Where is better in Pattaya or Phuket. Phuket or Pattaya which is better? Phuket or Pattaya: where is the best place to spend your holiday?
The two most popular tourist destinations in Thailand are opposite each other in terms of atmosphere, entertainment and therefore audience, like yin and yang. Therefore, choosing one of the two resorts for your holiday will not be difficult; the main thing is to carefully read the review!
Resorts on the map
As you can see, the main resorts in Thailand are located at a good distance from each other. Pattaya is on the northeast coast, and Phuket is in the southwest of the country. They are separated by 993 kilometers. It's about 14 hours by car or a couple of hours by flight.
Weather
We wrote more about the holiday seasons in Thailand in. Using the table above you can get an idea of the difference in weather conditions. From experience, it is better to vacation in Pattaya from to. In Phuket from November to .
If you suddenly find yourself in Thailand in the summer, it’s definitely better to go to Pattaya. The weather there is nicer at this time, and there is more entertainment.
Planning a trip? Here you go!We have prepared some useful gifts for you. They will help you save money while preparing for your trip.
Pattaya
The largest tourist city 150 km from the capital of Thailand - Bangkok. Unlike other resorts, you can get here in just a couple of hours by bus directly from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport. The developed infrastructure of the city and proximity to the main metropolis of Southeast Asia allows you to make your vacation rich, varied and interesting.
However, this resort also has its own highlight. Sex tourism made it popular. The most famous street in the city is Walking street - the concentration of Thai debauchery. There is so much to see here, from harmless go-go bars and colorful transgender performances to amazing intimate shows. Therefore, the circle of vacationers here is appropriate. Single older men or groups of reckless young people prefer to come here in search of adventure.
Well, the muddy shore and the proximity of the beaches to the city did not affect the transparency of the water and the cleanliness of the beaches for the better. Therefore, if you want a paradise holiday “on Bounty Island”, it is better to immediately move on to the next section. Well, if active recreation and exciting parties are your thing, start choosing the ideal beach.
Beaches
Pattaya Beach
The central city beach is no different from its counterparts in other countries - there are an abundance of vacationers, garbage and not the cleanest sea. There is also a highway running along the entire beach, where cars and motorcyclists rush around the clock, raising dust into the air.
During the day, residents of neighboring hotels and guesthouses like to sunbathe here after an active night out on Walking Street at the southern end of the beach. But here along the entire coastline there are dozens of cafes, restaurants and street food stands (makashnits) for every taste and budget. Here along Pattaya Beach Road are located the best shops, shopping centers and various entertainment venues in the city. Therefore, if you are not coming for a beach holiday, there is no better place than Pattaya Beach!
Jomtien
In the north, the main city beach, Pattaya Beach, turns into Jomtien. Therefore, there is no particular difference in infrastructure, entertainment and cleanliness of the sea coast between these two busiest beaches. The only thing is that Walking Street is located at a distance from Jomtien, so the atmosphere here is calmer, nightclubs are increasingly being replaced by massage parlors, and prices in cafes are pleasantly pleasing.
Extreme entertainment is developed in Jomtien. The main center of attraction for thrill-seekers is the Pattaya Tower. It is from its roof, after viewing the city panorama, that I suggest going down the cable car in a bandage, cradle or closed cabin directly to Jomtien Beach.
Dongtan
Clean, calm, compact beach in the very south of the coast. True, there is one thing! Representatives of sexual minorities took undivided ownership of Dongtan Beach. Therefore, from all parts of it you can see the rainbow flag fluttering in the Thai winds, and among the vacationers, men of all ages predominate.
But all busy traffic routes run away from the beach, as do most cafes, shops and shops. Therefore, a truly relaxing holiday in a specific environment in Dongtan is guaranteed!
Wong Amat
At the very north of the coast is Wongamat Beach. This is the most pleasant and well-maintained local beach with almost white sand (on other beaches the sand is yellow). The sea here is calm and not as cloudy as on the central beaches. In addition, the cleanliness of the place is carefully monitored by the staff of upscale hotels and condominiums, which cover almost the entire beach line.
Therefore, if you are planning to stay in a hotel on the shore and prefer a beach holiday, you won’t find a better place here! In other cases, access to the beach area for outside tourists is limited.
Where to stay
There are a great variety of housing offers, and the prices are pleasantly pleasing! So you can rent a room in a guesthouse here for 300-400 THB per day. True, you will have to live either far from the coast, or with windows overlooking the busiest transport routes of the city - Sukhumvit Road, Pattaya Beach Road or the already mentioned Walking Street.
For those who prefer a comfortable stay, there is somewhere to roam. Along the coast there is a huge number of upscale 3-5 star hotels with prices for a double room starting from 700 THB per day. The hotels include both well-known global chains - Four Seasons, Holiday Inn and Hilton, as well as local luxury resorts and small hotels.
A double room in a hotel on the territory of the most famous building in Pattaya - Pattaya Tower Resort - will cost 1,500 THB.
Prices
This is one of the cheapest Thai resorts. In Phuket, the second most popular destination among tourists, a vacation will cost, on average, 1.5-2 times more.
Prices for food in local eateries start from only 30-40 THB, and a full lunch with seafood in a good restaurant on the coast will cost no more than 500 THB. By the way, lunch at McDonald's costs only 2 times less. Western fast food is not a cheap pleasure here!
For alcohol, Thais prefer local beer Chang or other southeastern brands Singha, Tiger and Leo. They sell it on every corner, and a small tin can costs 50 THB.
It is better to buy fruits not in stores and supermarkets, but in markets where they will be fresher and cheaper, and there will be more choice. The most expensive fruits in Thailand are our native apples and plums (from 100 THB per kilogram), but tropical exotics are several times cheaper! Mango – 60-80 THB/kg, dragonfruit – 40-60 THB/kg, bananas – 30-35 THB/kg, and watermelon or pineapple can be found for only 20-25 THB/kg.
Phuket
The largest Thai island (which is why the Thais add Koh to the name) and, concurrently, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world offers a textbook vacation in the tropics: a clear and transparent azure sea, white sand, tall palm trees, an abundance of cheap seafood and exotic fruits.
Unlike its brother, the central city on the island - Phuket Town - is located away from the beaches. Therefore, all the main city infrastructure is within easy reach, and nothing pollutes the surrounding beaches.
Koh Phuket is perfect for those who prefer a classic beach holiday and exploring tropical nature to typical city entertainment (museums, shopping and nightclubs). Although there will be plenty of parties and shopping here!
Beaches
Patong
The most crowded and tourist beach of the resort, due to its population, is much inferior in cleanliness of the coast and transparency of the sea to its neighbors. The atmosphere here is lively and party-like, so it reminds tourists of Pattaya. This is because Patong has many nightclubs, strip bars and other entertainment venues directly related to the sex tourism industry.
There is a highway running along the entire beach line of Patong, on the opposite side of which restaurants and cafes are tightly lined up. The beach is abundantly stocked with sun loungers from the mentioned establishments, which are offered to use not only by cafe visitors, but also by anyone for 100 THB.
Karon
The second most popular local beach, unlike Patong, where active party youth prefer to stay, is more suitable for a family holiday. Despite the fact that Karon is no worse populated than Patong, the atmosphere here is calmer; there are not so many intimate establishments, bars and nightclubs with girls of easy virtue.
However, the popularity of the resort among a wide range of tourists and the abundance of hotels did not have the best effect on the cleanliness of the beach. The coast and sea here, as in Patong, are not bad, but still not from the dream of the paradise “Bounty Island”. But the asphalt road separating the beach from residential buildings has preserved it almost in its original form and has not allowed it to be occupied by restaurants and cafes.
Bang Tao
Bang Tao is the most expensive beach with first-class service and luxury hotels spread along an 8-kilometer coastline. As expected, the coast here is carefully monitored by the staff of neighboring hotels, so the cleanliness of Bang Tao is exceptional.
The central part of the beach is occupied by a complex of 7 luxurious Laguna resorts. Guests of the complex will find not only swimming pools, beauty salons and restaurants, but also their own access to the sea and even a specially equipped golf course!
Especially for wealthy tourists in Bang Tao there are expensive brand boutiques, massage and spa salons with high-quality service, as well as many restaurants with world cuisines and bars with a claim to good taste, as opposed to the cheap establishments of Patong.
Kamala
A small bay with a calm sea, a gentle slope and fine white sand north of Patong has been chosen by European pensioners. Therefore, the atmosphere here is quiet and conducive to a leisurely beach holiday.
The southern part of the beach is busier than the sedate north with its upscale hotels. In the south of Kamala there are many shops, small shops, inexpensive cafes and restaurants. Local fishermen live here, going out to sea every morning to catch their catch, and in the evening pulling their traditional long boats ashore.
Where to stay
Thanks to a large number of beaches for a wide variety of audiences, accommodation can also be found to suit every taste and budget. On the island you can rent not only a standard hotel room, but also apartments in a modern condominium right on the coast (at a price comparable to a 3-4 star hotel) or even an entire mansion with a swimming pool.
The most budget guest houses and hotels are located, of course, on Patong and Karon - the most densely populated beaches. Here, a decent but simple room in a guest house can be rented for 700 THB per day. However, you will have to live either far from the beach or with windows facing noisy and busy streets.
The smaller and more deserted the beach, the more local hotels will ask for accommodation. Double rooms in inexpensive 2-star hotels, on average, start from 1000 THB per night, and in the fashionable Laguna resorts in Bang Tao they reach 3500 THB.
Prices
As already mentioned, a holiday here is seriously more expensive than in Pattaya. For example, the average cost of dinner in a good restaurant here will reach 900 THB. And for main dishes in local cafes you will have to pay from 50-60 THB. However, prices at McDonald's throughout the country remain stable - 200 THB for a combo lunch. And compared to restaurants in Phuket, prices for Western fast food no longer seem as steep here as in Pattaya. Alcohol prices are almost the same throughout the country - 50 THB per piece. Only cafes on the first line of beaches can raise the price of a can of beer.
But what undoubtedly pleases is the low prices for seafood. In local supermarkets you can buy sea fish or fresh squid for 50-60 THB/kg, and a kilogram of king prawns will cost 200-230 THB. In cafes and restaurants you can order Tom Yum or rice with seafood, where the vast majority of the plate space will be occupied by palm-sized shrimp, for 120-150 THB.
Prices for fruits at the resorts do not vary much. In addition to the legendary Thai mango (60-80 THB/kg), exotic dragonfruit (40-60 THB/kg), inexpensive bananas (30-35 THB/kg) and watermelons (20-25 THB/kg), Phuket markets and In fruit stalls you can find papaya 2 times cheaper than in Pattaya (25-30 THB/kg). And tropical mangosteens and lychees will cost 60-65 THB/kg.
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A perennial travel dilemma among travelers to Thailand is choosing a holiday destination. Moreover, the two most popular resorts compete in this. Which is better for tourists – Phuket or Pattaya, depends, first of all, on the criteria applied to the holiday. It is not possible to get a clear answer to this question. However, a detailed review of these criteria for each region will help you make your choice.
Before exploring the key characteristics, you need to mention the location of the selected resort points. Phuket Atoll is an independent Thai province located on the country's largest island, which is connected to the mainland by the half-kilometer Sarasin Bridge. It is almost 900 kilometers from here to Bangkok. The coastal zone is washed by the Andaman Sea.
Pattaya is located on the mainland itself, on the eastern shore of the Gulf of Thailand. The distance to the capital is 150 kilometers, which becomes a significant advantage in the eyes of visitors. Accordingly, the path here is simpler and shorter. At the same time, there are many more transfer options and the payment is lower - train, bus and taxi. Advanced hotels can boast of free transportation for their guests.
You can get to the second resort from the capital city by bus, but it will cost almost 700 baht. The second way is to take a train to Surat Thani, and then change to a bus, but in this case you should prepare for a daily trip. Additionally, it is proposed to take a flight from the capital port of Don Mueang, payment for tickets is similar to the bus route.
Pattaya - beaches and hotels.
Travel between resorts is not fast. The journey by vehicle will take from 12 to 14 hours. Fast travel is only available by plane. Ease of travel and proximity to Bangkok play an important role when tourists evaluate the resort area.
Sea and climate
When choosing where it is better to relax in Pattaya or Phuket, the key parameter is the opportunity to swim. Leadership belongs to the second point. The sea water here is cleaner and more transparent. The only negative that tourists often complain about is the tingling sensation while swimming. They say that this is due to small plankton. However, you quickly get used to the phenomenon and stop paying attention.
The mainland sea cannot be called clean. Of course, you are allowed to swim in it, but some parts, especially the central one, do not evoke much desire to do so. The water is slightly cleaner towards the southern and northern directions. Therefore, vacationers often go sailing to the nearby Ko Lan archipelago. Transportation is carried out by ferry, the journey takes about 40 minutes.
This comes with additional costs. Firstly, for the trip itself, and secondly, prices in coastal cafes for food, drinks and fruit are much higher. Even the toilets are paid.
When deciding where to go in Thailand, you should take into account the season in which your vacation falls. The temperature conditions of the territories differ little from each other, the air in the high season heats up to 30 degrees, water - up to 28. The dry period lasts from November to March. There is precipitation, but only a couple of times a month.
But if you manage to fly to Pattaya at almost any time of the year, even during the rainy season, which happens once or twice a week, then on the atoll, for example, in September, there is a risk of running into downpours. They go daily. This is the main difference between the points in terms of weather.
In addition to rain, the ebb and flow of the tides are more pronounced on the atoll, and there is the possibility of waves and even small tsunamis. This contributes to the formation of dangerous currents, so extra caution is a good idea. From April to October the winds often blow.
Beaches
Based on the fact that Phuket sea water is more pleasant, spending time near the shore in 2019 also occupies a leading position. There are both large sand spits and small secluded places. And it’s not just the number of such zones – they are distinguished by improved infrastructure, cleanliness and width. Snow-white crispy sand completes the picture.
Some travelers lay claim to Patong, the place's most famous beach. They mainly complain about the large number of people, dirt and garbage. But most often these complaints are not justified. Patong has many more advantages than disadvantages.
Their list includes:
- convenient location allows you to quickly get to it;
- no extraneous noise;
- space allows you to accommodate a large number of visitors;
- few street vendors;
- the rest area is cleaned regularly;
- There are almost no shells and stones, both in the sand and at the entrance to the reservoir, the risk of injuring your leg is minimized;
- Numerous palm trees provide shelter from the scorching sun.
A significant drawback of Patong is the lack of changing cabins.
Those who love tranquility are invited to go to the nearby archipelagos - Similan, Phi Phi, Racha, where, in addition to silence, they will be able to enjoy picturesque natural landscapes.
The mainland beach scene is characterized by crowds and a not-so-clean coastline. The three main beach lines are supplemented by a number of small areas, but you definitely won’t find privacy here – it’s crowded everywhere. The sand is very ordinary, yellow in color, and the picture is spoiled by the intrusive traders who live near the shore.
Reviews say that waters dirtier than on the central beach called Pattaya Beach cannot be found anywhere. A highway runs past it, along which vehicles constantly move. Jomtien is located nearby, there are not so many cars there, but there are not enough eateries. But various massage parlors are operating.
According to reviews from tourists, it is better to go north to Wongamat. The sand on it is whiter, it is cleaned more often. However, those who like to eat right by the water will have to walk a long way to the nearest shops, since the coastal area has been chosen by hotel complexes.
The biggest advantage of a Pattaya beach holiday is the views of Thai nature that open up. These include palm thickets, hills, and picturesque islands of the Gulf of Thailand.
Attractions and entertainment
When assessing which is better than Phuket or Pattaya in terms of visiting remarkable places, the laurels of superiority go to the second resort. Those who do not want to spend all their time in a pond or on a sun lounger will enjoy the variety of local entertainment. Fauna lovers should visit the elephant and crocodile farms, as well as a large aquarium made in the form of a tunnel. The latter is especially attractive for families with children - the fish and other marine life passing by are a real delight for them.
Colorful photographs will remain after visiting the orchid park and tropical garden, where, in addition to exotic plants, various species of butterflies are kept. Photography with a tiger, chimpanzee and other animals is also available. A park called Mini Siam is also interesting. This is a permanent exhibition of miniature things, which includes not only copies of architectural structures, but also small trees, rivers and fountains.
Who doesn't know that Pattaya is considered the city of sins? For adult travelers, famous transvestite shows are available - Tiffany and Alcazar, many strip clubs and other night entertainment. If one resort is not enough for a traveler in terms of sightseeing, then it is worth going to Bangkok or the old Thai capital of Ayutthaya. Objects of the country's cultural and architectural heritage are concentrated here. In addition, you can visit Cambodia, and even Laos, by purchasing a two or three-day excursion.
Phuket areas are much poorer in this regard. Basically, all attractions are of a natural nature - observation decks, unusual islands, national parks. Among the remaining objects, one can highlight various temples and the Big Buddha monument, which was erected recently. On the way you will meet a small village of elephants, where you will be able to ride them.
Additionally, you can spend time on the Ton Prai waterfall, zoo, snake farm and monkey mountain. There are no historical monuments here. Almost all architectural structures were erected simultaneously with the development of tourism.
But with regard to active entertainment such as diving and snorkeling, this is a winning option. This fact is due to the cleanliness of the sea, which is so important for diving. The Similan Islands, located nearby, are among the top ten must-see places in the world for divers. It is best to engage in this sport in February.In the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao and Koh Phangan are worth noting for diving. Samui Atoll is also interesting for divers. These points are located closest to the Pattaya area. In the region itself, diving is difficult due to the dirty, opaque water.
When choosing your preferred destination - Pattaya or Phuket, you need to take into account that groups for most of the best Thai excursions are formed from the first point. There are also excursion tours on the atoll, but there are fewer of them and the cost is higher.
Prices
In terms of cost of living and transportation fees, the island territory is considered the most expensive resort area in the state. A vacation here costs one and a half times more than on the opponent’s territory. This also includes expensive transportation from Bangkok.
Clothing and food are 10 or even 20% higher compared to mainland prices. The high demands of taxi drivers are due to long travel distances. Even a trip to the beach line will cost 300-400 baht. Along the sea there are only expensive hotels that not everyone can afford.
Housing
Pattaya and Phuket in Thailand do not have any special differences with each other in terms of living costs. Island space is expensive by this criterion, but even here you can find an inexpensive room in a condominium. They are in particular demand among those who come here for the winter. The average price for both directions is 400-500 baht per day. But this assumes a decent distance from the home to the sea coast.
Directly by the sea, hotel room rates start from 1000-1500 baht. For the money, the level of service is more acceptable than in a cheap resort.
Long-term rental of apartments on the atoll will cost 10-15 thousand baht, depending on the location of the residential property, the quality of repairs and the occupancy of the apartment. The Pattaya minimum is slightly higher – from 12 thousand. When renting for six months or more, the tenant receives a significant discount. Together with renting an apartment, guests get access to the rich infrastructure of hotel complexes - a swimming pool, gym, parking, massage parlor and other pleasant little things.
A good alternative to accommodation in Pattaya is to rent a villa, but this option is mostly available for tourist groups. In this situation, living costs will be significantly reduced. In terms of one person, the price will be the same as for a room in a two or three star hotel. The average price tag for a house with a swimming pool is 6-9 thousand local units.
Nutrition
The answer to the question - where is better in Pattaya or Phuket in terms of food costs, the answer is clear. Victory goes to the first location. Food, fruits and drinks are almost half the price.
Even in ubiquitous shops, a Pattaya lunch will cost 30-40 Thai units, while on the island it will cost 60-70. The price tag for kebab is 10 and 20 points, respectively, for pancakes - 40 and 60. It is less expensive to purchase in large supermarkets, but Phuket supermarkets set high prices for fruits.
So for a mango the buyer will pay 160 bp. per kilogram, for four apples, a kilogram of orange and papaya - 70, mangosteen - 200. Prices are especially inflated on the popular Phuket beaches - Patong, Karon and Kata. To find inexpensive fruit, it is preferable to head to Phang Muang Sai Kor Road, towards the Banzaan night market. There along the road there are cars from which they sell fruits at almost half the price.
At the market itself, fruits are expensive. Only kebabs, some drinks, pancakes and other street food can be cheap there. Speaking of drinks, the price for Pattaya beer is lower. You can often see a sign on a cafe saying that all beer is 50 bp. In Patong you will have to pay 80 bp for a bottle.
Shopping
In this regard, the undisputed leader is Pattaya. A huge number of shopping centers and boutiques are located within walking distance. You won't have to go anywhere. The presence of a floating market, which is an attraction in itself, allows you to purchase souvenirs and other small items at low prices. The cheapest place to shop is at night markets, for example, Teprasite. Everything there is sold for 100-300 local units.
However, if this is not enough, there is always the opportunity to go to the capital, which is considered the center of Thai shopping.
The island space is not much different in terms of the cost of clothes and souvenirs, but choosing a place for shopping is difficult. The largest shopping center called Jang Ceylon is located in Patong, where you can really buy anything. Reduced prices are available when visiting clothing markets.
Transport
In Pattaya, public transport is provided by songthaews instead of buses. These are open pickup trucks with a roof, also called “tuk-tuk”. A map of the routes of such pickups is sold in the 7/11 supermarket chain. The ticket costs 10 local units.
For a taxi you will have to pay from one to four hundred. There are also cars with a meter, but drivers do not always agree to use them, since in this case the trip will be cheaper. Car rental is also available. Small models cost from 1000 b. per day, SUVs - from 3 thousand. The rent for a classic sedan is 2000-2300 bp. per day.
Bus service on the island is poor, and there is no direct connection between the coastal zones. A ticket costs 30-40 bp. Therefore, you have to use a taxi, and it cannot be called cheap. For a transfer to a nearby beach, which will take about 10 minutes, a driver can charge 400 to 500 local units, due to the significant level of demand and the lack of other convenient transport.
An alternative is to rent a bike. In a few days a tourist will pay 200-300 rubles, in a week - from a thousand to one and a half. The more days of hire, the lower the daily fee. A liter of gasoline sells for 28-30 bp.
Pros and cons
To make your choice easier, you can use a brief listing of the positive and negative aspects of each resort area.
Phuket advantages:
- Well-groomed coastline, clean sea water, developed beach infrastructure.
- The air is cleaner, due to the distance of the area from the mainland.
- The atmosphere is favorable for relaxation and quiet rest. An excellent option for travelers with children.
- Good level of security in terms of pickpockets and petty scammers.
Cons:
- Inflated prices for food and clothing.
- Poor selection of shopping centers for large-scale shopping.
- Few attractions.
- Expensive taxi.
Pros of Pattaya:
- Inexpensive food, clothing, many shopping complexes, the presence of a floating market.
- A variety of excursion programs, the opportunity to visit attractions.
- Ease of movement by public transport.
- Proximity to the capital.
- Availability of visits at any time of the year.
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Which is better: Phuket or Pattaya? This question is one of the most popular among those who are going on vacation to Thailand and have not yet decided which of these two most popular resorts in the country is better to go to. The question is really important, but there is no clear answer. On the other hand, you can get maximum pleasure from your holiday in Thailand only if you make the right choice between Pattaya and Phuket, taking into account exactly your ideas about holiday. The article presents a large comparison of Phuket and Pattaya according to the most important parameters, which will allow you not to make mistakes and organize your best vacation in Thailand!
For ease of reading and a comprehensive understanding of which resort is best suited for you (Pattaya or Phuket), the most important characteristics are listed in separate paragraphs. Using the links in the content, you can quickly jump to the most important point for you and find out: Phuket or Pattaya will be better for you in this regard. But I still recommend reading (or at least viewing) other comparative characteristics: many parameters are interrelated, each of them is important in its own way for comparison and can quite unexpectedly become decisive in the process of choosing Pattaya or Phuket as the optimal holiday destination.
CONTENTS OF THE ARTICLE (you can click on the link for a quick transition)
Phuket or Pattaya – where the climate and ecology are better
When choosing between Phuket and Pattaya, you need to know about the climate in these Thai resorts. Both the island of Phuket and Pattaya are located in the tropics, so there is no winter there in the usual sense. Thailand is a country of eternal summer, but not everything is so simple. The main thing that distinguishes Pattaya and Phuket is their seasonality to varying degrees. Due to the location of the resorts in the waters of different seas and even different oceans (see), there are significant differences in the weather at the resorts at different times of the year.
Surely many have already heard that in Thailand (like many other countries located in the tropics) there is a rainy season. Often, when this phrase is mentioned, the imagination immediately draws the following picture: streams of rain pour from the sky all day and night, due to which visibility on the street is only a few meters, and there is no question of a beach holiday at this time. If we talk about Thailand, then in reality, a similar picture can be observed in the northern regions of the country (see), but in Phuket and Pattaya everything is much better. But if weather is of utmost importance to you, you should remember that the rainy season in Pattaya and Phuket are different.
Stormy muddy sea and rain are a common occurrence during the rainy season in Phuket
Without exaggeration, Pattaya can be called a resort with the best climate in Thailand, because in fact it is a year-round resort. During the dry season, which lasts from November to April, rain in Pattaya is very rare - 2-3 times a month, and the rain lasts no more than an hour, and more often - 20-30 minutes. During the rainy season in Pattaya (May to October) there is usually rainfall 1-2 times a week. At the same time, such short-term rain almost does not interfere with rest (although a couple of times a year some areas of Pattaya can be flooded for several hours) and brings freshness. And the only drawback of the weather at this time in Pattaya is periodic cloudiness in the sky (which will not prevent you from getting sunburned, if you don’t know).
Unlike Pattaya, in Phuket it rains periodically even during the dry season (usually no more than 1-2 times a week), but during the rainy season precipitation can fall daily and last from an hour to several hours. Of course, the weather is unpredictable. Therefore, do not think that someone is deceiving you when they tell you that they had a wonderful vacation in Phuket during the rainy season and during the two weeks of their vacation there was precipitation only a couple of times - an hour a day. Yes, it may not rain every day. Yes, it can rain after sunset or at night and not interfere with your rest at all. But the opposite situation may also occur, when the rain in Phuket lasts for several days and your vacation at this time will be ruined.
Pattaya Central Beach during short periods of rain (low season)
In addition, it is very important to know that during the rainy season, red flags may be posted on Phuket beaches prohibiting entry into the sea due to high waves. Muddy seas, partly overcast clouds and a high risk of prolonged rain are all obvious disadvantages of Phuket compared to Pattaya, where such a situation is almost completely excluded. Of course, if a beach holiday in Thailand is the main thing for which you are planning to visit this country. will allow you to see the weather at this resort in the Gulf of Thailand, and you can always see the state of the sea and the weather on the tropical island of Phuket in real time using, the best selection of which is also presented on the site and is constantly updated with new cameras.
If we talk about whether Phuket or Pattaya is better in terms of environmental conditions, then the island is somewhat better with this than in Pattaya. And the air in Phuket near the beach villages will always be somewhat cleaner than in the city of Pattaya with more transport and residents, but with less vegetation. The disadvantage of Pattaya is the unpleasant odors from the city sewer manholes, which every now and then reach your nose while walking along the city streets. In Phuket (near some beaches), small muddy rivers, which also resemble sewage drains and during heavy rains easily reach the sea, are somewhat frustrating.
Phuket or Pattaya - where the sea and beaches are better
In this matter, Phuket beats Pattaya, but with some reservations. Firstly, if we are talking about the high season on the island. And secondly, if for comparison we take only the sea and beaches located directly within the city limits of Pattaya. After the end of the rainy season, the sea in Phuket becomes calm and transparent, and its rich blue color is pleasing to the eye and looks great in photographs. Phuket has many more beaches than Pattaya, although the most popular are only a few, mainly in the western part of the island. At the same time, there are many beaches with a gentle entrance to the water and soft white sand, which makes a holiday with children in Phuket more comfortable. The beaches in Phuket are wider than in Pattaya, so even on the most popular ones you can find areas where no one will disturb you.
Karon Beach in Phuket - view of the southern part in sunny weather (high season)
In Pattaya, the beaches are not so good. The central beach is very noisy and dirty. Suffice it to say that during 4 trips to Pattaya I never dared to swim there. On other Pattaya beaches (and there are seven of them in the city (see) the situation is better, but there is no need to talk about ideal transparency, although the water is cleaner than in many Russian resorts. The sand on the beaches of Pattaya has a yellowish tint and a larger fraction. With on the other hand, during the rainy season (which I wrote about in the previous section), the beaches of Pattaya are superior to the beaches of Phuket, or at least not worse, you can see photos and videos of Pattaya beaches in a separate article (link above).
And if we take into account the coral island of Koh Larn, which is located just a few kilometers from Pattaya and can be easily reached by ferry for only 30 TBH ($0.85), then during the rainy season Pattaya generally looks preferable in terms of the sea and beaches. You can find this link and also find out which beaches on the island are better not to choose due to the mass recreation of noisy Chinese tourists. During my last trip to Thailand, I vacationed (and collected information for the site) at several resorts both in the Gulf of Thailand and on the Andaman Sea, but most of all I liked the color of the water and transparency on one of the beaches of Koh Larn island near Pattaya (see photo below).
I am writing all this so that beach lovers are not afraid to go to Pattaya, having heard enough stories about dirty beaches and muddy water. If you don't mind the 45-minute ferry ride to the island and back, a beach holiday in Pattaya will be great. In answer to the question: “Pattaya or Phuket – where are the better beaches?” — we can also add that on most beaches in Pattaya and on the island of Koh Larn there are a sufficient number of sun loungers that can be rented for the whole day for 50-100 THB. But in Phuket in 2015, sun loungers on the beaches were prohibited and now you can sunbathe either on a towel, or on a mat, or on a rented mattress. On the one hand, this makes the beaches more picturesque. But on the other hand, it does not add convenience to vacationers. Diving, snorkeling and sea fishing are better in Phuket than in Pattaya (again in the case of the high season on the island). And active water activities are present in both resorts in sufficient quantities.
Pattaya or Phuket – where air tickets are cheaper
According to this indicator, Pattaya almost always beats Phuket. If we are talking about flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg, air tickets to Bangkok (namely, it is easier and cheaper to fly to the capital’s airport on vacation to Pattaya) cost about 2-3 thousand Russian rubles less than air tickets to Phuket. We are talking about both direct flights and flights with transfers. If the flight is planned to be carried out from other Russian cities (Irkutsk, Vladivostok, Yekaterinburg, etc.), air tickets to Bangkok are on average cheaper than to Phuket by 4-6 thousand rubles or 15-20%.
In the case of air tickets to Thailand from Belarus and Ukraine, Pattaya (Bangkok airport) definitely wins over Phuket, because the difference in price is on average 30-40%. And in the case of Kazakhstan (flights from Almaty and Astana), the overpayment for a flight to Phuket can exceed 60% compared to a flight to Bangkok. In fairness, I want to note that we are talking about the average price. During special offers from airlines flying from many major cities, the difference in the cost of air tickets to Phuket and Bangkok may not be so noticeable (for example, 5-10%).
Let me remind you that it is better to look for the best price on air tickets not on airline websites, but using a metasearch that scans all airlines and leading air ticket sales agencies at once, so that all experienced travelers can always purchase air tickets at the best price at the time of search. The search form I always use when planning my travels is below. And in order not to miss the opportunity to buy a ticket at the best price, I advise you to additionally read the information on the page and apply this information in practice.
I also remind you that if you absolutely want to relax in Phuket, but air tickets from your nearest airport to this island are much more expensive than to Bangkok, you can always fly to the capital of Thailand, and from there get to Phuket in about 12 hours by bus (there are overnight, allowing you to save on hotel costs). Bus tickets can be ordered and even paid in advance using a reputable service for searching all types (link to the Russian version of the service).
Pattaya or Phuket: road to and from the airport
If we compare which is better - Pattaya or Phuket in terms of the road from the airport to the resort and back, then we must take into account two indicators: travel time and travel cost. When it comes to travel time, Phuket has a slight advantage. The international airport is located directly on the island (in the northern part), so the journey to the popular beaches on the western shore takes from half an hour to an hour (45 minutes on average), depending on the transport you choose and the specific beach. When it comes to traveling to Pattaya from Bangkok Airport (which is located just 110 km from the resort) and connected by an expressway, the travel time takes approximately 1.5-2 hours (also depending on the mode of transport).
Thus, we can conclude that the road from your city to your place of residence in Phuket will be about one hour shorter than when flying to Bangkok and moving to Pattaya. However, in reality this is not entirely true. Phuket is located south of Bangkok, so it is almost certain that the flight time to the island is about one hour longer than to the capital's Suvarnabhumi Airport. Those. the road to both resorts from the city of your departure to Thailand will take approximately the same time. You can also add that when searching for flights to Phuket, you will probably find options that include an additional connection in Bangkok. In this case, the travel time to your holiday destination in Phuket will increase even more.
Now let's compare the cost of local transport. When using a taxi from the airport, Phuket has a slight advantage (about 25%). But when it comes to inexpensive public transport, Phuket, which has its own airport, loses to Pattaya, even taking into account the fact that in the latter case we are talking about a much greater distance. For example: a trip by small bus to Patong Beach will cost 150-180 THB per person, and to Karon and Kata beaches - 180-200 Thai baht (depending on the carrier). The road to Pattaya on a comfortable intercity bus costs from 134 baht(cm. ). And the price difference is enough for public transport in Pattaya.
Local transport in Phuket and Pattaya - comparison
During a holiday at any resort, the issue of mobility is quite acute. After all, very few people spend their entire vacation on hotel grounds (unless we are talking about Turkey and Egypt with all-inclusive hotels). So where is the best local transport - Phuket or Pattaya? This is the first point in this large comparison of resorts, where Pattaya wins an undeniable victory. To get from one end of the resort to the other, for example from north to south, you will only need 30 baht (less than $1) in most cases. And to travel a fairly impressive part of the resort without a transfer you need only 10 baht.
Transport in Pattaya - tuk tuk or songthaew for 10 baht
Patatya's transport system is so simple and convenient that to use it you only need to remember a few routes and transfer points. You can read more about this in the article, which will help you save a lot of time and money during your vacation. Even with the additional use of taxis and motorcycle taxis in Pattaya, your costs for moving from point A to point B within the resort will only rarely exceed 100-150 baht. To visit Koh Larn, you just need to get to the pier (in the very center of the resort) and buy your own ferry ticket (30 baht) or speedboat ticket (150 baht for a round trip ticket, including a free drink on board).
But local transport in Phuket is one of the obvious disadvantages of the resort. Thanks to the strong lobby of taxi drivers (who are rumored to be protected by the Chinese mafia), public transport between the beaches of Phuket is not provided. For tourists, this means one thing: you must either use public songthaew buses for 30 baht to get from your beach to Phuket Town (the administrative center of the island), and from there use similar transport to get to another beach. Those. the road to another beach using even the cheapest public transport will cost at least 60 baht one way. But you still need to get there and back, which requires another 60 baht and a lot of time - the most valuable resource during a holiday in Thailand.
Transport in Phuket - expensive tuk-tuk taxi
Of course, you can use a taxi to travel to nearby beaches. But due to the lack of competition from cheap public transport, local taxi drivers have long lost their conscience and demand 300-400 baht one way for a 5-7 minute trip. And despite the statements of the Thai authorities to finally restore order in this matter and a little “rein in” taxi drivers, the situation has not changed for many years. If you want to go to the islands, you will also have to initially get from the beach to Phuket Town, then to the desired pier and buy a tour there from a local travel agency. As a result, it is much more profitable to rent a car for the duration of your holiday in Phuket or for several days during which you are planning a busy excursion program. It is most profitable to do this right at the island’s airport, but in Phuket Town and on popular beaches you can also find places with inexpensive rentals. The estimated cost of renting a car per day is $25-$30 for a small 4-seater car with air conditioning, an automatic transmission (which is important when the driver’s seat is located on the right) and insurance against theft and damage to the car. Those. for the specified amount, comparable in price to a 20-minute taxi ride, you get a completely different degree of freedom for the whole day. Of course, if you have a driver's license. To rent a car in Phuket, it is best to use the search form below, with which you can select the best available option for your dates from a dozen reputable rental offices.
Hotels in Pattaya and Phuket – where are better and cheaper
During any independent travel, accommodation costs usually account for about 30% of the vacation budget. And the share of these costs increases in proportion to the time spent at the resort. Therefore, it is very important to compare: where are the best hotels - in Phuket or Pattaya and where accommodation will be less expensive. Phuket is more expensive than Pattaya in many ways, and hotels in this comparison are no exception. On average, Phuket hotels cost about 15-20% more than similar hotels in Pattaya. But in this situation it cannot be said that Phuket is definitely losing. Good hotels in a good location (by the sea or near places of entertainment - whatever you like) can be found both there and there. Both resorts feature hotels from a chain of global hotel chains (Hilton, InterContinental, Marriott, etc.) and independent hotels.
Proper planning of your trip to Thailand, in which you study the cost of living at the chosen resort in advance and use it to search, will most likely allow you to choose a hotel of the right class, with the right set of services and at a price suitable for your budget. This applies to both city hotels and guesthouses located in areas with active nightlife, and luxury five-star hotels with their own territory on the first line from the sea (there are more of these in Phuket than in Pattaya). Another distinctive feature of expensive hotels in Phuket is that many of them involve accommodation in separate bungalows, often located on hillsides surrounded by well-groomed bushes and palm trees. Such hotels are not cheap, but the view from the rooms is worth it.
In Pattaya, most hotels, even of the highest class, are classic multi-storey buildings with areas of varying sizes or without them at all. For lovers of panoramic pools with sea views, I can tell you that you can find these in both Phuket and Pattaya. In the latter case - usually on the roof of the hotel, as in - one of the best hotels in the city according to tourists' reviews, where you definitely need to stay for at least a couple of days while vacationing in the city (especially if you want to please your significant other or just impress her ). By the way, you can see the pool of this hotel using one of the Pattaya webcams overlooking the sea.
Food in hotels is approximately the same in quality and variety, especially since in Thailand this is far from the most important point that you need to pay attention to when choosing a hotel. Please note: in hotels in Thailand (no matter where: in Pattaya or Phuket) the All Inclusive system and multi-course meals in general are not developed. Typically only breakfast is included in the room rate. Free Wi-Fi in 2016-2017 is no longer a luxury, but a standard service not only in five-star hotels, but also in inexpensive guesthouses. Therefore, it will be more difficult for you to find a hotel without this service than with it. For those who would like to stay in one of the island hotels located directly on the beach (and in reality there are very few of them), I advise you to look at the selection by clicking on the link.
Pattaya or Phuket - comparison of prices at resorts
Since the prices for accommodation and transport have already been sorted out in the previous paragraphs, it remains to compare the cost of food, drinks, fruits, entertainment and shopping in general in order to understand whether Phuket or Pattaya is better in this regard for relaxation. When going on vacation and planning your food expenses, you need to prepare for the fact that the cost of visiting local cafes and even the prices of street food in Phuket is 30% or more higher. For many items, the difference in prices generally exceeds 100%, i.e. there is a more than twofold difference. Let me give you a simple example. If you eat in Pattaya from mobile street stalls (makashnitsa), then the cost of a chicken skewers on a skewer is 10 baht, a slightly larger portion of pork is 20 baht, and a large piece of chicken fillet (in the center of the photo below) is 50 baht.
Street food in Pattaya - skewers. In Phuket, everything is 1.5-2 times more expensive!
In Phuket, similar food is offered for 20-30 baht, 30-40 baht and 80-100 baht, respectively. Of course, in some places you can find street food at the same prices, but this will require a lot of searching, especially during the high tourist season in Phuket (usually the lowest prices are at night markets). And there is such a difference in price for almost all goods. Pancakes with bananas or mango (pancakes) in Pattaya - almost everywhere 40 baht. In Phuket – from 60 and above. Even on Walking Street in Pattaya- the center of the resort's nightlife - you can easily find many bars where the price of a bottle of beer starts from 50-60 baht. In Phuket, the minimum price in night bars is 80 baht. An even greater difference in prices can be for fruit, not only from street vendors, but also in large stores (Big C and Tesco Lotus).
The service sector is not lagging behind traders. In Phuket, compared to Pattaya, you will overpay one and a half to two times for Thai massage (classical, foot massage, oil massage and other types), for hairdresser services, for motorbike rental (both for daily rental and for long-term rental ), for motorcycle taxi services (the “appetites” of taxi drivers have already been mentioned above), for going to the cinema, for active water activities on the beach (banana, parasailing, jet ski, etc.) – listing everything would take too much time. The conclusion is this: in terms of the cost of a holiday at the resort, Phuket is completely inferior to Pattaya in all respects.
Price of massage in Phuket. Off the beach it's 100 baht cheaper, but still 1.5 times more expensive than Pattaya
By the way, for those who are interested: close communication with local (more precisely, with those working in Phuket) Thai girls in Phuket will also cost about 1.5 times more. That is why many tourists come to the island with Thai women, previously “rented” for a long time in Pattaya. A very popular question is: “Pattaya or Phuket – where is better shopping?” The answer can be this: approximately the same level, but in Pattaya, of course, everything is cheaper. In addition, from Pattaya it is easy to get to Bangkok, where shopping is the best in all of Thailand (and possibly in all of Southeast Asia).
Pattaya or Phuket – where are the best attractions?
Another important point and another clear victory for Pattaya over Phuket. Almost all the attractions of Phuket can be listed on the fingers of one hand. In addition to natural attractions (observation points, waterfalls and neighboring islands), in Phuket you can only note the Old Town (there are colorful streets left over from Europeans in Portuguese and Dutch style), several old temples and a statue of the Big Buddha (which was built in the 21st century). Of course, there are such facilities on the island as a dolphinarium, an aquarium, a butterfly park, a water park, and a show with elephants and snakes. But all this is present in Pattaya, so you can “put it out of the equation.”
Wat Chalong is one of the few attractions in Phuket
If we compare the excursion attractiveness of Phuket and Pattaya, then Pattaya is far ahead. Due to the location of Phuket in the southern part of the country, there are no interesting excursions (not counting sea excursions around the islands) here either. Of course, you can visit the province of Krabi, but this trip is not close and in most cases consists of visiting natural attractions (thermal springs, rocks, lakes). The journey from Phuket to Bangkok by bus takes approximately 12 hours, and cheap flights are not always available.
The Temple of Truth in Pattaya is one of the most beautiful buildings in Thailand
But Pattaya is good for both one-day excursions and slightly longer ones. From Pattaya it is customary to take excursions to the tiger zoo in Sri Racha, the interesting Khao Kheow Open Zoo, and the Safari World safari park in the vicinity of Bangkok. Just a couple of hours by bus - and you are in Bangkok itself, where you can spend your entire vacation exploring the temples and not even visit half of them. But you can also visit the largest in the world, which you can spend a whole day on, the Erawan Museum, the floating market in Bangkok, Chinese and Indian quarters, observation decks on the tallest skyscrapers in Thailand, etc.
From Pattaya, 2-3 day excursions to one of the most beautiful provinces in the center of the country - Kanchanaburi, as well as one-day excursions to the ancient capital of the country - Ayutthaya are popular. Finally, choosing Pattaya as a holiday destination allows you to easily get to the islands of Koh Chang and Koh Samet, as well as take an excursion to the neighboring country of Cambodia with its amazing Angkor Wat temple. To be fair, it can be noted that from Phuket it is more convenient and faster to get to Samui and Krabi, but from Pattaya it is not too difficult to do this given the availability of cheap night buses and proximity to Bangkok.
Pattaya or Phuket - much cheaper tours
As a rule, the cost of ready-made tours to Pattaya is slightly lower than the cost of tours of similar duration to the island of Phuket (when staying in a hotel of the same category, flying on a charter flight and the same type of food included in the package price). This, in general, is quite understandable, because the flight to Phuket lasts longer, and everything on the island (hotels and food) also costs more not only for independent travelers, but also for tour operators). Such a difference in prices is most clearly noticeable when choosing hotels in Phuket located close to the coastline.
Pattaya or Phuket - cost of tours to Phuket (12 nights)
But due to the fact that today everyone who wants to relax in Phuket or Pattaya on a tourist package has the chance to do this at minimal cost, it can be argued that tours to Phuket and Pattaya cost approximately the same. The difference of about $50 for a ten-day tour, which can be either in favor of Pattaya or in favor of Phuket - depending on the chosen departure day - can not be included in the calculation. For those who don’t know yet: it’s better to look for the best prices for ready-made tours to Thailand not on the websites of tour operators, but with the help of special services that accumulate all the hot offers in one place. By the way, last-minute trips in this case mean not only those that involve departure in the coming days, but those with departure within the entire next month and even beyond.
For example, the article contains several screenshots. I used it, which in 95% of cases finds the lowest prices for trips departing from Moscow. If you are interested in flying from another city in Russia, you can additionally check the prices in a competing service - sometimes there are better offers). The first and second screenshots show tours to Thailand (Phuket and Pattaya) with a stay of 10 nights and departure in two weeks (a good time to prepare for the trip) in the second half of November (the beginning of the high season at both resorts). The screenshots do not show the lowest offers for Phuket or Pattaya, but those that meet the general conditions of comparison: 3-star hotels with a pool and breakfast.
Pattaya or Phuket - cost of tours to Pattaya (12 nights)
As you can see, in both cases the cost of a 12-night tour is about 70 thousand rubles for two or approximately 35 thousand per person (about $550 per person at the current exchange rate). Moreover, the price of tours to Phuket is even lower than to Pattaya. The higher price for tours to Pattaya is due to the smaller number of hotels with private pools in this resort. If a pool is not required, it’s easy to find a tour to Pattaya for about 30 thousand rubles per person. The service is convenient in that it allows you to find ready-made tours to a specific resort, and the duration of tours to Thailand can be not only the standard 7-15 days, but any number of days up to 30 (29 nights)!
Thus, it is impossible to give a definite answer to the question: “Phuket or Pattaya - which is better in terms of buying a tour?” After all, modern technologies make it possible to find tours similar in price, amenities and duration to both Phuket and Pattaya. But here it is important to remember that when vacationing in Phuket, your additional expenses will probably be higher than during a package holiday in Pattaya. After all, as has been repeatedly mentioned above in the text, in Phuket almost everything is 20-50% more expensive than in Pattaya.
Phuket or Pattaya – which is safer?
It is more correct to answer this question in terms of the main potential dangers that you may encounter while vacationing in the Land of Smiles. Over the past two years, I have been regularly reading crime chronicles at Thai resorts, so I can say that there is a chance to lose money and valuables in both Pattaya and Phuket. As a rule, thefts and robberies come first, and those responsible for such crimes are most often ladyboys (in both resorts) or guest workers from Burma (in Phuket). Typical victims of such crimes are inattentive tourists in crowded places (pickpocketing) or people walking alone while intoxicated at night (street robberies with possible beatings).
If we talk about general safety during vacation, then in Phuket there is a risk of becoming a victim of a reef current (see), getting injured and burns from dangerous jellyfish of the Indian Ocean while swimming in the sea (usually beaches are closed for swimming if there are such creatures in the water) . Also in Phuket, if an unfortunate combination of circumstances occurs, you can get injured when falling from a motorbike (every year in Phuket, several hundred tourists become victims of road accidents due to poor motorbike control skills and alcohol intoxication). Finally, Phuket is located in the Indian Ocean, which sometimes experiences destructive tsunamis. The last major tsunami, which claimed the lives of several thousand people, occurred in December 2004 and, among other coastal areas, covered Phuket. You can easily find creepy footage of bodies on the shore by searching for “tsunami in Thailand.”
Phuket or Pattaya - which is safer - Tsunami in Thailand 2004
If we talk about Pattaya, then there are no reef currents there at all, and there is also no danger of a tsunami. Pattaya is not only located in the Gulf of Thailand, where there are no tectonic faults in the earth's crust, but also in a rather narrow place in this gulf, where the wave in any case would not have enough distance to gain destructive speed and height. As for motorbikes, there is always a risk of falling off them, but due to the cheapness of public transport in Pattaya, renting motorbikes here is not nearly as popular as in Phuket. However, this does not mean that in Pattaya you need to relax in matters of ensuring your own safety. God protects those who are careful! Remember this always, wherever you are - in Phuket or Pattaya - and everything will be OK! In separate articles on the site you can find out more about some that are common to all resorts.
Phuket or Pattaya – which is better?
The time has come to sum up this big comparison and determine which resort is better: Pattaya or Phuket. If you carefully read the article, you have probably already determined for yourself the basic criteria that this or that resort meets (or, on the contrary, does not meet). For those who prefer to immediately familiarize themselves with the conclusions, below are brief recommendations on which resort is best for you based on the goals of your holiday in Thailand, and also highlight the main advantages and disadvantages of Pattaya and Phuket in comparison with each other.
Advantages of Phuket over Pattaya:
+
a large selection of excellent beaches within walking distance from your accommodation,
+
clean beautiful sea right at the resort (during high season),
+
availability of interesting sea excursions,
+
possibility of diving and snorkeling,
+
more greenery in the resort and a slightly better environmental situation.
Disadvantages of Phuket:
— weak excursion program;
— a minimum number of interesting attractions on the island and in the region in general;
— little sun, strong waves, rain and muddy water during the low season;
— lack of cheap local transport and arrogant taxi drivers;
- almost all entertainment is on Patong Beach;
— noticeably higher prices for EVERYTHING compared to Pattaya.
Who should choose Phuket?
If beach holidays come first for you during your holiday in Thailand, i.e. The main thing for you is to have a good beach with clean water within walking distance from the hotel, then Phuket is your choice. True, you should be prepared for the fact that the vacation budget, due to the high cost of the resort, will be noticeably higher than when vacationing in Pattaya. And, when choosing Phuket, do not forget about the pronounced seasonality on this tropical island, as well as the fact that the cultural program when holidaying in Phuket will be limited. Also, during the low season, Phuket is perfect for surfing enthusiasts, because there are many special schools here, and in the fall international competitions in this sport are held.
Advantages of Pattaya over Phuket:
+
the cheapest resort in Thailand (a more eventful holiday at a lower budget);
+
year-round resort (no pronounced seasonality);
+
best place for shopping (due to lower prices and proximity to Bangkok);
+
availability of attractions and interesting excursions at the resort and nearby;
+
cheap local transport
+
cheaper air tickets (when flying to Bangkok).
Disadvantages of Pattaya:
— lack of beaches with crystal clear water within the city limits;
— more hotels without their own territory;
- in many areas of the city - noisier than in Phuket (except for Patong Beach);
— the presence of unpleasant odors near sewer hatches (in the first days it can be annoying).
Who is better suited for Pattaya:
If you want to have a good rest on a modest budget and at the same time the main thing for you during your vacation is parties, getting to know the history and culture of Thailand and shopping (at the resort and in Bangkok) - Pattaya is your choice. Also, this resort is more suitable for single men who want to find exotic adventures during their vacation. A beach holiday here can also be excellent, because the resort has many beaches that are easily and cheaply accessible from any part of Pattaya. And if you don’t want to put up with less than clear water on the city’s beaches, just 45 minutes from the resort there is the coral island of Koh Larn with white sand and crystal clear water. At the same time, you can go on vacation to Pattaya at any time of the year, without waiting for the right season. Also, a holiday in Pattaya with children will be much more interesting for the latter, when they are old enough for excursions to amusement parks, water parks and zoos.
Perhaps someone, after carefully reading the entire article, noticed the lack of comparison of the tropical nature in Phuket and Pattaya. Therefore, in the end I would like to add that for real exotic things you need to go to other resorts in the country (for example, to the coconut island of Koh Samui). But if you want not only clean sea and white sand from your holiday in Thailand, but definitely plan to relax in Phuket or Pattaya, I advise you to go to neighboring resorts for at least a few days, which are noticeably superior to both Pattaya and the picturesque beaches in terms of exotic nature and picturesque beaches. Phuket is also better suited for a romantic getaway (for example, for a honeymoon). While on holiday in Pattaya, I advise you to visit the island of Koh Chang in the Gulf of Thailand, and while on holiday in Phuket – the Phi Phi Islands in the Andaman Sea.
I hope that a large comparison of resorts has allowed all those who have not yet been to Thailand, but are planning to relax in this wonderful country, to more consciously approach the choice of Phuket or Pattaya as a holiday destination. If we draw the main conclusion that “Phuket or Pattaya – which is better?”- there can be no clear answer here. It all depends on the main goals of your vacation, the season and the available budget. In most cases, when choosing Pattaya or Phuket, you have to make some kind of compromise. And you can finally determine which is better for you specifically: Phuket or Pattaya - only by visiting both resorts yourself. I wish you a great holiday and bright positive emotions, regardless of which resort you ultimately choose - Pattaya or Phuket!
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When the time comes for a long-awaited vacation, many of us wonder how to spend it in the most interesting way so that it is remembered for a long time? Where to go for these unforgettable experiences? Very often the choice falls on Thailand, but even here the questions do not diminish. An insoluble dilemma immediately appears: what to choose or.
The choice is quite difficult, since these two resorts have many advantages. It’s not for nothing that they are the most popular in. To decide on a vacation spot, first of all, it’s worth understanding what exactly our soul desires. Entertainment to the fullest, active and noisy pastime, or peace and tranquility in a secluded corner of paradise among pristine nature. Indeed, in this sense, Pattaya and Phuket are very different.
Entertainment
Pattaya has recently acquired the status of the most “party” resort city in the country. Life there is in full swing 24 hours a day. A variety of entertainment venues can be found on every corner. Restaurants, cafes, bars, pubs, Thai salons, shops, and street performers and clowns amuse passers-by right in the middle of the streets. So you won't be bored for a minute. Pattaya is especially famous.
With the onset of dusk, the city, no less noisy during the day, takes on a new breath. The streets are filled with people who want to relax and forget about all their problems and have fun. From all sides, colorful signs of night entertainment establishments are lit with multi-colored lights and the sounds of music are heard, attracting visitors. It seems that even the air is filled with some kind of unusual energy from which, willy-nilly, you forget about everything in the world and become a participant in the general fun.
Based on the above facts, we can conclude that Pattaya is the best option for young, single men those who want to relax in every sense of the word, and all active tourists who love to have an energetic and fun time.
In the city of entertainment, the main attraction is the Nong Nooch Botanical Garden, which is the hallmark of Pattaya. It has the largest collection of palm trees in all of Thailand, and also has a garden of orchids, bromeliads, cacti and even a rock garden. Masterpieces of architecture from all over Europe can be seen in the Mini Siam park. It presents reduced-size copies of all the unique buildings in the world. Having visited it, you will no longer need to wander around different countries and continents to see the Roman Colosseum or the Statue of Liberty, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Big Ben, the Pyramid of Cheops, the Tower Bridge and many other world-famous attractions.
You can see Pattaya at your feet by climbing to the View Point observation deck, which is located on Khao Pratamnak mountain. When going there, be sure to take a camera with you. Photos of the city taken from above are incredibly beautiful. Another of the most visited attractions is the Temple of Truth. It is the largest wooden temple in the world, built without a single nail. In addition to all this, Pattaya has many museums, water parks, a dolphinarium, and a snake and crocodile farm.
While relaxing in Phuket you can visit all the nearby islands. The most popular and. Lovers of natural beauty will enjoy visiting the butterfly park and orchid farm. And to see the most beautiful sunset on the island, you should go to Phromthep Cape. Families with children will enjoy visiting the aquarium, zoo and Phuket Fantasy amusement park.
Some of the main attractions of the island are the Wat Chalong temple where the relics of Buddha himself rest and the huge statue of Buddha towering over the island on Mount Nak Kud. The huge structure, 45 meters high, can be seen from anywhere in Phuket. Also, from the observation deck near the statue there is a magnificent view of the entire island.
Prices
Often, when choosing a resort, one of the first thoughts that comes to mind is whether a holiday there will seriously hit the family budget. And if we compare these two resorts regarding the possibility of spending a vacation more economically, then Pattaya is undoubtedly the leader in this matter. On the island of Phuket everything is much more expensive. Prices for accommodation, food and even amenities on the beach are higher than in Pattaya. The cost of taxis on the island is especially shocking. In Pattaya, in addition to the Hilton Pattaya type, there is, and in general the costs for transport are scanty.
For shopping lovers, of course, it’s better. The city has a huge number of large, chain supermarkets, shops, shops and various markets. So Pattaya can safely be called a paradise for shopaholics. In addition, the city is not far from Bangkok where you can buy many wonderful things at lower prices.
Having considered Phuket and Pattaya on all points, you can choose one resort that is more suitable in terms of amenities, entertainment and many other factors. But still, the best option would be to visit them both and not deprive yourself of the opportunity to see all the beautiful things that are hidden in Pattaya and Phuket.
Those people who have never visited Thailand are often interested in the question of which of the two resorts to give preference to.
In this article we will help you make a choice, because the quality of your vacation and the positive emotions you receive from your stay in Thailand depend on it.
Where should you go after all: Pattaya or Phuket? It is difficult to give an exact answer to this question, because it is important to take into account personal preferences and the purpose of the trip. Perhaps you want to soak up the clear sea or learn about the sights of Thailand, try exotic dishes or visit local modern parties in the Eastern style.
So, let's figure out what the pros and cons of the two main resorts in Thailand - Phuket and Pattaya.
Phuket or Pattaya: where is it better to relax?
So that you can avoid making a mistake with your vacation spot, we will analyze in detail where your vacation will bring positive emotions to you. To do this, we compare both resorts according to different criteria.
Beaches
If you are interested in a beach holiday, then the island of Phuket takes the lead.
In Pattaya you can visit three huge beaches and several smaller beaches. In Phuket, the number of beaches is much larger, and their size also differs. This allows each tourist to choose that corner of the resort where he can completely relax from all worries.
In Phuket there are noisy beaches where there are constant parties, and there are quiet ones with few people. In Pattaya, there are a huge number of people on all the beaches, so it will be very difficult to be alone.
❗ The beaches of Phuket are better and more diverse than the beaches of Pattaya.
Cost of holiday
Phuket is considered one of the most expensive resorts in Thailand, especially when it comes to accommodation or taxi travel. You can try to find inexpensive housing, but this is more difficult. Most guesthouses that are rented to tourists are not represented on the Internet. An even bigger disadvantage of inexpensive housing is that it is located too far from the sea. And to go to the beach by taxi you will have to pay a tidy sum.
In Pattaya, prices are much lower for everything - housing, taxis, food, entertainment, restaurants, etc. Because of this, tours to Pattaya are more popular among tourists. From Pattaya you can go to Bangkok, which is 100 km away, and do cheap shopping. If you want to go shopping, visit restaurants, have fun, then it is better to choose Pattaya.
❗ Holidays in Pattaya are cheaper than holidays in Phuket.
Entertainment
The most common holiday option in Thailand is considered to be diving, snorkeling and fishing. Phuket and the islands that are nearby are the best place for this type of holiday. In Pattaya you will not be able to fully engage in diving, and the nearby islands do not have a very rich underwater world, especially when compared with Phuket and the Andaman Sea.
Walking Street in Pattaya is the place where the main entertainment of the entire resort is collected. Most of the recreational facilities for different categories of tourists are located here. First of all, Walking Street is known as the “red light district”, where men can find exotic entertainment.
In Phuket, it is important to choose the right beach if you want a loud and bright holiday. The best option in this case is Patong. The rest of the beaches are relatively calm. On the southern beaches, after the sun sets, life generally comes to a standstill.
❗ For noisy entertainment - to Pattaya, for a measured vacation - to Phuket.
Weather
Weather in Pattaya. If we talk about the weather, Pattaya takes the lead here. This resort has the warmest weather in all of Thailand. From late autumn to mid-spring, precipitation occurs very rarely, about 2 times a month, and their duration does not exceed half an hour. The sun constantly shines in Pattaya, which tourists from Russia miss so much during the cold season. The rainy season lasts from the beginning of May until October inclusive. In this case, precipitation occurs several times a week. Sometimes it can rain for a week, and then not rain for a week, if not more. During this period, you can see clouds in the sky more often than the sun. When the rainy season arrives, in the rest of Thailand, conditions are several times worse.
Weather in Phuket. During the “non-rainy” season in Phuket, it can rain several times a week. During the cold season, rain is an almost daily occurrence, and the duration of rain can exceed several hours. Of course, the weather can be slightly different every year and sometimes even during the rainy season there can be a few dry and sunny days in Phuket. Another disadvantage is that during the rainy season, very high waves are observed in Phuket, and there is also a dangerous current. The ban on swimming in the sea will be signaled by special flags along the entire beach.
❗ If you are traveling during the rainy season, it is better to choose Pattaya.
Sea
When it comes to choosing a place for a beach holiday, the state of the sea is one of the most important indicators. After all, first of all, tourists go to enjoy the warm and clean sea, swim, sunbathe, and only after that see the sights or buy souvenirs.
In Pattaya the sea is very dirty, it’s hard to even call it a sea. It's the worst in all of Thailand. On the main beach of the resort there are many motorized water activities, which significantly spoils the state of the sea. Tourists and residents themselves throw various types of garbage into the water. Only 2 beaches in Pattaya can be called relatively clean - Jomtien and Wongamat. There are many small islands near Pattaya where the water is crystal clear. You can get there relatively quickly and cheaply by ferry.
In Phuket, the sea is several times cleaner, especially on those beaches where there are not a huge number of tourists. Even on the largest beach in the resort of Patong, where there are always a lot of people, the sea condition is much better than in Pattaya. On the southern beaches of Phuket you can easily see a wide variety of fish that swim near the shore without fear.
❗ In Phuket the sea is much cleaner than in Pattaya.
Phuket and Pattaya: comparison
Holidays at each of the resorts have their advantages and some disadvantages. It is important to consider them when choosing a resort for your holiday. Let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of each resort in the tables.
Pattaya
Phuket
A resort like Pattaya is an excellent holiday option for people who prefer a budget holiday option or for those who like to travel alone. Tourists who visit Pattaya during the rainy season will be able to better understand the historical heritage and culture of Thailand. See beautiful architecture and get acquainted with incredible places in this country.
Phuket is a resort for tourists who come exclusively for a beach holiday and who are willing to pay extra for it. This resort is perfect for couples with children and for those people who are not particularly interested in sights and architecture. Phuket is a beautiful resort where you can visit the islands, visit the jungle, and get close to nature.
Phuket or Pattaya: where is better to spend your holiday?
If you want to visit Thailand, get to know Asian culture better, see numerous attractions and visit loud parties, then the best option for you is Pattaya. You can go to this resort without children and fully immerse yourself in the life of Thailand. In addition, this option is perfect if you don’t want or don’t have the opportunity to spend too much money on vacation.
But if you prefer a relaxing holiday alone with nature, clear sea, numerous beaches, then it is better to go to Phuket.
- Phuket beaches are better and more varied than Pattaya beaches;
- Holidays in Pattaya are cheaper than holidays in Phuket;
- For noisy entertainment - to Pattaya, for a relaxed holiday - to Phuket;
- It is better to relax in Phuket with children;
- In Phuket the sea is much cleaner than in Pattaya.
Reviews
“We were on holiday in Pattaya for the second time in a row and, as it turned out, we didn’t know much.
For example, you can absolutely safely buy excursions “across the road”, and not three times more expensive from tour operators. Yes, of course, there is a risk regarding insurance. But transport services, hotels for overnight stays, food - these are all at the highest level. And the program is no different. It just affects the overall cost. After visiting 3 excursions, we managed to save 30%.
I will also tell “future” vacationers about Thai pharmacies, which only serve tourists. Do not be fooled by Thai medicinal preparations, roots, teas, oils. For example, I’ll say that having bought ointment for hemorrhoids at a snake farm, and bath oil at a regular pharmacy, I saw absolutely identical bottles with the same liquids both in smell and color. The only difference is the labels. But that's not all. Having torn off the top label with a snake, it “smiled” at me, exactly the same as the pharmacy one. Only they paid dearly for the “snake” one. ((
And in principle, if you ask the question more seriously, it is unlikely that you will be able to find a tea growing culture in the land of smiles and sunshine. Although the local market is pleasing to the eye - for only 100 baht 3 packs of tea!))
Have a nice holiday everyone, and don’t forget to bargain!!!”
“My husband and I were in Pattaya for the first time in October-November 2016. Previously, I studied a lot of information about Thailand on the Internet. Particularly controversial was the question: is it possible to swim on the beaches of Pattaya? Therefore, I will try to express my opinion - maybe it will help someone. 3 times we were at the central beach on Beach Road a little south of the Central Festival. We went to Koh Larn 3 times and went on an excursion to Samet Island for 2 days.
Central Pattaya beach: the sand is yellow, quite clean, the owners of sun loungers clean the beach every morning. Basically, there was no garbage floating in the water; there could have been 1-2 plastic bottles or bags within sight. The color of the water is gray-green in cloudy weather and green-gray in sunny weather. Water transparency, I would say, is average, i.e. standing up to your neck in water, you see yourself up to your waist. As for the sewerage draining into the sea here, there are no visible signs. And sewage is drained into the sea in most coastal cities, for example in Odessa. My conclusion is that you can swim if you have an excursion that day and have half a day free, or on the first/last day, or for some other reason. But I would not recommend using this beach as your only permanent beach.
It's definitely worth a trip to the islands.
Ko Lan. We were 3 times on different beaches: Tawaen, Tong Leng (on foot after Tawaen along a concrete path), Samae. Of these beaches, I liked Samae the best, Tong Leng the worst. The water is the same on all beaches - very clear, turquoise, just lovely. The sand is the best on Tavaen, but the rest are also good - almost white. Differences in infrastructure. The cost of sunbeds on Tawaen is 100 Baht (sometimes you can bargain for 75), on Tong Leng 100 (not bargained), on Samae - exactly the same soft sunbeds - 20 or 30 or more in different places. The food here is excellent - it’s plentiful, tasty and affordable (the Chinese don’t eat everything by 11 o’clock like on the other two beaches). I'll write a review about Fr. later. Samet - there’s no time now,”
“I was in Phuket with my brother in February and I want to share my impressions. We lived in Patong. Before that, I vacationed more than ten years ago in Pattaya. Honestly, I'm disappointed with the holiday. As if this is not the same Thailand, Thais have stopped smiling and sometimes behave aggressively. Everything has become very expensive, especially transport. Moreover, there are no regular bus routes to the beaches of the island. Since the sea in Patong is dirty, we had to take a so-called tuk tuk for two to Karon beach if in rubles for 1000 rubles round trip and that was after bargaining. On the beaches there are no changing rooms, shelters, toilets, sun loungers, in general there is nothing, you can only buy an umbrella and a mattress for money for an average of 200 rubles per person. The climate is very humid and hot. The treacherous sea takes you away unnoticed, even without waves, once you barely rowed to the shore and there are no lifeguards; the beach is very large. Therefore, sailing from the shore is dangerous and it is better to always have the bottom under your feet. Excursions are expensive and tiring because they are mostly sea, and they depart from the other end of the island and you have to travel a long time by bus to get there. I don’t recommend renting a scooter; it’s easy to get yourself into big trouble in the event of even a small accident, which is very easy given the intensity of left-hand traffic and the recklessness of the locals. As I understand it, the local police make a business out of this after an accident, they take away your passport, seemingly for the duration of the investigation, but even if you don’t give it back, they then extort money. And you don’t know the language or the local laws and the plane didn’t arrive for long and the plane isn’t waiting. In general, they told me who got into this horror. And if as a result you cause any damage to the locals, you won’t fly away at all. We rented it for a couple of days and I fell and badly skinned my leg. I was walking through the city and a policeman immediately came up and asked about the bike? Well I was warned in advance. A special theme is the attitude at the hotel and the Chinese, of whom there are a lot and come in large groups. In general, the Chinese treat Russians with disdain, I would even say condescendingly, let’s say for breakfast in a restaurant they line up with the cook with scrambled eggs and it’s simply impossible to approach some, they’ll take you right away, others jump in line, you stand, you stand, even if you fight, but it’s like you’ve come to relax. Then we simply tried not to interfere with them. In the hotel, too, not without problems, I’ll start with the fact that in the room there is an inventory of the property down to the teaspoon. And they immediately warn against signature not to bring anyone into the room, otherwise you will be fined, as in Soviet times. Well, that’s okay, but we didn’t know what an indicative story was in our refrigerator-bar, but as it turned out, a can of soda was swollen from the low temperature, we return from the beach in the evening and at the reception they don’t give us the key, they twist this can and say you have to pay, it’s your fault. In general, this behavior of the staff is a disgrace for the hotel in general and the fact that the key was not given back twice. Therefore, for those who are going, immediately upon check-in, tell them to remove everything from the refrigerator. In general, the streets are narrow, not very clean, and it is not customary for drivers to give way to pedestrians even at the few pedestrian crossings. Moreover, there is nothing particularly interesting there, but going there with children is generally unwise; there is nothing for children, neither food nor children’s infrastructure. And another very important question is that of medicine, those insurances that travel agencies issue don’t actually work there, because if something happens, they tell you it’s not an insured event, it’s that you were involved in an extreme sport or something else they’ll come up with, and if you object, they say pay money at a local clinic and get bills come home and go to court. Therefore, you need to take a decent amount of money with you just in case for treatment. And this is not fantasy, but I talked to one woman, she was running along the sea in the morning and a crack injured her leg, and that’s what the insurance company did to her. Moreover, the flight is long and tiring. The climate is humid and hot all the time, like being in a bathhouse is not comfortable. Ask, what’s good there... and the good thing is fruits and fresh seafood and their prices are tolerable at the Moscow level. He stated everything sincerely, without even setting a foot there. I really regret wasting money and time. Tell me, you described it very gloomily... I think not, just objectively. It might appeal to reckless young people who are generally fine everywhere as long as their parents aren’t around, but I think, taking into account the above, it’s dangerous to let them go there. Good luck to everyone and the right choice of vacation spot, because vacations are usually once a year, and if you look at the years there are not so many years in a person’s life,”