Your Guide to the Best (And Worst) of Thailand's Bangkok and Pattaya

When planning your itinerary, it could make sense to visit Pattaya first, especially if you're flying onto other parts of Asia afterward. An hour away from the Bangkok airport, it has comfortable hotels, fragrant restaurants, friendly people, shopping, beaches and an exciting nightlife. You may want to consider staying at one of the many Pattaya beachfront hotels and walk out of your Pattaya hotel to the lovely Pattaya Bay. If you're planning a family vacation, the Tiger Zoo in Pattaya is very popular as well as the Nong Nooch Gardens and the Sanctuary of Truth. The nightlife here is exciting and off the charts, with crowds, music going all night and endless bar and club choices. Search the many clubs on Walking Street and meet the locals and other travelers while dancing till the sun comes up. You won't be disappointed!

Now it's time to go on your way to Bangkok. Bangkok which has gotten more attention lately than the original touristy city of Pattaya is busy with activity, crowds and history. Thailand and more specifically, Bangkok have some of the best spas in the world. The spas in Bangkok are worth the price and a great way to unwind from a busy day sightseeing. Playing golf in Bangkok is another great activity, and they offer some of the most beautiful golf courses in the world. Shopping is popular here as well. With great prices and stores that love to give up to 80% off, shopping in Bangkok is worth an afternoon exploring the shopping districts instead of relaxing in your hotel or sitting down at a café.

The Top 3 Bars You Must Visit in Bangkok or Regret It for the Rest of Your Life

1. V9. The V9 Hotel is must for any bar goer. It gets packed with young travelers and locals every night of the week and won't stop until early in the morning. It is located on the 37th floor of the lovely Sofitel Silom hotel and has an extensive wine collection, relaxing environment and beautiful views of the city.

2. The Bed. The Bed is a hot spot for locals, and even more so for travelers in Bangkok for a short time. It has drinking, dancing and food, and is split up in two sections. There are beds for customers to relax on, music that goes until the early morning and waitresses in elegant nightwear.

3. Lucifer. Lucifer is one of the most popular discos in Bangkok, and stays open until 2am. If you want a club to dance all night, have wonderful drinks and meet a lot of people, don't miss out on this Bangkok club.

Just as important as the clubs, restaurants, hotels and attractions you should see in Bangkok and Pattaya, there are a few overpriced and overhyped places you should miss altogether. Here are three to stay away from.

The Top Three Areas to Stay Away From in Bangkok & Pattaya

1. Patpong. Patpong is notorious in Bangkok for being full of naked ladies - and then some. If you're on a family vacation or on a trip with your wife, you may want to skip this one altogether.

2. The Golden Buddha. In Bangkok's Chinatown, tourists come from all over the world to see an enormous Buddha statue. It can be disappointing and slightly overhyped, as the real deal is a medium sized Buddha in an overcrowded area of Bangkok. Consider spending your day at the beach or visiting a shrine instead.

3. Ripley's Believe It or Not. This can be a waste of an afternoon for many tourists. Believe It or Not is a major tourist destination, although if you can find it back at home, why spend your time here on a Thai vacation? With many unique things to do in Pattaya, you should skip this one and see the sights.

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Pattaya Survival Guide

Pattaya has a reputation as a city that is focused on fun and entertainment. Everyone here is intent on trying to make this a memorable visit for you. Well almost everyone. I'm not going to dwell on scams in this article, I cover that elsewhere. Pattaya is a safe city, but lots of visitors to this amazing city get themselves in trouble by accident, by failing to understand Thai culture, or by not following some basic rules of good behaviour.

Crossing the road

Remember that in Thailand, traffic drives on the left, so be careful when you cross the road, especially if, back home, you drive on the right. The style of driving in Thailand is very different from most other parts of the world, but it is quite predictable, once you understand it. I'd describe it as opportunistic, but tolerant of other road users. Drivers generally will not stop for pedestrians even at designated cross walks. If you're crossing the road and see on-coming traffic, don't stop, be sure the driver has seen you and just keep walking at the same pace. Traffic will manoeuvre around you. You're more likely to get hit if you stop in the middle of the road! By the way this advice doesn't apply if the driver is a foreigner! Their driving behaviour is unpredictable!

Cash, Credit Cards, ATM cards.

Carry a minimum of cash when you go out. Decide how much you need for the day or the evening, and carry this amount of cash in a small wallet with no other debit or credit cards. If you want to take a credit card or ATM card, take only one card with you and keep this in a separate wallet. Leave your other credit cards in your hotel room in a locked safe. Most businesses in Pattaya expect to be paid in cash.

Resolving Disputes.

If you are overcharged for anything, whether a taxi fare or bar bill, try to resolve the matter in a reasoned and diplomatic manner. If that doesn't work, just pay the bill and walk away. If you don't have proof that you were overcharged, you are not going to win an argument.

If you have proof, go see the Tourist Police. (call 1155, or visit their stand at the north end of Walking Street after 7pm). They will assist you in dealing with the situation. Do not attempt to take the matter into your own hands. Avoid confrontation at all costs. Your odds of success are extremely small.

Pattaya girls.

Most Thai girls are honest (yes, even the ones that work in bars) but in tough economic times, your girl friend may face temptation. Be sure to register your friend at the hotel front desk. If you're staying at an apartment or guesthouse with limited security, then make sure that all valuables and documents are locked in your room safe.

There are lots of stories about bar girl scams, but in my experience they are extremely rare. Use some good judgment, and you will find that most of the ladies you meet are honest citizens who are totally trustworthy.

Tolerant Thais

Thai people have strong value systems and a commitment to their own culture. Thais are generally non-judgmental and don't impose their beliefs on other people. Thais are also very tolerant of other people's behaviour. Don't mistake this for weakness or submissiveness. Don't use this as an excuse for unreasonable or inconsiderate behaviour. Remember that everyone has their breaking point. Be just as charming, respectful and tolerant of others as your Thai hosts and you will be well regarded and you can expect a safe and fun filled holiday. Remember to smile a lot, especially in conversation. This helps to avoid misunderstandings, and you will be thought of as a kind and considerate person.

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