Living in Pattaya

If you mention Pattaya to almost anyone who knows Thailand they probably roll their eyes and smirk. Pattaya has a reputation and that reputation is about nightlife, go-go bars, beer bars and prostitution. Pattaya can be downright "in your face" raunchy.

But many long-term Pattaya expats will point out other aspects of Pattaya and surrounds that will appeal to mainstream expatriate families.

Besides the more obvious pros and cons about Pattaya, traffic in Pattaya proper can be frustrating. But Pattaya also has any number of Expat Clubs and Organizations. One may find lawn bowling and bridge clubs; dart & pool leagues. Pattaya really is a conundrum of sorts.

New expats would be wise to rent for awhile until they make up their mind about Pattaya. Apartments and condos of virtually every price range are readily available. Condo rooms on the order of 36 - 42 sq m lease for Bt 6,000 to the high teens. Spacious luxury units in desirable locations can easily reach Bt 50,000 and more.

Large tracts and enclaves of multi bedroom homes can generally be found east of Sukhumvit road and at prices from Bt 15,000 and up.

Buying condos off plan is risky, especially in the current economy. Horror stories about failed projects and developers disappearing with deposits are all too common. This is one aspect of due diligence that does indeed need diligence.

If you are not into Pattaya's nightlife, a good deal of frustration and expense can be saved by heading a bit further south. Jomtien may cost a bit more, but advantages include better beaches and less traffic. Living east of Sukhumvit may not offer the same bragging rights as Wong Amat or Jomtien, but the strain on your wallet will be less. And you will be closer to the area's great golf courses.

A Google map of condos around Pattaya and Jomtien Beach

Whether you want a good steak, a bowl of noodles or a pizza, Pattaya has it. And if you ask around, you will find the good restaurants. Because Pattaya is such an international attraction, Russian, Indian, German, French, Swiss and even Thai restaurants serve up some tasty fare. Several well-written reviews of restaurants and bars in Pattaya.