Pattaya
Sin City by the sea
Pattaya’s sordid reputation as the easiest place to buy sex in Thailand is confirmed by the shoulder-to-shoulder hostess bars, go-go bars, gay bars and sex-show bars that line the streets stretching out from Pattaya Beach.
Good, clean fun
Nevertheless, the Tourist Authority of Thailand has made a valiant effort to re-brand the town as a wholesome spot for family holidays, and the result is an odd mixture of sleaze and innocent fun.
The latter can be found in such places as Underwater World, Mini Siam and the Million Years Stone Park and Crocodile Farm, while cabaret shows performed by transvestites attract the middle ground — those who just want a glimpse of the city’s sauciness.
On the beach
For those who really just want to sit on a beach, the offshore island of Ko Lan is easily accessible by ferry, and activities there include glass-bottomed boat rides, parasailing and jetskis.
The Sanctuary of Truth
If you’re looking for a cultural fix, head to Naklua, a district just north of the town centre, to the Sanctuary of Truth, a jaw-dropping wooden temple completely encased in carvings inspired by Chinese, Cambodian, Indian and Thai art. This ongoing work of art stands apart from anything else Pattaya has to offer.
Bus Buses to Pattaya leave regularly from all Bangkok bus terminals as well as from Suvarnabhumi Airport, and take 2 hrs to 2 hrs 30 mins.
Train One slow train runs each day from Bangkok to Pattaya, taking about 4 hrs.