The area of Pattaya is found along Thailand’s eastern coast and is a treasure trove of traditional practices and the glitz and glamour of the modern world. With a diverse spread of indulgences to partake of, Pattaya is sure to keep you going throughout the course of your stay here. First time travellers to this part of Thailand would do well to take note of the numerous choices of accommodation on offer. Selecting a hotel or resort much like AVANI Pattaya Resort & Spa is essential before you begin to set about discovering the sights and sounds of Pattaya. Things to do here would include visiting Buddhist temples and waterparks.
Though at times the Walking Street can be faulted for being somewhat of a Ghost Town at day, the area more than makes up for its silence come nightfall as one is presented with a choice of beer bars, nightclubs and restaurants to call by. Located at the end of Beach Road, Walking Street is at most times a hub of activity with neon lights, thumping music and thrifty street vendors. However, a far more reserved yet fulfilling experience awaits those setting foot within the beauty and pageantry of Nong Nooch Garden. Here one can discover an array of themed gardens from across the globe such as the Stonehenge or even one from the times of the European Renaissance. Visitors will be able to capture the glorious sight of an 18-meter tall Buddha statue which is considered the highlight of touring the Wat Phra Yai; a shrine perched atop Pratumnak Hill. Intricately carved, both the statue and temple itself are often venerated by those wishing to burn incense and place flowers.
For a more engaging experience, head out to some of the waterparks in the region ranging from Pattaya Park to Cartoon Network Amazone Waterpark Pattaya. The former’s beachfront location is ideal for the whole family which offers a good balance of waterslides and roller coasters to try out. Hair-raising encounters are part and parcel of the park with the Pattaya Park Tower’s jumping platform providing three different ways by which one might get back to the ground. The latter with its waterslides and Disneyworld mascots to delight in is a playground for all ages. A mere 20-minute drive from Pattaya Beach, the premises is home to the famous Surfarena which creates a breaking wave for surfing; a good way to beat the searing temperatures. Also worthy of mention is the Omniverse that will cater to the more daring at heart through a series of loops and freefalls that form part of its water rollercoasters; a wonderful experience that ought to be tried, here in pulsating Pattaya.
Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting.
