Which is better: Phuket or Pattaya. Phuket or Pattaya: where is better to relax? Where is it better to go - Pattaya or Phuket

Where is better - Pattaya or Phuket? We conducted a large comparison of two major resorts in Thailand according to various criteria (sea, beach, prices for hotels and food, transport, flights), wrote a review and made conclusions about where it is better to go on vacation.

Phuket and Pattaya - two the most important resort. Usually tourists choose between them, because few people fly to Krabi or Koh Phangan. We decided to help our readers with their choice - read and choose where it is better to relax.

Prices are indicated for the high (winter) season.

Exchange rate: 1 Thai baht (THB) ≈ 2 RUB.

Pattaya or Phuket: sea

Phuket. The sea is a million times better than in Pattaya! It is clean, you can see crabs and colorful fish swimming in schools in the shallow water. Diving and snorkeling are common. The entrance is flat almost everywhere, which is convenient for vacationers with children. The color of the water is rich blue.

Pattaya. The sea is a green turbidity with garbage. I don't want to go into the water. There are several beaches where the situation is better - Jomtien, Wong Amat, Pratamnak. Behind clear sea you need to sail to neighboring islands - Koh Larn, for example. It seems that everyone goes there to swim, since in Pattaya tourists exclusively sunbathe. The sea on the island is cleaner, but it is expensive to sail there every day: 2 hours and 120 baht per day for two are spent on ferry travel, plus food, drinks and fruit on the island are more expensive.

Clear water on the secluded Kata Noi beach in Phuket.

Jomtien Beach in Pattaya.

Beaches in Phuket and Pattaya: where is better?

Phuket. For a relaxing holiday, go to Phuket - the beaches there are picturesque and clean. Even the one unloved by tourists was rehabilitated. This is not a paradise place, but the most comfortable place in Phuket for living and relaxing. Individual praises can be sung to the sand and silver pieces.

There are many beaches on the island - you can choose the one that suits you. We liked Kata Noi, Nai Harn, Yanui, Banana Beach and Mai Khao.

Pattaya. Pattaya beaches we didn't like it. They are almost all dirty, crowded and noisy. Even if you manage to retire, traders will overtake you. The sand is the most common yellow. The central beach is lined with paid sunbeds and umbrellas.

Where better beaches , in Pattaya or Phuket? Our opinion is that Phuket is much cleaner and more beautiful.

Banana Beach in Phuket is small, secluded and beautiful.

Central Beach is the busiest in Pattaya.

Sights of Phuket and Pattaya

Phuket. Phuket's attractions are predominantly natural - numerous idyllic islands, beaches and observation decks. Besides this, there is Big Buddha, Wat Chalong temple, Old city Phuket Town, Soi Bangla and colorful shows and performances. The main attractions are other islands: Phi Phi, James Bond, Similan, etc. Most people go there on excursions.

Pattaya. It is richer in attractions: islands, the Temple of Truth, elephant village, floating market, Khao Kaew Zoo, Alangkarn Theater, Nong Nooch Tropical Park, etc. Much of this can be seen on a bike.

Pattaya has a convenient location - it’s only about two hours away by bus, and that’s where there is freedom for lovers cultural recreation! In addition, from Pattaya you can get to Ayutthaya - ancient capital kingdom of Ayutthaya.

Last minute tours to Thailand. Which is cheaper: Pattaya or Phuket?

Vacation packages to Thailand can be very cheap! Often a ready-made tour package costs as much as an air ticket. See examples in.

Last minute tours for two to Pattaya from Moscow for 7-10 nights in high season can be found from only 60 thousand rubles! Vacation packages to Phuket usually cost the same or a little more. Tours are cheaper in summer.

Travel packages from St. Petersburg to Pattaya and Phuket usually cost from 80-100 thousand rubles.

How to find a truly last minute tour? Search on search engines, and they will find best deals among different tour operators. Be sure to check out ours - it will help you save!

Cinematic Yanui Beach in Phuket.

We don’t understand why people go on a tour to Pattaya when there is Phuket.

Contingent

Phuket. Chinese couples (young ladies always in romantic dresses) and families with children rule the roost here. Indians walk arrogantly in Rolexes, and elderly Europeans and Americans approach go-go girls in bars. The Russians feel at home and try to convey something to the Thais in louder Russian. Perhaps the most Russian speakers are popular resorts: Patong, Kata, Karon and Surin.

Pattaya. The resort is dominated by older Europeans and Americans looking for a hot girlfriend for the rest of their vacation days. There are many young and middle-aged men, attracted by the open-mindedness of local workers and workers of the ancient profession. And - oddly enough - completely Russian tourists with children walking decorously along the promenade.

In general, Pattaya is more of a retirement resort, while Phuket is more of a youth and middle-aged resort.

Hotel prices in Pattaya and Phuket: where is cheaper?

Pattaya. There are many hotels in Pattaya - from cheap nameless ones to expensive and well-known ones. Cheap guesthouses near the beach cost from $13 per night. In the mid-price category, we recommend The Pattaya Park 3* for $22 per day. Among the expensive ones, we recommend Siam @ Siam Design 4* from $75 per night. At this hotel great amount excellent reviews and rating "excellent".

Advice: rent an apartment or villa on Airbnb.ru - it's more interesting! Fabulously beautiful villas in Phuket cost from $50. Pattaya has a huge selection of apartments.

Prices for food and fruits

If you choose which is better, Pattaya or Phuket, based on prices for food, fruits and drinks, then preference should be given to Pattaya. At the resort, even in tourist establishments, food prices are not off the charts. But in Phuket restaurants the prices are closer to Moscow. However, also on the island in local cafes, night markets and pop-up shops.

	Pattaya	Phuket (Patong)
Kebabs in a makashnitsa	from 10 baht/pcs.	from 20 baht/pcs.
Rice with meat or padtai in a makashnitsa	from 40 baht	from 50 baht
Banana pancakes	from 40 baht	from 60 baht
Shakey	from 25 baht	from 40 baht (in the market - from 25)
Trays with fruits on the street	from 20 baht (depending on the type of fruit)	from 100 baht (any)
Beer at the bar	from 50 baht	from 80 baht.
Coconut on the street	from 20 baht	from 50 baht

Prices for kebabs at the night market in Patong.

Flights from Russia

From Russian cities you can fly to Pattaya and Phuket. There are direct flights and with transfers. Usually tickets to Bangkok are a little cheaper than to Phuket (but it also happens vice versa).

You can get to Pattaya through Bangkok, and from there by low-cost airline, transfer or bus. There are also direct routes from Siberian cities to Pattaya Utapao Airport.

If you don’t want to deal with local transport and get there with transfers, order a taxi - it’s reliable and simple. We used KiwiTaxi services when traveling from Patong to the airport.

Introductory image source: © nathanh100 / flickr.com / Licensed under CC BY 2.0.

To make the right choice, it is not enough to compare photos on the Internet; you need to understand what you expect from your vacation. Let's look at the details and try to decide which resort is better: Pattaya or Phuket?

Sea

Our compatriots are looking for, first of all, a clean, warm sea in Thailand. If this criterion is also the most important for you, preference should definitely be given to Phuket with its crystal water and snow-white sand.

is a busy resort city with heavy port congestion, which negatively affects the cleanliness of the water. Garbage flies into the sea: bottles, pieces of paper, bags, making swimming impossible. Only the most squeamish tourists swim in Pattaya itself.

The rest go on vacation remote beaches, or Wong Amat, and nearby islands. The most popular - .

You can get here from the mainland by regularly running ferries. A one-way ticket costs 30 baht, the journey will take about 45 minutes, but at the end of the journey you will find the clearest sea.

Beaches

Looking for beach holiday, relaxation on soft sand and photos with heavenly landscapes, again it is better to fly to the largest resort in Thailand, the island of Phuket. The island has a huge number of beaches for every taste: from lively and long to tiny and secluded.

But even the most crowded and party-filled Patong (pictured below), which the locals consider not very suitable for swimming, is cleaner and more comfortable than the beaches of Pattaya.

Phuket is inferior to Pattaya in terms of infrastructure, but last years All types of beach holidays are available on the island and aquatic species sports, snorkeling and diving. The coastline of the island is sandy and flat, the entrance to the water is long, but there are beaches with depth. The water remains clean and warm throughout the entire season from October to May. When you get to the beaches of Phutek for the first time, you cannot believe your eyes that you are seeing this beauty live, and not on a postcard, TV screen or photo.

- This is more of a place for parties than for relaxation and enjoying natural scenery. Developed infrastructure: cafes, discos, shops, bars, massage parlors - close to the beaches.

The central and southern beaches, the exception is Jomtien. It is calmer and cleaner in the north of the resort. Seekers have a relaxing holiday and families with children should take a closer look at Naklua Beach - a quiet, picturesque fishing bay in the northern part.

Or choose neighboring Wong Amat, the cleanest in the resort. Ah Dongtan family tourists It’s better to avoid it - this is the most popular LGBT beach in all of Thailand.

Climate

There are no fundamental differences here. Both there and there the warm sea and hot sun will await you. It may be a little uncomfortable and humid during the rainy season. But it’s still better than minus 20 and snow.

Attractions

This item when choosing “Pattaya or Phuket?” plays in favor of the mainland. A vacation spent on the island will only reveal to you the traditions and culture of the country. After all, the main ones are natural. To get the full impression of Thailand, it is better to go to Pattaya.

The list of attractions in Phuket is not long: several temples, a butterfly or crocodiles farm, waterfalls. You can spend your entire vacation on sightseeing in Pattaya, and you can spend your entire flash drive taking photos. Temple of Truth, Mini Siam Park, Elephant Village, Big Buddha Hill, Floating Market, Alangkarn Theater, Sriracha Zoo and much more. Most of this can be explored on a bike.

And when everything has been studied, the bus will take you to Bangkok in two hours, where the main attractions of the country are concentrated. Three hours on the road and you will reach Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand, where there is also something to see. Choice organized excursions from Pattaya is also much better.

Prices

Phuket is one of the most expensive resorts in Thailand. Luxurious villas and fashionable hotels are concentrated here. Of course, you can find a modest room in a guesthouse for the same price as in other resorts in Thailand, but there is less choice, because Phuket is not aimed at poor tourists. Unless Patong offers a good choice economical housing.

Rooms for two in a guesthouse from $20 per night. Two weeks of vacation in the same modest conditions can be booked for $200. On Pattaya prices housing prices are more attractive and the choice of affordable guesthouses is great: you can rent a room for $10 per day.

Food in Phuket is more expensive, twice as expensive. Prices on the island are not “Thai” at all. If in Pattaya you can have a hearty meal at a convenience store for 30-40 baht ($1.5), then in Phuket it costs 50-70 baht ($1.5-2). If you believe the reviews and photos of tourists, dinner for two with wine in a restaurant this season costs 650 baht ($20) - 850 baht ($25).

Prices for fruits at resorts vary, especially on popular beaches, but generally within the range: mangoes 60-80 baht/kg ($2-2.5), pineapples 20-40 baht/piece ($0.5-1.2), papaya 40-70 baht ($1-2), mangosteen 40-80 baht ($1-2.3). In search of cheap fruit, it is better to step aside from the busy ones tourist places and buy fruit from car dealers or fruit markets.

Shopping opportunities are undeniably better on the mainland. And it’s even smarter to buy things not at the resort, but to go to Bangkok.

Taxi expenses elite resort also come out not funny: short trips between beaches - from 200 baht ($6), for long distances - from 1000 baht ($29). On the mainland and in Thailand in general, a trip up to 500 meters costs 100 baht ($3), more – 150-350 baht ($4.5-10).

Transport accessibility

Starting point for independent tourists serves Bangkok. The easiest way to get to Pattaya is from Bangkok. Travel time from the East Station is 2 hours, ticket price is 120 baht ($3.5). In Pattaya, the most accessible transport is tuk-tuk. Getting from the bus station to the hotel costs an average of 30 baht ($1).

There is a bus from Bangkok to Phuket from South Station. Ticket price starts from 600 baht ($18). You will have to spend at least 11 hours on the road. There is also air service: the most affordable tickets are from Lion Air: about 700 baht ($20) one way. There are minibuses from the airport to Potong: 180 baht ($5) per ticket. Is there some more Shuttle Buses, travel on which is a little cheaper, but they run once an hour and finish work before 18:00.

conclusions

If you want to visit Thailand to immerse yourself in the colorful Asian culture, see national attractions, and hang out. If the clear sea outside the villa and idyllic photos are not fundamentally important to you, are you ready to waste time to get to neighboring island. If you want to reduce spending on your vacation and at the same time travel without children, Pattaya is your option!

But if your first priority is a relaxing holiday surrounded by nature, a clean sea and beaches, if you have plans to attend a large number of sea excursions (, and so on), if you are going on vacation with children and are willing to pay money for comfortable stay, your direction is Phuket.

Pattaya or Phuket - it's up to you! Choose the right resort for yourself, and you will definitely have best impressions about Thailand, which will remain in your memory for a long time, in videos and photos.

With the onset of winter and cold weather in our country, tourists began to look away south asia. It’s warm there, it’s sunny, and you can live there all winter without wearing felt boots and earflaps. More tourists choose Thailand, with its resorts, gorgeous beaches and modern hotels. If you are visiting Thailand for the first time, then you have doubts - which is better: Phuket or Pattaya, where is it better to relax? This question cannot be answered unambiguously, but the two resorts can be compared. That's what we'll do and share our comparisons with you.

In general, it is not very correct to compare these two resorts. After all, on their territory there are different hotels, different beaches and areas. For example, we can write that the hotels in the first resort are more beautiful and have better service. And you will arrive at the resort, check into another hotel, and you will be treated poorly there. So all the comparisons here are not entirely correct, but they can be made. So let's get started.

Beaches of Pattaya and Phuket

As the experience of tourists shows, the beaches of Phuket are much better. They are wider, longer and cleaner. On local beaches There are always a lot of tourists, but there is very little garbage here. In general, the entire island can be called one big beach. And due to the fact that there is little rain in Phuket, the beaches here are visited all year round.
As for the beaches of Pattaya, they are less comfortable. Firstly, the resort does not big beaches, and almost all of them are crowded with tourists. Secondly, due to the huge number of tourists. Beaches are not cleaned very often. Mostly this is done closer to the morning, and not every time. Only the beaches that belong to hotels are always clean. Also, Pattaya beaches do not always have water equipment rentals. Or there is too little of her, and she is always busy.

We think Phuket wins on the beaches.

Prices for housing and food.
Phuket is an island and all food is brought here from the mainland. Therefore, food at the resort costs 20-30 percent more than in Pattaya. Phuket also has more gorgeous beaches and hotels, so accommodation here is also 20-30 percent more expensive.

Most people come to Pattaya for budget holiday. There are not many five-star hotels in the resort. There are mostly small hotels here, which are awarded three stars. It is for this reason that there are more Russian tourists in the Pattaya resort.
And so, here more wins cheap resort Pattaya.

Entertainment and excursions.
And here we will say right away - it will be a draw. After all, it is difficult to guess what you love most. For example, in Phuket there are almost no night parties, there are no huge nightclubs. Popular on the island quiet rest. Tourists go to the forests and mountains. They admire nature and beautiful landscapes.

But in Pattaya at night life is just beginning. If your hotel is next to a nightclub, then be prepared for the fact that you will not be allowed to sleep. And on the beaches, night parties are common - there is music and dancing until the morning.
As you can see, recreation and entertainment at resorts vary. Therefore, we leave the choice to you, because everyone has their own tastes and preferences.

What is the result?
And the result is this: we have a draw. Because we will not force our opinion on you. You have learned about all the advantages and disadvantages of resorts and you can choose what suits you. If you like night parties, then head to Pattaya! If you want to sleep peacefully at night and relax on the beach during the day and admire nature, go to Phuket.

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, it will help you make your choice detailed review these criteria for each region.

Before exploring the key characteristics, you need to mention the location of the selected resort points. Phuket Atoll is an independent Thai province, settled on the very big island country, which is connected to the mainland by the half-kilometer Sarasin Bridge. It is almost 900 kilometers from here to Bangkok. Coastal zone washes the Andaman Sea.

Pattaya is located on the mainland itself, on east coast 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, swimming in it is allowed, 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 are not much different 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 make complaints about Patong - itself famous beach places. 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 the water is dirtier than at central beach called Pattaya Beach, you won't find it anywhere else. 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 what better than Phuket or Pattaya for inspection remarkable places, the championship laurels 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, we 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. Historical monuments there is no. Almost all architectural structures were erected simultaneously with the development of tourism.
But in relation 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 mandatory places world for divers to visit. 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. On the atoll sightseeing tours are also present, 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 beach line will cost 300-400 baht. Along the sea there are only expensive hotels, which 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 that kind of 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 a rich infrastructure hotel complexes– 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 offer 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. Great amount shopping centers and boutiques located in 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 price tags are available when visiting clothing markets.

Transport

In Pattaya public transport Songthaews are introduced 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. Rent for a classic sedan it is 2000-2300 b. in a day.

Bus service on the island is poor, direct message there is no between coastal zones. A ticket costs 30-40 bp. Therefore, you have to use a taxi, and it cannot be called cheap. For moving to nearby beach, which will take about 10 minutes, the driver can request from 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.

Advantages and disadvantages

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 remoteness 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.

Minuses:

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, plenty 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.

If you find an error, please highlight a piece of text and click Ctrl+Enter.

Thailand is one of the most popular destinations For tourist recreation to date. Below we will look at the advantages and disadvantages of the two most attractive resorts in this country, and you will get the answer to your question - Pattaya or Phuket?

The first city is located in the south of the country and is part of the mainland. Phuket is an island, which is why it has its own characteristics.

It is difficult to answer the question of where it is better to spend your vacation, choosing from two options. First of all, you need to clearly understand what kind of vacation is ideal for you, your family or friends. Once you determine this, it will be easier to make your choice.

Beaches

Pattaya

In this regard, the resort is clearly inferior to its competitors. Firstly, all city beaches are very crowded and therefore quite dirty. The proximity to the noisy large embankment does not play the best role. There are dozens and hundreds of tourists here, taking walks every day, stopping at one beach or another. Only private territories can be considered exceptions, but access there is closed to outsiders.

Secondly, there is a huge number of traders who move like ants in different directions along the beach. There are a lot of sun loungers, sun loungers, umbrellas, but they are all paid. The coast is literally littered with such things. It will take more than one minute to find a free seat.

There are also beaches in the northern part of the city. However, most of them are simply unsuitable for swimming: muddy bottom or huge rocky boulders. The only beach worth visiting is coast of Koh Larn island .

True bliss can be felt on the city's beaches. First of all, it's beautiful White sand, very soft and gentle.

Secondly, a large number of uncrowded beaches . Here you can find without any problems perfect place for a holiday by the sea with the whole family.

One of the most popular is Patong. There are many free space, convenient location allows easy access from anywhere in the city.

You can rarely find garbage here, and rare traders will not bother you during your vacation.

Types of excursions/attractions

If you are planning to spend your holiday actively and get acquainted with the culture and history of the country, then when choosing Pattaya resort or Phuket, bet on the first one. To begin with, you can take a field trip to. This city is just a couple of hours drive from Pattaya. And in the city itself, tourists will be able to see the following attractions:

Floating Market;
Tropical garden with orchids;
Buddha Hill;
Temple of Truth;
A park of miniature copies of world-famous structures;
An aquarium, which is an underwater tunnel;
Elephant village.

In addition, the city hosts daily performances of various show ballets and theaters for adults. When the sun sets, you can see fascinating and mesmerizing performances here.

A beach holiday in the city can be considered excellent, but the resort is not very rich in attractions. Although here you can find something to look at. For the most part it's amazing natural places. For example, Phang Nga Bay with a unique rock formation located right in the water. One of the James Bond film series was filmed in these places.

Wat Chalong Temple is one of the most important in the city. This is the most beautiful architectural structure, inlaid with small glass parts.

From Phuket you can easily get on an excursion to Phi Phi Island. This is one of the most scenic spots in the world.

And, of course, there are many observation platforms that offer breathtaking views of the city, sea and islands.

Weather in Phuket and Pattaya

In winter and spring, the weather throughout Thailand is excellent. Minimum precipitation, high air and water temperatures. At that time weather Both cities are good for a beach holiday.

It starts in May and continues until the very end of October. At this time, the weather in Pattaya and Phuket has a slight difference.

In this city, the rainy season passes more gently. Precipitation occurs infrequently, approximately once or twice a week. However, the sky is cloudy almost all the time.

During this period it is less attractive for recreation. Frequent gusty winds, large amounts of precipitation: showers. The sea is rough.

Type of holiday (youth or family)

This city is simply created for young and active people. An incredible holiday atmosphere reigns here almost around the clock. At peak tourist season there are a lot of people here both on the city streets and on the beaches.

Nightlife is represented by dozens of clubs and bars.

This resort is suitable for relaxing with a noisy group of friends. One feels uncomfortable here.

Phuket also has its own types of entertainment for adults. But for the most part they are concentrated in a separate area - Patong.

Other places are calmer and quieter. You can find an excellent hotel by the sea, where a holiday for the whole family will be ideal.

Price policy

Which resort has the best pricing policy? Pattaya or Phuket?. Considering the different positions of the resorts, the pricing criteria can be understood more clearly. The fact is that the island will cost more for vacationers due to the fact that any cargo transportation in this direction requires additional costs.

In this regard, prices for housing, food and Additional services slightly higher. Of course, if you wish, you can always find inexpensive option, if the lack of any additional services does not scare you.

Accommodation

Pattaya

The most affordable housing in the city will cost approximately 180 $ . Please note that this is a very budget option:

Minimum dimensions;
Worn out furniture;
No windows.

Often such housing is located on noisy streets, where silence does not occur even at night.

At this resort, even three-star hotels offer excellent conditions. All rooms are equipped quite modernly. At the same time, housing prices are an order of magnitude higher. $15.

from 75 $ per month

From $90 per month

Public transport in resort towns Thailand is represented by ordinary taxis and tuk-tuks. The latter are a closed body with benches installed inside, usually two of them. These cars can accommodate several people.

The fare in both cases is almost the same. The price of tuk-tuks is quite high. As advised experienced tourists, be sure to negotiate the price in advance and do not hesitate to ask and remind. Drivers of this transport rarely know at least basic words in English.

Advice! Don't swear, raise your tone, or argue if the price offered doesn't suit you. In Thailand, you will not solve the problem this way. It's best to simply find another more accommodating carrier.

Pattaya or Phuket - pros and cons

After carefully studying the information presented above, you can draw conclusions regarding the positive and negative aspects of each city.

In addition, the activity of the city at night can be considered a plus or minus. The rating for this criterion depends only on personal preferences. If we talk about a young group of friends, then for them the presence of nightclubs and bars is a clear plus. Whereas for family vacation a positive rating will be given to a resort where days and nights pass more calmly, so the answer to the question “Pattaya or Phuket?”, will differ depending on the purpose of your vacation, to relax, or to have a complete blast.

It might be useful to read: