Most people lump Thailand’s entire eastern seaboard under the name “Pattaya,” given it’s the biggest city on the coast with a reputation everyone loves to chatter about. As an East Coaster, I used to correct them, “I don’t live in Pattaya; I live in Jomtien Beach.” But times have changed. Nowadays, no matter which nook, cranny, or beach of this sprawling seaside city we call home, we’re proud to say, “Yes, I live in Pat-ta-ya!”
I choose to live in lively old Pattaya for many reasons, but here are my top five:
1. Diverse Expat Population
I’ve visited many expat hotspots, often disappointed to find a sea of American escapees like myself. But Pattaya is different. With an estimated expat population of around 180,000, less than 10% are from North America. Twice as many are from the UK. When I scroll through my phone’s contacts, I see names from 10 different countries before I reach the “Bs.” My best friend here is Norwegian. My neighbors? German, Russian, Australian, Swiss, Irish, French, Japanese, and Thai.
I meet people from all walks of life. For instance, the editor of a local magazine I wrote for used to be a celebrity hairdresser in London. An Austrian friend who once ruled real estate is now acting in Thai movies. At a children’s charity event, I chatted with an old English guy for 20 minutes before realizing it was Jimmy Page from Led Zeppelin. Yes, he’s got a place here too.
Prospective expats should remember: that palm trees and sunsets are great, but it’s the people that make a place special.
2. The Perfect Balance of City and Beach
Back in the U.S., I struggled with choosing between city life and beach life. I lived in a city an hour from a pristine beach and loved it so much that I moved there, got bored in three months, and moved back. This pattern repeated in Thailand, shifting between Bangkok and Phuket twice.
Then I discovered Pattaya. Despite the myths, Pattaya is more than a tourist trap. It’s a real city with restaurants, pubs, theaters, live music venues, shopping malls, gyms, and even an international airport. Everything I need is right here.
Whether I want to watch the sunset from a five-star rooftop restaurant or sip coconut water on the beach, I can. Pattaya has evolved from a trashy tourist town to a vibrant seaside city with endless lifestyle and entertainment choices. It’s the perfect mix of city and beach.
3. Constant Improvement
Places change, just like people. I visited my old home in Phuket and felt heartbroken; its charm has been overshadowed by foreign influence. My Bangkok years were wonderful, but now it’s a weekend escape. The intense city vibe is great for 48 hours, then I’m ready to return to Pattaya’s gentler pace.
Initially, I never thought I’d be a Pattaya guy. My first visit memories were of a dirty beach, garish tourism, and lots of drunks. But Pattaya has transformed, like a resilient lotus emerging from the mud. The beaches are cleaner, it’s easier to get around, and we have more shopping and entertainment options. We’re attracting better tourists, and Pattaya keeps getting better. I often find myself whispering, “This is Pattaya?”
4. Close Proximity to Bangkok
In 2010, Motorway 7 cut travel time between Bangkok and Pattaya by more than half, turning Pattaya into a popular beach destination for weekenders and holidaymakers from Bangkok. This influx has changed the city’s reputation and supported more upscale dining and entertainment venues.
Soon, a high-speed rail link will reduce travel time to just 30 minutes. People could live in Bangkok and commute to Pattaya, or vice versa. When that happens, Pattaya will be seen as “Bangkok Beach.” Real estate investors should take note: property values in Pattaya will likely rise to match those in Bangkok. Some predict, “Pattaya will be part of Bangkok in ten years.” I say, “The best part!”
5. Easy Living for an Old Bachelor
When my granddaughter asked, “Grandpa, is there someone there to help you if you need it?” I chuckled. “I’ve got a whole team looking out for me, Princess,” I said.
The staff at my condo are like family. Kompan, the maintenance guy, has been around for 14 years, watering my plants, changing lights, and fixing anything I hand him. Our manager, Meaw, has helped me with everything from finding a plumber to evicting a tenant. They both get holiday gifts every year.
Morning walks present choices: “Arty’s” on Jomtien Beach or “King of Coffee” on Pratumnak Hill. They know my order without asking. The Thai donut lady at Rompho Market always jokes, “Want to be fat today?” while packing my usual five donuts.
I’ve got an egg guy, a mango man, a chicken lady, and my veggie vendor Wan, who has the best smile. I’ve known them all for over ten years, and they’re indispensable.
For self-care, I head to Five Star Health Massage where one of three Cambodian therapists gives me a two-hour genuine Thai massage. I’ve known them for a decade, and they always tell me if I’m getting fat. After the massage, I feel like a boneless chicken.
I have long-term relationships with local doctors and dentists. My realtor Joy finds tenants for my rental units year after year. The Thai people I’ve known in Pattaya make it the easiest place for an old bachelor to live. I feel part of the village, looked after by wonderful people, and I’m a proud Pattayan.
Inspired by: Mr. B. Walters
For more information: Please contact Town & Country Property – [email protected]
