Rest Pattaya or Phuket. Phuket or Pattaya which is better? Weather conditions in Pattaya can be divided into three seasons

Hello Olya and Zhenya! Thank you very much for the site! It's just a treasure useful information)))
February 2016 my husband and I rested in Pattaya and took excursions from you. I liked everything very much, thank you! We are going to Phuket in January 2017. Do you organize excursions in Phuket or maybe advise who to contact there?

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Good afternoon
Thanks for the interesting and helpful articles. We are going to Phuket on November 7th. The first question is connected with monthly mourning. Did mourning have a strong effect on tourist area? And the second question, can you recommend a diving school?

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Hello Olga and Zhenya! Thank you very much for such an interesting site. A lot of useful information. We are planning to fly to Tai in August. Do you think it's better at this time - to Pattaya or Phuket? Where is the least chance of rain? Are there usually strong waves or low tides at this time? And in terms of prices, is everything really much more expensive in Phuket?

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The fact that "meeting with a fellow countryman shook my intention to visit Krabi ..." is "half-jokingly-half-on purpose"! After all, we then “good” sat the three of us: me, a fellow countryman and rum in the “assortment” from Koh Samui! Yes, and in the geographical location of the islands of Thailand, I was not very oriented then! But, later, I seriously considered the “topic”: Krabi or Koh Samui! But it turned out not to be fate!

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Pattaya or Phuket? Fans of Thailand, probably, from year to year face a choice: where is it better to go, plunge into many excursions, bars and cheap food, or indulge in a calm, serene beach holiday ... Personally, Pattaya is closer to me)) I love her for the richest choice of everything: excursion programs absolutely for every taste, a choice of inexpensive cafes, a choice of fruits (it seems to me that in Pattaya there is still more variety in fruits), a choice of evening leisure. From Pattaya, in a total of one hour, you can get to a pretty island with several excellent beaches (on one of the beaches there were only 6 of us !!!). And even in the off-season it is pleasant to swim on Koh Lan, there are no waves, no garbage cans, low tides do not interfere. In Pattaya itself (Jomtien beach) it is quite possible to swim. Not ideal, but much cleaner than in the lakes and streams near my city. I think that people who pout their lips: “Fu, garbage!”, Or they want to make a star out of themselves, they say, we swim only in the Maldives (did you come to Pattaya then?), Or just dissatisfied with everything in life. We are delighted with the child from Pattaya)! A whole carriage of impressions, a lot of entertainment!
In Phuket, my daughter and I rested twice. It seemed to me that the sea and the beach are getting dirtier every year. Yes, I understand that both fishermen and tourists are pigs, but the essence of this does not change. If you don’t rent transport, then it’s quite a long time to get to the beaches of the island by songteo (well, except for the Kata-Karon route). Prices are 2 times higher than in Pattaya for everything: for fruits, for food in cafes, for massages. Apparently, the tactics of "screening out" poor tourists)). After 22-00 almost the entire island goes to sleep. If you do not live in Patong, then you will have to entertain yourself either by reading a book, or watching a movie, or sitting on the balcony. On the beach streets, the lights are turned off, you can’t work up. There are enough excursions for the first two trips, but, of course, there is no such variety as in Pattaya. There is little entertainment for children, the zoo, the water park lose to Pattaya Khao Keo and amusement parks several times. I think Phuket is suitable for a measured family vacation when you don’t want to make unnecessary gestures. If you want to see all the interesting things of the island, then you definitely need to rent a transport. And remember that the beaches of Phuket are now in their original form, i.e. a wide beach strip and everything (no sunbeds, no umbrellas). Either hide from the scorching sun under a palm tree, or buy a personal umbrella, and like Piglet sit under it.
If you want a straight relaxing relaxation, then it is better to leave Phuket for Koh Samui or some other small island. Here there is silence, and not crowded, and in the off-season the climate pleases, and there are no waves.
Whatever you choose in the end, you are guaranteed to enjoy your vacation))!.

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• Irina, good afternoon!

  Thank you for such an interesting review! And you are absolutely right, we also met people who turn up their noses from Pattaya, and I always want to ask them two questions: you didn’t know where you were going, and who is stopping you from driving away from Pattaya to the beautiful islands to swim there? Probably, the realization that then there will be nothing to grumble about 🙂

  And about the night Phuket to the point: when we went out for a walk in Phuket for the first time after 22:00, we were shocked - where is everyone? And is it an island with a vibrant nightlife? Why then can't we find a single open cafe to dine?)

  In general, there is no answer to the question of which is better - Phuket or Pattaya. There are pros and cons of each resort, which must be taken into account. And you are guaranteed to enjoy your holiday :)

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  Totally agree, they are good in their own way

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  We go with the kids, bask in the sun and swim in the calm sea, chew fruit. What option can you recommend?

  We are going to Tai for the first time, we are planning an economical trip on our own.

  Please, if possible, tell me the contacts in Tai for the organization of recreation and transfer. It's scary to go with children, but they need the sun and fruits + the sea. Thank you!

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“Local sea beauties are glorified in the cinema - this is James Bond Island from The Man with the Golden Gun, and Similans, which Jacques Yves Cousteau adored; and Maya Bay from the movie "The Beach" with DiCaprio. True, none of the above places does not belong to Phuket: the first two are in the province of Phang Nga, the third in Krabi………..”Yes, you are right!…..It is very Beautiful places! Actually, the trip "to Phuket" was designed for 3 weeks, but staying in one place (on Karon Beach) quickly got tired (in a week) ... Therefore, we began to "master" Kata Beach, and purchase excursions to various islands ... you could leave in the morning and return late in the evening ...; or you could spend the night in some local "bungalow". How many impressions there were! And pleasant ... .. and not very ... (when, when swimming in a mask with a snorkel, I almost choked, the “apparatus” refused!) Then, we even “considered” the option of a future vacation in Krabi. True, meeting with a countryman who had just returned from Somui somewhat shook this determination ... he brought with him locally produced fruit-infused rum with Somui. After we had a good time (with a countryman and rum) ... I also wanted to go to Somui ! Alas! The “knuckles” of fate showed a different combination… Vietnam followed.

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Good evening, Zhenya and Olya! Ideally, connect both Pattaya and Phuket in one trip. Excursions in Pattaya and, I agree with Olya, the best climate. In Phuket, the sea. But rarely anyone succeeds, so I usually advise Pattaya and swim on the islands, but it’s better to live on Samet for 5-7 days out of 10.

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• Lily, hello! Indeed, this is a great option - to spend a few days in Pattaya for the sake of excursions, and then for the sake of beautiful beaches go to Samet or Chang. Some independent tourists they do so, but unfortunately, such options are very rarely provided in package tours.

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Supporters of Pattaya, explaining their choice, argue that in Phuket after three or four days you can get bored here. However, the concept of "boring" is different for everyone and the needs for entertainment are individual.

• Phuket is a family vacation, swimming with children, a good beach;
• Pattaya is a huge selection of show programs, excursions, interesting places and party opportunities.

We offer to compare all the parameters of recreation at the indicated resorts of the popular Asian country. This information will help you make an independent decision about where to go.

Where is the climate better: Phuket or Pattaya?

The weather conditions in these regions have some differences, so tourists who want to choose the perfect holiday should take these features into account. It is recommended to fly to Phuket from the second half of November to May, since this time is free from rain, strong winds and strong waves. The beaches are good for swimming. Despite this, tourists who did not heed these recommendations and flew in the off-season leave rather neutral reviews about their vacation. That is, you can also relax during the rainy season, but you need to be prepared for the cloudy sky, muddy water and the rains that come here in the evening and at night.

Climate in Thailand

The favorable season for holidays in Pattaya is recognized as the period from the beginning of the last month of autumn to the end of spring. The rainy season in this region is not so pronounced, so you can get a comfortable stay here both in summer and in autumn. In addition, thanks to geographic location, big waves never come to Pattaya. That is, for those who care about comfortable weather, it is better to purchase tours in the following period:

• Phuket: late autumn - mid-May;
• Pattaya: all year round, but the most best time from late autumn to late spring.

Where is the best sea in Thailand: Phuket or Pattaya?

Tourist reviews claim that for those who travel to Thailand to swim and relax on the beach, Phuket will the best option. Especially if you go on vacation with the whole family, with children. It is better not to go to Pattaya with small children, because the quality of the sea and beaches there is much worse.

During the period suitable for relaxation, the sea in Phuket is distinguished by cleanliness, high water transparency and the azure sea, you can take great photos on the shore. The bottom is clearly visible to a great depth, it is very convenient to enter the water. You can swim here even with kids. The purity of the sea can also be confirmed by marine life that does not live in polluted water.

Travelers who leave their reviews note that the sea in Pattaya is noticeably worse than in Phuket. Often garbage comes across in the water, it is agitated, has a green tint. Within the city it is better not to swim at all, so tourists prefer to go to the beaches in the city surroundings or to neighboring islands, and such trips require money and time. Of course, the sea of ​​Pattaya does not pose a danger, but there will be little pleasure from swimming.

Which Thailand beaches to choose: in Phuket or in Pattaya?

Numerous traveler reviews indicate that the beaches in Phuket, in terms of cleanliness and aesthetics, are better suited for relaxation than the beaches of Pattaya. However, there are not many clubs, bars and other entertainment on the beaches, so even last-minute tours will not attract those who want to have a good time there. The key advantage of the beaches of Phuket is its close location to the sea, in order to reach a comfortable beach in Phuket, you have to walk several hundred meters from the hotel, and in Pattaya you need to drive at least an hour.

Phuket offers its guests over 20 beaches, which are located in the western part of the island. The beaches have differences, you can find the option that is best suited for a particular tourist. There are noisy beaches, and there are quiet and cozy places where there are no hotels and there are practically no tourists. It is on these beaches that typical photos of Thai resorts are obtained, which can be admired on the Internet.

Pattaya is ready to offer many beaches to its tourists, but it is better to choose those that are located away from the central part of the city. For example, Jomtien.

Tourist reviews assure that great photos of sunsets are obtained here, but there are also excellent places for swimming and beach holidays. The best place to visit in Thailand is the Military Beach, which is located 30 km south of the city.

Where to have fun in Thailand

Which is better in terms of entertainment - Pattaya or Phuket? Those who go to have fun in bars, restaurants and nightclubs choose hot tours to Pattaya. In Phuket, these institutions are also available, but they are much smaller. In addition, Pattaya has lower prices for entertainment and food. Pattaya has the reputation of a city of debauchery, but Phuket also has similar "entertainment".

Judging by the cultural program, Pattaya is richer than Phuket. There are more attractions and more varied excursions. In addition, getting to interesting places in Pattaya is easier, since it is a city, and Phuket is an island, so all key points are in the distance. In addition, it is easy to get to other cultural places in Thailand from Pattaya. Pattaya is famous for its beautiful parks, monasteries and zoos.

To get to the sights of Phuket, you need to rent a moped or pay for a taxi, the prices of which are very high. Excursions, as a rule, are boat trips. If you buy last-minute tours, analyze how it will be more interesting for you to relax. And choose a direction according to your goals.

Shopping in Thailand: where is the best shopping - in Pattaya or Phuket?

Shopping and shopping in Pattaya is better. The city has a huge number of large shopping centers, where a huge selection of goods and favorable prices. But if this is not enough, you can go to Bangkok. In general, shopping tours in Thailand are very popular. Often last-minute trips are purchased during the sales season. Phuket cannot offer such a wide range of shopping opportunities. There are a number of shopping centers on the island, but the range is somewhat narrower than in Pattaya.

Prices in Thailand: where is cheaper - in Pattaya or Phuket?

Prices in Phuket are usually twice as high as in Pattaya. This applies to food in restaurants, products in the market, as well as transport. But the prices of hotel rooms are almost the same. In the off-season, the cost of living, as a rule, decreases. Grateful reviews are received by accommodation on RoomGuru and on Hotellook. These sites will help you find the best options. Food prices in Pattaya are more democratic than on the island. Food sold on the street in Pattaya costs about one and a half times cheaper.

We offer some useful tips for those who want to eat inexpensively and tasty in Thai resorts. Inexpensive food is sold in the restaurants of the shopping malls, which sell dishes of oriental and western cuisine. You can also have a cheap meal at the night markets. Prices for fruits in Thailand depend on the time of year. For some fruits, the season is summer and autumn, while others ripen in spring and winter. Seasonality significantly affects prices. Some fruits ripen here all year round, so prices do not depend on the season.

Tours to Pattaya are more expensive than to the island. In Thailand, you can also relax by purchasing last-minute tours that are convenient to search with the help of special search engines.

Last-minute tours to the city of Pattaya will cost less than to Phuket.

When going on vacation to Thailand, most tourists choose one of the two largest resorts: Phuket or Pattaya - which is better, tourists' reviews suggest.

The most important selection criteria are sea temperature and the presence of waves, the possibility of comfortable accommodation, general climatic conditions, and, of course, prices. If you're on a tight budget, compare two resorts across the board and pick the best one for you.

Sea

The first factor influencing the selection of a resort is the temperature of the water and the purity of the sea. If you are planning beach holiday When choosing which is better - Pattaya or Phuket, be guided by the time of year.

Nai Harn Beach, Phuket / [email protected] flickr.com

Phuket has the cleanest sea winter period- the temperature of salt water is kept at 29 degrees, and the transparency is comparable to a diamond. Phuket is generally considered the cleanest resort in all of Thailand - the presence of coral reefs, fish and marine animals testifies to the purity of the sea. Swimming and sunbathing on the beach, especially with children, is better from January to April. And summer is a great time for surfers. During this season, the waves are especially high, but the rest can be overshadowed by winds and rains.

In Pattaya, due to the large flow of tourists, there is no crystal clear water in the sea - it is muddy, greenish in color, with a lot of garbage. The beaches are crowded even in the transitional season. You can swim there from January to May and from November to December - the conditions for this are favorable. From May to October there are strong tides that interfere with swimming.

It is worth noting that there are a couple of islands near Pattaya with a minimum number of tourists. They are washed by the purest water - the bottom is visible even at a depth. One of these islands is Koh Lan, where a ferry departs daily.

Weather

[email protected]/flickr.com

Climate and weather conditions are the second most important factor influencing the decision - Pattaya or Phuket. After all, swimming even in the clear sea during the rainy season is cold and unpleasant, and sunbathing is completely impossible.

Pattaya and Phuket are similar in climate - the only difference is that the weather is never bad at the first resort - there are three seasons, two of which are favorable, and one is transitional, from June to October. There are heavy tropical showers, and the rest can be ruined.

During the rainy season, you can also have a good rest, visit and shop to your heart's content. An obvious plus of the low season is the minimum number of tourists around. Another distinctive feature of Pattaya's climate is high humidity. If you can't stand it, choose Phuket.

In Phuket, bad weather begins in June and lasts until October, when vacationers do not risk going into the sea, and rarely sunbathe. But a great season for surfers. Velvet time starts from November, when the weather is hot and dry, and swimming is officially allowed. However, even during the dry season, rain is possible - once or twice a week. Travelers who visit Thailand in winter write excellent reviews about the trip, noting the transparency of the water, the relative dryness of the air and the absence of powerful winds.

If you do not tolerate heat well, choose Pattaya - the climate there is milder than in Phuket, and the night temperature rarely drops to 20 degrees even in winter. As for nature, Phuket has a pronounced forest belt and secluded beaches, and the air is cleaner and fresher than in Pattaya - any comparison proves it.

Beaches

Karon Beach / yeowatzup, flickr.com

The beaches of Phuket are more suitable for cultural recreation. You can find a strip of land filled with vacationers and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of general fun, or visit the secluded corners of the island and enjoy snorkeling or diving alone, and meditate in nature. The quietest are Tri Trang, Liberty, Nai Harn, the most crowded is Patong. All beaches, and there are more than 20 of them, are located at a short distance from Phuket hotels, while in Pattaya it takes about an hour to get to the sea.

The beaches of Pattaya are suitable for lovers of active life and bustle - they are filled with restaurants and entertainment centers. But it is better to swim near the islands of Koh Lan and Koh Samet - the coast and water are cleaner there. The cost of moving is from 50 baht, travel time is 60 minutes.

Nong Ram, Pattaya / Thanate Tan, flickr.com

The best beaches in Pattaya itself: Military - a visit to 100 baht; Nong Ram. They are also full of tourists, especially during the tourist season.

Housing

The third criterion for choosing a resort is comfortable housing. Both places, Pattaya or Phuket, offer tourists comfortable hotels or daily apartment rentals.

Hotels

Accommodation prices are the same - Thailand is territorially stable. But in different seasons, the cost of living is also different. In winter, prices rise.

Estimated cost of accommodation in hotels in Pattaya:

1. Pinthong House (3 *) - 700 baht / day.
2. New Nordic Markus (4 *) - 1000 baht / day.

Cost of living in Phuket:

1. Kata Rocks - 700 baht / night.
2. Avista Phuket Resort - 400 baht / night.

It is more convenient to compare the cost of housing in specific hotels on the websites of agencies that sell tours to Thailand and on tourist resources like booking.com.

Apartment

Renting a house is not widespread and is cheaper in Pattaya - this is due to the greater remoteness of apartments from the sea than in Phuket. Lodging in Pattaya is simple, with amenities but no frills. But on the island you can rent a villa of fabulous beauty for a price of $50.

Movement

Dennis Yang/flickr.com

Tourists coming to Phuket on the direction of a travel agency stop on the island itself, and not in Phuket Town. For them, the only means of transportation is a taxi, other modes of transport are simply not provided.

Pattaya has a developed public transport system - you can get from one urban area to another for only 10 baht, and if you pay 20, you will be taken to a neighboring city, like Sirarchi or Sattahip. If you wish, you can even get to Bangkok by taking an intercity bus and paying only 100 baht for a ticket. Buses run to the capital of Thailand from any corner of Pattaya.

If you are interested in traveling somewhere other than the beaches, skip Phuket and choose Pattaya.

Excursions

daniel julià lundgren / flickr.com

Pattaya is considered a resort that is more advanced in terms of attractions. If you are interested in the historical value of Thailand, go there. The excursion set in the city is more diverse - each excursion is thought out so that in a day you can visit several places in the city and even go to explore the nearest regions - or the glorious village of Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand.

In Pattaya itself, be sure to see:

• Nong Nooch garden;
• local zoo Khao Keo;
• Koh Chang National Park;
• Temple of Truth and other temple complexes.

There are much fewer interesting places in Phuket - lovers of the sea, water activities and beaches go there. To see the sights of the island, you will need a moped or a rented car - it is too expensive to travel by taxi, from 550 baht. To Bangkok from the island 12-14 hours drive, excluding traffic jams. You can take a plane, but the tour will be expensive. And on the island itself there are no sights that reveal the mysteries of oriental culture.

But sea excursions are amazing - you can go to the nearest islands or to the province with the outlandish name of Krabi. During the trip, you will certainly be offered the possibility of diving and snorkeling - underwater diving with a mask and fins.

In this case, choosing which is better - Phuket or Pattaya, be guided by your own preferences. To be closer to nature, choose a tour to the island, and to people - go to Pattaya.

Entertainment

A.L.P.H.A / flickr.com

If you are looking for active entertainment in a crowd of people, choose Pattaya. The city is famous for its abundance of shopping centers, malls and restaurants, and their range is able to satisfy even the pickiest shopaholic with serious requests. The main thing is to take enough money with you, because spending it in a day in Pattaya is not difficult.

Known shopping centers Resort Pattaya:

1. Central Festival (Central Festival).
2. Royal Garden Plaza (Royal Garden Plaza).
3. King Power (King Power).
4. Mike Shopping Mall.

In any of the centers, branded clothing from popular manufacturers is sold, and prices are comparable to the cost of goods in Bangkok.

In Phuket, the number of shops is two to three times less, and the assortment is small. If your travel budget leaves much to be desired, go to the island - there are less temptations to buy unnecessary things. Shopping centers are located on Patong Beach or in Phuket Town. The main ones are:

1. Jungceylon (Jungceylon).
2. Outlett Mall (Mall Outlet).
3. ocean plaza.

In terms of entertainment, they are available in both resorts, but vary slightly depending on where you are. No matter Pattaya or Phuket, both resorts offer tourists all the possibilities of nightlife.

Walking Street / Roman Lashkin, flickr.com

In Pattaya, the key place for recreation is Walking Street. The name is translated as “street for walking”. The street is lined with entertainment venues:

• bars;
• restaurants;
• nightclubs;
• souvenir shops;
• cafe with exotic shows.

In Phuket, rest is somewhat quieter. The main entertainment for tourists during the day:

• diving;
• snorkeling;
• surfing;
• yachting;
• windsurfing.

If it is important for you to be in a party, among people, choose Patong Beach in Phuket. It also works at night - bars and discos are open there. On the other beaches, there is no nightlife.

Finance

The Preiser Project / flickr.com

The cost of a trip to the resort consists of the price of the tour and the financial costs incurred during the trip. Calculate where it is more profitable to go and choose a resort in Thailand that you can afford.

tour cost

In Russia, trips to Thailand are very cheap - 50-60 thousand rubles for two for 8 days, if you order them out of season or "last minute". The cost is about the same and depends on the chosen hotel and transport. Direct flights fly to both resorts, travel time is about 9 hours. But in Pattaya itself, it takes an hour longer to get to the hotel from the airport than in Phuket.

Prices

Tourists claim that prices in Pattaya are lower than in Phuket. Everything is expensive on the island - food, drinks, souvenirs, entertainment. The most expensive beach is Patong, where you can buy mango for 200 baht, pineapple for 50 baht or assorted sliced ​​​​fruits for 120 baht.

In Pattaya, for 40-50 baht, you can order a dinner from a macaroon, and in Phuket, the cost of the same dishes will be 70-80 baht. Fruit shakes in Phuket cost 80 baht, and in Pattaya - only 25. The situation is similar with restaurants and bars.

The only way to save money on food on the island is to buy food in stores and cook it yourself. In supermarkets, prices do not differ. But who wants to “cook” on vacation? It is better to take the time to rest and tan.

Video: Pattaya or Phuket?

Results

Summing up, we can say that each resort has its pros and cons, and the choice must be made, focusing on your own wishes and possibilities. Pattaya is worth a trip if you want to save money on a vacation or are looking for adventure, or maybe a girlfriend. Fans of hanging out and enjoying the architecture of the city should also go to the resort.

Pros of Pattaya:

1. Budget prices.
2. Short distance to Bangkok.
3. Transport infrastructure.
4. Nightlife.
5. No heavy rains.
6. The opportunity to relax in the summer.
7. Comfortable conditions for shopping.

Flaws:

• dirty sea.
• few beaches.
• many tourists.

Pros of Phuket:

1. Clean sea.
2. Over 20 beaches.
3. There are secluded corners of nature.
4. Possibility of diving.
5. Sea fishing and excursions.
6. There is a forest belt.
7. Better ecology.

Flaws:

• high prices;
• no transport;
• expensive and limited excursions;
• little entertainment.

The hotels are the same in both resorts, the residents are friendly towards tourists and are ready to help in difficult situations. The resort areas are thought out taking into account the needs of vacationers in both Phuket and Pattaya. so there won't be any problems with rest. Choose what you like, and boldly go ahead!

When the time comes for a long-awaited vacation, many of us wonder how to spend it in the most interesting way, so that it will be remembered for a long time? Where to go for these unforgettable experiences? Very often the choice falls on Thailand, but even here the questions do not decrease. An unsolvable dilemma immediately presents itself: what to choose or.

The choice is quite difficult, since these two resorts have a lot of advantages. No wonder they are the most popular in. To decide on a place of rest, first of all, it is worth realizing what exactly our soul desires. Entertainment to the fullest, active and noisy pastime or peace and quiet in a secluded paradise among pristine nature. Indeed, in this sense, Pattaya and Phuket are very different.

Entertainment

Pattaya has recently acquired the status of the most "party" resort city in the country. Life is in full swing there 24 hours a day. A variety of entertainment venues can be found on every corner. Restaurants, cafes, bars, pubs, Thai salons, shops, and street performers and clowns amuse passers-by right in the middle of the streets. So you won't be bored for a minute. Pattaya is especially famous.

With the onset of twilight, the city, no less noisy during the day, takes on a new breath. The streets are filled with people who want to relax and forget about all the problems and have fun. From all sides, colorful signs of nightly entertainment venues are lit with multi-colored lights and the sounds of music are heard, attracting visitors. It seems that even the air is filled with some unusual energy from which, willy-nilly, you forget about everything in the world and become a participant in the general fun.

Based on the above facts, it can be concluded that Pattaya is the best option for young people, single men wishing to relax in every sense of the word, well, everyone active tourists who love to spend time energetically and cheerfully.

In the city of entertainment, the main attraction is the Nong Nooch Botanical Garden, which is the hallmark of Pattaya. It has the largest collection of palm trees in all of Thailand, and also has a garden of orchids, bromeliads, cacti, and even a rock garden. Architectural masterpieces from all over Europe can be seen in Mini Siam Park. It presents reduced-sized copies of all the unique buildings in the world. Having visited it, you will no longer need to wander around different countries and continents to see the Roman Colosseum or the Statue of Liberty, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Big Ben, the Cheops Pyramid, the Tower Bridge and many other world-famous attractions.

You can see Pattaya at your feet by climbing the View Point observation deck, which is located on Mount Khao Pratamnak. When you go there, be sure to take your camera with you. Photos of the city taken from above are incredibly beautiful. Another of the most visited attractions is the Temple of Truth. It is the largest wooden temple in the world built without a single nail. In addition to all this, Pattaya has many museums, water parks, a dolphinarium, snake and crocodile farms.

Resting in Phuket, you can visit all the nearby islands. The most popular and Lovers of natural beauties are happy to visit the Butterfly Park and the Orchid Farm. And to see the most beautiful sunset on the island, you should go to Cape Phromthep. For families with children, visits to the aquarium, zoo and Phuket Fantasy amusement park will be exciting.

One of the main attractions of the island is the temple of Wat Chalong where the relics of the Buddha himself rest and a huge statue of Buddha towering over the island on Mount Nak Kood. A huge structure 45 meters high can be seen from anywhere in Phuket. Also, from the observation deck near the statue, a magnificent view of the entire island opens.

Prices

Often, when choosing a resort, one of the first thoughts that comes up is whether a vacation on it will hit the family budget a lot. And if you compare these two resorts in terms of the possibility of spending your vacation more economically, then Pattaya is undoubtedly the leader in this matter. In Phuket, everything is much more expensive. Prices for accommodation, food and even amenities on the beach are higher than in Pattaya. Especially shocking is the cost of a taxi on the island. In Pattaya, in addition to the Hilton Pattaya type, there is, and transport costs in general are scanty.

Shoppers, of course, are better off. The city has a huge number of large, chain supermarkets, shops, shops and various markets. So Pattaya can safely be called a paradise for shopaholics. In addition, it is not far from the city to Bangkok where you can buy a lot of wonderful things at lower prices.

Having considered Phuket and Pattaya for all points, you can opt for one resort, which is more suitable for the availability of amenities, entertainment and many other factors. But still, the best option would be to visit both of them and not deprive yourself of the opportunity to see all the beauty that is hidden in Pattaya and Phuket.

Thailand's two most popular tourist destinations are like yin and yang opposites in atmosphere, entertainment and audiences. Therefore, choosing one of the two resorts for relaxation is not difficult, most importantly, carefully read the review!

Resorts on the map

As you can see, the main resorts of Thailand are at a decent distance from each other. Pattaya is on the northeast coast, and Phuket is in the southwest of the country. They are separated by 993 kilometers. This is about 14 hours by car or a couple of hours of flight.

Weather

We wrote more about the holiday seasons in Thailand at. From the table above, you can get an idea of ​​the difference in weather conditions. From experience, in Pattaya it is better to relax from to. In Phuket from November to .

If suddenly you are brought to Thailand in the summer, it is definitely better to go to Pattaya. There, the weather is more pleasant at this time, and there are more entertainments.

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Pattaya

The largest tourist city is 150 km from the capital of Thailand - Bangkok. Unlike other resorts, you can get here in just a couple of hours by bus directly from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport. Developed infrastructure of the city and proximity to the main metropolis South-East Asia allows you to make your vacation rich, varied and interesting.

However, this resort has its own zest. Sex tourism made it popular. The most famous street of the city - Walking street - the concentration of Thai debauchery. What you will not see here is from harmless go-go bars and colorful transgender performances to amazing sex shows. Therefore, the circle of vacationers here is appropriate. Single aged men or companies of reckless youth prefer to come here in search of adventure.

Well, the muddy coast and the proximity of the beaches to the city affected the transparency of the water and the cleanliness of the beaches, not for the better. Therefore, if you want a paradise vacation "on the Bounty Island", it is better to immediately go to the next section. Well, if active rest and incendiary parties are your thing, start choosing the perfect beach.

Beaches

Pattaya Beach

The central city beach does not differ from its counterparts in other countries - this is an abundance of vacationers, garbage and not the cleanest sea. Along the entire beach there is also a highway, where, raising dust into the air, cars and motorcyclists rush around the clock.

During the day, residents of neighboring hotels and guesthouses like to sunbathe here after an active night pastime on Walking Street at the southern end of the beach. But here, along the entire coast, there are dozens of cafes, restaurants and street food stands (macashnits) for every taste and budget. Here along Pattaya Beach Road houses the best shops, shopping centers and various entertainment venues of the city. Therefore, if you are not going for a beach holiday - best place than Pattaya Beach is not to be found!

Jomtien

In the north, the main city beach of Pattaya Beach passes into Jomtien. Therefore, there is no particular difference in infrastructure, entertainment and cleanliness of the sea coast between these two busiest beaches. The only thing is that Walking Street is located at a distance from Jomtien, so the atmosphere here is calmer, nightclubs are increasingly replaced by massage parlors, and cafe prices are pleasantly pleasing.

Jomtien has developed extreme entertainment. The main center of attraction for those who like to tickle their nerves is the Pattaya Tower. It is from its roof, after examining the city panorama, that I propose to go down cable car in a bandage, cradle or closed cabin directly to Jomtien Beach.

Dongtan

Clean, calm, compact beach in the very south of the coast. True, there is one but! Dongtan Beach in indivisible ownership was occupied by representatives of sexual minorities. Therefore, the rainbow flag fluttering in the Thai winds is visible from all its parts, and men of all ages predominate among vacationers.

But all busy highways pass away from the beach, as well as most cafes, shops and shops. Therefore, a real relaxing holiday in a specific environment on Dongtan is guaranteed!

Wong Amat

Wongamat Beach is located in the very north of the coast. This is the most pleasant and well-maintained local beach with almost white sand (on the other beaches the sand is yellow). The sea here is calm and not as muddy as on the central beaches. In addition, the cleanliness of the place is carefully monitored by the staff of high-class hotels and condominiums, which are built up almost the entire beach line.

Therefore, if you plan to stay at a hotel on the coast and prefer a beach holiday, you won’t find a better place here! In other cases, access to the beach area for third-party tourists is limited.

Where to stay

There are a lot of housing offers, and the prices are pleasantly pleasing! So a room in a guesthouse here can be rented for 300-400 THB per day. True, you will have to live either far from the coast, or with windows overlooking the city's busiest thoroughfares - Sukhumvit Road, Pattaya Beach Road or the already mentioned Walking Street.

For those who prefer a comfortable stay, there is where to roam. Along the coast, there is a huge number of upscale 3-5 star hotels with prices for a double room from 700 THB per day. Among the hotels are well-known world chains - Four Seasons, Holiday Inn and Hilton, as well as local luxury resorts and small hotels.

A double room in a hotel on the territory of the most famous building in Pattaya - Pattaya Tower Resort - will cost 1500 THB.

Prices

This is one of the cheapest Thai resorts. In Phuket, the second most popular tourist destination, holidays will cost, on average, 1.5-2 times more.

Food prices in local eateries start at only 30-40 THB, and a full seafood lunch in a good restaurant on the coast will cost no more than 500 THB. By the way, lunch at McDonald's costs only 2 times lower. Western fast food here is not cheap!

From alcohol, Thais prefer the local beer Chang or other southeastern brands Singha, Tiger and Leo. They sell it on every corner, and a small can will cost 50 THB.

It is better to buy fruits not in stores and supermarkets, but in markets where they will be fresher and cheaper, and there will be more choice. The most expensive fruits in Thailand are our native apples and plums (from 100 THB per kilogram), but tropical exotics are several times cheaper! Mangoes are 60-80 THB/kg, dragon fruit are 40-60 THB/kg, bananas are 30-35 THB/kg and watermelon or pineapple can be found for as little as 20-25 THB/kg.

Phuket

The largest Thai island (which is why the Thais add Koh to the name)) and, concurrently, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world offers a textbook vacation in the tropics: clear and transparent azure sea, white sand, tall palm trees, an abundance of cheap seafood and exotic fruits.

Unlike its fellow, the central city on the island - Phuket Town - is located at a distance from the beaches. Therefore, all the main urban infrastructure is within easy reach, and nothing pollutes the surroundings of the beaches.

Koh Phuket is perfect for those who prefer typical urban entertainment (museums, shopping and parties in nightclubs) to a classic beach holiday and familiarity with tropical nature. Although parties with shopping here will be enough!

Beaches

Patong

The most crowded and tourist beach of the resort, due to its population, is much inferior in the cleanliness of the coast and the transparency of the sea to its neighbors. The atmosphere here is lively and rave, so it reminds tourists of Pattaya. This is because Patong has many nightclubs, striptease bars and other places of entertainment that are directly related to the sex tourism industry.

A highway runs along the entire beach line of Patong, on the opposite side of which restaurants and cafes line up densely. The beach is in abundance filled with sun loungers of the mentioned establishments, which are offered to be used not only by cafe visitors, but also by anyone for 100 THB.

Karon

The second most popular local beach, unlike Patong, where active party youth prefer to stay, is more suitable for family holidays. Despite the fact that Karon is populated no worse than Patong, the atmosphere here is calmer, there are not so many intimate establishments, bars and nightclubs with girls of easy virtue.

However, the popularity of the resort among a wide range of tourists and the abundance of hotels did not have the best effect on the cleanliness of the beach. The coast and the sea here, as in Patong, are not bad, but still not from the dream of a paradise “Bounty Island”. On the other hand, the asphalt road that separates the beach from residential buildings has preserved it almost in its original form and did not allow it to be occupied by restaurants and cafes.

Bang Tao

Bang Tao is the most expensive beach with first-class service and luxurious hotels, stretching along the 8-kilometer coastline. As expected, the staff of neighboring hotels carefully monitors the coast here, so the cleanliness in Bang Tao is exceptional.

The central part of the beach is occupied by a complex of 7 luxury resorts "Laguna". The guests of the complex are waiting not only for swimming pools, beauty salons and restaurants, but also their own access to the sea and even a specially equipped golf course!

Especially for wealthy tourists, Bang Tao offers expensive branded boutiques, massage and spa salons with high-class service, as well as many restaurants with world cuisines and bars with a claim to good taste, as opposed to cheap Patong establishments.

Kamala

A small bay with a calm sea, a gentle slope and fine white sand north of Patong was chosen by European pensioners. Therefore, the atmosphere here is quiet and conducive to a leisurely beach holiday.

The southern part of the beach is livelier than the sedate north with its upscale hotels. In the south of Kamala there are many shops, small shops, inexpensive cafes and restaurants. Local fishermen live here, every morning they go to sea for their catch, and in the evening they pull their traditional long boats ashore.

Where to stay

With a large number of beaches for a wide variety of audiences, accommodation can also be found for every taste and budget. On the island, you can rent not only a standard hotel room, but also apartments in a modern condominium right on the coast (at a price comparable to a 3-4 star hotel) or even a whole mansion with a swimming pool.

The most budgetary guesthouses and hotels are located, of course, on Patong and Karon - the most densely populated beaches. Here, a decent, but unpretentious room in a guest house can be rented for 700 THB per day. However, you will have to live either far from the beach, or with windows overlooking noisy and busy streets.

The smaller and more deserted the beach, the more local hotels will ask for accommodation. Double rooms in inexpensive 2-star hotels, on average, start from 1000 THB per night, and in the fashionable Laguna resorts in Bang Tao they reach up to 3500 THB.

Prices

As already mentioned, rest here is seriously more expensive than Pattaya. For example, the average cost of dinner in a good restaurant here will reach 900 THB. And for main dishes in local cafes you will have to pay from 50-60 THB. True, prices at McDonald's throughout the country remain stable - 200 THB for a combo lunch. And compared to restaurants in Phuket, prices for Western fast food no longer seem to be as biting here as they are in Pattaya. Almost the same prices for alcohol throughout the country - 50 THB apiece. Cans of beer can charge up only in cafes on the first line of beaches.

But what is undoubtedly pleasing is the low prices for seafood. In local supermarkets, you can buy sea fish or fresh squid at a price of 50-60 THB / kg, and a kilogram of king prawns will cost 200-230 THB. In cafes and restaurants, you can order Tom Yam or rice with seafood, where the vast majority of the plate space will be occupied by palm-sized shrimp, for 120-150 THB.

Prices for fruits in the resorts do not differ much. In addition to the legendary Thai mango (60-80 THB/kg), exotic dragon fruit (40-60 THB/kg), inexpensive bananas (30-35 THB/kg) and watermelons (20-25 THB/kg), Phuket markets and fruit stalls you can find papaya 2 times cheaper than in Pattaya (25-30 THB/kg). And tropical mangosteen and lychee will cost 60-65 THB/kg.

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