The Pattaya Journal

Pattaya Guides & Articles

Expert travel advice, insider tips, and practical guides — written by locals who live it every day.

46 Articles
Updated For 2026
Ladyboys in Pattaya 2026: Tiffany's, Alcazar, Bars and Etiquette
General

Ladyboys in Pattaya 2026: Tiffany's, Alcazar, Bars and Etiquette

Tiffany's Show and Alcazar Cabaret compared with 2026 showtimes and prices, where ladyboy bars are and how they are marked, what kathoey means in Thailand, and how to behave. Honest, not prurient.

Sep 2026
5 min read
Dating Apps in Thailand 2026: ThaiFriendly vs ThaiCupid vs Tinder
Expat Life

Dating Apps in Thailand 2026: ThaiFriendly vs ThaiCupid vs Tinder

ThaiFriendly, ThaiCupid, Tinder, Bumble — which Thai dating app actually works in Pattaya, what Premium costs, how to spot freelancers and scams before you meet.

Sep 2026
5 min read
GoGo Bars in Pattaya 2026: Walking Street, LK Metro, Prices
Nightlife

GoGo Bars in Pattaya 2026: Walking Street, LK Metro, Prices

How Pattaya's GoGo bars actually work, what a night costs in 2026, the eleven Walking Street bars we have reviewed, the LK Metro alternative, and the mistakes first-timers make.

Sep 2026
5 min read
Guest-Friendly Hotels in Pattaya 2026: No Joiner Fee, Verified
Hotels

Guest-Friendly Hotels in Pattaya 2026: No Joiner Fee, Verified

Which Pattaya hotels let an overnight guest stay for free, which charge a joiner fee, what happens at the front desk, and how to ask before you book. Verified list by area.

Sep 2026
5 min read
Thai Girlfriend Guide 2026: Pattaya, Money, Family, Red Flags
Expat Life

Thai Girlfriend Guide 2026: Pattaya, Money, Family, Red Flags

How to find a Thai girlfriend in Pattaya rather than a freelancer, what money and family actually mean in a Thai relationship, sin sod, long distance, and the signs that tell you which one you have.

Sep 2026
5 min read
ThaiCupid Review 2026: The Serious Alternative to ThaiFriendly
Expat Life

ThaiCupid Review 2026: The Serious Alternative to ThaiFriendly

ThaiCupid costs, Gold vs Platinum, who is actually on it, and how it compares with ThaiFriendly for a Pattaya visitor. A research-based review, not a paid one.

Sep 2026
5 min read
ThaiFriendly Review 2026: A Month on Pattaya's Busiest Dating App
Expat Life

ThaiFriendly Review 2026: A Month on Pattaya's Busiest Dating App

Is ThaiFriendly worth it? I used it for a month in Pattaya, including the 7-day free Premium trial. Response rates, the freelancer share, what Premium costs, and how to get the trial.

Sep 2026
5 min read
Padel in Pattaya: Four Clubs Compared 2026
Expat Life

Padel in Pattaya: Four Clubs Compared 2026

Four padel clubs, fifteen courts, 600 to 1,200 THB an hour. Which one is indoor, which two book on Playtomic, and where to play at midday in April.

Sep 2026
5 min read
Christmas and New Year in Pattaya: What Actually Happens
General

Christmas and New Year in Pattaya: What Actually Happens

Christmas is not a public holiday in Thailand. New Year is, and Pattaya's countdown at Bali Hai is among the country's largest. What to expect, what to avoid.

Sep 2026
5 min read
Working Remotely from Pattaya: Coworking and the DTV
Expat Life

Working Remotely from Pattaya: Coworking and the DTV

Pattaya has a smaller nomad scene than Chiang Mai and a five-year visa covering remote work. What the DTV requires and who the city does not suit.

Sep 2026
5 min read
Muay Thai in Pattaya: Gyms, Costs and the DTV Visa Route
Expat Life

Muay Thai in Pattaya: Gyms, Costs and the DTV Visa Route

Training Muay Thai qualifies for Thailand's five-year DTV visa. What the gyms cost, what the visa requires, and why the cheap DTV packages are a bad idea.

Sep 2026
5 min read
Healthcare in Pattaya: Hospitals, Labs and Real Costs
Expat Life

Healthcare in Pattaya: Hospitals, Labs and Real Costs

Which hospital to go to and when, what a private emergency visit is really like, where to get blood work done, and the pharmacy rules that changed in 2026.

Sep 2026
5 min read
IV Drips and Peptide Clinics in Pattaya: What to Ask First
Expat Life

IV Drips and Peptide Clinics in Pattaya: What to Ask First

Pattaya has a growing market for IV therapy and peptide protocols. What is on offer, where the approval status really stands, and what to ask first.

Sep 2026
5 min read
Thailand Visa for Indians: What Changes 15 September
Expat Life

Thailand Visa for Indians: What Changes 15 September

Indian passports keep visa-free entry, but the stay drops to 30 days on 15 September and business visits are no longer covered. What immigration asks for.

Sep 2026
5 min read
Getting to Tomorrowland: Airports and the Last 20 km
Transport

Getting to Tomorrowland: Airports and the Last 20 km

U-Tapao sits almost due south of Wisdom Valley, 31 km out against 87 from Suvarnabhumi. And 10 December is a Thai holiday, which changes when to travel.

Sep 2026
5 min read
Tomorrowland: Where to Stay by Distance to the Venue
Hotels

Tomorrowland: Where to Stay by Distance to the Venue

We measured every Pattaya neighbourhood against the festival site. Na Jomtien is the furthest point of all, and distance is not what you should book on.

Sep 2026
5 min read
Tomorrowland Thailand: What to Pack, and What Nobody Says
Tips

Tomorrowland Thailand: What to Pack, and What Nobody Says

Packing for a tropical Tomorrowland is not packing for Boom. December nights on an inland hill get cool, the site is cashless, and vapes are banned.

Sep 2026
5 min read
The Days Around Tomorrowland: What to Do in Pattaya
General

The Days Around Tomorrowland: What to Do in Pattaya

Arrive by Wednesday 9 December — the 10th is a Thai public holiday. How to spend the days either side of three nights at Wisdom Valley.

Sep 2026
5 min read
Tomorrowland Tickets: Tiers, Prices and the Age Rule
General

Tomorrowland Tickets: Tiers, Prices and the Age Rule

Four pass types from 5,100 to 20,200 THB, all sold out. What each includes, why the minimum age is 20 rather than 18, and the two legitimate routes left.

Sep 2026
5 min read
Thailand Visa Rules: 30 Days From 15 September 2026
Expat Life

Thailand Visa Rules: 30 Days From 15 September 2026

From 15 September 2026 visa-free entry drops from 60 to 30 days and the eligible list shrinks from 93 countries to 60. What changes and how to stay longer.

May 2026
5 min read
Best SIM Card & eSIM for Thailand 2026
Expat Life

Best SIM Card & eSIM for Thailand 2026

Which SIM or eSIM to get for Thailand: the daily throttle limits nobody publishes, and why AIS sells eSIMs directly at better value than resellers.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Crypto to Thai Baht in Pattaya: Bitcoin & USDT Cash Guide
Expat Life

Crypto to Thai Baht in Pattaya: Bitcoin & USDT Cash Guide

How to convert Bitcoin, USDT, and Ethereum to Thai Baht cash in Pattaya. OTC exchanges, Telegram process, fees, step-by-step walkthrough — plus crypto Visa cards for spending USDT directly.

Apr 2026
5 min read
New Condo Developments in Pattaya — 2026/2027/2028
Expat Life

New Condo Developments in Pattaya — 2026/2027/2028

Every major condo project under construction in Pattaya, from ultra-luxury beachfront towers to affordable high-rises, with floors and completion dates.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Bachelor Party in Pattaya — The Ultimate Stag Do Guide 2026
Nightlife

Bachelor Party in Pattaya — The Ultimate Stag Do Guide 2026

Plan the perfect bachelor party in Pattaya. Nightlife, pool villas, yacht charters, activities, and insider tips for an unforgettable stag do in Thailand.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Cheap Eats in Pattaya — Where to Eat Well for Under 100 THB
Food

Cheap Eats in Pattaya — Where to Eat Well for Under 100 THB

The best cheap food in Pattaya 2026. Food courts from 35 THB, street food, night markets, and where locals eat. Save money without sacrificing quality.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Massage & Spa in Pattaya: Prices, Types, Best Spots
Expat Life

Massage & Spa in Pattaya: Prices, Types, Best Spots

Complete guide to massages in Pattaya 2026. Thai massage from 200 THB, oil massage, foot massage — prices, types, best areas, tipping, and what to expect.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Songkran in Pattaya 2026: Thailand's Wildest Water Festival
General

Songkran in Pattaya 2026: Thailand's Wildest Water Festival

Songkran in Pattaya lasts longer than anywhere else in Thailand. Dates, Wan Lai, the best zones and survival tips for 11-19 April 2026.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Thai Bank Account & QR Payments for Foreigners — 2026 Guide
Expat Life

Thai Bank Account & QR Payments for Foreigners — 2026 Guide

How to open a Thai bank account in 2026 (new rules!), plus QR payment apps for tourists without a bank account. Wise, TrueMoney, TAGTHAi, and Moreta Pay.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Bangkok to Pattaya — Transport Guide 2026
Transport

Bangkok to Pattaya — Transport Guide 2026

How to get from Bangkok to Pattaya in 2026. Compare buses, minivans, taxis, private transfers, and the new train — with real prices, travel times, and pro tips.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Luxury Beachfront Villas & Mansions in Pattaya 2026
Hotels

Luxury Beachfront Villas & Mansions in Pattaya 2026

The most exclusive beachfront properties in Pattaya and Na Jomtien: private pool villas, luxury mansions and high-end rentals on the Thai coast.

Apr 2026
5 min read
First Time in Pattaya? 2026 Beginner Guide
General

First Time in Pattaya? 2026 Beginner Guide

Planning your first trip to Pattaya in 2026? Covers transport, hotels, nightlife, safety tips, and money-saving advice. Start here before you fly.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Best Hotels Near Soi 6 Pattaya 2026
Hotels

Best Hotels Near Soi 6 Pattaya 2026

The best guest-friendly hotels near Soi 6 Pattaya for 2026. Budget, mid-range and luxury picks within walking distance, with honest reviews.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Koh Larn (Coral Island) — Complete Day Trip Guide 2026
General

Koh Larn (Coral Island) — Complete Day Trip Guide 2026

The ultimate guide to Koh Larn island near Pattaya. Best beaches, ferry schedule, how to get there, where to eat, and insider tips for the perfect day trip.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Best Beaches in Pattaya — Complete Guide 2026
General

Best Beaches in Pattaya — Complete Guide 2026

Every beach in Pattaya ranked and reviewed. From Wongamat to Na Jomtien, hidden coves to family beaches — find your perfect stretch of sand in 2026.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Buying or Renting a Condo in Pattaya — 2026 Guide
Expat Life

Buying or Renting a Condo in Pattaya — 2026 Guide

Pattaya real estate for expats: condo rentals, buying property, the best areas, new developments, and what foreign buyers need to check first.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Gyms, Golf & Padel in Pattaya: Sports & Fitness 2026
General

Gyms, Golf & Padel in Pattaya: Sports & Fitness 2026

Best gyms, golf courses, and padel courts in Pattaya for 2026. Day passes, memberships, Muay Thai, CrossFit, and where to play padel and golf near the beach.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Best Food in Pattaya — Restaurant & Street Food Guide 2026
Food

Best Food in Pattaya — Restaurant & Street Food Guide 2026

From Michelin-worthy seafood to 40 THB pad thai — the complete Pattaya food guide. Best restaurants, street food spots, night markets, and local favorites.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Pattaya Nightlife Prices — What Everything Costs in 2026
Nightlife

Pattaya Nightlife Prices — What Everything Costs in 2026

Updated 2026 prices for Pattaya nightlife. Beer, cocktails, bar fines, lady drinks — Walking Street, Soi 6, and Soi Buakhao price comparison.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Scooter & Motorbike Rental in Pattaya — 2026 Guide
Transport

Scooter & Motorbike Rental in Pattaya — 2026 Guide

Everything about renting a scooter in Pattaya. Honda PCX vs Click, prices, license requirements, insurance, and safety tips from experienced riders.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Shopping in Pattaya — Best Malls, Markets & Bargains 2026
General

Shopping in Pattaya — Best Malls, Markets & Bargains 2026

Complete Pattaya shopping guide for 2026. Terminal 21, Central Festival, Central Marina, night markets, tailors, and where to find the best deals.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Thailand Visa Guide for Pattaya: Types, Extensions, TM30
Expat Life

Thailand Visa Guide for Pattaya: Types, Extensions, TM30

All Thailand visa options explained for Pattaya visitors and expats. Tourist visa, visa exemption, retirement visa, marriage visa (Non-O), Elite visa, TM30, and extension tips for 2026.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Best Rooftop Bars & Restaurants in Pattaya 2026
Food

Best Rooftop Bars & Restaurants in Pattaya 2026

Pattaya's best rooftop bars and sky-high restaurants with panoramic views, from sunset cocktails to fine dining. The complete 2026 guide.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Hidden Beaches & Secret Islands Near Pattaya 2026
General

Hidden Beaches & Secret Islands Near Pattaya 2026

Beyond Koh Larn — discover Pattaya's secret islands, hidden coves, and untouched sandbars. Koh Sak, Koh Krok, Koh Phai, and the best-kept secrets of the Gulf.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Tomorrowland Thailand 2026: Tickets, Hotels, Travel
General

Tomorrowland Thailand 2026: Tickets, Hotels, Travel

Tomorrowland Thailand runs 11-13 December at Wisdom Valley near Pattaya and sold out in under an hour. Where tickets stand, where to stay, how to get there.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Walking Street Pattaya — Nightlife Guide 2026
Nightlife

Walking Street Pattaya — Nightlife Guide 2026

Your complete guide to Walking Street Pattaya for 2026. Best GoGo bars, clubs, drink prices, scam warnings, and insider tips from locals who go out every week.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Yacht Charters & Boat Trips in Pattaya — 2026 Guide
General

Yacht Charters & Boat Trips in Pattaya — 2026 Guide

Rent a yacht in Pattaya, take a ferry to Koh Larn, or book a private boat trip. Complete guide to Bali Hai Pier, Ocean Marina Yacht Club, and all options.

Apr 2026
5 min read
Editorial Standards

Written by People Who Live Here

Original Research

Every guide is based on first-hand experience and on-the-ground reporting by our Pattaya-based team.

Regularly Updated

Prices, routes, and recommendations change. We refresh every article to keep it accurate.

No Sponsored Fluff

Affiliate links exist but never influence our editorial decisions. We recommend what is genuinely good.

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