Thailand's East Coast unfolding some 500 kilometres from the south of the Chao Phraya river to the Cambodian border, is dotted with beach resorts for all seasons. Pride of the coast is Pattaya, the Kingdom 's most developed beach destination. For vacationer who prefers a more traditional style resort holiday, there is a wide choice of quieter spots, ranging from the long sandy stretches of Rayong to offshore islands Koh Chang and Ko Samet.

Besides its varied beaches, the East Coast has the added advantage of being within easy reach of Bangkok. Pattaya is less than a two-hour drive from the capital along a modern highway. Other resorts are equally accessible. And it is not only the beach which is close to hand, the East Coast also boasts a number of superb international-standard golf courses, making the region a prime attraction for the golfer and for the seeker of sun, sea and sand.

Colourful and alive with activity, Pattaya is unrivalled as a beach resort. It is in a class of its own, offering more attractions in greater profusion than any other single destination in Southeast Asia. Day and night, it presents an ever-changing kaleidoscope of fun and thrills.

Facing a wide bay and a long majestic sweep of beach, Pattaya has been groomed over more than three decades for the international visitor, and today it boasts the unique distinction of a beach resort with city status. Pattaya has something for everyone. Where as most other beach resorts rely simply on natural surroundings for their charm. Pattaya makes an all-out attempt to provide the best of everything in an exhaustive mix of facilities. To the basic ingredient of a superb coastal location it adds just about every other amenity you can think of for recreation, entertainment, sightseeing and fun.

Indeed, Pattaya can be whatever you want it to be. Such is its variety that it is ideal for all kinds of visitors. While there is plenty to keep the children happily occupied, there is also everything for the sports enthusiast, for couples of all ages seeking rest and relaxation, and for those who are simply looking for good times in the sun.

Getting to the resort is simple. Public buses departing from Bangkok's Ekamai terminal and deluxe private coaches offering a hotel pick-up service operate several daily departures. Direct transfers to Pattaya from Bangkok's Don Muang airport by taxi and limousine are also available. With expressway exits from Bangkok and taking the fast Bang Na - Trat highway, the road journey takes usually two hours or less.

With U-tapao airport nearby, Pattaya may also be reached by air and is currently served by a growing number of scheduled and charter flights from Europe and regional destinations.

Sightseeing Around Pattaya : Possibilities for sightseeing include the remarkable Wat Yannasangwararam, not far front Chomthien. Dedicated to His Majesty the King, Mid is a new Buddhist temple fascinating for its mix of architectural styles. The main temple building is a modern interpretation of classic Thai design, while numerous smaller shrines have been constructed in the typical styles of various countries East and West. The extensive landscaped gardens which surround the temple add natural beauty and enhance a tranquil atmosphere.

Among other places of interest are several attractions which combine cultural insights with a fun time. From the Elephant Village to Mini Siam (and "Mini Europe") model park, from a rock garden and crocodile farm to Ocean Park water amusement centre, from Chomthien Fishing Park to Nong Nooch Cultural Village, there is plenty to provide hours of fascination and amusement for all the family.

After Dark : True to its city status. Pattaya, unlike other beach resorts, shows no slackening of pace after sundown. Evenings are as full of fun as the day, with a wide selection of fine dining, entertainment and shopping.

Exploring The East Coast: Pattaya presents the widest choice of activities and the biggest selection of hotel, but it is by no means the only resort along Thailand's East Coast. There are many other attractive spots to be explored, either on day trips from Pattaya or as destinations in their own right. To the north is Bang Saen, an older beach resort and one still very popular with Bangkok residents. Here, apart from the beach, is the excellent Marine Science Centre aquarium. Close by are Ocean World water amusement park and, a few kilometres island, Khao Keo Open Zoo where various wild animals can be seen in a picturesque hillside setting. Both these attractions are ideal for children and afford perfect family day outings from Pattaya.

Although the East Coast is readily accessible from
Bangkok, making day excursions possible, you should
plan on at least a week's stay in order to appreciate the full
fascination of this intriguing corner of Thailand.