signs for Khao Chi Chan - The laser Buddha.
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THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Activities Guide
For Taxi:
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
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
To BANGKOK 34 7
To CHACHOENGSAO
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GOLF COURSE MAP
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CHONBURI
331 344
7
SI RACHA 3241
3
3138
PATTAYA
GULF of THAILAND
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BAN CHANG SATTAHIP
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To RAYONG
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 Burapha Golf Club Designer: David Graham and Gary Panks Course: 36 holes Par 72 The two quite distinctive golf courses each have a character all of their own-though both feature the best in golf course management and care of manicured multi-tiered greens, undulating fairways and white sand bunkers. The 36-hole layout takes full advantage of the natural beauty of the hillsides, valleys, lakes, mature mango trees, coconut palms and thickets of tropical vegetation. A great course to play for the high or low handicapper. Golf carts compulsory. Facilities include 2 individual 18 hole championship golf courses, driving range, tennis courts, swimming pool, gourmet restaurant, conference and seminar facilities, residential accommodation and a golf teaching academy. 56
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 58
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
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. 64
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Services Guide
Now open in Pattaya
True professionals-Unbeatable prices with over 18 years experiance in the aquatic field
We have many different tank designs which are custom built to suit your requirements The latest in fish tank design, with our new wall mounted aquariums‌Easy installation and low maintenance We also provide a full maintenance service for your new or existing tank. Call Rob on: 087 189 4680
Big C
PATTAYA AQUATICS Soi Kho Pai
Tesco Lotus
Thrappaya Road
Visit the showroom and speak with our professional staff about owning your own freshwater or saltwater aquarium call 038 300 511
South Pattaya Road
Sukhumvit Road
PATTAYA AQUATICS - www.pattayaaquatics.com
Euro Design
, 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 250 Baht CBR (150cc) Air Blade 250 Baht Nouvo elegance 250 Baht Click 200 Baht Fino 200 Baht Nouvo MX 200 Baht Icon 200 Baht Mio 180 Baht Step 180 Baht Nouvo (old) 150 Baht X1 Wave 150 Baht
Weekly 1,400 Baht 1,400 Baht 1,400 Baht 1,250 Baht 1,250 Baht 1,250 Baht 1,250 Baht 1,100 Baht 1,100 Baht 900 Baht 900 Baht
Monthly 4,000 Baht 4,000 Baht 4,000 Baht 3,500 Baht 3,500 Baht 3,500 Baht 3,500 Baht 3,200 Baht 3,200 Baht 2,700 Baht 2,700 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
* 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 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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THEPATTAYAGUIDE | Visa Information
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
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.
Shopping Guide | THEPATTAYAGUIDE
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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
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
HOLIDAY LETTING AS APPOSED TO STAYING IN A HOTEL SPONSORED BY PARADISE CITY PROPERTY | PHONE 038 373 966 From the Investors point of View With Pattaya being one of Thailand’s most common and well known holiday destinations, and with the growing Real Estate industry, we are starting to see many more investors coming to Thailand to purchase property with the intention of using this as a holiday home, but also using it as a short term letting holiday property. Here at Paradise City Property, over the last 3 high seasons particularly, we have seen an ever increasing number of inquiries for just 2 weeks stay in a luxury villa, or penthouse condo from many a client. So with this, we have decided to look more into this market from both sides of the spectrum. From an investors point of view, you could look at buying a property with the aim for the long term tenant, by why not look at short term holiday lets. Obviously the location of the property is a little more important, with 90% of the inquiries asking for town centre, or close to the beach, but after a while people come to realize that these properties are few and far between, but we are finding people will rent a little more out of town areas if they are guaranteed the quietness and the luxury of having their own villas or condo’s. So from the investors point of view we are starting to have the option now whereas the property can be looked at as being available only for short term, but obviously the fees are higher due to timing and duration of the stay, and so the investment returns are higher, but you may not have the duration of the long term tenant. To give you an example, we have a small 2 bedroom, single storey villa in Jomtien with private pool, available only for short term at 70,000 THB per month, 40,000 THB for the fortnight, 25,000 THB for a week, or 4,500 THB per night. The purchase price to the investor was originally 9.8 million THB. The villa has been rented out for a total of 320 days for the last 90
THEPATTAYAGUIDE | ADVERTORIAL
year, with a return to date of 945,000 THB after commission and expenses, giving the owner a return of 9.63%. So from an investors point of view, it is a good option to look for a competent agent in the local area to promote these properties. From the ‘Holiday Makers’ point of view How many times have you booked to go on holiday, got to the hotel and found it wasn’t quite what you expected. More than once I can imagine. Wouldn’t it be ‘cool’ to know you were getting collected by chauffeur from the airport, taken to your own, private villa with pool, daily maid service, close to the town, but just far enough away to enjoy the piece and quiet. These properties do exist. You may say, but that would cost me an ‘arm and a leg’. Don’t think too soon. How much does it cost for a luxury hotel nowadays, 2,500 THB per night, minimum. Have you ever thought that the cost of a villa may be cheaper? If you are a couple, so you are immediately halving your costs, you could have a nice villa, with daily room service, private pool, and not too far from the action for as little as 714 THB per night, per person, or worst case just 2,860 THB per night for 2 persons. Before you look at booking your next holiday why don’t you look at these options? There are may more properties coming on the market for customers to use for that short 2 week stay rather than having to book into a hotel, not know whether you will be sitting next to the pool one morning and having little Johnny screaming and shouting at his mum that he wants an ice cream. Piece and quiet, with all your own luxuries at hand and all for the same price. If you wish to have more information on these holiday let properties please feel free to contact us here at Paradise City Property on pattaya@ paradisecityproperty, or contact 038 373 966.
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CS 415. ONE OF THE NICEST CITY CONDOS WE HAVE LISTED FOR A LONG TIME. 76M2 WITH A LARGE LOUNGE DINING ROOM AND AN OPEN PLAN KITCHEN. SEPARATE BEDROOM AND EN-SUITE BATHROOM. FULL AIR CONDITIONING AND FURNISHED. NEVER LIVED IN AND IN PRISTINE CONDITION. THE BUILDING IS ONE OF PATTAYA’S BEST, FULL FACILITIES AND FIRST CLASS MANAGEMENT PLUS SECURE CAR PARKING. 3,990,000 BAHT. THERE IS AN INTEREST FREE MORTGAGE OVER FIVE YEARS FOR THE RIGHT APPLICANT
HR 398. THIS LARGE FOUR BEDROOM, THREE BATHROOM FAMILY HOME IS AVAILABLE FOR LONG TERM RENT AND IDEAL FOR AN EX-PAT FAMILY HERE ON A LONG STAY CONTRACT. FULLY FURNISHED, AIR CONDITIONED, EUROPEAN KITCHEN, SECURE GARDEN AND CAR PARKING AND AT THE REAR A COMMUNAL SWIMMING POOL USED BY JUST ONE OR TWO FAMILIES. EXCELLENT ORDER THROUGHOUT AND UBC TV AND INTERNET AVAILABLE. 35,000 BAHT.
HS 812.
THIS THREE BED TWO BATH BUNGALOW HAS IT ALL. LOCATED CLOSE TO MABPRACHAN SO EASY ACCESS TO LOCAL AND IN TOWN AMENITIES. WELL BUILT AND HAVING A EUROPEAN KITCHEN, AIR CONDITIONING, NICE FURNITURE AND A VERY PRIVATE POOL AT THE REAR IS IDEAL FOR A RETIREE. REDUCED TO 3.5 M.
HS 974.
THIS IS DELIGHTFUL. THREE BEDS AND BATHS, FULLY FURNISHED, A FIRST CLASS KITCHEN, AIR CONDITIONED AND JUST REDECORATED INSIDE AND OUT. THE WHOLE PLACE IS IN EXCELLENT ORDER AND A CREDIT TO THE OWNERS. OPPOSITE IS A SECURITY POST AND IN THE GROUNDS A PRIVATE SWIMMING POOL WITH SPA. A LOVELY PACKAGE INDEED AND NOW REDUCED TO 5.5 MILLION FOR A QUICKISH SALE.
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