This Is How I Want My Pattaya To Be… with Cees Cuijpers

  • 11 years ago
  • 1

Has Pattaya really gone upscale?

More than once I’ve had to justify my reasons for working and living in Pattaya to those who still cling to the old “Sin City” label.

A short while ago, I was invited to an agency gathering at Raimon Land’s Northpoint condominium. Standing on the 44th floor of this modern ocean‑front high‑rise, I was fascinated by the skyline of Pattaya City below. For a moment, I thought of the great metropolises I’ve visited in my life and realized I was admiring my own home — Pattaya, on the Gold Coast of Thailand.

Pattaya Then and Now

On my first trips to Thailand nearly 20 years ago, Pattaya was more like a village. Large chunks of bare land, a “rough diamond in the making.” I never imagined it would become my safe haven.

Back then, Pattaya’s face was dominated by tourists. Certain months, like September, were so quiet that malls were empty and property roadshows were pointless. Today, things are different.

A New Crowd, A New Energy

Just last week, over coffee at La Baguette on Naklua Road, I noticed something remarkable. In less than an hour, 30–35 young, stylish Bangkok Thais came and went. Five years ago, this would have been unthinkable.

These were not foreign tourists. They were Thais — rediscovering Pattaya. That explains why the city now has a constant buzz, even in what used to be the off‑season. Pattaya is back on the map.

Rediscovered by Bangkokians

The changes over the past few years have created a warm safety net for those seeking comfort in a familiar environment. Bangkokians have fallen in love with Pattaya again.

Picture yourself in a plunge chair at the Hilton Hotel, overlooking the city and ocean, cocktail in hand, sea breeze on your neck. This is the new Pattaya.

From above, the neon beer bars are just a faint row of lights. A new era has dawned. Pattaya has matured — and it’s the Pattaya I always wanted it to be.

🔗 Related Reading

About Cees Cuijpers

Cees “KC” Cuijpers is Dutch, born in the Netherlands, and moved to Thailand in 1997. With a background in hospitality and logistics, he specialized in sales and marketing before joining Town & Country Property in 2003.

As Managing Director and Partner, Cees has become one of the most respected names in Pattaya real estate, with projects like The Residence, Whispering Palms, and The Meadows — the latter recognized as a finalist for “Best Villa Project Thailand” at the Thailand Property Awards.

Join The Discussion

4 thoughts on “This Is How I Want My Pattaya To Be… with Cees Cuijpers”

  • Samuel

    Pattaya city, seen through the eyes of a visionary. Well written I must say. Dated 7 years ago.
    I remember that time – Central Mall just opened with a prestigious Hilton hotel on top of it.
    Suddenly, Pattaya wasn’t the same anymore. Good or bad? I think it is good.
    We live in Huay Yai where my wife’s family owned a parcel of land. That is where we build our home (modest 4 bedroom house with private pool) many years ago. Good experience: the contractor we used was very good and we still live there with much pleasure.
    We like the outdoors and Huay Yai (same as in East Pattaya and near Char Nork reservoir) is a nice natural green area. Yet, we still spend a lot of time in Central Pattaya especially when my brother with his family comes over. Pattaya, over the years, became a mature family destination.
    Suitable for all. I think that is what this article is all about?

    • TownCountryPropetry.com

      Hi Samuel, many thanks for your kind response. Yes, the article is written to address those that look down on Pattaya for the wrong reasons.
      Pattaya is a great place to live and over the years (Town & Country Property real estate agency started in 2003) we have assisted hundreds of satisfied clients, of which most are still living here in the house or condo they bought via us. And like yourself, we also sold a lot of land to customers that built their dream homes on it. Not only in Huay Yai, but also in East Pattaya, Jomtien (more expensive, but closer to the beach), Pratumnak Hill, of course, Mabprachan, and last few years more and more in Bang Saray as well. This because of the new motorway (M7) towards Map Ta Phut / Rayong – U-tapao airport.
      Thanks for your kind contribution Samuel – I am glad you like it.

  • Mason

    Quote: “If you look down from above, a few clutches of beer bars and massage parlors have become nothing more than a small row of pink neon lights… That’s the dawn of a new era to me. And to everyone. Gosh, I would love to invite everyone to celebrate the rebirth of Pattaya City with me. Just the way I wanted it to be: Pattaya, my home.”

    How nice is that? God, I miss Pattaya and I am so jealous of people living there.
    I hope the borders will open again soon, I can’t wait to get there again!

    • TownCountryPropetry.com

      Hi Mason,
      Thanks for your kind feedback and we all hope that things will turn to “normal” again (whatever that will be) – Trust me, Pattaya still has its vibe.
      It is a matter of time! And yes, living the dream in Pattaya is great. Since 2003 Town & Country Property has serviced many, many clients who found their home here in Pattaya.
      Some in a rental house or condo, others that have bought a property investment. Most, of whom we know, are still living here and enjoy the Thai hospitality.

Compare listings

Compare