Bangkok or Pattaya – Decisions, Decisions
I visit a lot of Thailand Forums and very often a newbies will ask if he should go to Bangkok or Pattaya or both. He will also want to know how long he should stay at each place – if he goes to both.
As a season traveler to Thailand for over 30 years, I tend to be a bit cynical and advise most to just go straight to Pattaya. But, there are arguments to be made to stop by and visit Bangkok for a few days too.
I have toned down my advice a bit usually tell the newbie to visit Bangkok for 2 to 3 days at the beginning of his trip and then spend the rest of the 2 or 3 weeks in Pattaya. Everyone should see Bangkok at least once.
There is a lot to see in Bangkok if you can ever get to where you want to go. Traffic is usually moving along at a snail’s pace and the meter in the taxi keeps ticking away. Walking around is hot and the streets are lined with vendors that block the sidewalk and will try any tactic to get you to stop and buy something from their stall. And, if you are walking around at night, you will have to watch out for the lady-boys and the muggers (as you would in almost any large city).
Once you suffer taxis and heat, there are numerous clubs, bars, and restaurants that would rival the best anywhere in the world. With prices being extremely low (despite the strengthening of the Baht), you can have a great night out on the town for a minimal amount of money.
Throw in inexpensive hotels, excellent shopping, and the friendliest people in the world, and you will have an experience unlike any you have ever had. Then, on your second visit to Thailand, you can just go straight to Pattaya.
Lawrence Westfall
http://www.articlesbase.com/business-articles/bangkok-or-pattaya-decisions-decisions-76699.html
7 comments
gamermic says:
April 9, 2009 at 12:57 am (UTC -5 )
What are the best places to shop and bargain in Bangkok and Pattaya?
What are the best places in Bangkok/Pattaya to shop and bargain?
I have been to Pratunam, Chatuchak, MBK, Siam Paragon and Silom in Bangkok, and Walking Street and Mike Shopping Centre in Pattaya.
Please do a ranking based on the best place to the worst place… Do comment on your decision if you can…
Robert C says:
April 9, 2009 at 5:59 am (UTC -5 )
Chatuchak is still the best… you will not get any better without a lot of work… and I can tell you that additional work isn't worth it.
Oh, and the worst place is around any large hotel. LOL!
References :
Anne B says:
April 9, 2009 at 6:01 am (UTC -5 )
Without a doubt Chatuchak Market is the best place to shop.It is a must for shoppers.The whole experience of the place you will never forget.But remember it is only open Saturday & Sundays so do not miss out when you are in Bangkok.
References :
best place to shop in Bangkok
nowhereman says:
April 9, 2009 at 6:04 am (UTC -5 )
all the places you list are tourist markets with higher prices, not the places the thai's go and get great bargains. try sampeng morning market and other local markets not that far away in china town, also bo-bae clothing market in the bo-bae towers.
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Truman B says:
April 9, 2009 at 6:06 am (UTC -5 )
I have been to Chatuchak several times and each time it was so hot that was impossible to spend more than 4 hours there. Much prefer the shopping malls in MBK area, or Pratum. Across the street from Pratum is a hidden Gem in shopping, It is a warrens den of shops, mostly hidden from the typical traveler. Get off the beaten track, Enjoy the city, Go down the back alleys. I wore out a new pair of shoes in 4 weeks in BKK this past year, and intend to do the same again next year. If you get tired get a massage, and just tell them no extras when you first enter. be surprised how good a real massage will feel.
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ianrose01 says:
April 9, 2009 at 6:08 am (UTC -5 )
If you want to buy anything in pattaya I would recommend the day market in pattaya tai (central pattaya) which is one block west of TK com shopping centre, it is only open tuesday thursday & saturday from memory but you can usually get good prices & you should not pay the asking price for merchandise. Always bargain. Start at about 1/3 of the asking price & work upwards (Slowly) until you reach a price that the stall holder will accept, particularly if you intend to buy more than 1 piece. There are also a number of local night markets woth looking at but they are not on every night. You should ask the locals to tell you what is on where as they will normally be very obliging.
References :
8 trips to pattaya in the past 2 years
png says:
April 9, 2009 at 6:10 am (UTC -5 )
If you are looking for souvenirs, those touristic area you have been is indeed good choice. Best place may be Chatuchak ( and worst is of course Patpong night market/Silom). I usually buy cloth, food, or any daily needs at Tesco Lotus or Carrefour, and gifts at Emporium or Isetan. I don't like to bargain with shop keepers and I am tired of it.
Enjoy shopping!
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