A Dream Journey of Two Brothers with one dream

Pattaya Newsletter Edition

Author

Love Thailand
February 19, 2024

THAI NEWS
Thai Woman Tries To Kill Herself Due To Love Interest From Two Men

Credit to: Channel 8

A Thai woman named Chuda “Aom” Pramoonsuk attempted suicide by running into traffic in Nonthaburi province due to stress from having to choose between two men who loved her. The police found Aom injured in the road after a car accident. She told them she had tried to kill herself because of the pressure of choosing between the two men, Home and Kong.

After discussing it, Hom agreed to be part of a polyamorous relationship with Aom and Kong, while Kong was unsure about it but willing if Aom continued taking care of him as before. In an interview, Aom admitted loving both men equally and promised not to take any more lovers because their presence already made things too complex.

OTHER NEWS

Phuket taxi drivers accused of threatening Grab driver

A group of taxi drivers in Phuket, near the Maya Beach Club, have been reported to the police for intimidating a legal Grab taxi driver. The victim was waiting to pick up passengers when his path was blocked by a tuk tuk and four men threatened him. He called emergency services but the suspects had fled by the time they arrived. This is not an isolated event as another legal Grab taxi driver was assaulted at the same location in December.

Jon “Bones” Jones the GOAT of MMA is coming to Bangkok

High Life Management is bringing UFC Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones to Bangkok, Thailand. Known as one of the most celebrated mixed martial artists, Jones will be available for a meet and greet session on 22nd February at Escape Rooftop, Emquartier. Fans can attend the event by purchasing tickets for the Meet & Greet (3000 baht) or VIP Party which has limited availability (20,000 baht).

Miss Universe president denies fraud, vows legal action in Thailand

The President of the Miss Universe Organization, Paula Shugart, has decided to leave her role after 23 years. This decision was announced during the Miss Universe 2023 pageant in El Salvador. She has been accused of fraud and bribery, but she strongly denies these allegations. Shugart plans to take legal action in Thailand against these accusations. She believes that they not only harm her name, but also downplay the achievements of every woman who won the Miss Universe title by suggesting they bought their victories unfairly. Despite all this controversy, Shugart is staying away from social media arguments and hopes those who know her will support her integrity.

DESTINATION OF THE DAY
PATTAYA

Pattaya is a city that's buzzing with activity, located just 100km southeast of Bangkok. It attracts both business and leisure travellers with its lively nightlife, luxury hotels, dining options, beautiful beaches and an array of entertainment and sports facilities.

Every year the city welcomes over 3 million international tourists who are keen to immerse themselves in Pattaya’s rich culture which is steeped in Thai traditions. The city is especially famous for its exquisite craftsmanship; the wooden Sanctuary of Truth temple stands as a prime example of this traditional skill.

Tip: Pattaya highly recognizes “wai” a traditional Thai gesture done by placing your palms together in a prayer-like position and bowing your head slightly. This is a sign of gratitude and is commonly used as a greeting and a symbol of recognition for the elderly and those in authority. It would be a remarkable act to embrace this norm when visiting Pattaya to engage with the locals and connect with the Pattaya residents.

BANKING
USE WISE LIKE A BANK

Convert your money to Thai Baht within the app…

With Wise, you can hold money in 40+ currencies, and convert between them at the real exchange rate whenever you need. It’s free to sign up, and there are no monthly fees.

You can get account details for USD, GBP, EUR, THB, AUD*, NZD, CAD, HUF, RON**, and SGD — with more currencies on the way. Share these details with your friends, companies or customers to get money from around the world. You can also receive money without sharing your bank details.

You can send money from your Wise balance to a bank account outside of Wise whenever you like. We’ll charge a fixed fee and a conversion fee when you send to a different currency. Sending and receiving money between Wise Accounts in the same currency is free. 

You can spend money in different currencies around the world with the Wise card and get low conversion fees — check this on our pricing page For the most up-to-date pricing and fee information.

EXPAT STORIES
FROM A DREAM TO REALITY

TWO BROTHERS, ONE DREAM!

Two Aussie brothers, passionate about Thailand and tattoos, once joked about leaving their mining jobs. They dreamt of a life in paradise surrounded by tattoo art. That joke became a reality 6 months ago when they started Lethal Ink. This January marked the official opening of their shop.

Their team consists of an incredible manager who works wonders and four talented artists skilled in all styles of tattooing, including one international artist. The brothers insist on using only top-quality USA-imported ink and equipment. All their artists have been trained to handle bloodborne viruses and take cross-contamination protocols seriously.

They're inviting you to join them on this body art journey and become part of their family. Book through Love Thailand for a 10% discount off already reasonable prices.

ATTRACTIONS
Top 10 Things To Do In Pattaya

  1. Ethical Elephant Sanctuary Interactive Tour

    Experience the delight of interacting closely with Thailand's majestic elephants in Pattaya. This popular half-day trip lets you feed, bathe and build meaningful connections with these amazing creatures while contributing to their well-being. Enjoy a fascinating learning experience about elephants followed by an exciting mud spa activity. The fun doesn't stop there - wrap up your day with a delicious Thai meal! Seize this fantastic opportunity to create lasting memories and help foster a brighter future for these incredible beings.  

  2. Full-Day 3 Island Tour on Catamaran with Lunch


    Hop aboard a comfortable catamaran for an unforgettable ocean adventure. Explore three breathtaking islands - Koh Larn, Koh Sak, and Koh Krokday in just one day! Enjoy snorkeling amidst stunning coral formations, relax under the warm sun with pleasant sea breezes and savor a delicious lunch on board. This all-inclusive trip promises fun-filled diving activities and spectacular views from the boat.

  3. Pattaya Full-Day Sunset Yacht Exclusive Island Excursion

    Embark on an unforgettable journey through the calm waters of the Gulf of Thailand with this luxurious cruise package. With opportunities to personalize your experience, this is a perfect choice for those seeking romance or adventure. Enjoy activities like snorkeling, swimming, and fishing amidst stunning sunset views. Experience love and connection in a breathtaking island setting.

  4. Tiffany's Show Pattaya

    Experience the world's first cabaret show, Tiffany's Show Pattaya, which features transgender performers. Enjoy a performance that is perfect for all age groups and will surely give you unforgettable memories. The show lasts for 75 minutes.

  5. Beach + City Scenic Paramotor Flight by BFA

    Looking for an exciting adventure in Thailand? Why not try a paramotor flight experience! From 1000 feet up, you'll have a bird's eye view of Pattaya. You'll be guided by experienced and certified pilots throughout your journey. Plus, the experience includes a tour around their airport facilities with a comprehensive safety briefing. Get ready to enjoy an adrenaline-pumping 25-minute adventure that you won't forget anytime soon.

  6. Parasailing Experience

    Experience the thrill of soaring high above the water, feeling the rush of wind and taking in breathtaking views of Pattaya's stunning beaches with our exhilarating parasailing adventure. This is your opportunity to view things differently and indulge in a thrilling experience that you'll never forget. Guided by professionals for safety and enjoyment, this activity is perfect for daredevils or those who've always dreamt of trying out parasailing.

  7. 2-hour Advanced ATV/Buggy Offroad Tour with Meal

    Get ready for an exciting two-hour Advanced ATV/Buggy Offroad Tour in Pattaya. Traverse through wild terrains with the help of experienced guides and feel the exhilaration as you take on tough routes. This adventure is perfect for both seasoned off-roaders and beginners alike! After your thrilling ride, sit back, relax and enjoy a tasty meal while exchanging stories about your daring exploits.

  8. Sanctuary of Truth

    The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya is a popular destination for tourists, offering an impressive display of traditional Thai craftsmanship and rich cultural history. This still-unfinished wooden temple, which has been under construction since 1981 and won't be completed until 2025, is set against beautiful natural surroundings and features intricate carvings that depict legendary characters and symbolic Thai trends. With more than 250 skilled craftsmen working on the site daily, visitors can experience changes or additions to the structure with each visit. The sanctuary serves as a harmonious blend of spirituality, art, and nature.

  9. Coral Island & Sak Island Adventure Trip

    The Coral Island and Sak Island Trip offers a full package of exploration, relaxation, and aquatic activities. Visitors will enjoy the beautiful waters and sandy beaches of Coral Island, where they can swim or snorkel among vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs. Afterward, the trip moves to the serene Sak Island - a unique gem where guests have an opportunity to unwind on clean beaches, breathe in fresh air, or take peaceful strolls along the shore.

  10. Frost Magical Ice of Siam - Tourist Entry Ticket

    This ticket offers an adventurous trip to an ice world where everything, from creatures to castles, is made of beautiful ice sculptures. You will get the opportunity to explore the Ice Bar with its uniquely crafted items like plates and cups all made out of ice. The journey also includes a visit inside the frigid Ice Dome, for which warm clothes will be provided. This thrilling experience is perfect for group outings with friends or family, offering a unique and exciting adventure in this icy wonderland.

CULINARY DELIGHTS
5 Best Places To Eat & Drink In Pattaya

  1. Robin Hood Tavern

    The Robin Hood Tavern is a British-style pub in Pattaya offering a variety of hearty meals like savory pies and traditional fish and chips. It's an ideal spot for watching live sports, enjoying a fun night out with friends or simply having a relaxing meal. The tavern combines the vibrant nightlife of Pattaya with top-notch British hospitality, making it the perfect place to create memorable moments while relishing good food and company.

  2. Horizon


    This rooftop spot in Pattaya offers stunning views and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Its modern, stylish design includes an outdoor terrace where visitors can enjoy cocktails, snacks, and music. Inside, there's a restaurant serving a range of fusion dishes including meats, seafood, and grills. Despite being slightly pricey, the excellent service from professional staff makes it worthwhile. It's particularly recommended for sunset lovers who should visit between 5-7 pm to make the most of their experience.

  3. Cafe des Amis Fine Dining

    Cafe des Amis in Pattaya, renowned for celebrating special occasions like wedding anniversaries and birthdays, offers elegant European & French cuisine with a wide selection of beef, lamb, fish, lobster, caviar and oysters. It boasts one of the best wine cellars in Pattaya along with Thailand's biggest Gin bar featuring over 200 types of Gins and a well-stocked bar offering 300 labels. The cafe provides two seating locations: 1) the romantic private Garden Courtyard equipped with mosquito repellants and mobile air cooling fan units and 2) the climate-controlled main restaurant that is tastefully designed to provide an exquisite dining experience.

  4. Casa Pascal Restaurant

    Casa Pascal is a top-rated restaurant in Pattaya, situated on South Pattaya Second Road. It's known for its delicious dishes like Thai seafood salad, paella, spaghetti, roasted duck breast and lamp stew among others. Ideal for family outings or romantic dinners, the restaurant also offers wine to complement your meal. With its cozy ambiance and free WiFi for guests, Casa Pascal guarantees an unforgettable dining experience.

  5. Cabbages and Condoms

    Cabbages & Condoms Restaurant is a renowned Thai restaurant located in Pattaya, offering an enchanting beachside dining experience. The romantic ambiance includes tables set under illuminated tropical trees and lanterns crafted from bamboo fishtraps. Additional outdoor seating options include the terrace, Sunset Deck, and Bamboo Bar where guests can enjoy breathtaking ocean views and fresh sea breezes. For those who wish to be close to the water, there's also a beachside bar just a few steps away from the shoreline.

TRANSPORT


Ways To Get About In Pattaya

Getting around Pattaya offers various transportation options to suit different preferences and budgets. These options are:

By Songthaew

Songthaew, also known as Baht Buses, are essentially small trucks modified with benches in the back to carry passengers along various routes in the city. It's useful to know that these Baht Buses are incredibly common and run frequently throughout Pattaya. They typically pass by every few minutes - between 3 to 10 minutes on most streets, so you won’t be waiting long.

The fare starts from as low as THB10 for short distances. However, for longer rides, say from Jomtien to Naklua, the fare could go up to around 20 Baht. 

By Taxi

Taxes provide a comfortable alternative for those seeking more privacy or are in a hurry. Many taxi drivers in Pattaya may charge a "tourist tax," meaning they might quote higher fares to tourists. To avoid overpaying, it's advisable to check the estimated fare on the Grab app before negotiating a price with the taxi driver. Additionally, using the Grab app to book taxis offers a no-hassle approach, helping you get a clear idea of the fare before your journey. While air-conditioned taxis are available in several downtown locations, it's important to note that they often don't use meters, meaning you'll need to negotiate the fare with the driver beforehand.

By Motorbike Taxi

If you’re aiming for speed and efficiency, motorbike taxis are a great choice, especially for solo travelers wanting to navigate traffic faster. Just look for drivers wearing numbered bright vests. This option is more affordable than taxis and perfect for short distances within the city. 

Rent Bicycle/Scooter/Car

Renting a bicycle, scooter, or car gives you the freedom to explore Pattaya at your own pace. While bicycles are ideal, they are not as widespread as those for motorcycles or cars. You can find bicycles to rent at some motorbike rental shops. If the quality of these rental bikes does not meet your needs, you might consider purchasing a bicycle from malls or hypermarkets for your trip. Additionally, some hotels and resorts offer bicycles for rent, but this service might be exclusive to their guests. 

For those considering getting around Pattaya by scooter, be aware of the risk of scooter rental scams, which are unfortunately common in this tourist-friendly city. To avoid these scams, a good strategy is to rent scooters from an online scooter rental company. Not only does this reduce the chance of falling victim to a scam, but it also allows for a comparison of prices and conditions before committing, ensuring you get a fair deal.

THAILAND EVENTS
Pattaya International Kite On The Beach 2024

  • 22-26 February 2024

  • Pattaya Beach and Central Pattaya (1st Floor)

  • Chon Buri

As the festival marks its third year in a row, anticipation is high. Attendees can look forward to an impressive display of large kites in various shapes and colours, all set against the beautiful scenery of Pattaya Beach.

  • 23-26 February 2024      

  • The Mud Crabs Sculpture, Khanap Nam Pier

  • Krabi

Join us on February 24th for a unique event with John Nuvo and the Sounds of Earth artist group. The group is excited to bring their joyful sounds to Krabi, offering attendees an innovative way to appreciate live music via exclusive SOE headphones. Experience their music, designed to heal the world and shift perceptions of live performances through headphone.

  • 23-25 February 2024

  • CHANG International Circuit

  • Buri Ram

The Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand is set to host the D1 Grand Prix Thailand 2024. This thrilling event, which serves as the inaugural round of the year, will showcase top-tier drift racing with competitors hailing from Thailand and worldwide. Admission is free for all attendees! Drivers can now sign up to participate! Brace yourself for a heart-racing spectacle at D1 Grand Prix Thailand 2024!

THAILAND CELEBRATION
Makha Bucha Day

When: February 24

Makha Bucha Day is a special holiday in Thailand that celebrates an important event in Buddhism. This day remembers when 1,250 disciples of Buddha came together without planning to listen to him speak. The date changes each year because it is based on the lunar calendar. In 2022, this day was celebrated on February 16th.

COOK WITH US
Vegan Chickpea Smash With Charred Cord

This is a vegan Thai dish that's packed with protein. The meal has a tasty base of smashed ingredients and includes charred corn that adds just the right amount of smoky sweetness. It also has fresh red onion, tangy lime juice, and creamy avocado to balance out the flavors perfectly. This recipe showcases how versatile plant-based ingredients can be while offering an array of textures and tastes. It's not just yummy but also highlights the appeal of vegan cooking.

Ingredients

  • Chickpeas

  • Corn

  • Red onion

  • Fresh cilantro

  • Lime juice

  • Olive oil

  • Salt

  • Pepper

  • Avocado