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Pattaya in Thailand by Supanee Srijaivang
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Pattaya in Thailand Meaning the 'south-west monsoon wind" and correctly pronounced "Patti-yah" not "Patt-eye-yah" this lively destination located roughly 150 kilometres from Bangkok ranks as one of the most successful beach resorts in the world. Each year a million and a half visitors enjoy its myriad attractions, and the number keeps growing. Although frequently criticised for its spicy nightlife, it satisfies the needs of leisure travellers in a way that few other destinations can match, anywhere. Pattaya's tree-lined main beach extends for roughly 4 kms, commencing at the Amari Orchid Resort (the 'quiet end') and terminating at South Pattaya "strip" in a crowded shopping area which is also home to most of the of the discos, and nightlife. A short taxi ride further south brings you to Jomtien beach, which is longer, less crowded, and a base for many water sports. Unlike Bangkok, Pattaya has no magical mystery hidden in aesthetic corners, and it makes no pretence of being anything more than what it is: - an unbeatable combination of essential, thoroughly satisfying holiday ingredients. To illustrate this, some years ago a leading travel trade magazine conducted a poll of several hundred clients of different nationalities staying at a first class hotel, where the guests were predominantly couples or families. The results showed just how extraordinarily successful Pattaya is. Over 97% of respondents said they were "very satisfied", would return again, and would recommend Pattaya to friends. Probably more has been written about Pattaya's nightlife than any other place on the planet. For years, television crews and eager journalists have scoured the back streets in search of sensational, often exaggerated stories. Not surprisingly, the destination has acquired a mixed image of both bouquets and brickbats, a fact that may indeed discourage prospective visitors, who, uncertain of Pattaya's merits, may choose to go elsewhere. What hoteliers know and most others don't realise, is that Pattaya receives a large number of repeat visitors - professional people, families, and retired couples - many of whom have made it their preferred choice after spending holidays in various other resorts around the globe. If you ask them why Pattaya wins over other more exotic or fashionable places, they point to its long list of assets: climate, accessibility, location, affordability, top class accommodation, fine restaurants, plus the huge choice of sporting, leisure and entertainment choices - arguably far and away the best in any Asian beach destination. They will also tell you that Pattaya's main night spots are contained within a downtown area, which like London's Soho, you can either choose to visit or ignore. Those who choose the former out of curiosity will inevitably confirm with a smile that most of the girls are charming and polite, a far cry from the dubious personalities of their counterparts in the West, and a just being a spectator in one of the downtown bars can be a lot of fun. http://travelintotravel.blogspot.com/ Before even dipping a toe in the briny, there a number of interesting and worthwhile places to visit, many of which feature on organised tours. Some of the most popular choices include Suan Nong Nooch, a Thai village style theme park with superb gardens, an orchid nursery, and entertaining cultural performances including an elephant show. Pattaya's most important temple is Wat Yansangwararam, a modern building under His Majesty the King's patronage. It incorporates buildings of different architectural styles, including Japanese, Chinese, and Indian influences, and is a centre for meditation. Wat Khao Cheejan is located nearby Wat Yansangwararam where the biggest Buddha is carved with gold on a stone mountain. Khao Kheaw Open Zoo with 1,200 acres of forest and natural beauty is one of the largest zoos in Asia, offers the basic open zoo excursion and night safari and Asia's Largest Butterfly Garden - Saithip Butterfly Garden which occupies 15.22 acres of beautiful landscape in Khao Kheaw area, experience floral garden with over one hundred species of thousand of butterflies. Sriracha Tiger Farm , is a mini-zoo with crocodiles, tigers, camels and many birds, and although hardly Thai in content. The Million Years Stone Park & Crocodile Farm, houses over 1,000 crocodiles, plus a zoo and a bonsai garden set amongst some interesting rock formations and fossils. Pattaya Elephant Village, features well performed demonstrations of elephantine skills such as logging, and re-enactment of their role in historic battles, plus the enduring favourite, the elephant football match. The Siriporn Orchid Farm has some splendid displays of orchids including catteleyas, daedrovium, pompadours and vandas. Cut flowers and plants are on sale here. The Bottle Art Museum comprises a collection of more than 300 glass bottles containing miniature replicas of churches, temples, palaces, and much more, the clever handiwork of a resident Dutch sculptor. Mini Siam & Mini Europe, puts on a daily cultural show, and features an interesting selection of beautifully crafted scale models of major buildings both in Thailand and elsewhere, on a scale of 1:25 and Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum , is an entertaining retreat on the odd rainy day. Pattaya Park Tower rises some 240 metres and provides a revolving restaurant as well as spectacular views and Pattaya Water Park , which provides thrilling water slides, whirlpools, and swimming pools for family fun.
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