Explore the Charm of Temples, Beaches, and Paradise Islands in This Overlooked Coastal Gem of Thailand Posted on March 11, 2024July 12, 2024 By Travelworldwide Every place has its own reputation—some good, some bad, and some mixed. As places become more popular, they often need to make changes. For example, Austin banned camping on sidewalks to address the issue of homeless encampments. Amsterdam is trying to rebrand by discouraging certain party-focused tourists. Now, it’s Pattaya’s turn. When planning a trip to Thailand, cities like Bangkok and islands like Phuket and Koh Samui often come to mind. However, Pattaya is actually the third most visited city in Thailand, according to the Global Destination Cities Index by Mastercard. Known for its affordability and vibrant nightlife, Pattaya is now aiming to appeal to a broader range of travelers. ### Discover Pattaya’s Rich Culture Just two hours south of Bangkok, Pattaya offers a lot more than its nightlife. While it’s known for its lively bar scene, the city wants to change this image. Pattaya is far from boring and has much to offer beyond its bustling nightlife. Set along the Gulf of Thailand, it can be a relaxing getaway or a place full of exciting activities. Pattaya boasts some of Thailand’s most stunning temples, rivaling those in Bangkok. Must-visit temples include Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha), Wat Chaimongkon, and The Sanctuary of Truth. Besides temples, Pattaya has beautiful monasteries, floating markets, and some of the best street food for adventurous eaters. For those looking to escape the crowds, nearby towns like Phanat Nikhom, Sri Racha, and Bang Saen offer a more cultural experience. And don’t forget to take a ride on a tuk-tuk! ### Affordable Beach Getaway Thailand is famous for its beautiful beaches, and Pattaya is no exception. The coastline is lined with lovely beaches perfect for sunny days. Staying in Pattaya is also very affordable. Beach resorts here are budget-friendly, with upscale brands like Intercontinental available for around $100, and local resorts like Garden Cliff Resort & Spa even cheaper. Prices vary, but you can definitely save money while enjoying a beach vacation. ### Island Adventures Thailand is home to over 1,400 islands, making it a paradise for island-hopping. Pattaya serves as a great starting point for exploring these exotic locations. Koh Lan is the most popular island near Pattaya, offering stunning views, luxurious resorts, beautiful beaches, and even monkeys! While Phuket is often crowded, Pattaya’s nearby islands provide a more peaceful escape. Beyond Koh Lan, islands like Ko Phai offer even more serene and untouched beaches. In summary, Pattaya is transforming its image to showcase its rich culture, affordable beach resorts, and easy access to beautiful islands. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, a budget-friendly beach vacation, or an island adventure, Pattaya has something for everyone. Blog
Blog Step Back in Time: Italy’s New Vintage Passenger Train Offers Luxurious Experience Posted on February 19, 2024July 12, 2024 One of the main attractions of traveling to Europe is its timeless streets, which are quite different from those in the U.S. While American streets are often marred by potholes and overpriced coffee at inauthentic cafes, Europe offers charming cobblestone streets and delightful sidewalk cafes serving the best cappuccinos. Italy… Read More
Blog Cultural Experiences Awaiting You in Graz Posted on May 14, 2024July 12, 2024 Admire the view over the red-roofed medieval town and climb up to the historic clocktower on the hill. Explore inside the modern art museum, affectionately known as the ‘Friendly Alien.’ These are just a few activities culture lovers can enjoy in Graz. The historic city center and Schlossberg fortress have… Read More
Blog Beat the Heat: Top 4 European Cities for a Cool Summer Retreat Posted on April 27, 2024July 12, 2024 I love a beach getaway as much as anyone, but the idea of lying in what feels like an open-air sauna and sweating for hours isn’t appealing. Apparently, I’m not alone in this sentiment. With temperatures hitting record highs, many travelers are skipping their dream tropical vacations for cooler, more… Read More