Pattaya Chonburi Province, Thailand Travel Guide
AIS, TrueMove H, and DTAC all provide good coverage. Acquire SIM cards at airports, convenience stores, or official provider shops. Passport registration is needed.
Wi-Fi is broadly available in hotels, guesthouses, cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls. Mobile data with a local SIM is reliable and fast.
Thailand Post offices are available throughout Pattaya for sending postcards or packages.
Thai is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas. It is less common in local markets or remote areas.
Thais appreciate attempts to speak their language. Say "Khop khun krap" or "Khop khun ka".
Know when establishments are open.
Typically open 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.
Often open 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM or later.
7-Eleven and FamilyMart operate 24/7.
Hours vary widely. Local eateries open early for breakfast and close by evening. Tourist restaurants open from lunch until late evening.
Bars and clubs typically open from late afternoon or evening until 1:00 AM or 2:00 AM, with some extending until 3:00 AM-4:00 AM in designated entertainment zones.
Transport is busy during major holidays. Alcoholic beverage sales may be restricted on certain Buddhist holidays.
Show respect for local customs.
The "Wai" involves pressing palms together in a prayer-like gesture, with a slight bow. Returning a Wai is polite. "Sawadee krap/ka" is common.
Temples need shoulders and knees covered. Remove shoes before entering the main prayer hall. Modest dress earns appreciation outside of beach or pool areas.
The head is sacred; the feet are lowest. Do not touch anyone's head or point your feet. The Thai monarchy receives high reverence.
Keep public displays of affection subtle. Losing your temper is frowned upon. Maintain a calm and polite demeanor.
Women should not touch monks. Do not touch or climb on Buddha images. Show deference.
Travelers with mobility challenges can plan ahead.
Infrastructure is generally poor. Sidewalks are often uneven, narrow, and obstructed. Curbs are high, and ramps are rare. Older buildings lack accessibility features.
Newer malls like Central Festival and Terminal 21 have elevators, escalators, and accessible restrooms. Newer and upscale hotels may offer accessible rooms and facilities.
Public baht buses are not accessible. Pre-booking private vans with ramps, if available, or relying on Grab or taxis with assistance is necessary.
Specific services for visual or hearing impairments are limited. Rely on companions or apps for assistance.
Few dedicated resources for Pattaya.
Websites like Wheelchair Accessible Travel Blog.
Agents specializing in accessible travel offer insights.
Contact hotels and tour operators directly to confirm accessibility features before your trip.
