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Jomtien

Thailand's Songkran Festival in Pattaya, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket. Amazing water fights at Thailand's Water Festival

Songkran – Thailand’s No. 1 super fun Festival

by Kim 15th May 2023

written by Kim

Thailand’s Songkran festival represents the celebration of the Buddhist New Year. Images of Buddha are symbolically bathed and Thais show their respect to monks and their elders by sprinkling water over their hands. To experience or witness this genteel ceremony in a private family setting is extremely moving.

Coming from the Sanskrit word sangkranti which means pass, transform or change, referring to the movement of the sun and planets from one zodiac sign to another. For Songkran it is the movement from Pisces into the sign of Aries and auspicious time to make resolutions and to set new goals.

In public, it is a vibrant and happy celebration to usher in the New Year with great joy and enthusiasm. Water does play a major role from the symbolic sprinkling to the modern dousing! After all it is the hottest time of the year and getting soaked is mostly a pleasant distraction.

Officially celebrated on 13 April each year the festivities continue at least for 3 days from 13-15 April and often longer! Celebrated throughout Thailand from small villages to all cities. As it is a public holiday, vast numbers travel home to their families and the tourists can play.

Be prepared to get wet, very, very wet! It is not possible just to come to look! Ensure that your phone and valuables are well protected in a waterproof bag and dress simply as you will be soaked! The days of gentle splashing are long gone, bright powerful water guns and vast tubs of iced (yes ICED) water will ensure that no part of you stays dry!

Songkran Jomtien Thailand — Water everywhere

Also be prepared to have your faces smeared with white powder paste (Din Sor Pong) as part of another ritual to ward off evil spirits. The powder was originally made from fine white limestone soil from Lopburi. It is best to offer your faces to be smeared as by shying away, you will probably end up with this powder in your eyes or clogging your ears. But no worry, there is plenty of water available to wash it off!

I found this tradition with Din Sor Pong to be one of the most captivating of the Songkran traditions as it was mostly sincere teenagers that wanted to perform this ritual act, wishing you “Sawad dee ppee mai” or Happy New Year in Thai. I was fascinated by their cheerful, smiling faces and recommend that you accept this gesture in the way that it is presented as this is an age group that we foreigners rarely come into close contact with.

Songkran - Thailand’s No. 1 super fun Festival 1 — Just have fun!

Songkran - Thailand’s No. 1 super fun Festival 2 — Just have fun!

Songkran is a time to be happy and at one with our hosts, the Thais. The act of painting your face or pouring a bucket of iced water down your back is one of genuine welcome and togetherness, especially as these acts are done with a big smile! If you don’t like or are unable to accept this, it is better to take a trip outside the country, or lock yourself in at home for the duration.

Whilst the official dates for Songkran are 13-15 April there are also many additional local celebratory days, mostly known as Wan Lai or the ‘Flowing Day’. Certain cities appear to have the rights to extend the Songkran celebrations throughout to this mega celebration. If you thought that Songkran was fun, wait until you enjoy Wan Lai as it is many times more fun and even wetter!

So, what actually happens during Songkran/Wan Lai? It tends to start slowly and you will start to notice the appearance of a hose and a large barrel on the street for the participants to douse passers-by. Initially, easily avoided as you just need to look for wet spots on the streets, however as the momentum gathers the chance of a soaking increased especially in smaller sois with bars on both sides. Here these is no chance of escape!

As the energy increases, so does the volume of water and you will find pick-up trucks roaming the streets mostly soaking others coming in the opposite direction but also sometimes an unsuspecting passer-by. Top-up water tankers are strategically located, and you may even see these tankers commandeered and spraying astronomical volumes of water. The 3 days of Songkran are generally quite crazy and then Wan Lai (if held), is nothing short of maniacal and such fun!

Join in, don’t try to avoid it. Dress lightly and have your valuables and phone in a plastic bag. If water is thrown at you, accept it with a smile and never try to stop the process. Don’t get angry, it is the lovely Thai celebration and their pouring of happiness is overwhelming.

Songkran in Thailand where are the best places to be?

Bangkok is spectacular with many younger Asian guests arriving specifically for the holidays. The most famous area is probably Silom with drenching festivities taking place in Khaosan Road, Soi Cowboy, Nana and anywhere where there is a concentration of bars. If you can, rent a Tuk-Tuk, fill your water guns and patrol the streets, it is an amazing experience.

Songkran - Thailand’s No. 1 super fun Festival 4 — Bangkok Silom

Songkran - Thailand’s No. 1 super fun Festival 5 — Bangkok Silom

With traditional celebrations through the city, Chang Mai is also a most enjoyable destination for Songkran with the Phae Gate and all the areas around the Chiang Mai Moat amongst the most popular.

Naturally Phuket celebrates in crazy style starting with Phuket Old Town and spreading to Patong, Kata, Karon and especially Bangla Road at night.

*Personal Choice* – The Best place to celebrate Songkran is Pattaya & Jomtien Pattaya!

My personal favourite is now firmly Pattaya – this city really knows how to celebrate. Songkran is wild along Beach Road and all the bar streets. Pattaya also celebrates Wan Lai, so when it has finished in most places, Pattaya saves it’s best for last. Starting on Jomtien Beach Road the noise and water battle between the pick-ups is monumental. The Jomtien Complex gay area hosted foam parties and lots of scantily clad boys. Possibly, the most fun is taking a Song Thaew (open pick-up taxi) from Jomtien to Pattaya and experiencing the continuous water deluge on route. Sadly, Second Road construction limited the festivities but there was plenty of water to be found on Soi Burkhao, Sois 6, 7, 8 and on Beach Road.

After a gap of 3 years due to Covid, Songkran in Thailand is back with a vengeance. Possibly the happiest festival in the world the main ingredients are water and laughter. You either love it as I do, or……..

Kim Waddoup

Founder

Kim Waddoup enjoyed a lifetime in the tourism business and is an active ‘Silver-Ager” living in Thailand. He writes for his age group with high varied articles covering subjects relevant to retirees living in, or visiting Thailand. Any questions or comments on this post? Please do feel free to contact me through our ‘Contact Form’ or directly kim@meanderingtales.com

15th May 2023 0 comments

Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa, Pattaya, Thailand

Food & Drink

Ringing in the New Year at the Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa.

by Kim 3rd January 2023

written by Kim

A meticulous evening in the magical surrounding of this magnificent resort on Pattaya’s coast

The New Year’s celebration is one of the highlights of each year and with a profusion of enticing offers it can be challenging to make the correct decision. This year, to be sure of an excellent experience, we chose the Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa to celebrate with friends and we were delighted with our choice.

The Renaissance Resort & Spa enjoys an impressive entrance and lobby area. Our indulgence commenced from the moment we arrived with the amicable welcome of the staff who would park our car. Whilst the lobby is vast, you are immediately enveloped in a warm, hospitable feeling with the staff genuinely welcoming you to join the festivities.

Ringing in the New Year at the Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa. 7 — Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa

Ringing in the New Year at the Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa. 8 — Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa

We had chosen to celebrate at their 609 Kitchen Restaurant due to its ambience and renowned buffet. For this special occasion there was a choice of dining inside or on the beautifully located garden. The evening was festive, relaxed and most enjoyable from the first minute.

Ringing in the New Year at the Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa. 9 — Perfect atmosphere

Ringing in the New Year at the Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa. 10 — Perfect atmosphere

The service staff were amazing, attentive, and professional but above all, so friendly. Every member that we encountered genuinely wanted us to enjoy our stay and there was a calm, professional aura from each one. They can all smile so much at the Renaissance! I love to observe staff at their work and this evening’s observations were a testimonial to a sympathetic and professional management team who have achieved such superb teamwork.

Ringing in the New Year at the Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa. 11 — Ice Bar in the Tropics

Ringing in the New Year at the Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa. 12 — Ice Bar in the Tropics

The Buffet was superb, a culinary journey through so many tastes. Maybe not as ostentatious as some, but an extremely comprehensive selection that was beautifully displayed with a choice to suit every palate and more. Inside was the cold buffet with some freshly cooked dishes on request, including Foie gras, and outside were hot specialities with a varied choice of seafood, meats and much more.

Ringing in the New Year at the Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa. 14 — Fantastic choice of Seafood

Ringing in the New Year at the Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa. 15 — Fantastic choice of Seafood

It was a lovely, relaxed atmosphere with guests from around the world relaxing, mixing and happily celebrating. Entertainment was provided by a very talented trio who emulated so many different voices perfectly and the impressive Fire Show that was tastefully spectacular and popular with the guests.

Ringing in the New Year at the Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa. 18 — Tasteful fireshow

Ringing in the New Year at the Renaissance Pattaya Resort & Spa. 19 — Tasteful fireshow

The evening was marvellous with the buffets continuously topped up. A magical ambience had been created and the secret of the Renaissance Pattaya Resort is their incredibly attentive staff, each and every one playing their roles meticulously to provide a celebration to be savoured. With an impressive Firework show at midnight it was time to depart and return to normality!

We chose their Tropical Glam Night New Year buffet at THB.4,100++ including free flow beverages. Excellent value for money considering the vast choice, full free flow bar, ambience and service.

Kim Waddoup

Founder

3rd January 2023 0 comments

Food & Drink

Special Wine Dinner at Poseidon’s Wine Cellar in Jomtien, Pattaya

by Kim 10th September 2020

written by Kim

Review on the special Special Wine Dinner held at Poseidon’s Wine Cellar in Jomtien, Pattaya, Thailand

Thailand is truly a wonderful country to be able to enjoy such a vast range of culinary delights. Naturally, Thai cuisine is prevalent, we are also blessed with a vast variety of foreign talent that have brought their experience and love of cooking to be enjoyed throughout Thailand.

Special Wine Dinner at Poseidon's Wine Cellar in Jomtien, Pattaya 26 — Wine Dinner at Poseidon’s Wine Cellar

Poseidon’s Wine Cellar is a well established and very popular restaurant slightly hidden away at the entrance to the Jomtien Complex. We were warmly greeted by our host, Heiko and presented with a glass of refreshing Prosecco to mark the commencement of the festivities. Soon we were called to our tables and the first dish was presented.

The Amuse Bousche was ‘Pancetta wrapped Goat Cheese served lukewarm on Rocket garnished with Honey and Pecans’. These were delicately wrapped packages with the flavour of the Pancetta and the goat cheese perfectly complementing each other with the rocket, honey and pecans providing additional astringency. A most impressive start!

Special Wine Dinner at Poseidon's Wine Cellar in Jomtien, Pattaya 27 — Amuse Bousche of Pancetta and Goat Cheese with honey and pecan nuts

This was followed by ‘Snow Fish Salad’ which consisted of a variety of lettuce with a tarragon sauce with a composition of pickled root vegetables decorated with poached snow fish flakes. The distinctive flavours of the tarragon and the pickled vegetables combined to provide a wonderful backdrop of taste for the soft, delicate snow fish. A highly creative dish with flavours that worked in perfect harmony eith each other. Admirably paired with a Craggy Range, Wild Rock, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, this distinctive wine had an almost pungent nose of ginger, peach with a hint of honey. As it opened, this proved to be a fruity and flavoursome wine with a long, lingering finish.

Special Wine Dinner at Poseidon's Wine Cellar in Jomtien, Pattaya 28 — The exquisite Snow Fish Salad

We were next presented with a ‘Terrine de Canard au Foie Grass’. Initially looking like quite a simple dish it was in fact a variety of duck structures that had been combined with foie grass and compressed in a terrine. The paté was rich in flavour and perfectly complemented with the Cumberland Sauce and grilled rum raisin bread. Another superbly created dish that was more than adequately paired with an Antinori Bramito Chardonnay from the Castello della Sala estate in the Umbrian region of Italy. Delicate on the nose with notes of ripe exotic fruit with a hint of citrus. The palate was elegant and fresh with a sapid finish of pleasant notes of vanilla and nut butter.

In Thailand we are spoilt with reams of distinctive flavourings that combined to make the tastiest of Thai food. Sometimes however, a simplistic flavour just totally ‘hits-the-spot’. This was the case with the ‘Mushroom Consommé’. It was a clear soup bursting with the salty flavour of fresh mushrooms. The mushrooms in the soup were crisp and delicate and full of individual flavour. The hint of ginger was so delicate and further highlighted these simple, but delicious flavours. This amazing Consommé was brilliantly paired with a Chateau La Tour L’Évêque from Cote de Provence. 80% Syrah and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon this wine is intricate with notes of black fruits and spices. The palate is dry with a high level of freshness with fine grained tannins. It is silky and elegant with a long and intensive finish. Another perfect pairing.

We were all now eagerly awaiting the main course which was ‘Lamb Loin prepared sous-vide with green asparagus, roasted potato and a red wine/lavender sauce’. Beautifully prepared and presented the lamb, whilst being perfectly soft and tender, somehow failed to deliver the anticipated flavours and the red wine/lavender sauce did not have the astringency to save the dish. The asparagus was excellent and the roasted potatoes the highlight of this dish. Paired with a Farnese Nergoamaro Velar from the Puglia region of Italy, this was a bold wine from the Negroamaro grape, smooth with medium tannins and relatively dry. Notes included black fruit, oak/dark chocolate and spices. The wine was perfect but sadly not complemented by the weakness of the lamb. (Please do note that this is a critique and not a criticism)

Special Wine Dinner at Poseidon's Wine Cellar in Jomtien, Pattaya 29 — Lamb loin

Finally it was time for ‘Passion Fruit Dessert’. This was an amazing concoction of passion fruit creations combined in one dessert. Full marks for presentation and flavours with a mix of tradition and creativity. Sweet yet sharp with a multitude of flavours from the passion fruit and the additional ingredients. Paired with a Marsala Fine Rubino dessert wine this was truly a superb way to end a terrific meal.

Special Wine Dinner at Poseidon's Wine Cellar in Jomtien, Pattaya 30

Full praise to Executive Chef Bart who had compiled an amazing feast of delicate flavours with each dish full complimenting the wine. Heiko and his team of extremely attentive waiters are to be highly commended on their service, it was professional and always with a smile.

Poseidon’s Wine Cellar produced a superb gastronomic festival on this lovely evening. Thank you one an all!

Special Wine Dinner at Poseidon's Wine Cellar in Jomtien, Pattaya 31 — Five perfectly paired wines

Poseidon’s Wine Cellar, Jomtien, Pattaya, Thailand

Kim Waddoup

Founder

10th September 2020 0 comments

Food & Drink

Special Wine and Dine Dinner at May’s Urban Thai Dine, Jomtien, nr. Pattaya, Thailand.

by Kim 28th August 2020

written by Kim

Special Wine and Dine Dinner at May’s Urban Thai Dine, Jomtien, nr. Pattaya, Thailand. July 2020

I love food, wine and good company and these were the basis of my earlier gourmet experiences in organising the Moscow Good Food Club. Having retired and moved to Thailand I had been searching for the opportunity to indulge in my culinary pursuits and was pleasantly surprised to receive details of a special dinner with wine pairings at one of Pattaya’s most progressive Thai restaurants, May’s Urban Thai Dine.

Special Wine and Dine Dinner at May’s Urban Thai Dine, Jomtien, nr. Pattaya, Thailand. 38 — Thai urban chic

Special Wine and Dine Dinner at May’s Urban Thai Dine, Jomtien, nr. Pattaya, Thailand. 39 — Thai urban chic

May’s Urban Thai Dine is conveniently located on Thep Prasit road, in Jomtien, just a short drive down the motorway from Bangkok. May has created quite a reputation in Thailand for the creativity of her Thai food, based on her traditional background and the use of home-grown, organic products. The interior is subdued, modern but retains rural origins. The guests arrived and soon our host, the adorable May, asked us to take our seats. The table was festively decorated and we eagerly awaited our first dish of ‘Grilled Red Snapper Topped with Young Chili & Ginger Sauce’. Top marks for presentation in using the fried fish skeleton! The fish meat had been reduced to a soft texture, with concentrated flavour and the chilli and ginger sauce added perfect flavours. This first course was accompanied by a Château Routas Rosé Rouvier AOC from the Côte de Provence in Southern France. This is a popular style AOC Coteaux Various en Provence that was pleasant, with light berry fruit aromas with a hint of mint? Nice and dry with a crisp finish this was an ideal pairing to the Red Snapper.

Special Wine and Dine Dinner at May’s Urban Thai Dine, Jomtien, nr. Pattaya, Thailand. 40 — Red Snapper with Young Chili & Ginger Sauce

The second course was ‘Slow Cooked Beef Sausage serviced with Nam Jim Jiew’(spicy Isan dipping sauce). A simple dish that was superbly presented with a bouquet of herb leaves. The sausage bursting with flavour and the dish followed traditional principles with the herbs, green chilis and ginger. A knife would have been appreciated and the ginger was unfortunately hidden below the green and many discovered this vital enhancement too late to fully enjoy the robust flavours presented in. The Routas Rosé was also a perfect pairing.

Special Wine and Dine Dinner at May’s Urban Thai Dine, Jomtien, nr. Pattaya, Thailand. 41 — Slow cooked beef sausage with Nam Jim Jiew

The third course was Grilled Eggplant with Soft Boiled Egg served with a Soya Bea Sauce. Again, beautifully presented and decorated. The aubergine was crispy with a lot of flavour and the Soya Bean Sauce presented some real Thai spicy flavour to this dish that was paired with a Alois Lageder, Pinot Grigio Porer DOC from the Alto Adige region of Northern Italy. This wine caused a little confusion as in the lighting it looked more like a Rosé! Whilst definitely a white, wine some discussion suggested that this hue may be a result of it’s heritage as thought to be a mutant clone of the Pinot Noir grape variety. This was however a classic Pinot Grigio, medium bodied, quite rich with delicate aromas from a strong bouquet. Another excellent pairing.

Special Wine and Dine Dinner at May’s Urban Thai Dine, Jomtien, nr. Pattaya, Thailand. 42 — Grilled Eggplant, Boiled Egg & Soya Bean Sauce

This was followed by Slow Cooked Pullet marinated with Shrimp Paste and Pineapple in an Aroma Curry sauce. Once again highly creative presentation in a section of Bamboo. The pullet skewer was soft, succulent and full of delicate Thai flavour with the baby pineapple providing a strong contract to the curry sauce. The Pinot Grigio was again well paired.

Special Wine and Dine Dinner at May’s Urban Thai Dine, Jomtien, nr. Pattaya, Thailand. 43 — Puller marinated with Shrimp Paste & Pineapple

Course number 5 was Fresh Lotus Flower and Banana Blossom Salad with Crab Meat and Homemade Chilli Sauce. To marks! This was an exquisite dish of crispy lotus and banana flower served in a banana blossom boat with succulent chunks of crab meat complemented with the chilli sauce. Subtle favours served together to produce an extremely inventive and delicious dish. Paired again with the Pinot Grigio the wine had unfortunately lost its initial crispness but still a pleasant pairing.

Special Wine and Dine Dinner at May’s Urban Thai Dine, Jomtien, nr. Pattaya, Thailand. 44 — The exquisite Lotus Flower/Banana Blossom Salad with Crab Meat

Sour Curry Soup with Moringa and Clams was the next course, again with creative presentation with the soup being poured over the clams at the table. Many of the recipes from the South of Thailand incorporate sour flavours (some are extreme) and these pungent tastes have become favourites of mine. Whilst the clams were wonderful, somehow the sour Curry soup proved to be just too sour even for me! It had almost a pungent turmeric flavour though I was informed that this was a pineapple reduction. It was a bold and inventive dish, but dod not work for me personally. Interesting to note that this was served with Moringa that has so many health benefits. The Ceretto Langhe Amels Blange from Piemonte was probably the star wine of the evening. A superb white wine from the Arneis grape produced in the Piedmont which was formally exclusively only red wine! The wine was fruity with mineral aromatics creating a balanced freshness that was bursting to be enjoyed!

A brief repose saw the Kaw Kamin with Mango Ice cream being served. Again imaginatively presented and whilst the Mango was tart, possibly a sorbet would have helped cleanse the palate especially after the sourness of the previous course.

Special Wine and Dine Dinner at May’s Urban Thai Dine, Jomtien, nr. Pattaya, Thailand. 45

Before the feast commenced, we were asked to make our choice for main course. These were Chuchee Chowpaya River Prawn served with Ginger Rice or Slow Cooked Beef in Gaeng Rawang Curry with Dill, Baby Galangal and Cumin Leaves. The Chowpaya River Prawns from Ayuttheya were superb. Soft and delicate with hints of so many herbs. The Ginger rice was an interesting flavour and texture that well complemented the prawns. The Gaeng Rawang Curry was a wonderful concoction of spices producing almost an Oriental flavour. The beef was unfortunately not as tender as it should have been, but both dishes were excellent in presentation and flavours.

There was some confusion with the wines at this point as a Primitovo should have been served with the curry and a Langhe Nebbiolo with the prawns. Not being sure which wine was consumed it is hard to make a comment. Which ever it was, if was robust, full flavoured and well paired.

The finalé of the evening was Spiced Red Wine Poached Pear with Vanilla Ice cream. The description does not do this wonderful composition justice. It was a perfect dessert to the culmination of a creative, well balanced and superbly presented meal. The dessert was paired with a Moscato Blancospino which, whilst pleasant could have presented more astringency to fully complement the sumptuous dessert.

Special Wine and Dine Dinner at May’s Urban Thai Dine, Jomtien, nr. Pattaya, Thailand. 46 — Red Wine Poached Pear with Vanilla Ice-Cream

Mays Urban Thai Dine is a relaxed dining style with an emphasis on creativity utilising original and organically produced Thai herbs and spices. The dinner presented a journey through Thailand appreciating the vast choice of uniquely Thai flavours. The service style is quite relaxed and whilst the staff were extremely friendly a small amount of professionalism was lost. This just is a small area that can be corrected for such an exceptional dining experience.

Congratulations to May and her team. Job very well done!

May’s Pattaya, Then Prasit, Jomtien, Pattaya, Thailand. Facebook

Kim Waddoup

Founder

28th August 2020 0 comments

Destinations

Pattaya and it’s 7 best Beaches Explained

by Kim 24th June 2020

written by Kim

Updated 04 Jan 2021

Pattaya and it’s Beaches Explained. There are 7 main beaches in the immediate Pattaya area, where to find the best beach for you

Pattaya may have a rather nefarious reputation but if you are looking to get out of Bangkok and visit a beach, it is one of the closest and easiest to get to plus the choice once you are here is quite large. With the post-Covid situation, changes are happening every day. At this time no international visitors, just locals, so everywhere is very quiet but busier at the weekend, especially Jomtien.

My suggestion is to take the Motorway as this is straight from BKK right into the centre of Pattaya. There is a Toll Booth to collect your ticket just after Suvarnabhumi airport and the next stop is the Toll Booth just outside Pattaya. It costs THB.105 each way. If you want to take a break on the way, there is a large service area about half-way with a vast variety of food and beverage outlets. This is the only place to get petrol on the route. Journey time is about 1.5 hours. Soon after the second toll booth you arrive in Pattaya and you will see directions to each of the beaches in the text. From North to South you have the choice of many beaches.

Wong Amat Beach is a large crescent beach with limited access, so not so many people. It is in the Naklua area which is where many up-market condominium buildings and resorts are located. Beautiful sand, relatively quiet with limited water sports (speed boats/jet skis). Wong Amat Beach does boast an excellent seafood restaurant, be sure to visit Rim Talay Seafood. As you arrive in Pattaya, at the first lights turn right along Sukhumvit, take North Pattaya Road and turn right to Naklua just after Terminal 21 Shopping Centre. Follow Naklua road and turn right on Soi 16 or 18. There is only street parking and follow the alley way to the beach.

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 53 — Wong Amat Beach, luxury Condos and Resorts

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 54 — Wong Amat Beach, luxury Condos and Resorts

Pattaya Beach is a large crescent expanse of sand with the sights rather spoilt by the number of restaurant boats moored in the middle, but it is impressive! Sun beds and umbrellas are located on the edge of the beach and there is, currently, ample roadside parking. If you are going for a swim, wear flipflops as it is quite a walk to the waters’ edge and the sand does get hot! As you arrive in Pattaya, at the first lights turn right along Sukhumvit, take North Pattaya Road and go straight as you pass Terminal 21. This leads you directly onto Beach Road.

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 56 — Pattaya Beach Promenade

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 57 — Pattaya Beach Promenade

Cozy Beach is a gem if you are looking for a beach without the crowds. Not so easy to find but once you are there you can almost enjoy your own private beach. There are sun loungers and umbrellas for hire but no other facilities, however on the cliff above you will find the Chocolate Factory and the impressive Sky Gallery with it’s excellent service, cuisine and views. Cozy beach is located in the Pratumnak area, take the road opposite Big Buddha and follow the signs to Chocolate Factory and Sky Gallery. Parking is available on the street. The steps down to the beach are located at the end of Chocolate Factory, be careful as they are a bit uneven but the beach is well worth it!

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 60 — Lovely views to Koh Lan

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 61 — Lovely views to Koh Lan

Update 04 Jan 2021

Just before Christmas two spectacular venues joined Chocolate Factory and Sky Gallery. These additions are the For Rest belonging to Sky Gallery and the spectacular 3 Mermaids. I have not tired the food yet but the construction and ambience is quite amazing.

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 64 — For Rest Cosy Beach

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 65 — For Rest Cosy Beach

Hu-Gwang Beach offers total seclusion. It’s a small beach and access is down a rather forbidding concrete stairway, but the beach is a pleasant surprise. It does look as though it has seen better days, but it is a gentle, sandy beach with very few people. There does appear to be 1 vendor with a few sun loungers and surprisingly there were even 2 Lifeguards on duty on the day of my visit. There is a quaint little local restaurant and the Birds and Bees resort with its’ Cabbages and Condoms restaurant. From Pratumnak Road take Soi 4 right to the end. There is parking and look for the steps on the right down to the beach.

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 67 — Not an impressive entrance

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 68 — Not an impressive entrance

Pratumnak Beach is less commercialised and relatively secluded with few people. There some vendors with umbrellas and sun beds but there are also a lot of trees. Generally, not busy during the day but quite a gathering place for local Thais to meet in the late afternoon. Ample street parking, Sands Café located on the beach and several other small eateries close by. Try Zabb if you are looking for great Isaan food. As you arrive in Pattaya turn left onto Sukhumvit road, at the third set of traffic lights turn right onto Thep Rasit road. At the lights at the end, turn right. At the next lights turn left. About 200 meters further turn left onto Soi 5 and follow this straight down to the beach. From Pratumnak beach you can walk along the promenade to Dongtan Beach and into Jomtien.

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 70 — Pratumnak Beach

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 71 — Pratumnak Beach

Dongtan Beach is a really lovely beach and as it has limited vehicle access it remains relatively quiet. There are trees all along the beach offering plenty of shade. There are some vendors with umbrellas and sun beds but these are currently limited. If you are looking for peace and quiet on a beach, this is probably the best choice. You will have to park your car, but it is well worth it. Dongtan Beach can be reached on foot from Pratumnak Beach, but it is best to turn left at the end of Thep Rasit road then right down to the Police Box on Jomtien beach. At the Police Box turn right (by 7-11), there is a small parking area here and then walk along the beach. The Pirate Bar offers good snacks and The Sand Bar is highly recommended for high level food, pastries and coffee.

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 74 — Dongtan Beach sign near to the Police Box

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 75 — Dongtan Beach sign near to the Police Box

Jomtien Beach starts from the Police Box at the end of Thappraya Road and continues for more than 6 kms of wide, open beach. There is ample parking on the promenade and vendors with umbrellas, chairs and sun beds. Just find a parking space and you will be looked after. The beach is wide open and friendly, when the tide is out there is sand as far as the eye can see. Even when the tide is in there is a great atmosphere with plenty of shade from the trees. Vendors can bring you most food choices and just across Beach Road are a vast variety of excellent restaurants.

As you arrive in Pattaya turn left onto Sukhumvit road, at the third set of traffic lights turn right onto Thep Rasit road. At the lights at the end, turn left then right at the next lights. Continue to the Police Box and turn left onto Jomtien Beach Road. The further you proceed down Beach Road, the less commercial it becomes though restaurants are to be found down the entire length.

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 79 — Jomtien beach and promenade

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 80 — Jomtien beach and promenade

As mentioned, Jomtien Beach Road continues South for 6 kms. It gradually gets narrower as you go further South but there is always parking and restaurants. It ends rather unceremoniously at a fish restaurant! You can walk further in the beach but the road heads in-land. There are more beaches here and I will be exploring them in my next article.

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 84 — Na Jomtien looking South

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 85 — Na Jomtien looking South

If relaxing with an excellent coffee with beach views is your idea how to enjoy some time, then the Branch Café under a massive Banyan tree about halfway down Jomtien Beach Road, is highly recommended next to the Siam Commercial Bank close to Soi 11.

Pattaya and it's 7 best Beaches Explained 86 — Excellent coffee and food on Jomtien Beach Road

Water Quality To date my research has not found any reliable rating on the water quality of Pattaya’s beaches. Given that the estuary of the Chao Phraya River is just a few kilometres to the North and the Bangkok and Laem Chabang harbours are not so far away, one cannot expect particularly high water quality, however many people do swim in the sea (including myself) and I don’t find it any worse than many other beaches around the world.

Please do remember that smoking is not allowed on any beaches in Thailand and this is enforced. Whilst many Guesthouses and smaller resorts have re-opened, the majority of the larger hotels remain closed. I recommend Booking.com for reservations as their descriptions are generally very accurate and the location information is correct. However, do check that the property will be open once you have made your reservation as the situation is ongoing.

For general information contact the excellent Tourism Hotline on 1672 in English

This article has been prepared for my Meandering Tales blog and the original article can be seen at www.MeanderingTales.com

Kim Waddoup

Founder

24th June 2020 0 comments

Food & Drink

A Ray of Sunshine – Breakfast at the Sandbar, Dongtan Beach, Pattaya, Thailand

by Kim 18th May 2020

written by Kim

A Ray of Sunshine – Breakfast at the Sandbar, Dongtan Beach, Pattaya

Pattaya, Dongtan Beach and Jomtien beach normally offer a vast range of breakfasts covering virtually every desire. As many establishments remain closed, habits have changed, and I have found myself gravitating much more to the timeless elegance of the Sandbar on Dongtan Beach.

The Sandbar has long been a staunch favourite of both Thais and Foreigners offering a timeless elegance with a relaxed atmosphere for breakfast, lunch and dinner. With all the changes that Covid-19 has brought, dining is a challenge but as John Gunther once said – “all happiness depends on a leisurely breakfast”.

Most patrons seem to walk, jog or cycle to the Sandbar so the dress style is very relaxed and wonderfully informal. It’s a wide-open café with the sea breeze blowing through from Dongtan Beach just 30 meters away, cool jazz emancipates from the speakers and the choice of seating leaves each to find their own place. It’s almost the type of restaurant that one would expect to find Somerset Maughan or Ernest Hemmingway ensconced at their regular table.

A Ray of Sunshine – Breakfast at the Sandbar, Dongtan Beach, Pattaya, Thailand 93 — Fitness action

A Ray of Sunshine – Breakfast at the Sandbar, Dongtan Beach, Pattaya, Thailand 94 — Fitness action

At the Continental Breakfast Buffet you will find more than enough to satisfy yourself. There is a choice of breads, croissants and pastries, lots of spreads and jams. A choice of fruit juices and cereals including Muesli and dried nuts and fruits. You can take yoghurt, cheese, ham and a variety of fruits with unlimited tea or coffee. The cost, just THB.240

A Ray of Sunshine – Breakfast at the Sandbar, Dongtan Beach, Pattaya, Thailand 96 — Bread, croissants, pastries

A Ray of Sunshine – Breakfast at the Sandbar, Dongtan Beach, Pattaya, Thailand 97 — Bread, croissants, pastries

If you prefer there are a range of a la carte breakfast items and speciality coffee from Coffee-works at additional charge.

A Ray of Sunshine – Breakfast at the Sandbar, Dongtan Beach, Pattaya, Thailand 99 — A la Carte savoury dishes

A Ray of Sunshine – Breakfast at the Sandbar, Dongtan Beach, Pattaya, Thailand 100 — A la Carte savoury dishes

Atmosphere, comfort, ocean breeze and excellent and attentive service every day from 08:00 at the Sandbar.

“One should not attend, even the end of the world – without a good breakfast” Robert A Heinlein

https://www.facebook.com/sandbar.bythesea9/

Kim Waddoup

Founder

18th May 2020 0 comments

Lifestyle

Up-date on Covid-19 life in Jomtien, Thailand May 8th, 2020

by Kim 8th May 2020

written by Kim

An up-date on current life in the resort of Jomtien located next to Pattaya in Thailand.

It is Friday May 8^th 2020 in Jomtien, Pattaya, Thailand. As of this morning Thailand reported a total of 3,000 people infected (+8), 2,784 people have recovered, 161 remain in hospital and sadly 55 people have lost their lives.

Whilst there are strong central Government guidelines, the regions of Thailand have some autonomy on the restrictions in their areas. The Pattaya area was shut down with no non-local traffic in or out, this has now been removed and the roads are open.

We are asked to remain at home whenever possible but we are not in lock down and in fact, some restrictions are now being relaxed. Supermarkets and markets continue as normal with no shortages and cafes and restaurants have been allowed to re-open. Some cafe’s, especially those with outdoor seating have re-opened with increased space between the tables but allowing clients to enjoy their favourite coffee brands and communicate. Whilst restaurants can also re-open the stipulations regarding social distancing, whilst understandable, are rather absurd with either vast distances between diners on the same table and even plastic partitions. No alcohol is allowed to be served. A few people are venturing out to eat and support their local restaurants.

Up-date on Covid-19 life in Jomtien, Thailand May 8th, 2020 103 — One of life’s great pleasures returns!

We still have a curfew from 22:00 to 04:00 and alcohol may now by bought between 11:00-14:00 and from 17:00-18:00. The promenades along Jomtien Beach and Dongtan Beach are open for people to walk, jog and cycle but the beaches remain closed. Social distancing is enforced and face masks are required. You should also have hand sanitiser with you.

Some of the local Pattaya Golf Courses are starting to re-open. They currently require pre-bookings(no walk-ins) and social distancing is required. Masks must be worn, the Caddies do not ride on cars and the Club Houses may not be open at this time.

It has been a good place to ride out the initial storm of Covid-19. The Thai Government have been firm in their stance and the low infection/death rates indicate that they have had success. At 07:00 the promenade is busy with walkers, joggers, runners and cyclists and in the evening many more come to enjoy the sunset. Most understand and appreciate the need for social distancing but some unfortunately still need reminding by the authorities.

Up-date on Covid-19 life in Jomtien, Thailand May 8th, 2020 104 — Jomtien beaches out of bounds

The Pattaya region is now designated as a ‘White Zone’ with no current cases of Covid-19 and further easing of restrictions will be following shortly.

Stay safe!

Kim Waddoup

Founder

8th May 2020 0 comments

Lifestyle

Retirement in Thailand – My 1st Year in Jomtien, Pattaya. It’s Outstanding Here, I’m Really Loving It!

by Kim 15th April 2020

written by Kim

Retirement may seem to be many people’s biggest dream or possibly their biggest nightmare. As the owner of my own business, I rather ‘slithered’ into retirement, there was no retirement party just the arrival of my first pension. Thailand ticked most of my boxes so a decision was made for Retirement in Thailand. As a perennial entrepreneur I had been looking at starting a business in Thailand, but when I dug deeper into the requirements I started to think – “Why bother with the stress!”

I decided that retirement in Thailand was the course that I would follow. Bad air quality in Bangkok and no need any more to be at the hub of business, I followed a friend’s advice and went to look at Jomtien located on the coast next to Pattaya. The quest for my apartment was well documented and you can see my reports Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 & Part 4.

Retirement in Thailand - My 1st Year in Jomtien, Pattaya. It's Outstanding Here, I'm Really Loving It! 111 — Pool and Condo

Retirement in Thailand - My 1st Year in Jomtien, Pattaya. It's Outstanding Here, I'm Really Loving It! 112 — Pool and Condo

Unbelievably it has now been more than a year since I moved into my new home and location so I would like to reflect on some observations and assist with some discoveries since my arrival. When I was searching for a place to a retire, the Pattaya area appealed to be for several reasons including great infrastructure, cosmopolitan breakdown, on the beach yet still close to Bangkok for eventual work and the airport. Simply put, there are 3 main areas to the Pattaya area; Pattaya itself, Jomtien and nestled between the two is Pratumnak Hill, where I was fortunate to locate.

Retirement in Thailand - My 1st Year in Jomtien, Pattaya. It's Outstanding Here, I'm Really Loving It! 114 — Promenade infont of View Talay

Retirement in Thailand - My 1st Year in Jomtien, Pattaya. It's Outstanding Here, I'm Really Loving It! 115 — Promenade infont of View Talay

Pattaya is an amazing place and generally you will either love it or you hate it! The good parts are the availability of almost every store and excellent shopping malls. There are more bars that you can count and the night-life is wildly diverse. It is not all tank-top wearing, beer belly tourists(and locals) though there are a lot. If this is your crowd you will find a diverse variety of nationalities. A more subdued bunch can also be found but take some research. Over the hill is neighbouring Jomtien featuring an 11 km beach front and pleasant beach. Jomtien is generally favoured by an older retirement segment including many couples.

Whilst their number swell during the Winter months, many have made Jomtien their home. This has had a strong influence on the infrastructure with restaurants catering more to European taste, massage salons not recommending Thai Massage to super-unfit foreigners and music suiting evening sing-alongs. Please don’t get me wrong, its relaxing and quiet most of the time.

Nestled between the two is Pratumnak consisting or six sois (streets) running from Thapphraya Road down towards the beach. Most of these sois are quiet with few restaurants and massage shops offering quiet residential areas. There are many hotels and guesthouses and these are favoured mostly by Russian visitors. Soi 5 is the main street of this community with a good range of simple, yet high quality restaurants and bars offering inexpensive food and drinks. There is some excellent live music but generally it is quiet and residential.

Many people congregate at the beach especially in the evenings where local vendors supply a range of food and the ever dependable 7-11 for cold drinks and snacks. Needless to say, this is where I am located. My street has no through traffic so no noisy motorbikes. The others have through traffic but nothing excessive. As re-iterated in my Blogs of Looking for where to stay, look carefully and find accommodation that suits your requirements and budgets.

Having moved into my new home in View Talay 3, I had to start to orientate myself and many extensive walks introduced me to my new area. I located an excellent supermarket, Foodmart located on Thappraya Road(next to the Bangkok Airport bus station). The range of food is incredible as they cater to Europeans, Brits, Australians, Americans and Russians. Prices are reasonable and quality is good. They are also open 24 hours a day. For slightly more choice try Villa market on 2^nd Road in Pattaya. Nearby I have no less than four 7-11 shops, a mini Tesco, a Mini Big C and many Family Marts. All are open 24/7 thought alcohol sales are only between 11:00-14:00 and from 17:00 – 22:00. Many local markets are available.

I had arrived as low season was setting in, so Jomtien and Pratumnak were getting quieter and I have found 4 places that I would call my locals on Soi 5 in Pratunmnak. Lets hope that they will all have survived the Covid-19 shutdown and I will report on this.

Jomtien also has an excellent English multi-lingual ad competent Doctor who offers professional advise without the need to visit a hospital Dr. Olivier speaks French, English, German and Thai. Link

Making friends and acquaintances is relatively easy as most people are relaxed and friendly and gradually one recognises faces in the cafés, bars and restaurants. There are many special interest groups here from Salsa Dancing to Classic Cars and everything in-between

There are two main large Expat Clubs which appear to be quite similar but still remain separate. I joined the Pattaya Expats Club and attended a few meetings. The meetings were not really the social contact that I was looking for, but I could see that many enjoyed their Friday meetings. What I did appreciate was the professional assistance with a representatives from a lawyer, hospital and Insurance expert in attendance. In fact, joining the club (THB.500) enabled me to benefit from their special members rates with Pacific Cross Insurance enabling me to make a substantial saving on my annual Medical Insurance.

Pattaya itself offers make large shopping malls so if the outside temperature is getting to you, the malls do offer a cooler climate, vast choice of food courts, restaurants and cafes in addition to shops, cinemas etc. I do occasionally venture into Pattaya in the evening. My round will normally include Soi 6 off 2^nd Road, Soi 8, the areas around Soi Burkhao and of course walking street. As I write during the lockdown we will have to wait to see who has survived. If you are looking for an exceeding friendly and not push bar to make you local, I do recommend LePub on Soi Diamond, ask for Phil, aka Mr. Egg and he will make you most welcome. LePub

Getting around is relatively easy. On every Soi you will find motor-bike taxis who will take you where you want for reasonable amounts, just be careful around the tourist attractions as some will push their luck and hike the prices. The Song Taew (pick-up taxis) are on all main streets. Stop them, jump on and the press the bell when you want to get out. The cost is just THB.10, per person!

I firstly rented a scooter and once I had restored my confidence, I bought my own bike. So handy and so easy to get around. You do need to wear a helmet at all times and you will need a Thai Driving Licence. Here is a useful link for this

The first year has passed so quickly, I am very comfortable in my Apartment and know many people in my immediate area. The weather has been great, for some reason Pattaya has not had much rain, the very long beach promenade provides with an excellent walk each morning and the numerous cafes, bars, restaurants and food carts provide an ever-changing menu. I love it here, come and join me!

Retirement in Thailand - My 1st Year in Jomtien, Pattaya. It's Outstanding Here, I'm Really Loving It! 117 — Sunsets every evening, I’m loving it here!

Kim Waddoup

Founder

15th April 2020 0 comments

Food & Drink

Branch Coffee Beach – Under the Banyan tree on Jomtien Beach Road

by Kim 15th August 2019

written by Kim

The Quest to find Pattaya’s best coffee (Part 2)

Probably the most cosmopolitan Café in Pattaya and possibly all of Thailand. Great atmosphere and excellent coffee too!

Take a resplendent, century-old Banyan tree on Jomtien Beach Road, build a small shack beside it and add 8 comfy chairs directly on the pavement. Import a professional espresso machine from Europe, select a special coffee blend, switch on some smooth jazz and you have one of the most laid-back, relaxed almost Mediterranean/Adriatic style cafés in Thailand. If you are lucky enough to be able to take one of the coveted chairs at the front, you will be able to enjoy the shade and energy from the tree and will be rewarded with a view through to the sea, with every sort of motorised transport passing. It is a continuous cabaret!

Branch Coffee Beach – Under the Banyan tree on Jomtien Beach Road 124 — Under the Banyan Tree

Branch Coffee Beach – Under the Banyan tree on Jomtien Beach Road 125 — Under the Banyan Tree

Here they serve a special blend from Chiang Mai. It’s an Arabica Typica bean cultivated by the hilltribes. My double shot espresso was slightly larger than a regular espresso. This means that more hot water has been squeezed through the ground beans. Purists state that a double shot espresso should be made with 14-22g of coffee to serve a 20-30ml drink including the crema. Whilst possibly a little too much water, Branch Coffee Beach managed to preserve the quality and robustness of the flavour to produce an excellent double espresso for THB.60.- I have since returned and enjoyed a near perfect espresso!

Branch Coffee Beach – Under the Banyan tree on Jomtien Beach Road 127 — Longer espresso

Branch Coffee Beach – Under the Banyan tree on Jomtien Beach Road 128 — Longer espresso

Presentation: Large volume, smooth creamy Crema: Aroma: Dark chocolate, butter and a hint of vanilla: Taste: Pleasant acidity, mellow, mild to strong, yet good flavour: Mouthfeel: mellow, strong body, diverse flavourings;

Aftertaste: hints of roasted cereal/malt, neutral remnants.

Rating on the MT Coffee Scale: 87 points

Branch Coffee Beach has almost a Bohemian air with regulars and visitors enjoying a specific ambiance created by the impressive Banyan tree, professional coffee with impressive tastes and such friendly service from Lek and New. If you can’t get one of the chairs at the front they have more seating, so don’t despair. Highly rates for uniqueness, ambience, friendly service and of course excellent coffee!

Branch Coffee Beach – Under the Banyan tree on Jomtien Beach Road 130 — Roadside coffee with a view

Branch Coffee Beach – Under the Banyan tree on Jomtien Beach Road 131 — Roadside coffee with a view

Map

Author’s note: To create a conform rating, I am making tasting notes on a double shot espresso. Naturally all establishments offer multiple variations of coffee based drinks in addition to a full choice of alternative beverages and snacks!

Kim Waddoup

Founder

15th August 2019 0 comments

Food & Drink

Small is Beautiful – Secret Café, a hidden gem in Pratumnak

by Kim 8th August 2019

written by Kim

The Quest to find Pattaya’s best coffee (Part 1)

Psssst! Want to know a secret? Want to know where to enjoy one of the best cups of coffee in Pattaya? Well it’s not a secret but the name is Secret Café. Located at the end of Pratumnak Soi 5. It is a gathering place for coffee aficionados from around the area and further afield. Not really a café rather a kiosk with a few chairs and tables located in front of Tesco Lotus Express and close to Phra Tamnak Beach it is one of the best kept secrets and serves some of the best coffee in Pattaya. As a purist, I drink only Espresso double shot as I feel that this is the best way to enjoy and rate unadulterated coffee without any ‘cosmetics’ or additional flavours.

Small is Beautiful – Secret Café, a hidden gem in Pratumnak 138 — Secret Fresh Cafe

Small is Beautiful – Secret Café, a hidden gem in Pratumnak 139 — Secret Fresh Cafe

The double shot espresso at Secret Café (THB.60) is seriously one of the best in Pattaya. It’s almost Italian style. Short, strong and smooth:-

Small is Beautiful – Secret Café, a hidden gem in Pratumnak 141 — Maybe the tastiest Espresso in Pattaya!

Presentation: Classic style espresso, lush rich ‘crema’. Aroma: DarkChocolate tempered with Caramel, syrup. Taste: Good acidity with sharp and pleasing taste. Mouthfeel: Strong, smooth, heavy body. Aftertaste: A lasting flavour of chocolate & caramel

Rating on the Meandering Tales Coffee Scale 92 points.

Secret Café proves that it is possible to make exceptional coffee even in the simplest of surroundings. Their coffee blend is from Chiang Mai perfectly roasted professionally ground to release all the flavour. A well trusted Bezzera Ellisse espresso machine and wonderful service with a smile from the lovely ladies Om and Kik. Highly rated!

Map

8th August 2019 0 comments

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