Difference between Pattaya and Phuket. Buses and minibuses. Phuket or Pattaya - where the climate and ecology are better

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

Phuket and Pattaya are the two main resorts. Usually tourists choose between them, because few people fly to Krabi or Koh Phangan. We decided to help our readers with a 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 that swim in flocks in shallow water. Diving and snorkeling is popular. The entrance is gentle almost everywhere, which is convenient for families with children. The color of the water is deep blue.

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

Beaches in Phuket and Pattaya: where is better?

Phuket. For a relaxing holiday, head to Phuket - the beaches there are picturesque and clean. Even unloved by tourists was rehabilitated. This is not a heavenly place, but the most comfortable in Phuket for living and recreation. Sand with silver can be sung individual praises.

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

Pattaya. We did not like the beaches of Pattaya. They are almost all dirty, crowded and noisy. Even if you manage to retire, merchants will overtake you. The sand is the most common yellow. The central beach is filled with paid sunbeds and umbrellas.

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

Sights of Phuket and Pattaya

Phuket. Phuket attractions are mostly natural - numerous idyllic islands, beaches and viewing platforms. Besides this, there is Big Buddha, Wat Chalong Temple, Phuket Town Old Town, Soi Bangla and colorful shows and performances. The main attractions are other islands: Phi Phi, James Bond, Similan, etc. They mainly go there with excursions.

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

Pattaya has a convenient location - only about two hours by bus, and that's where the expanse for lovers cultural recreation! In addition, from Pattaya you can get to Ayutthaya - the ancient capital of the kingdom of Ayutthaya.

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

Trips 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 the high season can be found from only 60 thousand rubles! Phuket tours usually cost the same or a little more. Tours are cheaper in summer.

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

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

Contingent

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

Pattaya. The resort is dominated by elderly 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 breadth of views of local workers and workers of the most ancient profession. And - oddly enough - full of Russian tourists with children, decorously walking along the promenade.

In general, Pattaya is more of a retirement resort, and Phuket is a youth and middle age resort.

Hotel prices in Pattaya and Phuket: where is it cheaper?

Pattaya. There are many hotels in Pattaya - from cheap nameless to expensive and well-known. Cheap guesthouses near the beach cost from $13 per night. In the middle price category, we recommend The Pattaya Park 3 * for $ 22 per day. Of the expensive ones - we recommend Siam @ Siam Design 4 * from $ 75 per day. This hotel has a huge number of excellent reviews and a rating of "excellent".

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

Prices for food and fruits

If you choose which is better, Pattaya or Phuket, based on the prices of food, fruits and drinks, then Pattaya should be preferred. At the resort, even in tourist establishments, food prices do not go off scale. But in restaurants in Phuket prices are closer to those in Moscow. However, on the island in local cafes, night markets and macaroons.

Flights from Russia

From the cities of Russia you can fly to Pattaya and Phuket. There are direct flights and transfers. Usually tickets to Bangkok are a little cheaper than to Phuket (but sometimes vice versa).

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

If you don't want to understand local transport and get with transfers, order a taxi - it's safe and easy. We used KiwiTaxi when we traveled from Patong to the airport.

Intro image source: © nathanh100 / flickr.com / CC BY 2.0.

Going on vacation to Thailand, many tourists ask themselves questions: “Where is it better in Pattaya or Phuket?”, “Where is it better to go: to Phuket or Pattaya?”. In order to answer these questions, it is worth knowing a little about these two popular destinations in Thailand. Below is a comparison of these two most popular resorts in Thailand. We will look at the sights, beaches, prices, transport and tour costs to decide where it is better to relax: Phuket or Pattaya.

Phuket or Pattaya? general information

Phuket is a wonderful resort in Thailand for connoisseurs have a nice rest, with many luxury hotels and restaurants. Phuket is more often chosen for a more relaxed family or romantic trip. To get to Phuket, you can choose a direct flight from Russia, and you can also get domestic flights from Thailand. It is distinguished by clean sea and good ecology.

Pattaya is the second most popular resort in Thailand for Russian tourists, located 147 km from Bangkok. The main thing that attracts tourists to this city is a lot of entertainment, leisure And low prices. This popular coastal city rose to fame in the early 1980s and is still popular today. From morning to night, life in Pattaya is in full swing, during the day - on the beach, in the evening and at night - in the clubs and bars of Pattaya. In addition, Pattaya offers a huge number of hotels, condominiums and apartments for affordable prices. Pattaya is the most visited resort in Thailand by Russian tourists. The main reason - cheap airfare, compared to other resorts in Thailand, a lot of entertainment and parties, a huge number of bars, clubs and restaurants, low prices for food, hotels and entertainment. Of the minuses, one can single out the dirty sea, crowds of Russian tourists, who are not always adequate and polite, in other words, “Tagiiel”.

Phuket or Pattaya: where is the best weather

In terms of climate, these two resorts in Thailand do not differ much from each other. The average temperature in Phuket and Pattaya differs by only a couple of degrees.

in Phuket average temperature+30°C, water temperature +28°C. Phuket has a tropical monsoonal climate. It is warm here all year round, but two seasons: April-May and September-October are the hottest. Phuket is famous for being in the temperate zone. Phuket is never hit by typhoons or tropical storms.

In Pattaya, the average temperature is +32°C, the water temperature is +28°C. In Pattaya, the weather is hot all year round. The rainy season in Pattaya is "easier" than in Phuket. Because Pattaya is located on the mainland and not on an island.

Phuket or Pattaya: where is the best sea and beach

In Phuket, the sea and the beach are definitely better than in Pattaya. Here is really clear water, turquoise sea and shallow White sand. For lovers of drive, outdoor activities and discos, it is recommended to go to Patong. However, the beach in Patong is considered the dirtiest in Phuket. The beach is regularly cleaned, but a large number of tourists quickly litter it. But if you move further away, the beach will look much more like a Bounty advertisement. Apart from Patong, there are many other beaches in Phuket. If you drive away from the beaten paths, you can find very quiet and secluded beaches in Phuket.

In Pattaya, the beaches are dirty, and you can’t swim in the city itself. The water in the resort is really muddy, and the central embankment is more like the shores of Sochi, and not a Thai resort. Therefore, if the main thing for you - beach holiday, it is better to go to Phuket. Tourists in Pattaya can also enjoy a beach holiday, but for this you need to go to the islands. For example, the nearest island, Koh Lan, can be reached in half an hour and 30 baht.

Where are the best attractions, in Phuket or Pattaya

The resort of Pattaya offers tourists a wide range of attractions. If the main thing for you is what to see, then it is better to relax in Pattaya. Here you will find extraordinary museums, majestic Khmer temples, a floating market, spectacular water parks, tropical gardens, elephant shows and a tiger zoo. It is worth noting that the prices for visiting all these attractions in Pattaya are lower than in Phuket. , . In addition, Pattaya has a rich nightlife. In 2 hours from Pattaya you can get to Bangkok, so all the sights of Bangkok are also available to tourists in Pattaya.

Phuket is famous for its sparkling temples, spectacular scenery, viewpoints, idyllic beaches and friendly local residents. Phuket has something to see for almost everyone. These are parks and gardens, an aquarium, James Bond Islands, a snake farm, rafting. More affluent people come to Phuket, there are more Europeans here, and sometimes you can also meet stars.

Where is it better to relax, price comparison in Phuket and Pattaya

Phuket, of course, is a more expensive resort, ranging from airfare, lodging, to food and entertainment. The entire industry around Patong is focused exclusively on tourists. To see real thailand and reasonable prices, you can go, for example, to Phuket Town.

Pattaya is considered the cheapest place to visit in Thailand. It is in Pattaya that you can try cheap seafood, buy cheap excursions (from 200 baht) and use cheap tuk-tuks for 20 baht to travel around the city.

Phuket or Pattaya: where the transport system is better developed

If you prefer to use transportation, you can catch a taxi or songthaew. There are no tuk tuks in Phuket. It is not very convenient to travel by songteo, because they travel at the rates of the minibus only during the day, and in the evening at the rates of a taxi. And their routes are not very branched. Taxi prices in Phuket are high (from 600 baht). Taxi drivers never agree to cut prices. Therefore, if you have not rented a bike, you will spend a significant part of your budget on transport in Phuket.

In Pattaya transport system well developed. There are several types of tuk-tuks that can easily move around the resort. All tuk-tuks in Pattaya are distinguished by colors, so they are easy to remember. Blue tuk-tuks in Pattaya run along the main streets of the city and cost 10 baht. There are white tuk-tuks in Sukhumvit (for longer distances), they cost 20 baht. Thanks to tuk-tuks, you can drive all over Pattaya literally for a penny. At night in Pattaya you can take a taxi for 200 baht.

After reading the comparison of resorts to the end, you can easily decide for yourself where it is better to relax, in Phuket or Pattaya. If you have never been to Thailand, then I recommend visiting Phuket first. In Phuket you can enjoy beautiful nature, sea and sights. There are more sea excursions in Phuket, beautiful views And clean beaches. After you fall in love with Thailand, you can already go to Pattaya. In Pattaya you will have to beautiful sea travel to the islands, but the low prices and nightlife will alleviate this inconvenience. As the farangs say, Phuket is better for relaxation, and Pattaya for life.

Thank you for reading to the end. You have a bonus - a map of Pattaya attractions:

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Which is better - Pattaya or Phuket? This question is asked by everyone who is planning their first vacation in Thailand. Both resorts are on everyone's lips. These are huge recreational areas with an abundance of entertainment for every taste and budget. In many ways they are similar, but they also have differences.

Pattaya

The resort surprises with its dynamism. Pattaya consists of an endless cycle of events in which all its inhabitants are involved. At the disposal of energetic and inquisitive tourists are nightclubs and discos, excursions to ancient Thai temples, delicious and exotic food, clear and warm sea.

The epicenter of the cultural and resort life of Pattaya is the main pedestrian artery of Walking Street. Prices in this part of Thailand are considered the most democratic. The thing is that the village is only two hours from Bangkok International Airport, runways which was chosen by low-cost airlines.

Strengths of Pattaya:

• low prices;
• an abundance of entertainment;
• dynamism;
• proximity to the transport hubs of Thailand;
• extensive and clean beaches.

Phuket

As for the country's second most popular resort, it is chosen by a respectable and respectable public. On its coast are concentrated fashionable family hotels. The resort is divided into several large recreational areas:

• Patong.
• Kamala.
• Karon Beach.
• Phuket (municipality).

Night clubs and discos are located in Patong. This is the noisiest part of the coast. Kamala is the choice of those who appreciate the pristine nature. The beauty of the local beaches is mesmerizing. Karon Beach is made for fans active species sports. Surfers have chosen its beaches. The city is a place to meet friends and shop. Hundreds of boutiques and souvenir shops, restaurants and traditional Thai eateries are concentrated on its streets.

Strengths of Phuket:

• quiet and secluded beaches;
• clean and transparent sea;
• comfortable hotels;
• wealthy European public;
• a large selection of programs designed for families with children.

The main disadvantage of the resort is its remoteness from the capital region. Transport accessibility also leaves much to be desired.

Difficult choice

So, Pattaya or Phuket? The answer depends on the purpose of the trip, the composition of travelers and the availability of funds. Let's figure it out!

The best for children

When traveling with kids, parents carefully plan their itinerary. Choose a hotel and scrupulously study the reviews. Therefore, the question: "Pattaya or Phuket?" is especially important for them. Experienced Tourists claim that the beaches of both resorts are equally suitable for family vacation. They have a developed infrastructure and everything necessary for swimming.

Battle of the Beaches

If you believe the reviews, then the cleanliness of the coast of Pattaya is still inferior to the order that reigns in the recreational areas in Phuket. The beaches are noisy and crowded. The cleanest parts of Pattaya are Naklua and Jomtien. Near them there are cafes and restaurants, sports equipment rentals. Children ride on inflatable "bananas", and adults on "pills".

Phuket has a variety of beaches. The most popular among Russians is Karon. It is covered with imported sand with a high content of quartz, which, if stepped on, emits a characteristic crunch. There are no complaints about the sea in Phuket. The exception is Patong. It resembles the noisy and cheerful coast of Pattaya.

Safety

Where is the best entrance to the sea, in Pattaya or Phuket? Both resorts have a gently sloping coastline. The depth of the water increases gradually. The bottom is sandy everywhere. True, in Pattaya, around May, strong excitement begins. Swimming becomes unpleasant and sometimes dangerous. Ends storm at the end of October.

The sea in Phuket has a meek disposition. But in some places there are underwater pits. They are very shallow, but those who come here with small children need to be extremely careful. High waves in all resorts of the island are rare.

Issue price

And yet, what to choose - Pattaya or Phuket? Where is the best and cheapest place to stay? abundance entertainment venues, which are concentrated in Pattaya, allows the resort to receive travelers all year round. The cost of living, food and tourist services in this part of Thailand is considered the lowest.

For a bed in a decent hostel they ask 500 rubles a day. For a room in a comfortable hotel you need to pay about 1,000 rubles. Based on the feedback from the Russians, it was compiled:

• Nova Platinum Hotel.
• Venue Residence Cabaret Spa.
• "Dranken Duck Guesthouse".
• Vogue Hotel.
• Siam Guesthouse.
• Whitehouse Condotel.
• Mosaic Luxury Apartments.
• Centara Pattaya Hotel.
• Zing Resort Spa.
• High Lords Residence.

In Phuket there are hotels of various levels. There are premium options and simple but cheap ones. The cost of living in local hostels is almost the same as in Pattaya. But hotels are more expensive. They charge up to 40,000 rubles per night. List of hotels that received the highest ratings from tourists:

• Lofts Boutique Hotel Apartments.
• Savasdi Village.
• Centara Karon Resort Phuket.
• Marriott Phuket Resort Spa.
• Novotel Phuket Surin Beach Resort.
• "Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket".
• Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort.
• Shuga Marina Resort.
• Movenpick Resort Spa Karon Beach Phuket.
• "Racha".
• Nap Patong.

Nutrition

Pattaya or Phuket? Where is the best and tastiest food? A complex lunch in the area of ​​​​the beaches of Pattaya will cost 300 rubles. In Phuket, lunch is already asking for 500 rubles.

The most popular and affordable eateries in Pattaya are Yasmin's Cafe, Bronx Pizza, Daves Cantina, Dosa Hut, Imli Grill, Tinnis Thailand, Pool Siam, Rinapp Restaurant, La Strada Cafe, Kiss Food.

In Phuket, Russians choose the restaurants Taverna and Noti Nuris Phuket, Le Brooklyn Patng and Pad Thai Shop, Golden Prades Restaurant, New Cafe, Mister Coffee, Da Puccio Restaurant, Tandoori Flames, Halvey Inn and Sandwich Shop Cafe.

petty expenses

So where should a tourist stay - Pattaya or Phuket? What to choose? How much money to prepare? Not without additional costs. On beaches of Pattaya for renting a sun lounger and an umbrella they ask for 300 rubles. This is the standard rate. It is valid everywhere in Thailand.

True, in Phuket you will have to fork out additionally if your plans include independent travel around the island. Renting a moped costs 400 rubles. A trip by public transport will cost 500 rubles.

Warmer climes

What to choose in Thailand? Pattaya or Phuket? Both resorts are suitable for year-round recreation. The high season in Pattaya begins at the very end of October and ends in early March. Phuket is warm and quiet in November, December, January, February, March and in the first half of April. Therefore, the answer to the questions posed depends on the date of the planned trip to Thailand.

Wandering wind

Where is it better - to Pattaya or Phuket - to go in the off-season? Pattaya is a resort where tourists are welcome at any time of the year. About 150,000 people live in it. Almost all of them are employed in the service sector. Therefore, the local infrastructure is considered the most developed in all of Thailand. In the high season, the beaches of Pattaya are crowded, there are few empty seats. But in the off-season, the coast is empty, and housing prices become fifty percent lower.

In Phuket, hotel rooms are more expensive even during the wet monsoon season. But entertainment during the calm period is much less than that of the neighbors. Therefore, here Phuket loses to noisy and dynamic Pattaya.

Crime

Reviews of Pattaya or Phuket say that both resorts are safe for foreign tourists. The crime rate is low here. But since youth companies gather in Pattaya, and alcohol flows like water, caution should be exercised in this part of Thailand.

Do not take large sums of money with you if you go for a walk along Walking Street. Experienced tourists do not recommend wandering alone at night through the unknown quarters where the locals live.

Order reigns in Phuket. There are no wild parties on the island. The local people are good-natured and friendly people. You can only face theft in the market square or in nightclubs. The police arrive at the scene promptly. Tourists are assisted in the restoration of documents, they are allowed to contact friends and relatives.

Attractions

Where to go on a trip - to Pattaya or Phuket? Where is the best place to relax? Where are the most interesting sightseeing programs? Unfortunately, Pattaya cannot boast of an abundance of architectural monuments. True, several Buddhist structures are concentrated on the territory of the resort:

• Temple of Doom.
• Temple of Truth.
• Big Buddha Temple.

There are practically no reserves in the Pattaya area either. To admire the inhabitants of tropical nature, you need to go to the archipelago located nearby. Most Interest tourists call excursions to the islands of Koh Phai, Koh Lan, Koh Sak.

List of available trips from Pattaya:

• "River Kwai" (2 days).
• "Metropolitan Bangkok".
• "Discovery 7 in 1".
• "Madagascar".
• "Khao Keo".
• "Ramayana" (water park).
• "Cambodia" (2 days).
• "Nong Nooch".
• "Ko Samet".
• Wat Yan Temple Complex.

Phuket is home to ancient Thai shrines. Business card region - a colossal Buddha statue. Its height is forty-five meters. You can get acquainted with the so-called Sino-colonial style in architecture in the municipal center of the island. The most popular among guides are walks along the streets of Phang Nga, Thalang, Krabi.

The range of sightseeing trips in the Phuket travel agency:

• "The main attractions of the island" (8 hours).
• "Pearl Farm".
• "World of Crocodiles".
• "Botanical Garden".
• "Dolphinarium".
• "Upside Down House"
• "Kingdom of the Tigers".
• Khao Lak.
• Khao Sok.
• "Shopping tour".

Leisure

Which is better - Pattaya or Phuket? In the reviews, surfers recommend the first option. Fans of water entertainments also agree with them. A large number of diving, windsurfing and kiting schools are concentrated on the coast of the resort. Tourists are entertained with rides on ATVs, scooters, and playing airsoft. The Ramayana water park invites you to relax with the whole family. The ticket price for an adult visitor is 2,500 rubles. Children receive a 50% discount.

They have a slightly different character. Travelers are carried on elephants. They are offered to go through the most difficult tracks in the Extreme Jungle Park. There is also a small zoo here. There is a go-kart. The scale of the local water park is inferior to the scale of the famous Ramayana in Pattaya.

Purchases

Which is better - Phuket or Pattaya - in terms of shopping? There is no single opinion on this matter. Shopaholics claim that the cheapest souvenirs and beach accessories are sold in Pattaya stores. But there are practically no boutiques selling authentic things in the resort. The risk of running into a Chinese fake is very high. For costume jewelry, souvenirs created by local artisans, and colorful clothes, it is better to go to the flea market.

The basis of trade in Phuket is latex. Pillows and orthopedic mattresses made from this plastic and versatile material are very popular with visitors. Estimated cost products is 4,000 rubles.

Local jewelry stores are famous for affordable natural pearl jewelry. Buyers praise accessories from crocodile skin. Clothes of European brands are sold in specialized departments of large shopping centers.

Cultural program

The New Year celebration is the most important event in Thailand. Photos of Pattaya or Phuket serve the best confirmation. Resorts are literally changing. But the main fun happens on the first night of the new year. Residents of Pattaya take to the streets and pour water over themselves and those around them from head to toe. Tourists, armed with water pistols, also take an active part in the holiday.

New Year's Eve in Phuket is exactly the same. All the inhabitants of the island take to the streets of the resort and joyfully greet: "Sawadi pi mai."

The eternal tourist dilemma among travelers going to Thailand is the selection of the destination of the future vacation. Moreover, the two most popular resorts compete in this. What is better for tourists - Phuket or Pattaya, depends, first of all, on the criteria applied to the rest. An unambiguous answer to this question cannot be obtained. However, it will help to make a choice detailed overview these criteria in the context of each region.

Before exploring the key features, the location of the chosen resort points should be mentioned. Phuket Atoll is an independent Thai province, settled on the very big island country, which is connected to the mainland by a half-kilometer Sarasin bridge. Bangkok is almost 900 kilometers from here. The coastal zone is washed by 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 easier and shorter. At the same time, there are much more transfer options and the payment is lower - train, bus and taxi. Advanced hotels boast free transportation for their guests.

To the second resort capital city you will be able to leave by bus, but it will cost almost 700 baht. The second way is by train to Surat Thani, and then transfer to a bus flight, but in this case you should prepare for a daily trip. Additionally, it is proposed to make a flight from the capital's port of Don Muang, payment for tickets is similar to the bus route.

Pattaya - beaches and hotels.

Movement between resorts is not fast. The journey by car 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 in the assessment of the resort area by tourists.

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. Sea water is cleaner and more transparent here. The only negative that tourists often complain about is the tingling sensation while swimming. They say that this is the fault of 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 cause much desire to do so. a little cleaner water to the south and north directions. Therefore, vacationers are often put forward to sail to the nearest Ko-Lan archipelago. Transportation is carried out by ferry, it takes about 40 minutes to move.

This comes with additional costs. Firstly, for the trip itself, and secondly, the prices in coastal cafes for food, drinks and fruits are much higher. Even the restrooms are paid.

When deciding where to go in Thailand, you should take into account the season in which the 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. Precipitation is present, 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 occurs once or twice a week, then on the atoll, for example, in September, there is a risk of running into showers. They go daily. This is the main difference between the points in terms of weather.

In addition to rains, the tides are more pronounced on the atoll, there is the possibility of waves and even small tsunamis. This contributes to the formation of dangerous currents, so extra caution will not hurt. Winds often blow from April to October.

Beaches

Based on the fact that Phuket sea water is more pleasant, spending time near the coast in 2019 also occupies a leading position. There are also large sandbars, and small secluded places. And it's not just the number of such zones - they are distinguished by improved infrastructure, cleanliness and width. Complements the picture of snow-white crisp sand.

Some travelers make claims to Patong - the most famous beach of the place. Complain mainly about the large number of people, dirt and garbage. But more often than not, these complaints are unfounded. Patong has more advantages than disadvantages.

Their list includes:

• convenient location allows you to quickly get to it;
• there are no extraneous noises;
• space allows to accommodate a large number of visitors;
• few street vendors;
• the resting place is regularly cleaned;
• there are almost no shells and stones, both in the sand and at the entrance to the reservoir, the risk of injuring the leg is minimized;
• numerous palm trees provide shelter from the scorching sun.

A significant drawback of Patong is the lack of changing cabins.
Lovers of 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 pastime is characterized by pandemonium and not very clean coastline. The three main beach lines are complemented by a number of small areas, but you definitely won’t find privacy here - it’s crowded everywhere. The sand is the most common, yellow in color, in addition, the picture is spoiled by obsessive merchants who live near the coast.

Reviews say that the water is dirtier than on the central beach called Pattaya Beach, you will not find anywhere else. A highway passes by it, along which transport constantly moves. Jomtien is located nearby, there are not so many cars, but there are not enough eateries. But various massage parlors conduct their work.

According to 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 lot to the nearest shops, as hotel complexes have chosen the coastal territory.

The biggest plus of a Pattaya beach holiday is the opening pictures of Thai nature. These are palm thickets, and hills, and the picturesque islands of the Gulf of Thailand.

Attractions and entertainment

When evaluating what best Phuket or Pattaya in terms of visiting remarkable places, the championship laurels go to the second resort. Those who do not want to spend all the time in a pond or on a sunbed will like the variety of local entertainment. Fauna lovers should visit the elephant and crocodile farm, as well as a large aquarium, made in the form of a tunnel. The latter is especially attractive for families with children - fish passing by and others Marine life cause them real excitement.

Colorful photos will remain after visiting the orchid park and the tropical garden, where, in addition to exotic plants, various types of butterflies are kept. Photographing with a tiger, chimpanzee and other animals is also available. The 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 does not know that the Pattaya territory is considered a city of sins? For adult travelers, famous transvestite shows are available - Tiffany and Alcazar, many strip clubs and other nightly entertainment. If one resort is not enough for a traveler in terms of sightseeing, then you should go to Bangkok or the old Thai capital Ayutthaya. The objects of cultural and architectural heritage of the country are concentrated here. In addition, you can visit Cambodia, and even Laos, by purchasing a two or three-day excursion.

Phuket places are much poorer in this respect. Basically, all the sights are of a natural nature - viewing platforms, unusual islands, National parks. From the rest of the objects, various temples can be distinguished, and the Big Buddha monument, which was erected recently. On the way you will meet a small village of elephants, where you can ride them.

Additionally, you can devote time to the Ton Prai waterfall, the zoo, snake farm and a mountain of monkeys. historical monuments there is no. Almost all architectural structures were built simultaneously with the development of tourism.
But with regard to active entertainment type of diving and snorkeling is a winning option. This fact is due to the purity of the sea, which is so important for diving. The Similan Islands, located nearby, are among the ten must-see places in the world for divers to visit. The best time to do this kind of sport is in February.

IN Gulf of Thailand for diving it is worth noting Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. Also of interest to divers is Koh Samui Atoll. These points are located closest to the Pattaya area. In the region itself, diving is difficult because of the dirty, opaque water.

When choosing the preferred direction - Pattaya or Phuket, you need to take into account that groups for visiting most of the best Thai excursions are formed from the first point. There are also sightseeing tours on the atoll, but there are fewer of them and the cost is higher.

Prices

According to the cost of living and payment for transport insular territory is considered the most expensive resort area of ​​the state. Rest here is one and a half times more expensive than on the territory of the opponent. It is also worth adding the expensive transportation from Bangkok.

Clothes and food are 10 or even 20% higher compared to mainland price tags. High demands of taxi drivers are due to large travel distances. Even a trip to beach line will cost 300-400 baht. Along the sea there are only expensive hotels that not everyone can afford.

Housing

Pattaya and Phuket in Thailand in terms of living costs do not have any special differences with each other. Island space is costly by this criterion, but even here it will be possible to find inexpensive room in a condominium. They are in particular demand among those who come here for the winter. The average price tag for both directions is 400-500 baht per day. But this assumes a decent distance from the dwelling to the sea coast.

Directly by the sea, the cost of a hotel room starts from 1000-1500 baht. For such money, the level of service is 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 facility, the quality of the repair and the fullness of the apartment. Slightly higher than the Pattaya minimum - from 12 thousand. When hiring for six months or more, the tenant receives a significant discount. Together with renting apartments, guests get access to the rich infrastructure of hotel complexes - a swimming pool, a gym, parking, a massage parlor and other pleasant little things.

A good alternative to accommodation in Pattaya is to rent a villa, but in most cases this option is available for tourist groups. In this scenario, the cost of living will be significantly reduced. In terms of one person, you get a fee, like for a room in a two or three star hotel. The average price tag for a house with a pool is 6-9 thousand local units.

Nutrition

The answer to the question - where is it better in Pattaya or Phuket in terms of the cost of food, the answer is unequivocal. The victory goes to the first area. Food, fruits and drinks are almost half the price.


Even in the ubiquitous macaroons, a Pattaya lunch will cost 30-40 Thai units, while on the island - 60-70. The price tag for a barbecue is 10 and 20 b., respectively, for pancakes - 40 and 60. It is less expensive to buy in large supermarkets, but Phuket supermarkets put high prices for fruit fruits.

So for a mango the buyer will pay 160 b. per kilogram, for four apples, a kilogram of orange and papaya - 70, mangosteen - 200. Prices are especially inflated on popular Phuket beaches - Patong, Karon and Kata. To search for inexpensive fruits, it is preferable to go to Phang Muang Sai Kor Road, towards the Banzaan Night Market. There, along the road, there are cars from which they sell fruit fruits at a price almost halved.

In the market itself, fruits are expensive. Only kebabs, some drinks, pancakes and other street food can be cheap there. Speaking of drinks - for Pattaya beer, the fee is lower. You can often find a sign on a cafe stating that all beer is 50 bp. In Patong, you will have to pay 80 b for a bottle.

shopping

In this regard, the undisputed leader is Pattaya. A huge number of shopping centers and boutiques are located within walking distance. You won't have to go anywhere. The presence of a floating market, which is an attraction in itself, allows you to buy souvenirs and other small things at low prices. The cheapest way to buy is at night markets, for example, on Teprazit. Everything is sold there for 100-300 local units.
However, if this is not enough, there is always the opportunity to travel to the capital, which is considered the center of Thai shopping.

The island space in terms of the cost of clothes and souvenirs is not much different, but choosing a place for shopping is difficult. The largest shopping center called Jung Ceylon is located in Patong, where you can really buy anything you want. Reduced price tags are available when visiting clothing markets.

Transport

In Pattaya public transport presented songthaews instead of buses. These are open pickup trucks with a roof, which are also called "tuk-tuk". A map of the routes of such pickups is sold in the 7/11 supermarket chain. The ticket will cost 10 local units.

For a taxi you will have to pay from one to four hundred. There are 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 bp. per day, SUVs - from 3 thousand. Rent for a classic sedan is 2000-2300 b. in a day.

On the island, bus transportation is poorly established; there is no direct communication between the coastal zones. A ticket costs 30-40 bp. Therefore, you have to use a taxi, but you can’t call it cheap. For a transfer to a nearby beach, which takes 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.

The alternative is to hire a bike. In a few days, a tourist will give 200-300 b., 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 is sold at 28-30 bp.

Advantages and disadvantages

For ease of choice, you can use a brief listing of the positive and negative sides of each resort area.

Phuket benefits:

• 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 conducive to relaxation, a relaxing holiday. Great option for travelers with children.
• A good level of security in terms of pickpockets and petty scammers.

Minuses:

• Overpriced food and clothing.
• A poor choice of shopping centers for large-scale shopping.
• Few attractions.
• Expensive taxi.

Pros of Pattaya:

• Inexpensive food, clothing, lots of shopping malls, the presence of a floating market.
• A variety of excursion programs, the possibility of visiting attractions.
• Ease of travel by public transport.
• Proximity to the capital.
• Accessibility to visit at any time of the year.

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Thailand's two most popular tourist destinations are like yin and yang opposites in atmosphere, entertainment and audiences. Therefore, choosing one of the two resorts for relaxation is not difficult, most importantly, carefully read the review!

Resorts on the map

As you can see, the main resorts of Thailand are at a decent distance from each other. Pattaya is on the northeast coast, and Phuket is in the southwest of the country. They are separated by 993 kilometers. This is about 14 hours by car or a couple of hours of flight.

Weather

We wrote more about the holiday seasons in Thailand at. The table above will give you an idea of ​​the difference in weather conditions. From experience, in Pattaya it is better to relax from to. In Phuket from November to .

If suddenly you are brought to Thailand in the summer, it is definitely better to go to Pattaya. There, the weather is more pleasant at this time, and there are more entertainments.

Are you planning a trip? That way!

We have prepared some useful gifts for you. They will help save money at the stage of preparation for the trip.

Pattaya

The largest tourist city is 150 km from the capital of Thailand - Bangkok. Unlike other resorts, you can get here in just a couple of hours by bus directly from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport. The developed infrastructure of the city and proximity to the main metropolis of Southeast Asia allows you to make your vacation rich, varied and interesting.

However, this resort has its own zest. Sex tourism made it popular. The most famous street city ​​- Walking street - the concentration of Thai debauchery. What you will not see here is from harmless go-go bars and colorful transgender performances to amazing sex shows. Therefore, the circle of vacationers here is appropriate. Single aged men or companies of reckless youth prefer to come here in search of adventure.

Well, the muddy coast and the proximity of the beaches to the city affected the transparency of the water and the cleanliness of the beaches, not for the better. Therefore, if you want paradise vacation"on the island of the Bounty", it is better to immediately go to the next section. Well, if active rest and incendiary parties are your thing, start choosing the perfect beach.

Beaches

Pattaya Beach

The central city beach does not differ from its counterparts in other countries - this is an abundance of vacationers, garbage and not the cleanest sea. Along the entire beach there is also a highway, where, raising dust into the air, cars and motorcyclists rush around the clock.

During the day, residents of neighboring hotels and guesthouses like to sunbathe here after an active night pastime on Walking Street at the southern end of the beach. But here, along the entire coast, there are dozens of cafes, restaurants and street food stands (macashnits) for every taste and budget. Here along Pattaya Beach Road are the best shops, shopping centers and various entertainment venues in the city. Therefore, if you are not going for a beach holiday, there is no better place than Pattaya Beach!

Jomtien

In the north, the main city beach of Pattaya Beach passes into Jomtien. Therefore, there is no particular difference in infrastructure, entertainment and cleanliness of the sea coast between these two busiest beaches. The only thing is that Walking Street is located at a distance from Jomtien, so the atmosphere here is calmer, nightclubs are increasingly replaced by massage parlors, and cafe prices are pleasantly pleasing.

Jomtien has developed extreme entertainment. The main center of attraction for those who like to tickle their nerves is the Pattaya Tower. It is from its roof, after examining the city panorama, that I propose to go down cable car in a bandage, cradle or closed cabin directly to Jomtien Beach.

Dongtan

Clean, calm, compact beach in the very south of the coast. True, there is one but! Dongtan Beach in indivisible ownership was occupied by representatives of sexual minorities. Therefore, the rainbow flag fluttering in the Thai winds is visible from all its parts, and men of all ages predominate among vacationers.

But all loaded highways pass away from the beach, as well as most cafes, shops and shops. Therefore, a real relaxing holiday in a specific environment on Dongtan is guaranteed!

Wong Amat

Wongamat Beach is located in the very north of the coast. This is the most pleasant and well-maintained local beach with almost white sand (on the other beaches the sand is yellow). The sea here is calm and not as muddy as on central beaches. In addition, the cleanliness of the place is carefully monitored by the staff of high-class hotels and condominiums, which are built up almost the entire beach line.

Therefore, if you plan to stay at a hotel on the coast and prefer a beach holiday, you won’t find a better place here! In other cases, access to the beach area for third-party tourists is limited.

Where to stay

There are a lot of housing offers, and the prices are pleasantly pleasing! So a room in a guesthouse here can be rented for 300-400 THB per day. True, you will have to live either far from the coast, or with windows overlooking the city's busiest thoroughfares - Sukhumvit Road, Pattaya Beach Road or the already mentioned Walking Street.

For those who prefer a comfortable stay, there is where to roam. Along the coast, there is a huge number of upscale 3-5 star hotels with prices for a double room from 700 THB per day. Among the hotels are presented as well-known world chains - Four Seasons, Holiday Inn and Hilton, as well as local luxury resorts and small hotels.

A double room in a hotel on the territory of the most famous building in Pattaya - Pattaya Tower Resort - will cost 1500 THB.

Prices

This is one of the cheapest Thai resorts. In Phuket, the second most popular tourist destination, holidays will cost, on average, 1.5-2 times more.

Food prices in local eateries start at only 30-40 THB, and a full seafood lunch in good restaurant on the coast will cost no more than 500 THB. By the way, lunch at McDonald's costs only 2 times lower. Western fast food here is not cheap!

From alcohol, Thais prefer the local beer Chang or other southeastern brands Singha, Tiger and Leo. They sell it on every corner, and a small can will cost 50 THB.

It is better to buy fruits not in stores and supermarkets, but in markets where they will be fresher and cheaper, and there will be more choice. The most expensive fruits in Thailand are our native apples and plums (from 100 THB per kilogram), but tropical exotics are several times cheaper! Mangoes are 60-80 THB/kg, dragon fruit are 40-60 THB/kg, bananas are 30-35 THB/kg and watermelon or pineapple can be found for as little as 20-25 THB/kg.

Phuket

The largest Thai island (which is why the Thais add Ko (Koh) to the name) and, concurrently, one of the most popular in the world tourist destinations offers a textbook vacation in the tropics: clear and transparent azure sea, white sand, tall palm trees, an abundance of cheap seafood and exotic fruits.

Unlike its fellow, the central city on the island - Phuket Town - is located at a distance from the beaches. Therefore, all the main urban infrastructure is within easy reach, and nothing pollutes the surroundings of the beaches.

Koh Phuket is perfect for those who prefer typical urban entertainment (museums, shopping and parties in nightclubs) to a classic beach holiday and familiarity with tropical nature. Although parties with shopping here will be enough!

Beaches

Patong

The most crowded and tourist beach of the resort, due to its population, is much inferior in the cleanliness of the coast and the transparency of the sea to its neighbors. The atmosphere here is lively and rave, so it reminds tourists of Pattaya. This is because Patong has many nightclubs, striptease bars and other places of entertainment that are directly related to the sex tourism industry.

Along the entire beach line of Patong there is a highway, with opposite side from which restaurants and cafes lined up densely. The beach is in abundance filled with sun loungers of the mentioned establishments, which are offered to be used not only by cafe visitors, but also by anyone for 100 THB.

Karon

The second most popular local beach, unlike Patong, where active party youth prefer to stay, is more suitable for family holidays. Despite the fact that Karon is populated no worse than Patong, the atmosphere here is calmer, there are not so many intimate establishments, bars and nightclubs with girls of easy virtue.

However, the popularity of the resort among a wide range of tourists and the abundance of hotels did not have the best effect on the cleanliness of the beach. The coast and the sea here, as in Patong, are not bad, but still not from the dream of a paradise “Bounty Island”. On the other hand, the asphalt road that separates the beach from residential buildings has preserved it almost in its original form and did not allow it to be occupied by restaurants and cafes.

Bang Tao

Bang Tao is the most expensive beach with first-class service and luxurious hotels, stretching along the 8-kilometer coastline. As expected, the staff of neighboring hotels carefully monitors the coast here, so the cleanliness in Bang Tao is exceptional.

The central part of the beach is occupied by a complex of 7 luxury resorts "Laguna". The guests of the complex are waiting not only for swimming pools, beauty salons and restaurants, but also their own access to the sea and even a specially equipped golf course!

Especially for wealthy tourists, Bang Tao offers expensive branded boutiques, massage and spa salons with high-class service, as well as many restaurants with world cuisines and bars with a claim to good taste, as opposed to cheap Patong establishments.

Kamala

A small bay with calm sea, a gentle slope and fine white sand north of Patong was chosen by European pensioners. Therefore, the atmosphere here is quiet and conducive to a leisurely beach holiday.

The southern part of the beach is livelier than the sedate north with its upscale hotels. In the south of Kamala there are many shops, small shops, inexpensive cafes and restaurants. Local fishermen live here, every morning they go to sea for their catch, and in the evening they pull their traditional long boats ashore.

Where to stay

With a large number of beaches for a wide variety of audiences, accommodation can also be found for every taste and budget. On the island, you can rent not only a standard hotel room, but also apartments in a modern condominium right on the coast (at a price comparable to a 3-4 star hotel) or even a whole mansion with a swimming pool.

The most budgetary guesthouses and hotels are located, of course, on Patong and Karon - the most densely populated beaches. Here, a decent, but unpretentious room in a guest house can be rented for 700 THB per day. However, you will have to live either far from the beach, or with windows overlooking noisy and busy streets.

The less and deserted beach, the more local hotels will ask for accommodation. Double rooms in inexpensive 2-star hotels, on average, start from 1000 THB per night, and in the fashionable Laguna resorts in Bang Tao they reach up to 3500 THB.

Prices

As already mentioned, rest here is seriously more expensive than Pattaya. For example, the average cost of dinner in a good restaurant here will reach 900 THB. And for the main dishes in local cafes you will have to pay from 50-60 THB. True, prices at McDonald's throughout the country remain stable - 200 THB for a combo lunch. And compared to restaurants in Phuket, prices for Western fast food no longer seem to be as biting here as they are in Pattaya. Almost the same prices for alcohol throughout the country - 50 THB apiece. Cans of beer can charge up only in cafes on the first line of beaches.

But what is undoubtedly pleasing is the low prices for seafood. In local supermarkets, you can buy sea fish or fresh squid at a price of 50-60 THB / kg, and a kilogram of king prawns will cost 200-230 THB. In cafes and restaurants, you can order Tom Yam or rice with seafood, where the vast majority of the plate space will be occupied by palm-sized shrimp, for 120-150 THB.

Prices for fruits in the resorts do not differ much. In addition to the legendary Thai mango (60-80 THB/kg), exotic dragon fruit (40-60 THB/kg), inexpensive bananas (30-35 THB/kg) and watermelons (20-25 THB/kg), Phuket markets and fruit stalls you can find papaya 2 times cheaper than in Pattaya (25-30 THB/kg). And tropical mangosteen and lychee will cost 60-65 THB/kg.

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