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- Don’t bet on Pattaya getting a casinoSUNDAY EDITORIAL The government has at last confirmed that it will have the last word on which locations will be chosen to host casino-entertainment complexes. Deputy finance minister Julapun Amornvivat said bidding to the government will ensure investors – including likely US moguls – are allowed to compete fairly. He added that the government will […]
The thorny issue of Thai casinos now turns to locations. (Photo: Wikipedia) The government has at last confirmed that it will have the last word on which locations will be chosen to host casino-entertainment complexes. Deputy finance minister Julapun Amornvivat said bidding to the government will ensure investors – including likely US moguls – are allowed to compete fairly. He added that the government will also decide on how many casinos will be constructed with each one requiring at least 100 billion baht or around US$3 billion.
Pattaya authorities, including mayor Poramet Ngampichet and real estate mogul Wattanaphon Phonchiwan, have campaigned hard for the resort to be a winner. They speak of job creation, heightened residential property demand, enhanced tourism and an overall economic boost. More generally, they stress that neighboring Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam and the Philippines are already raking in the cash. Not to mention Macao where 80 percent of locals are employed directly or indirectly in the casino business.There has long been speculation about the location of a Pattaya or Jomtien casino with rumors about existing hotels having whole floors ready behind dust covers for the green light. But the government wants to see casinos actually built from scratch as they will also need to house non-gambling facilities such as family entertainment, restaurants, concert halls, luxury accommodation and sports facilities. Nor is it feasible to locate a casino on Koh Larn, as suggested, as the island is already beyond maximum environmental capacity and approachable only by water or helicopter.
While it is virtually certain that the Eastern Economic Corridor will host a casino in the first phase – government spokespeople have suggested this region as well as others in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket – the more likely local venue is Sattahip and the area of the expanding U-tapao airport which is planning a second runway to accommodate large-bodied jets flying across continents. This would also be an example of the government’s wish to see international and domestic tourism move slowly but surely to secondary locations and away from the traditional tourist hot spots.
The stark reality is that Pattaya is already suffering from over-tourism. There may be too many restaurants, bars and spare condo units, but the infrastructure is creaking badly. The daily traffic chaos reflects too many users on insufficient roads, many dating back decades and not built for mega-tourism and road-rage drivers. Luxury casinos and entertainment complexes are best placed in less polluted spots with direct access to international communications and, eventually, a fast-track rail network to Bangkok. That said, casinos are not round the corner. They may not be up and running in Thailand before 2030.
21 December 21 2024Editorialhttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=484641 - What a zany Christmas in Pattaya 30 years agoThey say that only elderly coffin dodgers are keen on Pattaya history, but Christmas 1994 embodied the traditional calm before the rush to build a concrete jungle. Inflation then usually meant filling a balloon with air, whilst a haircut or a large beer came in at a mere 40 baht/US$1.25. There were no frozen turkeys […]
Even in 1994, Pattaya was all about girls, santas and elephants. They say that only elderly coffin dodgers are keen on Pattaya history, but Christmas 1994 embodied the traditional calm before the rush to build a concrete jungle. Inflation then usually meant filling a balloon with air, whilst a haircut or a large beer came in at a mere 40 baht/US$1.25. There were no frozen turkeys available and Brussel sprouts were rarer than gold dust. The main commercial excitement on Christmas day was that Spinney’s supermarket had fresh milk. However, they had sold out by 9.30 am.
Technology in those days was hardly worthy of the term. You could forget all about owning a mobile phone unless you had a work permit and the fax machine ruled most written communications. TV was dreadful, but there was a shop on Soi Concrete selling old movies on videocassette to those lucky enough to have a player. Soi Post Office was the main business district and, on Christmas day, the post office itself posted the stark message “We are usually open today”, presumably a misquote for “as usual”.The Pattaya immigration bureau, then in Soi 8 near several pawn shops, wished everyone a merry xmas but reminded expats not to forget their visa run. 1994 predated most of the annually renewable visas, including retirement and family, and the overnight train journey from Bangkok to Malaysia was usually packed with foreigners heading for Thailand’s Penang embassy. Cambodia and Laos were more or less off-limits although there was a special visa to Vientiane which restricted you to a two miles radius from the main police station.
Walking Street Pattaya before the boom years. Christmas dinner was actually an option. The five star hotels, such as Dusit Thani and Royal Cliff, offered delicacies such as mince pies served with a cracker which didn’t crack. In Soi Yodsak, the Poteen Still managed a chicken meal, probably the only bird in the world garnished with mint sauce. Foodland Pattaya, which had opened in 1989, was rumored to have Christmas puddings imported from the US of A for special customers only. The owner of a single cafe unit in Soi Pothole was apologizing that a Christmas menu was out of the question as usual, but suggested catfish and chips as a worthy alternative given the circumstances.
Nightlife was booming howbeit without the crowds. A smaller Walking Street hosted activities which would be unthinkable today involving naked maidens, goldfish, ping pong balls and a tiny dart board. Off-fees were in their infancy and punters might be told the cost of a horizontal leisure pursuit was “up to you”. Christmas lights had not arrived in Pattaya, but a few uniformed Father Christmases were scattered around the classier bars which charged extra for cooling their customers with air conditioning. Boys Town (later Boyztown) owed nothing to Spencer Tracy’s 1938 movie but had recently opened as a cosmopolitan gay venue with hotels, restaurants and clubs.Pattaya Mail, then the only newspaper around town, was in its second year of life in 1994. Christmas Day was a Friday, the publication day, and the many newspaper stores had lines of buyers anxious to know what was going on for a mere 10 baht/US 30 cents. The hot news that Christmas included a scam about a new Amex credit card which could be used only in Pattaya shops, the overnight theft of electric lights bedecking a seasonal tree on Soi Buakhao and the arrest of a Brit who used a talking parrot to elicit funds. The bird repeatedly announced, “Happy Christmas and 20 baht please.” Some things about Pattaya never change.
21 December 21 2024Featuredhttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=484634 - Association of Chonburi Attractions holds Annual General Meeting and elects new PresidentPATTAYA, Thailand – The Association of Chonburi Attractions held its 3rd Annual General Meeting of 2024 at the Ravindra Hotel in Pattaya, presided over by Mr. Wasant Temsiripong, President of the association, December 20. The meeting was attended by distinguished guests, including Mr. Thanet Supornsaharungsi, President of the Association of Chonburi Tourism Federation, Mr. Rattanachai […]
Ms. Thitiphat Sirinatsrikul expresses her gratitude for the trust and support from her fellow members, stating that she was committed to continuing the projects and initiatives established by the previous president. PATTAYA, Thailand – The Association of Chonburi Attractions held its 3rd Annual General Meeting of 2024 at the Ravindra Hotel in Pattaya, presided over by Mr. Wasant Temsiripong, President of the association, December 20. The meeting was attended by distinguished guests, including Mr. Thanet Supornsaharungsi, President of the Association of Chonburi Tourism Federation, Mr. Rattanachai Suttidechanai, Representative of the TCEB Eastern Region, as well as members of the Chonburi tourism sector.
Before addressing the main agenda, the meeting featured a report on the tourism situation and information from government agencies, such as the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Chonburi Tourism and Sports Department, the Pattaya office of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB).
The main agenda focused on the election of the new president for the 2025-2026 term, as the current president’s term had ended. Mr. Rattanachai Suttidetchanai from TCEB Eastern Region was appointed as the chairman of the election. Prior to the vote, members were invited to propose candidates for the position. Three individuals were nominated: Ms. Thitiphat Sirinatsrikul (Number 1), Ms. Sumaporn Srimuang (Number 2), and Mr. Chakorn Phannuch (Number 3).The members were given the opportunity to cast their votes, with each member allowed to choose only one candidate. After the votes were counted, the results revealed that Ms. Thitiphat Sirinatsrikul received 20 votes, Ms. Sumaporn Srimuang received 9 votes, and Mr. Chakorn Phannuch received 2 votes. As a result, Ms. Thitiphat Sirinatsrikul was officially elected as the new president of the association for the 2025-2026 term, with a two-year mandate. The election concluded with applause and congratulations from the attendees.
Ms. Thitiphat Sirinatsrikul expressed her gratitude for the trust and support from her fellow members, stating that she was committed to continuing the projects and initiatives established by the previous president. She also invited the other two candidates to take on roles as vice presidents of the association. Furthermore, she announced that the current committee members would remain in place to ensure continuity and the successful completion of ongoing projects.The main agenda focuses on the election of the new president for the 2025-2026 term, as the current president’s term had ended.
21 December 21 2024Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=484630 - Pattaya Sports Club member donates van to Baan Jing Jai Children’s Foundation in honour of late wifePattaya Sports Club member donates van to Baan Jing Jai Children’s Foundation in honour of late wifePATTAYA, Thailand – The Pattaya Sports Club, led by President Mr TY Anderson, along with Mr. Rolf Ruegg, the club’s Public Relations Chair, and Australian member Daryl Evans, made a generous donation of a new 2024 Toyota commuter van, valued at 1.3 million baht, to the Baan Jing Jai Children’s Foundation, in East Pattaya, on […]
The Pattaya Sports Club led by President Ty Anderson, along with Rolf Ruegg, the club’s Public Relations Chair, and Australian member Daryl Evans, made a generous donation of a new 2024 Toyota commuter van, valued at 1.3 million baht, to the Baan Jing Jai Children’s Foundation in East Pattaya. PATTAYA, Thailand – The Pattaya Sports Club, led by President Mr TY Anderson, along with Mr. Rolf Ruegg, the club’s Public Relations Chair, and Australian member Daryl Evans, made a generous donation of a new 2024 Toyota commuter van, valued at 1.3 million baht, to the Baan Jing Jai Children’s Foundation, in East Pattaya, on December 7. The donation was warmly received by Mrs Piangta Chumnuoi, the foundation’s director, and the staff, along with the children.
Mr. Daryl Evans, together with his family, made the donation in memory of his late wife, Tuanchai Naksale, as a way of honouring her and dedicating the merits of this generous act. The decision to provide the van came from the recognition of the significant travel challenges faced by the foundation’s 90 children, especially since it is located far from the city centre. The van will be used to transport the children to various activities, ensuring their safety and convenience during group trips.Mrs Piangta Chumnoi expressed deep gratitude to the Pattaya Sports Club and Mr Evans’ family, highlighting that this is the foundation’s first vehicle, which will make a considerable difference in the children’s daily lives. She also shared that the children would be praying for the donors’ continued happiness and success, thanking them for their kindness and support.
Mrs Piangta expresses deep gratitude to the Pattaya Sports Club and Mr Evans’ family, highlighting that this is the foundation’s first vehicle, which will make a considerable difference in the children’s daily lives.
The decision to provide the van came from the recognition of the significant travel challenges faced by the foundation’s 90 children, especially since it is located far from the city centre.
21 December 21 2024Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=484617 - Homeless woman takes it higher on Pattaya Beach, unbothered by crowd of sunbathing touristsPATTAYA, Thailand – On one fine breezy morning of Pattaya Beach on December 19, lifeguards on duty were seen surrounding a homeless Thai woman, later identified as Ms. Samai, 52, who was caught using methamphetamine in the middle of a crowd of foreign tourists lounging on the beach. Despite the presence of several people nearby, […]
A 52-year-old homeless woman, identified as Ms. Samai, was caught by lifeguards using methamphetamine on Pattaya Beach, as tourists relaxed in the sun. Authorities quickly intervened, taking her into custody. PATTAYA, Thailand – On one fine breezy morning of Pattaya Beach on December 19, lifeguards on duty were seen surrounding a homeless Thai woman, later identified as Ms. Samai, 52, who was caught using methamphetamine in the middle of a crowd of foreign tourists lounging on the beach.
Despite the presence of several people nearby, including tourists enjoying the sun, the woman appeared unbothered and continued her illegal activity. The lifeguards immediately intervened, shouting at her to stop, and called local police from the Pattaya Police Station to handle the situation. Upon inspection, authorities found meth paraphernalia and drug residue in a foil package, which was seized as evidence. The woman was then escorted to a drug rehabilitation center at the Banglamung District Office.
Ms. Samai admitted to using meth and explained that she had purchased two pills. When asked why she chose to use drugs in such a public location, she stated that she felt the atmosphere was right for it and believed the most dangerous places might offer the greatest sense of security. She expressed willingness to undergo treatment for her addiction.Mr. Pharat, a member of the coastal safety team, stated that while patrolling the beach, he noticed a suspicious smell resembling methamphetamine. He followed the scent, recording the situation on his phone, and discovered the woman using drugs in front of sunbathing tourists. He urged other homeless individuals not to engage in such behavior, as it could damage Pattaya’s reputation as a popular tourist destination.
21 December 21 2024Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=484614 - The Dangers of Pattaya Roads – What Tourists Need to Be Aware OfPATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya, known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and bustling tourist attractions, is also notorious for its challenging and often hazardous road conditions. While visitors are drawn to the city for its fun-filled activities, the roads can pose significant risks if not navigated carefully. Tourists, especially those unfamiliar with local driving norms, […]
Tourists in Pattaya should stay alert on the roads—reckless driving, poor conditions, and motorbike accidents are common risks to watch out for. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya, known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and bustling tourist attractions, is also notorious for its challenging and often hazardous road conditions. While visitors are drawn to the city for its fun-filled activities, the roads can pose significant risks if not navigated carefully. Tourists, especially those unfamiliar with local driving norms, should stay vigilant to avoid accidents and ensure a safe visit.
Reckless Driving and Traffic Jams
One of the biggest dangers on Pattaya’s roads is the unpredictable and sometimes reckless driving of both locals and tourists. Motorbike riders often weave in and out of traffic without regard for lanes, and it’s common to see drivers speeding or failing to signal when changing lanes. Traffic jams are also frequent, particularly around major intersections and tourist hotspots, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Pedestrian SafetyPedestrians in Pattaya often face a significant risk. While crossing the road, tourists may encounter vehicles that don’t yield at crosswalks, as well as motorbikes driving on sidewalks. With a high volume of both cars and motorcycles, it’s essential for pedestrians to be constantly aware of their surroundings, particularly at night when visibility is reduced. Avoiding distractions, such as mobile phones, while walking is also crucial to stay safe.
Motorbike Rentals and Accidents
Renting a motorbike is a popular way for tourists to explore Pattaya, but this comes with its own set of dangers. Many tourists may not be accustomed to local traffic conditions, and accidents involving motorbikes are frequent. Riders often fail to wear helmets or may not be familiar with how to handle the vehicles properly, leading to a higher risk of injury. In addition, motorbike rental shops sometimes neglect to check the condition of the vehicles, which can result in malfunctions that could be dangerous for riders.
Poor Road ConditionsIn some parts of Pattaya, road surfaces can be uneven or poorly maintained, with potholes and cracks that can be hazardous to both drivers and pedestrians. These conditions are particularly dangerous for those unfamiliar with the area or those riding motorbikes. Rainy seasons can worsen road conditions, with water accumulation creating slippery surfaces and decreased visibility.
Drunk Driving
Pattaya’s vibrant nightlife, which draws thousands of visitors each year, also leads to an increase in drunk driving incidents. After enjoying a night out, many tourists choose to drive under the influence of alcohol, putting themselves and others at risk. Tourists should be cautious when walking back to their accommodations, as intoxicated drivers can be unpredictable and dangerous.
What Tourists Should DoAlways wear a helmet when riding a motorbike, even for short distances, and ensure that the bike is in good condition before renting.
Be cautious when crossing roads. Use pedestrian crossings, but also make sure to check traffic before stepping onto the road.
Avoid distractions like mobile phones or headphones while walking, particularly near busy roads or intersections.
Stay alert for reckless drivers. Watch for vehicles that may not stop at traffic lights or give way at crossings.
Avoid driving after drinking, and opt for safer transportation methods such as taxis or rideshare services if you’re intoxicated.
By staying cautious and following basic safety tips, tourists can better navigate Pattaya’s roads and enjoy the many attractions the city has to offer while minimizing the risks.
21 December 21 2024Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=484611 - Gather for the Future – Pattaya hosts annual Scout activities at Vajiravudh Camp, SrirachaPATTAYA, Thailand – Deputy Mayor Kritsana Boonsawat presided over the opening ceremony of the Scout and Girl Scout activities for schools under the Pattaya Municipality at the Vajiravudh Scout Camp, Sriracha, Chonburi on December 19. The annual Scout Camp for Pattaya schools, held as part of the 2024-2025 fiscal year’s Youth and Children’s Activities program, […]
Deputy Mayor Kritsana leads the opening of the 7th Scout Camp, encouraging local school scouts to develop new skills and collaborate on shared activities. PATTAYA, Thailand – Deputy Mayor Kritsana Boonsawat presided over the opening ceremony of the Scout and Girl Scout activities for schools under the Pattaya Municipality at the Vajiravudh Scout Camp, Sriracha, Chonburi on December 19.
The annual Scout Camp for Pattaya schools, held as part of the 2024-2025 fiscal year’s Youth and Children’s Activities program, aims to offer students an opportunity to camp together, develop their scouting skills, share knowledge, and participate in group activities. The event helps advance the scouting program for schools under Pattaya Municipality, fostering growth and teamwork among the students.
The opening ceremony for the 7th Scout Camp at Vajiravudh Scout Camp, Sriracha, brings together local school scouts for a week of learning and teamwork.
Students from Pattaya schools gather at the Vajiravudh Scout Camp to build leadership, teamwork, and scouting skills as part of the city’s youth development program. 
21 December 21 2024Educationhttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=484600 - Operation targets foreign labor and human trafficking in Chonburi’s fishing industryPATTAYA, Thailand – Chonburi Immigration Police led a collaborative operation with the Ministry of Labor, Chonburi Marine Police, Department of Fisheries, Harbor Department and over 30 officers to address the problems of foreign labor and human trafficking in the fishing industry on December 20. The operation took place in the waters near Laem Thian Port, […]
A joint operation checks 7 fishing vessels, ensuring compliance with legal work permits for foreign labor, with no signs of human trafficking. PATTAYA, Thailand – Chonburi Immigration Police led a collaborative operation with the Ministry of Labor, Chonburi Marine Police, Department of Fisheries, Harbor Department and over 30 officers to address the problems of foreign labor and human trafficking in the fishing industry on December 20. The operation took place in the waters near Laem Thian Port, Sattahip Naval Base.
The operation involved large patrol boats that were dispatched to inspect seven fishing vessels in the area. A total of 115 foreign workers were found on board, all of whom were properly documented with passports and work permits. No human trafficking violations were detected.
Authorities have also issued a public reminder to fishing vessel employers in Thai waters that they must ensure all foreign workers are legally employed by obtaining proper documentation and permits. Hiring illegal foreign workers will not be tolerated, and strict legal action will be taken against violators.
Over 30 officers from 10 agencies conduct a patrol in Sattahip waters to tackle illegal foreign labor and human trafficking issues in fishing boats.
Authorities urge fishing boat owners to ensure all foreign workers have proper permits, warning of strict legal action against violations.
21 December 21 2024Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=484595 - Pattaya Police ready for Christmas and Countdown celebrationsPATTAYA, Thailand – Provincial Police Commander of Chonburi, Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatkiat Jindakwansanong, has announced the implementation of comprehensive security measures for the upcoming Christmas and Countdown festivals. He revealed that Chonburi Provincial Police have coordinated efforts with various sectors, including police officers, local authorities, tourist police, and volunteer units, to ensure the safety of […]
Chonburi Police Chief ensures 100% readiness for Christmas and Countdown Festival 2024, with enhanced security and traffic measures to ensure the safety of citizens and tourists in Pattaya. PATTAYA, Thailand – Provincial Police Commander of Chonburi, Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatkiat Jindakwansanong, has announced the implementation of comprehensive security measures for the upcoming Christmas and Countdown festivals. He revealed that Chonburi Provincial Police have coordinated efforts with various sectors, including police officers, local authorities, tourist police, and volunteer units, to ensure the safety of both citizens and tourists during the festivities.
This collaborative effort aims to protect lives and property, providing peace of mind for both locals and visitors in the region, particularly in the popular tourist destination of Pattaya. The city sees thousands of both Thai and international tourists participating in the annual Countdown celebrations, with festivities taking place along Pattaya Beach. The event marks the end of the year and the beginning of the New Year.For this year’s event, local law enforcement has ensured that all necessary preparations are in place, with officers deployed to manage safety and facilitate smooth traffic flow. With full readiness of all involved agencies, the authorities are confident that the public can enjoy the celebrations with trust in the safety measures.
21 December 21 2024Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=484592 - Driver survives with serious injuries in pickup truck flips over in SattahipSATTAHIP, Thailand – A Chevrolet pickup truck lost control while traveling on Highway 332 heading toward the Je intersection, near the Miranda Village in Sattahip, on the night of December 18. The vehicle veered off the road, collided with two streetlight poles, and flipped over onto its roof, with its wheels pointing skyward. Upon arrival […]
Chevrolet pickup truck flips over after losing control on Highway 332 in Sattahip, driver suffers serious injuries. SATTAHIP, Thailand – A Chevrolet pickup truck lost control while traveling on Highway 332 heading toward the Je intersection, near the Miranda Village in Sattahip, on the night of December 18. The vehicle veered off the road, collided with two streetlight poles, and flipped over onto its roof, with its wheels pointing skyward.
Upon arrival at the scene, authorities found the truck badly damaged, with the streetlight poles completely destroyed. The driver, Mr. Nantaphon, a 31-year-old man, was found lying next to the wreckage in severe pain. He had sustained multiple injuries, including a dislocated right arm, a broken thumb, and a deep head wound. He was immediately attended to by rescue workers, who provided first aid before transporting him to Queen Sirikit Hospital under the Royal Thai Navy Medical Department for further treatment.
According to the driver, while driving along the road, his truck lost control, causing it to fall into the drainage ditch in the middle of the road before hitting the two streetlight poles, which were severed upon impact. The vehicle then overturned, landing on its roof.Authorities have documented the incident and assessed the damage to the streetlight poles. Legal proceedings will follow for the damage to public property, and further investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing.
21 December 21 2024Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=484589