I Wasted My First Trip to Thailand by Only Visiting Bangkok
I’ve been to Thailand over 20 times. And every time I see tourists heading straight back home after only visiting Bangkok, I think the same thing — what a waste. Just two hours from Bangkok lies Pattaya, a city that shows a completely different side of Thailand.
Getting from Bangkok to Pattaya
Take a direct bus from Ekkamai Bus Terminal — about 2 hours and very affordable. Even first-timers can manage it easily. For getting around Pattaya, songthaews (shared trucks, from 15 baht) and ride-hailing apps like Grab and Bolt are convenient and reliable.
Hotels in Pattaya
Pattaya has options for every budget, from cheap guesthouses to luxury resorts.
For nightlife: Stay along the songthaew routes for easy access to everything
For relaxation: Choose a resort with a pool away from Walking Street and the main strip
For island lovers: Koh Larn has hotels too — staying overnight lets you enjoy the island at a deeper level
What I Did in Pattaya
Shooting Range You can’t shoot real guns in Japan. Thailand has shooting ranges across the country, but Pattaya has some of the best. TACTICS AND GUN SHOOTING RANGE is one of Asia’s largest, with a wide variety of weapons and tactical scenarios. Must be 20 or older. Bring your passport. Wear sneakers, not sandals.
Koh Larn Island Take the public ferry from Bali Hai Pier — about 30-40 minutes and only around 30 baht one way. Crystal clear water perfect for snorkeling, parasailing and jet skiing. Tawaen Beach is lively with activities while Samet Beach is quieter for those who want to relax. Consider staying overnight on the island for a deeper experience.
Walking Street At night this becomes a pedestrian zone filled with neon lights, go-go bars and clubs. Love it or hate it, it’s worth seeing at least once. Be firm with aggressive touts, keep valuables secure in the crowds, and always check prices before ordering.
Tree Town (Soi Buakhao) There’s a street food court at the entrance with cheap and delicious Thai food. Surrounding it are rows of beer bars packed with people. At night this place gets even more lively than Walking Street according to many regulars. Popular with long-term Western expats — this is the real, raw nightlife of Pattaya.
Roti and Pad Krapow Street food in Pattaya is cheap and incredible. Don’t miss the roti and pad krapow (Thai basil stir fry). Eating at street stalls is one of the great joys of Pattaya.
The Best Part of Bangkok
The massage parlors in the Taniya area are world class. Japanese is spoken here and you can get traditional Thai massage in a relaxed, comfortable setting. After walking around all day, melting into a massage chair is the true highlight of Bangkok for me.
My Honest Regret About Going in May
It was too hot. I even gave up on golf. If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, November to February (dry season) is by far the best time to visit. Everything — sightseeing, food, outdoor activities — becomes so much more enjoyable. Even for repeat visitors like me, May is tough.
Safety Tips
Avoid walking alone late at night
Never accept drinks from strangers
Keep bags in front of you in crowded areas
Who Should Visit Pattaya
Travelers who have already been to Bangkok
Those who want a resort-style holiday
Anyone looking for unique experiences
Nightlife lovers
Budget travelers and luxury seekers alike
Who Should Stick to Bangkok Only
First-time visitors to Thailand
Those with limited time
Travelers focused on shopping and gourmet food
Final Thoughts
Bangkok is a city trip. Pattaya is a resort stay. With 6 days you can comfortably enjoy both. Next time I’m coming back in the dry season for golf and Koh Larn. If you leave Thailand having only seen Bangkok, you’re missing half the story.
