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Originally a small fishing village on the sea, Pattaya has developed significantly since the U.S. military established a base there during the Vietnam War. These days, Pattaya is a popular getaway in Thailand for people who crave the thrills of both nightlife and water sports.

Key facts

The majority of people traveling to Pattaya will arrive via Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) or Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) in Bangkok. There is a direct bus to Pattaya from Suvarnabhumi Airport. Buses also frequently leave from Ekkamai and Mo Chit bus stations in Bangkok. The trip takes about three hours. U-Tapao International Airport (UTP) in Pattaya provides domestic flights from Phuket and Koh Samui. Metered taxis are available across the city.

Hints and tips

People who visit Pattaya generally go for the nightlife, and it is available everywhere. The city is widely known for its large concentration of go-go bars in areas like Walking Street. There is also a Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum in town. Yellow Submarine Pattaya can give you a great view of the marine life in the area. The city is also a great place to become internationally certified as a scuba diver. There is a large number of diving certification schools in town that can help even the novices live out their underwater dreams.