Pattaya is one of the most popular destinations for Bangkokians looking for an easy weekend escape, plus expats and domestic and international tourists. And for good reasons. Located on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, it has lovely beaches, a vast range of entertainment options, a vibrant nightlife, a good range of shopping malls, loads of restaurants, excellent healthcare and education facilities, and things to do for all ages.
Although some other cities in Thailand offer a lower cost of living than Pattaya, it still provides an affordable and high-quality lifestyle, especially compared to many western countries. It is a favourite Bangkok getaway because it is just two hours from Bangkok via decent motorways.
Are you planning your retirement in Thailand or secured work in Pattaya? This guide will help you learn a little more about living in Pattaya.
Climate
Forget about bringing winter woollies. The climate is tropically hot year-round. It is characterised by three seasons:
December to February, when average temperatures range from about 22°C - 30°C (72°F - 87°F) and days are sunny, is the most appealing hot and dry season.
March and April may reach 35°C, or 95°F is the hot and humid season; the humidity makes it feel even more steamy.
May to November is the wet or monsoon season, bringing a slight decrease in temperatures. Whilst rain for full days is not common, sudden and intense downpours can result in localised flooding. It is often cloudy during this period though still hot with sunny periods.
Swimming and other water sports are at a perfect temperature year-round.
Getting There and Around
Bangkok’s main international airport, Suvarnabhumi, is approximately two hours away. Just south of Pattaya in Rayong Province, U-Tapao International Airport, with its domestic and international connections, is getting a mega upgrade. A new high-speed rail line linking Pattaya to both U-Tapao and Bangkok’s airports is just a few years away from completion. Air travel options and greater connectivity for this region are definitely on the up.
The road network is continually improving and is the most common way of getting to Pattaya. The M7 motorway from Bangkok to Rayong has feeder roads providing simple access to all of greater Pattaya’s coastal communities.
When moving to Pattaya, consider carefully how you will get around. If you wish to live away from the main tourist strip, like most expats, you will most likely need a car or motorcycle. Public transport is somewhat limited to the tourist strip, with songtaews (baht buses), motorcycle and four-wheel taxis, and Grab, the only real option.
Where to Live and What About Schools?
Of course, it is a personal choice, and you are spoilt for choice.
If you want to be at the seaside, within reach of public transport and prolific entertainment and nightlife, some parts of Wongamat, Pattaya Central, and Jomtien have oodles of condos.
Maybe you still want easy access to the beach, but away from the touristy areas. There are excellent locations further north of Wongamat, and south of Naa Jomtien, including beautiful Bang Saray and Baan Amphur.
Those seeking green space, a quieter lifestyle and more rural living will find plenty of options west of Pattaya, in Nong Prue and Huay Yai. These areas attract families, couples, pet lovers and retirees.
Have you got kids? There are 12 international schools in Pattaya, reaching down to Rayong in the south. British, American and French curricula are available, plus there are many Thai government schools. The school’s location is often a key consideration when choosing where to live, as public transportation may be limited.
Healthcare in Pattaya is excellent, with several private international hospitals and local government-run Thai hospitals. Optical, dental clinics and specialist medical services are all easily accessible.
What Types of Properties are Available?
Pattaya is blessed with a diverse range of housing. If you want to live seaside with sweeping ocean views and swanky onsite facilities, condos win hands down. Studios to penthouses, ‘renovators delights’ to turnkey condos are prolific around Wongamat, Na Kluea, Pratumnak and Jomtien. If you are investing in Pattaya, an apartment is a logical choice.
Prefer your own garden and pool? For families, retirees and those seeking more space and tranquillity, investigate away from the coastal strip. You can find beautiful private pool villas in secure villages offering affordable luxury living. Many developments have a communal fitness centre, swimming pool, jacuzzi, steam room, bbq and garden areas.
Townhouses, sometimes called terrace houses or shophouses, are another option. They will have connecting walls between the homes, a small courtyard or outdoor area, often multi-storied, and limited common facilities. However, there is a trend in newer builds, including a swimming pool and fitness centre, as they compete with other housing projects.
Sports and Recreation
Visitors flock to Pattaya for the abundance of activities suitable for all ages. This is great for expats too. Theme parks, beaches and water sports, water parks, good shopping malls, markets and a plethora of eating places. It’s all here.
Many expats enjoy golf, racquet sports, cricket, football, cycling, swimming, Muay Thai, and more. Those interested in artistic and cultural pursuits can find like-minded people too. Some take weekend escapes to the outlying islands of Koh Larn and Koh Samed. The Pattaya Expats club is an excellent avenue for meeting new people, developing interests and hobbies and getting the lowdown on living in Pattaya.
Many expats report finding Pattaya relatively easy to settle in when considering living in Thailand. Buying familiar food and groceries, clothes, household goods, and vehicles is easy. There’s also plenty of stuff to do for families, singles, couples and retirees. Although the level of English may be below Bangkok, many get by with minimal Thai language.
If you want to buy property in Pattaya, engage a reliable real estate agent such as Lazudi. They can guide you whether you are looking for a sky-soaring penthouse, a modest, inexpensive two-bedroom villa, or a vast pool villa with all the bells and whistles.
