Nyheter fra Pattaya - levert av Pattaya Mail
My RSS Feed
- A Vocal Extravaganza: The Heavenly Voice Singers return to Ben’s TheaterPATTAYA, Thailand – Vocal concerts are always popular events at Ben’s Theater, attracting capacity audiences. The most recent one, entitled A Vocal Extravaganza was no exception. The five singers are advanced students of Professor Nancy Tsui-Ping Wei, voice teacher at the College of Music, Mahidol University and are also members of her Voice Studio in […]
The Heavenly Voice Singers from Nancy’s Studio. PATTAYA, Thailand – Vocal concerts are always popular events at Ben’s Theater, attracting capacity audiences. The most recent one, entitled A Vocal Extravaganza was no exception. The five singers are advanced students of Professor Nancy Tsui-Ping Wei, voice teacher at the College of Music, Mahidol University and are also members of her Voice Studio in Bangkok. They included Pichamon Mookmaneekun (soprano), Alisara Arial (soprano), Pimmada Ko-amornsup (soprano), Maotong Shen (tenor) and Jatuphol Nuanjan (bass-baritone) and they were accompanied as usual by the talented concert pianist Anant Changwaiwit. Their programme was varied, well-balanced and thoughtfully planned with care given to continuity. Impressively, every item on the programme was sung from memory.
The concert opened with the ever-popular Vilja Song from the 1905 operetta The Merry Widow by the Austro-Hungarian composer Franz Lehár. It was sung by Pichamon who has excellent intonation with her top notes clear and bell-like. She has good stage presence too and excellent timing – that ability to “place” the notes in the most expressive way. I enjoyed the imaginative off-stage voices too. Jatuphol made a confident and assured appearance to sing Non più andrai (“You shall go no more”) from Mozart’s timeless opera The Marriage of Figaro. He brought excellent characterization to the part and virtually acted the aria as well as singing it, accompanied by a sparkling piano accompaniment from Anant. It was delightful to see how Jatuphol’s stage presence and confidence have developed so much.
Alisara Arial charmed the audience from the moment she stepped on the stage and displayed her powerful tone quality, excellent intonation and phrasing in Puccini’s Quando me’n vo (“When I go my way alone”) from La Bohème. First performed in 1896, it’s probably the composer’s most popular opera and Alisara gave a compelling performance with excellent audience contact and stage presence. Maotong Shen made his debut appearance at Ben’s Theater with Dein ist mein ganzes Herz (“You are my Heart’s Delight”), an aria from the 1929 operetta The Land of Smiles with music by Franz Lehár. It was an appropriate choice for Maotong because part of the opera is set in China. For many years, the aria was associated with the tenor Richard Tauber for whom it was written. Maotong has an attractive and pleasing light tenor voice; he sings with excellent intonation and his smooth tone quality was perfect for the quieter passages in the song.
Composer Franz Lehár. Les Chemins de l’Amour (“The ways of love”) is a kind of song-waltz written in 1940 by the French composer Francis Poulenc. It is charming song but with its own musical challenges. Pichamon gave a careful performance of the song with a good sense of phrasing and vocal control.
Erlkönig (“The Erlking”) is a dramatic song composed by Franz Schubert in 1815 and well-known for its physically exhausting piano accompaniment, consisting of rapid triplets in the right hand that continue throughout. Schubert took the words from a poem by Goethe and the song was originally written for solo voice and piano. Unusually, the singer takes the role of four characters, a narrator, a father and his son and the Erlking, an unpleasant supernatural entity. Not only is the piano part a challenge, the vocal part too has many technical difficulties to overcome. It therefore made sense to divide the original solo part into four individual characters played by Pichamon, Pimmada, Maotong and Jatuphol. Anant handled the demanding piano part impressively. Pimmada, in her first appearance of the evening, stood out among the ensemble singing the role of the Erlking with her attractive lyrical tone quality.
The young Franz Schubert. Amazingly, Schubert composed the song when he was only eighteen, and it was said that he completed the entire piece in a few hours one afternoon. It was to become one of his most famous compositions.
Jatuphol sang the attractive song Stars from Les Misérables, the popular 1980 musical with music by Claude-Michel Schönberg. Jatuphol gave a compelling performance, well-phrased and with good diction. Pichamon and Maotong sang Lippen schweigen (“Lips are sealed”) another well-known number from Lehar’s The Merry Widow. The piano introduction began before the singers appeared on the stage, a sensible approach which enabled the vocalists to walk on and start singing immediately, rather than stand on the stage doing nothing. The piece was well-staged (with a waltz included) and the voices of Pichamon and Maotong blended exceptionally well. The first half of the programme ended with a song by the Chinese composer Xinquan Zhou entitled The Joy of the Snowflakes. It’s a delightful piece and there was excellent ensemble work with some well-blended close harmony.
l-r: Pichamon, Alisara and Pimmada. It was a pleasure to see and hear how the singers’ technique and stage-craft has developed since their previous appearance in Jomtien. Pichamon was born in 2002 and began singing lessons at an early age. In a Catholic school for twelve years, she developed a profound appreciation for music, leading to her enthusiastic participation in choral singing. She has taken part in many vocal competitions during her primary and secondary education and won many prizes both in Thailand and abroad. Pimmada graduated from Satit Prasarnmit Demonstration School Bangkok in 2023. Born in 2005, she started learning music at the age of seven and began classical voice study in 2021. She recently won first prize at the Princess Galvani Vadhana Institute of Music Voice Competition. Alisara was born in 2003 in Washington, USA and started viola lessons at the age of nine. At fifteen, she began taking voice lessons and since then, she has participated in many concerts and competitions. She was a successful finalist in a recent Osaka International Music Competition in Japan, where she received the Espoir Prize in 2023.
l-r: Maotong, Jatuphol and pianist Anant. The concert featured the first appearance at Ben’s Theater of tenor Maotong Shen who was born in 2000 in Handan, Hebei Province, China. At the age of eighteen he entered Langfang Normal University and obtained a Bachelor degree in music performance. In 2023, Maotong was admitted to the College of Music at Mahidol University to pursue his Master degree. The same year, he joined the Heavenly Voice Singers and in 2024, performed with the Thailand Philharmonic Orchestra in the Thailand International Composition Festival. Jatuphol has made several previous appearances at Ben’s Theater. Born in the year 2000, he began studying trombone at the age of ten. In 2016, he began studying classical trumpet. From an early age, Jatupol has had a passion for singing. In 2021, he was one of the finalists at the Osaka International Music Competition in Japan and won a major prize at the Bangkok International Performing Arts Vocal Competition.
The second half of the programme opened with a lively, dramatized version of Wie die Weiber man behandelt? (“How are women to be treated?”) another number from The Merry Widow. It’s a march-like ensemble piece that featured all the singers and turned out to be a delightful romp that received and enthusiastic response the audience. Jatuphol provided a thoughtful performance of Vi ravviso o luoghi ameni (“O lovely scenes, again I see you”) from Bellini’s opera La sonnambula which was first performed in 1831. He sang with good intonation and sense of phrase and he was supported by particularly expressive playing from Anant. Pimmada gave a lovely performance of Luigi Arditi’s vocal waltz Il bacio (“The Kiss”). Luigi Arditi was an Italian violinist and composer who wrote numerous songs and vocal waltzes. The song displayed Pimmada’s light voice and her excellent intonation and technique. She was brilliantly supported by a superb piano accompaniment from Anant, whose sensitive playing really caught the waltz-like mood of the piece.Maotong sang La fleur que tu m’avais jetée (“The flower you threw at me”), a tenor aria from Bizet’s opera Carmen. Maotong’s gentle, lyrical voice was ideal for this melancholy song and splendid in the pianissimo passages. William Elden Bolcom is a prolific American composer and Amor is one of his cabaret songs, full of humour and amusing imagery. It was sung vivaciously by Alisara who grabbed the audience’s attention the moment she began. She delivered this song with splendid characterization and a natural stage presence and was given a lively accompaniment by Anant, with catchy syncopated rhythms in the piano part.
Prof Nancy Tsui-Ping Wei in rehearsal. In complete contrast, Maotong and Jatuphol performed Au fond du temple saint (“At the back of the holy temple”) from Bizet’s opera The Pearl Fishers. Their voices blended perfectly during the shifting chromatic harmonies of the duet, enhanced by a sensitive piano accompaniment from Anant. Pichamon gave a lively performance of Spiel ich die Unschuld vom Lande (“If I play the innocent peasant maid”) from the Johann Strauss opera Die Fledermaus. She sang with good characterization and managed the tricky vocal leaps with confidence.
Mozart’s song for three voices entitled Das Bandel (“The Ribbon”) was written in the Viennese dialect and it’s a comic piece involving a lost hat ribbon. Alisara, Maotong and Jatuphol gave a compelling, dramatized performance with planned stage movements, excellent vocal ensemble and amusing characterisation. The final item on the programme was the famous Drinking Song from Verdi’s 1853 opera La Traviata and featured all five singers. Libiamo ne’ lieti calici (“Let’s drink from the joyful cups”) is a duet with chorus and one of the best-known melodies in the entire operatic repertoire. It was well-staged and acted and the singers interacted splendidly with each other in some excellent ensemble work. They seemed to know how to “work the audience” for this rousing number and received wild, unbridled applause.As an encore, there were a couple of dramatized numbers from My Fair Lady sung effectively and pensively by Jatuphol and Pichamon followed by a lively and rousing performance of the ever-popular Neapolitan song O Sole Mio (“My Sunshine”) which was performed with a great deal of vivacity and abandon, much to the delight of the audience. It brought the concert to a terrific conclusion.
The Heavenly Voice Singers with pianist Anant (left) and Ben Hansen (centre).
22 January 22 2025Classical Connectionshttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=488052 - Pattaya known for petty theft, scams, violence associated with alcohol but not a hotspot for ethnic disputesPATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya, a popular tourist destination in Thailand known for its vibrant nightlife, beaches, and cultural offerings, does not have a significant reputation as a center for crimes involving ethnic disputes. While the city does experience crime, as is common in major tourist areas, the nature of these crimes is generally more related […]
Despite its diverse international community, Pattaya remains free from significant ethnic tensions, with crime in the area generally tied to typical tourist issues rather than ethnic disputes. (Photo – Recent street assault on Chinese tourist at Pattaya Beach) PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya, a popular tourist destination in Thailand known for its vibrant nightlife, beaches, and cultural offerings, does not have a significant reputation as a center for crimes involving ethnic disputes. While the city does experience crime, as is common in major tourist areas, the nature of these crimes is generally more related to petty theft, scams, and occasional violence often associated with alcohol and tourism rather than ethnic tensions.
Ethnic disputes in Thailand tend to occur more in areas where there are larger, more distinct ethnic groups living in close proximity, such as in the southern provinces where insurgent groups operate, or in regions involving tensions between migrant laborers from neighboring countries. Pattaya, however, is a melting pot of international tourists and residents, with a sizable population of people from diverse backgrounds, including Russians, Indians, and people from other Southeast Asian countries. These communities coexist peacefully, with occasional disputes more likely to be based on individual or business matters rather than ethnic differences.
The Thai authorities actively address crimes, including those in Pattaya, through law enforcement and tourism police, with a focus on ensuring the safety of both residents and visitors. As with any city, it is always important for tourists and locals to remain vigilant, but ethnic disputes are not a characteristic issue in Pattaya’s crime scene.In summary, while Pattaya does face crime, it is not specifically known as a center for ethnic-related disputes. The city’s challenges tend to revolve more around issues common to any major tourist destination, such as scams, traffic, and alcohol-related incidents.
Earlier Report: https://www.pattayamail.com/news/chinese-tourist-stabbed-after-argument-over-inappropriate-comment-in-pattaya-487923
Pattaya continues to thrive as a cosmopolitan city, where visitors from all backgrounds coexist peacefully, with ethnic-related crimes being a rare occurrence. (Photo – Pattaya Police Station)
22 January 22 2025Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=488047 - Rising concerns over beachside thefts by transgender individuals offering services in PattayaPATTAYA, Thailand – Wearing expensive items while walking through the streets or along the beaches of Pattaya can make one stand out, but it also comes with certain risks. Pattaya is a lively and bustling city, attracting both tourists and locals from all walks of life. As much as the city offers luxury and glamour, […]
Visitors to Pattaya are advised to stay vigilant and secure their valuables after reports of transgender thieves targeting distracted tourists along popular beaches, often posing as performers or offering unsolicited services. (Photo – Latest incident on Pattaya beach, January 21) PATTAYA, Thailand – Wearing expensive items while walking through the streets or along the beaches of Pattaya can make one stand out, but it also comes with certain risks. Pattaya is a lively and bustling city, attracting both tourists and locals from all walks of life. As much as the city offers luxury and glamour, it also has areas where tourists can be vulnerable to petty theft or scams, including from individuals posing as transgender women.
Incidents of Theft by Transgender Individuals: There have been reports in the past of transgender individuals involved in thefts on Pattaya’s beaches, particularly targeting tourists who are distracted or not paying attention. In some instances, transgender thieves—often part of organized groups—have been known to approach tourists under the guise of friendly interactions, offering services such as posing for photos or asking for money in exchange for a “performance” or gift. These interactions can be an opening for theft, with expensive items like wallets, phones, and jewelry being stolen while the tourist is preoccupied or distracted by the exchange.Pattaya’s beaches, such as Pattaya Beach and Jomtien Beach, are popular spots for sunbathers, and tourists often carry valuable items like cameras, smartphones, and jewelry. While many transgender individuals in Pattaya work as performers or vendors and are part of the city’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community, a small number of individuals have exploited their position to target unsuspecting tourists. This has led to concerns over safety, particularly among those wearing expensive items that make them more noticeable and vulnerable.
How to Avoid These Incidents:Stay Alert: If you’re walking along the beach or busy areas, remain vigilant about your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings, and be cautious if someone approaches you unexpectedly.
Secure Valuables: Leave expensive jewelry and electronics in a safe place, like a hotel room or locked bag, when you’re on the beach. Use secure, anti-theft bags for any valuables you do carry.
Avoid Distractions: Be cautious of individuals who seem overly friendly or engaging in suspicious activities, such as offering to take photos or engage in unsolicited performances.
Trust Your Instincts: If a situation feels off or you feel uncomfortable, it’s better to walk away and keep moving to a more crowded or well-lit area.While Pattaya is a fantastic destination for tourists, wearing expensive items without considering the risks involved can sometimes attract unwanted attention. Being aware of incidents where individuals, including transgender thieves, may try to take advantage of tourists’ distractions is essential. By staying cautious and being mindful of your surroundings, you can enjoy Pattaya’s vibrant culture and nightlife while protecting yourself and your valuables.
22 January 22 2025Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=488040 - Rescue volunteers hold nighttime training for new recruits to test mental strength and teamworkPATTAYA, Thailand – At the Mab Fak Thong Cemetery in Huay Yai, East Pattaya, the Sattahip Sawang Rojanatham Foundation, led by Narong Boonbanjerdsri, the foundation’s president, hosted a nighttime training event for new volunteer rescuers in 2025. The event was overseen by Chaichana Achmak, a senior advisor to the foundation, with more than 200 volunteers […]
Sattahip rescue volunteers test mental resilience in nighttime training event for new recruits. PATTAYA, Thailand – At the Mab Fak Thong Cemetery in Huay Yai, East Pattaya, the Sattahip Sawang Rojanatham Foundation, led by Narong Boonbanjerdsri, the foundation’s president, hosted a nighttime training event for new volunteer rescuers in 2025. The event was overseen by Chaichana Achmak, a senior advisor to the foundation, with more than 200 volunteers participating, including both newcomers and seasoned members.
The training, which ran from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM the following day, aimed to test the mental endurance and discipline of the new recruits. The volunteers were taken to the cemetery, where they participated in physically demanding activities designed to test their resilience, teamwork, and mental strength. These exercises, similar to military training, involved rigorous tasks that left the participants covered in dirt, yet the recruits embraced the challenge enthusiastically.
Many new volunteers shared that they joined the rescue foundation to help others. They often encountered situations where people were in need, but without the training or authority to assist. This program offered them the opportunity to make a difference and contribute to society while receiving the proper skills and knowledge to assist effectively and safely.
New recruits embrace challenging training at Sattahip’s Mab Fak Thong cemetery to strengthen teamwork and discipline.
Volunteers Train to Help Others: Newcomers at Sattahip Rescue Foundation commit to saving lives.
22 January 22 2025Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=488029 - Pattaya announces strict parking regulations, hefty fines for towing and repeat offensesPATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya City has introduced new measures to alleviate ongoing traffic congestion on South Pattaya Road, particularly in the area between the Wat Chai Mongkhol intersection and the Communications intersection. As of February 1, the road will be subject to a controlled parking system, with parking strictly prohibited on alternate days (odd and […]
Pattaya implements new parking restrictions to ease traffic congestion starting February 1. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya City has introduced new measures to alleviate ongoing traffic congestion on South Pattaya Road, particularly in the area between the Wat Chai Mongkhol intersection and the Communications intersection. As of February 1, the road will be subject to a controlled parking system, with parking strictly prohibited on alternate days (odd and even dates) from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM. The move aims to reduce the severe traffic issues that have plagued this area for a long time.
This new regulation follows an earlier traffic order that prohibited parking during the same hours but allowed for alternating parking on odd and even dates. Despite the order, many motorists continued to violate the restrictions, exacerbating congestion in this already heavily trafficked area. In response, Pattaya City officials have decided to enforce stricter parking measures to ensure better traffic flow and improve overall road safety.
Under the new regulations, violators will face the following penalties:- Wheel Clamping: A fine of 500 Baht will be imposed for vehicles found parked illegally.
- Towing Fees: If vehicles are towed to a designated Pattaya City facility, towing charges will apply based on the vehicle’s size and type.
- Daily Storage Fees: Vehicles towed to a storage facility will incur daily storage fees depending on the type of vehicle.
- Additional Fines: A special fine of up to 1,000 Baht may be charged for repeat offenses or violations of the new parking policy.
Pattaya City officials have urged all drivers to comply with the new regulations to avoid fines and to contribute to resolving the long-standing traffic issues in the area. The city has emphasized the importance of maintaining order to ensure smoother traffic flow, enhance safety, and create a better environment for both local residents and tourists.
The new parking rules are part of the city’s broader strategy to address the increasing demand for efficient traffic management as Pattaya continues to grow as a popular destination. The city has also pledged to increase awareness and communication with the public to ensure the success of these regulations and to minimize inconvenience for all road users.
The new regulations will be enforced starting February 1, and motorists are encouraged to adhere to the changes for a more organized and safer traffic system in Pattaya.
22 January 22 2025Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=488026 - New parking and traffic system on Soi Buakhao and South Pattaya RoadPATTAYA, Thailand – Deputy Mayor Wuthisak Rermkijakarn chaired the first meeting of the Pattaya Traffic Management Committee and Task Force of the year. The meeting was attended by various stakeholders including representatives from key agencies, such as the Chonburi Provincial Transport Department, the Thai Hotels Association Eastern Chapter, Pattaya Baht-Bus Cooperative, and local police stations. […]
Deputy Mayor Wuthisak leads the first meeting of 2025, addressing key traffic issues and outlining strategies for enhancing safety and efficiency across the city. PATTAYA, Thailand – Deputy Mayor Wuthisak Rermkijakarn chaired the first meeting of the Pattaya Traffic Management Committee and Task Force of the year. The meeting was attended by various stakeholders including representatives from key agencies, such as the Chonburi Provincial Transport Department, the Thai Hotels Association Eastern Chapter, Pattaya Baht-Bus Cooperative, and local police stations.
The discussion focused on traffic management issues and strategies to improve transportation within Pattaya. Among the key topics were the implementation of one-way traffic on Soi Buakhao, the organization of parking around the Post Office community (including the entire New Market area), and the management of public transportation stops. Additionally, the task force reviewed traffic arrangements along Soi Koh Pai and the railway road intersection to ensure better safety for both tourists and residents.
Deputy Mayor Wuthisak emphasized the importance of engaging with the local community, particularly in areas with less dense traffic, to ensure the planned measures align with public needs. He also introduced the “You Block, We Collect” policy to address illegal parking in public areas. Public outreach efforts will be strengthened to increase awareness about these measures.The meeting further addressed the ongoing one-way traffic trial on Soi Buakhao, which has successfully alleviated congestion over the past six months. As a result, the committee agreed to officially implement the one-way system in the area moving forward.
Additionally, the committee discussed future traffic measures and parking regulations, with plans to implement the new parking system in South Pattaya by February 1. Another meeting has been scheduled for January 24, to finalize preparations.
Following a successful trial period, the one-way traffic system on Soi Buakhao is officially adopted, with further discussions planned to improve parking and traffic flow throughout Pattaya.
22 January 22 2025Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=488021 - Pattaya explores AI technology to enhance event managementPATTAYA, Thailand –Mayor Poramet Ngampichet chaired a meeting on the use of AI technology to improve the management of various city events. The meeting, held at the Pattaya City Hall, featured a presentation by Khemthong Chanchaow, a business consultant representing Yellow Sub AI, a company that provides artificial intelligence solutions. The presentation, conducted via Zoom […]
Pattaya City looks to AI technology to streamline the management of festivals, concerts, and other events, improving safety, efficiency, and visitor experience. PATTAYA, Thailand –Mayor Poramet Ngampichet chaired a meeting on the use of AI technology to improve the management of various city events. The meeting, held at the Pattaya City Hall, featured a presentation by Khemthong Chanchaow, a business consultant representing Yellow Sub AI, a company that provides artificial intelligence solutions. The presentation, conducted via Zoom video conference with a team from the United Kingdom, was attended by the Director of the Tourism Development Division and other key officials.
Yellow Sub AI proposed collaboration with Pattaya City, particularly in managing concerts, festivals, and other events the city regularly hosts. The company emphasized the potential of AI to enhance the safety, efficiency, and overall experience of attendees at such events. Key features of the AI system include real-time data analysis for crowd management, improved resource allocation, and enhanced communication with event organizers. Additionally, the technology aims to improve visitor experience by providing real-time information such as optimal routes, available services, and other important details, contributing to a positive event atmosphere.
Mayor Poramet expressed interest in the advanced technology but noted that as a government agency, Pattaya must follow a thorough process for project approval to ensure it benefits the public and complies with legal requirements. He acknowledged that large-scale budgets must be justified in terms of value, and if the costs outweigh the benefits, the project may not proceed. He instructed the company to refine the proposal and clearly outline the benefits Pattaya would gain before submitting it for further evaluation by the city’s executive board. The tourism development division was also tasked with coordinating relevant actions to move the proposal forward.
Pattaya’s leadership reviews AI-powered solutions for real-time crowd control, resource allocation, and enhanced attendee experience at major events.
22 January 22 2025Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=488017 - Experience the thrill of water sports in Pattaya’s crystal-clear waters in JanuaryPATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya, a bustling coastal city on Thailand’s eastern seaboard, is widely recognized as a paradise for water sports lovers. Its year-round warm climate, clear blue waters, and range of exciting activities make it the perfect destination for those seeking adventure or relaxation by the sea. Ideal Weather and Clear Waters: Pattaya’s tropical […]
Whether you’re a novice or a pro, Pattaya’s inviting beaches provide an unparalleled opportunity to dive into exciting water sports like jet skiing, windsurfing, and scuba diving. Get ready for non-stop fun! PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya, a bustling coastal city on Thailand’s eastern seaboard, is widely recognized as a paradise for water sports lovers. Its year-round warm climate, clear blue waters, and range of exciting activities make it the perfect destination for those seeking adventure or relaxation by the sea.
Ideal Weather and Clear Waters: Pattaya’s tropical climate, characterized by sunshine and moderate temperatures, creates an ideal environment for water sports throughout the year. The city is blessed with calm waters and a wide range of beaches that cater to different water-based activities. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced adventurer, the warm, inviting waters are perfect for trying out various water sports.
Diverse Water Sports Options: From parasailing to jet skiing, Pattaya offers an extensive selection of water sports to suit all types of thrill-seekers. Popular activities like windsurfing, wakeboarding, and kite surfing attract both locals and tourists looking to experience the adrenaline rush of riding the waves. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, snorkeling and scuba diving around nearby islands like Koh Larn are fantastic ways to explore the underwater world.Parasailing Over Pattaya’s Shores: One of the most iconic water sports in Pattaya is parasailing. Visitors can enjoy the thrill of soaring high above the turquoise waters while taking in breathtaking aerial views of the city’s coastline. This activity offers a unique perspective of the beaches and the lively town, making it a favorite for tourists seeking both excitement and scenic beauty.
Pattaya’s Water Sports Events and Competitions: Throughout the year, Pattaya hosts numerous water sports competitions and events, drawing athletes from around the world. These events range from jet ski races to the Pattaya International Water Sports Festival, adding a competitive edge to the city’s vibrant water sports culture.Vibrant Beach Clubs and Water Sports Rentals: Pattaya’s beach clubs and rental services make it easy for tourists to dive straight into water activities without hassle. Most beaches have water sports stations offering rentals for equipment like jet skis, paddleboards, and boats. Whether you’re looking to learn a new sport or just rent gear for a few hours, Pattaya’s accessible infrastructure ensures you have everything you need to enjoy the water.
Family-Friendly Fun: For families, Pattaya offers a safe and exciting environment to engage in water sports together. Kayaking, snorkeling, and even fun-filled banana boat rides can be enjoyed with loved ones, ensuring that everyone from children to adults can have a blast.
Pattaya’s perfect combination of great weather, diverse activities, and world-class facilities makes it one of Southeast Asia’s premier destinations for water sports. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-packed thrills or a serene day by the ocean, Pattaya’s beaches provide endless opportunities to make a splash and enjoy unforgettable experiences.
With its perfect climate and range of water activities, Pattaya is a dream destination for thrill-seekers and water sports lovers alike. From parasailing to wakeboarding, the city’s vibrant beaches offer endless adventures.
21 January 21 2025Daily Newsletterhttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=488043 - Destination Thailand Visa: the first six months’ experienceThe initial target group of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in July 2024 were digital nomads, a booming market in today’s world by any standards. How many DTVs have now been granted to remote workers is apparently a government secret, but a conservative guess might be 30,000 based on comments by individual Thai embassies. A […]
DTV has a very broad appeal in spite of rough edges. The initial target group of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in July 2024 were digital nomads, a booming market in today’s world by any standards. How many DTVs have now been granted to remote workers is apparently a government secret, but a conservative guess might be 30,000 based on comments by individual Thai embassies. A somewhat larger number, perhaps 50,000, have been awarded to soft power applicants particularly those enrolling for Thai boxing or cooker classes, or identifying as medical tourists.
Initially, there was a free for all with some embassies, the Taipei diplomatic base in particular, awarding the visa within hours of receiving the walk-in application. Inevitably, procedures began to tighten as Thai embassies worldwide published their own application criteria. From the beginning of 2025, only online applications have been available, but embassy discretion about the documentation remains the dominant theme. For example, the precise evidence to satisfy the 500,000 baht (US$14,000) required bank bond differs according to where you make the application.
One of the success markers of DTV is that alternative longstay visas have been panicked into some softening. Thai Privilege Card suspended the 50,000 baht enrolment fee and introduced a so-called cut-price or bronze 5-year Elite visa. The Board of Investment, which sponsored its own digital nomad visa under a category in the 10-year Long Stay Residence, abolished the high income barrier for remote workers and emphasized instead the cash turnover of the foreign company which was employing them.Application abuses have inevitably accompanied DTV. Sometimes these are spotted, for example applicants pretending to be abroad when they are actually in Thailand lose their enrolment fee. Men in their 70s wishing to become judo experts or cuisine gurus have had trouble proving their previous experience in these specialist fields. Other darker abuses, such as agencies providing fake documentation of year-long training in an adult school, have so far been ignored.
Since the beginning of 2025, DTV holders have been turning up at local immigration enquiring about the notional six months’ extension. Answers have ranged from “nobody knows” and “we are preparing a sheet” to” show us you still have 500,000 baht in a bank account” and “better to do a border run”. But there is enough evidence now to confirm what the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated last July: it will be easier to leave the country, however briefly, rather than to expect local immigration to turn 180 days into 360.Although the Interior Ministry or the Immigration Bureau have never uttered a single word about DTV, they are aware that the visa is strongly supported by the prime minister who is keen as always to increase Treasury funds now rather than later. But longstay DTV holders are subject to address registration in Thailand (form TM30 as well as 90 days reporting) and should keep an eye on the Thai Revenue Department with its still-blurry widening of the personal income tax net. In the meantime, it’s worth reiterating this is a visa for tourists. Although applicants will have signed up for some activity, the main purpose is enjoying yourself in your own time. The Thai authorities should realize that the continued success of DTV depends on not over-hassling the holders. Other countries in south east Asia stand very ready to promote their own longstay packages.
21 January 21 2025Featuredhttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=487822 - Is demolishing homeless hotspots helping Pattaya stay safe from drug use?PATTAYA, Thailand – In recent years, Pattaya has been increasingly focused on improving public safety and addressing the issue of homelessness, which has become a visible concern in certain areas of the city. As part of efforts to tackle these challenges, local authorities have implemented measures such as demolishing homeless hotspots in strategic areas, with […]
Pattaya’s Efforts to Tackle Drug Use – Demolishing homeless hotspots or temporary solution? PATTAYA, Thailand – In recent years, Pattaya has been increasingly focused on improving public safety and addressing the issue of homelessness, which has become a visible concern in certain areas of the city. As part of efforts to tackle these challenges, local authorities have implemented measures such as demolishing homeless hotspots in strategic areas, with the hope of curbing drug use and improving the overall safety of the city.
These hotspots, often located in areas such as beach promenades or vacant lots, have been associated with high levels of drug-related activities, including the use and trafficking of illegal substances. Authorities believe that dismantling these areas and pushing homeless individuals to seek help or move to shelters can reduce the concentration of drug use in these neighborhoods. Additionally, the relocation of the homeless population is seen as an attempt to create a cleaner, safer environment for both locals and tourists, thereby improving the city’s image.
However, while demolishing these hotspots may temporarily disrupt drug activities in specific areas, experts argue that the underlying issues of homelessness and substance abuse may not be fully addressed by these measures alone. Many homeless individuals are still left vulnerable, often without adequate support for rehabilitation or reintegration into society. Without comprehensive programs that provide medical, psychological, and social support, these individuals may continue to face hardships that lead to drug use, eventually moving to other areas of the city.Furthermore, critics suggest that simply removing homeless populations may not effectively resolve the city’s drug problems. They argue that tackling the root causes of drug use requires long-term solutions, such as improved access to addiction treatment programs, education, and job opportunities for vulnerable individuals.
In conclusion, while demolishing homeless hotspots may help clean up certain areas of Pattaya, it is unlikely to be a definitive solution to drug-related issues. A more holistic approach, focusing on prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation, is essential to ensuring the safety and well-being of the city’s residents and visitors.
Authorities believe that dismantling these areas and pushing homeless individuals to seek help or move to shelters can reduce the concentration of drug use in these neighborhoods.
21 January 21 2025Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=487927