Phuket or Pattaya: where is the best place to relax, photos, reviews from tourists. Where is it better to relax - Pattaya or Phuket? Pattaya or Phuket which is better reviews
The category of tourists who have never visited Thailand knows little about the differences between them, assuming that if they exist, they are very insignificant. It is this circumstance that confuses many when it comes to making a choice - they want the maximum return at certain financial costs.
Tourists are divided in their tastes, some of them want fun, vibrant sensations, others strive for a completely different vacation.
If we define this by type, we get two groups:
- The former prefer sightseeing, visiting local parties, getting to know the local cuisine, relaxing on the beach from time to time, swimming in the sea.
- The latter choose to devote their time entirely to the sea, beach, active sports, diving, isolation from civilization at least partially.
Which is better: Pattaya or Phuket
Most tourists who have already visited Thailand claim that the differences between the resorts are very significant, it all depends on the requirements of the vacationers: the presence of sports grounds, or culinary establishments, sightseeing, or everyday spending on the beaches.
If we analyze everything more carefully point by point, separately touching on the climate, prices, number of interesting places, there are differences, and it is worth dwelling on them in more detail.
Advantages and disadvantages
In Pattaya, with relative proximity to Bangkok, prices for all types of recreation and goods are lower, while the choice entertainment programs and excursions has an expanded range. This is an undoubted advantage of the resort area.
Considering that throughout the year there are practically no heavy rains characteristic of this climate zone, best place You just can't find one for shopping.
Single men who don’t mind trying local strawberries, budget tourists, partygoers, those interested in history, and just interesting places, Pattaya could not be better suited. Constant sunny weather does not interfere with excursions and trips to interesting places.
Few beaches, not very attractive due to dirty water in the sea. They are not popular among fishing enthusiasts and “savages”; this is the main disadvantage of Pattaya.
At the resort a large number of tourists from Russia, India, China, who fill numerous bars, restaurants, clubs, and noisy events. For tourists looking for peace and solitude, Pattaya is not the right place.
Phuket It stands out for its large number of well-kept beaches. The water in the sea has a pleasant pearlescent hue and is extremely clean. There are a large number of beaches for savages, where you can accommodate both a single tourist and entire groups.
Excellent fishing and snorkeling, diving, dense greenery and ideal ecology attract millions of tourists. Phuket is an idyll for tourists who love beach holidays, entertainment and who are not interested in anything else. This is a plus of the resort area.
Phuket is essentially an island connected by two bridges to the mainland. The Similan Islands and the nearby Phi Phi Island have captivated sports enthusiasts; by the way, the Similan Islands are among the top ten the best places on globe for diving.
The local staff uses the rainy season mainly for repairs, but small financial discounts can be provided for those who want to relax during this period. Even during heavy rains, the ecology contrasts in quality and is better than the continent.
Climate
Pattaya compares favorably in this regard - it is the most best resort in the country:
The rest of the country, including Phuket, does not look very attractive, especially during the rainy season:
- During the dry season in Phuket rain will definitely come once or twice a week;
- During the rainy season (April – October) precipitation falls almost every day for at least an hour;
- Regarding air purity everything is exactly the opposite - in Phuket it is much cleaner than other regions of the country.
- Relative aridity and warmth lasts for almost six months (November - March) in the middle of the first month of spring, air humidity is already clearly felt.
- April is the hottest month in this part of the country (up to +40 degrees), features of the period: frequent rains, thunderstorms, downpours.
Location
Pattaya- the closest major resort near the capital (170 km). 
In addition, one of the most popular in Thailand and is located on the shores of the Gulf of Thailand, this is the southeastern part of the country.
The city is a resort part of the Chonburi province. This place is famous for the fact that almost its entire territory is an industrial zone of the country.
Phuket- an island resort located in the Andaman Sea (southwestern part of the country). The resort area is 50 kilometers long and 20 kilometers wide.
The island is separated from the continent by the Pak Phra Strait. West Side The island is connected to the mainland by two bridges (Thao Then Krasatri, Sarasin).
There is an airport on the island, and in the central part is the capital, which has the same name.
Housing cost
Comparing the prices of both resorts, accommodation is more expensive, and significantly, in Phuket. The explanation is relatively simple: Thai companies spend considerable sums of money to deliver goods and products to the island, the distance to which from the capital is about 800 km, and this has a corresponding impact on accommodation.
Prices at the Pattaya resort start from 5-6 thousand baht per month. In fact, it’s a penny, but the housing matches: narrow rooms, often without windows. Nearby, as a rule, there are noisy places: bars, dance floors. From 10 thousand life and conditions are significantly improved, since the price almost doubles, but still not every tourist who prefers comfortable conditions will agree to what is proposed.
Housing prices in Phuket the least will cost 15-17 thousand baht per month, subject to payment per day from 1 thousand baht. The service, the condition of the housing is several times higher than the level of Pattaya, in fact everything is very similar to family-type hotels with a classification of three-star establishments.
What to do and what to visit
Although Phuket is a small island, there are many places where you can relax or see something interesting: 
- The butterfly garden is located near one of the lakes; there is a silk museum; Numerous exhibitions of beetles, butterflies and other insects.
- Orchid garden. Located in close proximity to a Thai village and butterfly garden, it is a uniquely beautiful place where breeders from all over the world constantly gather.
- There is a craft center nearby, it provides examples of folk traditions.
- Show program twice a day provides a classic version of national dances performed by indigenous people.
- Has its own water park, built in 2010 using modern technologies.
- A huge aquarium has been modeled for tourists to see., which contains the main species of the tropical aquatic world.
- There is also a zoo, located on 6 hectares of the island, it also has its own aquarium. Children really love visiting this place: you can ride an elephant and look at unique tropical animals.
- The island has its own temples and local shrines, with which many legends are associated. One of them, Wat PhraNangSang, is estimated to be 5 centuries old. According to legend, it was built by LuadXao, a lady who was executed for something she did not do.
Pattaya is a real abundance for tourists who love noisy parties, various shows, exciting excursions: 
- Stone Park is located 15 minutes from the city center, which is filled with statues of varying heights. Next to it there is a farm whose task is the production and breeding of crocodiles.
- Elephant village. Tourists have a unique opportunity to observe how wild elephants are captured and trained for work (up to 13,000 of these animals are used in the country).
- The water park is one of the best in the country: Snow-white mountains of sand, unique attractions for all ages.
- Nong Nooch Garden is located in a village near the resort. The garden is surrounded by hills with fruit tree plantations.
These are not all of the places listed; nothing has been said yet about the historical past of Thailand, shopping and entertainment centers, or the famous Thai boxing. Unforgettable shows with crocodiles, elephants and other wild animals are a craft for the inhabitants of this country: the skills and secrets of training are passed on from generation to generation.
Service, hotels
The pricing policy for tourists staying in hotels and service differs, and this is also due to the location of both resorts. 
One of them is an island, and its supply of food and other goods is in some sense limited by the number of service companies.
Although prices on the island for tourists living are higher, the service is pleasing: everything is sparkling clean, the staff is attentive and trained, the kitchen and other items do not differ from the level European countries. The island has 158 hotels for vacationers of all categories.
Pattaya is inferior to the islanders in all areas of service, but in terms of price everything is also different - the cheapness is amazing. Hotels (about 300 in the center of the resort area alone) in Pattaya are ready to serve all categories of vacationers.
Renting a car in Thailand
Cost of the trip
In many ways, the price of a tour depends on the time and place of vacation. On autumn months year, when a protracted crisis begins in our regions rainy weather, a small vacation for two can be arranged for 7.5-9 thousand rubles . With a child it will be a little more expensive, but during this period it is very nice to be in power a little more warm sea and bright sun.
Beaches
There are more beaches on the island and they are better maintained.
There are no noisy groups of people here, the beauty and cleanliness are ideal, the islanders care about the greater influx of tourists and this is noticeable for many reasons: immediately after the rainy and stormy season, the beaches are carefully cleared of garbage and beautified.
Pattaya is deprived of the number of beaches; there are three main ones and several secondary ones, but they are always crowded with vacationers.
Attractions
Almost all of the country's historical sites are located on the mainland; in this regard, the islanders are inferior. 
Pattaya is surrounded by unique places, both historically and otherwise: culinary establishments, architectural structures, shopping centers, religion and its shrines.
The programs that are designed for tourists to see are very diverse and impressive; in this regard, Phuket lags significantly behind.
But not so much as to deny guests the pleasure of diversifying their vacation with interesting excursions.
Prices in Phuket and Pattaya
Shopping lovers are better off staying in Pattaya, it’s easier here both in terms of price ( close quarters from the capital) and according to climatic conditions. Phuket's pricing policy is much higher; this requires additional expenses from guests of the country.
The main problem in this is the short distance from the country's shopping centers and additional costs for companies that provide the islanders with everything they need.
Order an inexpensive transfer - taxi in Thailand
Food and establishments
Tourists can afford two types of food during their vacation. The first option is possible for tourists staying in hotels: there you can make orders both directly during meals, and in advance, for the next day.
The second option gives you the opportunity to try the exotic food of the eastern country in local restaurants and bars. The food of Thailand is something, here you can find a variety of dishes typical of the inhabitants of maritime countries, taking into account local traditions. Some dishes are very unusual, but this only means that not everyone is ready to accept its uniqueness.
Many tourists, upon arriving home, often visit Thai restaurants to remember their vacation time, and simply to treat themselves to the dishes they liked.
Shops and shopping centers
The availability of shops and shopping centers is different: the location of the resort areas again played a role - there are fewer of them on the island and prices for goods are higher. To buy souvenirs and interesting things, you may need to sacrifice one day to travel inland; shopping centers and shops are available not only in cities, but also in recreation areas and cultural and historical places.
Before you give victory to any of the resorts, you need to understand how Pattaya differs from Phuket. Despite the apparent similarity, these are two opposite poles: high-rise buildings with asphalt versus sea expanses.
Pattaya and Phuket: differences and features
The city of Pattaya is located on the shores of the Gulf of Thailand, in the center of the Industrial Zone of Thailand. The 15 millionth city is two hours away. Pattaya is the oldest resort in Thailand. It began to develop in the mid-twentieth century, and now has an extensive, perfectly functioning infrastructure and a full range of services.
Here everyone will find something to their liking: cultural sites, a developed trading network, all kinds of salons, national cuisine and nightlife with girls. This is the best starting point for excursions to the main attractions and exotic islands. Pattaya – perfect place for those who intend to learn everything about Thailand in a short time.
The Phuket resort is located on the island of the same name, the largest in Thailand. The island is open to all winds. You can also get here by land; a bridge leads from the island to the mainland. The mountains are interspersed with densely built-up valleys. Coconut palm plantations lie in the valleys, and relict trees are preserved in the mountains. rainforests, National treasure countries.
Phuket has gained worldwide fame as a seaside resort. The famous Patong Beach - "Banana Forest" - has become the busiest area of the island. This is where the main tourist infrastructure is concentrated: the best shopping and entertainment centers, fashion boutiques, catering outlets and entertainment venues.
Phuket or Pattaya, where the weather is better
The distance from Phuket to Pattaya is a good 1000 km from north to south, so climatic conditions varies in these places. The weather in Thailand is always warm and pleasant. But the rainy season, from early summer to mid-autumn, makes its own adjustments.
It’s still comfortable in Pattaya - the climate here is drier, so the rainy season appears more quickly cloudy days than showers. And if it's raining, then most often at night. Very rarely there are high waves at sea. It is pleasant to relax here at any time of the year.
In the city itself, the beach is a narrow sandy shore next to the road and suspiciously muddy water. Not surprisingly, the “King River” (Chao Phraya) flows into the Gulf of Thailand, which flows through Bangkok and a dozen other cities. The resort has been inhabited for a long time and has become old, so the hotels in the city are no longer “the freshest”. But here, Russian-speaking staff are much more common, and the signs are duplicated in Russian.
Phuket is an island. Pristine nature has been preserved here: a green kingdom with monotonously rustling waterfalls and clear mountain rivers. The sea is on all sides, the beaches are clean, the infrastructure is new, with ultra-modern facilities. Phuket captivates with its remoteness from big cities and the incredible beauty of the landscapes. There are many viewing platforms and secluded places, including deserted beaches.
Don’t feed me bread, give me... – Spectacle, of course
Phuket or Pattaya, where is it better to relax for lovers of entertainment or history? The city of Pattaya does not have its own attractions. Paid excursions are carried out with departure to Bangkok or the surrounding area.
Choice excursion tours and entertainment is very large, for every taste: monuments and temples, crocodile or cobra farms, a parrot park and a monkey city, elephant rides, zoos and water parks, ship cruises, spectacular transvestite shows, nightlife spots, shopping and much more, even to extreme tourism and trips to neighboring countries.
Pattaya is considered a city of sex tourism, the focus of which is Walking Street. Here you can see unpleasant scenes; walking with children in this area is not recommended. The city is very dynamic and noisy, the diversity is breathtaking, and desires go crazy. Such an intense pastime is more suitable for lovers of nightlife, people who are used to enjoying every moment and having a blast.
Phuket offers its tourists a completely different atmosphere. This is real Thailand, it has a different taste and smell: quiet nights, original Thai cuisine, and aromatic coffee under palm trees.
This is an ideal place to relieve stress, but also an equally rich selection of entertainment: a dolphinarium and a zoo, safari tours and elephant rides, island cruises, diving and octopus fishing, flights over the jungle and other extreme sports, as well as evening shows, SPA -procedures and interesting shopping.
The island has stunning postcard views for photography enthusiasts. This is a small comfortable paradise on earth, where everyone who loves an interesting, but calm and respectable holiday will feel good. Fans of noisy parties will not be left out - nightlife is in full swing on Patong Beach.
Cheap and plentiful, or expensive but tasteful
Pattaya is considered the cheapest resort in Thailand. The cost of flying and moving here from Bangkok is low. The prices are frankly pleasing everywhere.
Phuket has its own international Airport, the second most important in the country, but getting here is still longer and more expensive. On average, prices here are one and a half, or even two times higher than in Pattaya. But in terms of the quality of recreation, Phuket is more likely to be considered an elite resort.
So anyway, Phuket and Pattaya, which is better? Comparing these two places evokes some gourmet associations. Pattaya is a table bursting with abundance, where it is impossible to resist trying everything. Phuket is an expensive, refined, delicate dish that requires leisurely enjoyment of all shades of taste. What to choose is up to you.
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 drew conclusions about 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 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 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. We didn't like the beaches of Pattaya. 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 are the best 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. 
The beaches in Pattaya are quite busy. It is better to go to Koh Larn island. Sights of Phuket and Pattaya
Phuket. The attractions of Phuket are predominantly natural - numerous idyllic islands, beaches and observation decks. In addition, there is the 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. Most people go there on excursions.
Pattaya. It is richer in attractions: islands, 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 this is where freedom for lovers of cultural recreation lies! In addition, from Pattaya you can get to Ayutthaya - the ancient capital of the Ayutthaya kingdom.
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 just 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 in the 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 working women and workers the oldest profession. And - oddly enough - there are a lot of Russian tourists with children, decorously walking 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. This hotel has a huge number of excellent reviews and is rated "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 travel 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.
You are looking at beautiful photographs of paradisiacal places in Thailand and have finally settled on two of them, but now you are tormented by the question - what is better to choose for your holiday - Pattaya or Phuket? The answer to this question will depend on the purpose of the trip - crazy performances for adults and dancing until the morning or a measured relaxing holiday in the shade of palm trees with a glass of cocktail? Below are the main factors of such a holiday that will help you understand your preferences.
Hot tropical climate and pristine nature provide a flow of tourists to Phuket all year round. In the high season, from November to March, there are more people who want to relax - the period of rain stops, clear skies allow you to get an even tan, and calm seas improve visibility underwater for diving.
From April to October, the holiday is accompanied by rain, and although the air and water temperatures do not drop below 28-30 degrees, the sun can barely be caught. However, the low season also has other advantages - the price of air tickets, hotels, excursions and services is reduced by 40%, and windy weather and precipitation are not a hindrance, for example, for surfing, which simply cannot happen without three-meter waves.
The climate in Pattaya is more attractive and stable than in other resorts in Thailand - the rainy season, monsoons, tsunamis and other unfavorable holidays natural phenomena lasts from May to November, but they are short in duration and occur at night. average temperature air in the low season - 31 degrees, water - 29 degrees. The cost of the tour drops by 4 times, but there is also a significant drawback - the condition of the beaches and water is noticeably deteriorating.
During the high season, from September to December, tourists periodically still get caught in the rain, and from December to April, you can relax calmly and not worry about anything. The sweltering heat gives way pleasant temperature, which does not exceed 29 degrees during the day and 25 degrees in the evening. At this time of year, national holidays are held, and excursions are easier to endure.
Rain season
Tropical downpours in Thailand usually begin instantly and immediately turn into a wall of rain that washes away everything in its path. No amount of raincoats or umbrellas can save tourists from soaking wet clothes. Therefore, if you are caught in such rain, there are two options: run to the hotel or simply enjoy the power of nature. But don’t let the flooded streets bother you – by morning there won’t be a trace left on the asphalt from yesterday’s raging elements.
In Phuket, the rainy season occurs in September, October and May. For a few hours at lunchtime you can soak up the rays of the sun, which warms the air to 34 degrees. But if you were unable to survive the monsoon rains, then you can go to the neighboring Coral Island, whose location prevents the waves from raging and ensures a relaxing holiday.
Pattaya is famous for much less rainfall, September takes the brunt of it, and even less in October and May. The Thais themselves are not affected by this weather; they continue to work, sometimes using boats to cross the flooded streets. On the beaches you can meet experienced tourists who have already tasted the delights of swimming in the rain, because the rainy season in Pattaya is harmless, unlike its neighbors - thunderstorms occur infrequently, and winds rarely come.
Where is it cheaper to travel on your own?
The ticket price includes round-trip flights (vacation duration 7-14 days).
| the cheapest | dearest | the cheapest | dearest | |
| January | RUB 30,347 | RUB 52,109 | 47,900 rub. | RUB 66,670 |
| February | RUB 28,161 | RUB 33,149 | RUB 47,821 | 60,256 rub. |
| March | RUB 28,158 | RUB 31,218 | RUB 50,552 | RUB 57,458 |
| April | RUB 28,160 | RUB 33,347 | RUB 52,202 | RUB 59,500 |
| May | RUB 28,149 | RUB 36,181 | RUB 50,820 | RUB 57,235 |
| June | 33,006 rub. | RUB 38,259 | RUB 50,819 | RUB 50,820 |
| July | RUB 34,270 | RUR 38,071 | RUB 51,687 | RUB 56,810 |
| August | RUB 34,271 | RUB 41,464 | RUB 50,820 | 60 104 rub. |
| September | RUB 34,270 | RUB 36,181 | RUB 50,823 | RUB 72,010 |
| October | RUB 34,270 | RUB 49,742 | RUB 53,265 | — |
| November | RUB 28,167 | RUB 35,974 | RUB 34,683 | RUB 53,168 |
| December | 28,116 rub. | RUB 60,967 | 45,056 rub. | 88,866 rub. |
The table shows that in the spring a trip to the island will cost a much smaller amount; for almost all 3 months the price does not exceed 28,200 rubles. During the peak season, the second half of December and November is marked by low prices at which you can buy a ticket if you book it in advance.
As for Pattaya, this resort is less in demand among tourists, and there are almost no summer flights on the flight schedule. In December and January, tickets are the most expensive, which is natural for the high season. However, you can go to Pattaya relatively inexpensively in November - the cheapest ticket costs 34,683 rubles. By this time, natural “whims” end and relaxation can bring pleasure.
Entertainment
Entertainment on the paradise island is quite varied, and in addition to relaxing on the shore Andaman Sea, alternating with visiting restaurants with exotic cuisine, he has something to surprise tourists with:
- entertainment for children: the FantaSea park, which includes not only attractions, but also animal shows; Phuket Zoo, famous for the performance of artists with crocodiles; Tiger Kingdom with peace-loving predators who are not averse to taking pictures with visitors; the Kok Chang elephant farm will delight children with the opportunity not only to feed them, but to ride them, and even take a bath together; garden of butterflies and insects "Phuket Butterfly Garden" under open air; Phuket Aquarium with sharks and octopuses; water park "Splash Jungle"; dinosaur park “Dino Park” with a mini-golf course;
- excursions: guided sightseeing trips to the James Bond Islands, which are notable not only for the filming of the 007 film, but also for the route passing through sheer cliffs, stalactite caves and wild vegetation; visit to the pearl farm "Pearl Factory" with the opportunity to purchase jewelry; Orchid Farm;
- extreme entertainment: bungee jumping; diving; surfing; snorkeling; underwater motorcycles; rope park "Flying Hanuman"; jeep safari;
- museums: National; upside down house "Baan Teelanka"; Museum 3D;
- entertainment for adults: nightclub “Famous” (for foreigners), “Hollywood” (for local residents); transvestite cabaret “Simon”; Russian striptease bar “Moulin Rouge”; Ice Bar; massage parlors;
Excursions
Just some 50 years ago, Thailand was just a transit point between India and China, and today its resorts hold the top positions in the ranking among the most desirable vacation spots, and offer sea adventures, wild beaches and jungles - to Phuket, and for cultural and historical attractions - to Pattaya.
- Travel to the islands of Racha, Maiton, Coral: an ideal option for exploring the underwater fauna with a mask and breathing tube for those who have not managed to overcome their fear of diving to depth ($60 per person)
- Cheow Lan Lake: kayaking between karst mountains, visiting temples, riding elephants and swimming in the lake will give an unforgettable experience ($90 per person);
- Motorcycle tour on a bike and car excursions: getting to know the most hidden corners of Phuket - fishing villages, original cafes, unique viewing platforms that will open the way to understanding local life, traditions and cultural customs ($50-100);
- Parties: a tour of the most famous and colorful night bars will help you figure out your preferences, and then settle on one of them ($37 per person);
- Photo walks along the streets of the Old Town and the beach: you will not only be given an introductory tour, but will also be provided with professional photography with edited photographs ($100);
- First acquaintance with the city: visit to the Chinese Museum, Wat Yang temple complex and Khao Chi Chan mountain ($40)
- The residence of Thai rulers and several dozen temples around it ($177);
- Muang Boran Museum City ($112)
- Travel to Chachoengsao province: temples with Buddhist deities from Indian mythology, an exhibition of sand figures, a parrot park and a monastery with flying foxes, suitable for even the most sophisticated travelers ($157)
Hotels
- The Nchantra Pool Suite Phuket 5* is located a 2-minute walk from Siray Bay beach. The hotel offers both economy options and luxury rooms with a private pool, kitchen and balcony, as well as a hot tub and safe ($120-320).
- Rang Hill Residence 4* offers mountain views and is located 2 km. from the Old Town. The room rate includes a buffet in the morning. Swimming pool and terraces are shared ($22-93).
- Little Nyonya Hotel 4* offers a choice of American and continental cuisine, which is rare for Asian resorts, but there is also a drawback - an inconvenient location: it takes 40 minutes to get to the nearest beach by taxi ($39-79).
- The Memory at On Hotel 3* is interesting for its antique-style rooms, each of which has its own design. Convenient location in the city center near famous tourist streets is perfect for young couples ($32-82).
- EcoLoft Hotel 3*, surrounded by attractions, boasts a rooftop pool with a beautiful panorama of the city, but the staff does not speak English ($40-80).
- Mvenpick Siam Hotel Na Jomtien Pattaya 5*, surrounded by nightclubs and restaurants, is suitable for young people who come to Pattaya for nightlife. All rooms are furnished and overlook the Gulf of Thailand ($1390-1735).
- Mercure Pattaya Ocean Resort 4* has several rooms with ocean views, while others offer views of the city at night. For children, in the hotel courtyard there is a small water park and swimming pool ($67-125).
- Sea Me Spring Tree Hotel 3* is located a 5-minute walk from shopping centers, and the sea is 5 meters from the hotel. There are outdoor swimming pools and Jacuzzis with a rooftop bartender ($56-$100).
- Tribe Hotel Pattaya 3* is new, but not fully equipped: there are no bedside tables, and at the beach, which is no more than 2 minutes away, you can’t sunbathe on a hot day due to the lack of umbrellas, but all inconveniences are compensated by the inexpensive price (26- $64).
- Jomtien Beach Residence 3* is popular among Europeans who come here for an active holiday - the rooms are spacious, but lacking in amenities, and the view from the balcony overlooks the construction site ($48-73).
Service
In connection with the developed tourism in Thailand, a lot of hotel complexes have opened that welcome foreign guests. Therefore, the level of service, regardless of the hotel category, is at the highest level: each hotel has free parking, a swimming pool, Wi-Fi throughout, concierge services, transfer and luggage storage. All these services are free and included in the room price, but there are also a number of separately paid services: laundry, dry cleaning, fitness centers, Spa and other wellness treatments, barbecue facilities, animators and nannies, grocery delivery.
Rooms are serviced daily and feature air conditioning, a jacuzzi, toiletries and a safe. You can contact the front desk for printing and photocopies of documents, currency exchange, calling a taxi, car rental and advice from tour guides. The staff speaks three languages, including English.
Thais are very friendly and helpful people: taxi drivers are always on hand and load suitcases at lightning speed, waiters are polite and try to guess your wishes, and police officers are ready to show the way to lost travelers and even treat them to coffee. There are ATMs at every step, credit cards are accepted everywhere. As for the cuisine, Thai and Chinese dishes are mainly offered; there are also European restaurants, but they are 2 times more expensive. The entire service is tailored to please the guest, because Thais understand that their earnings depend on this.
Vacation prices
The cost of the tour for two includes flights, accommodation, meals and insurance (tour duration 7-8 nights). If you want to go for 14 days, the price will be 1.5 times higher than those described in the table.
| the cheapest | dearest | the cheapest | dearest | |
| January | RUB 79,296 | RUB 182,347 | RUB 71,460 | RUB 92,461 |
| February | RUB 78,661 | RUB 87,351 | RUB 71,460 | 86,300 rub. |
| March | RUB 85,955 | RUB 98,923 | RUB 80,444 | 96,428 rub. |
| 81.722 rub. | 93.034 rub. | 78.624 rub. | 80.119 rub. | |
| May | 86.209 rub. | 92.312 rub. | 80.786 rub. | 100.383 rub. |
| June | RUB 82,611 | RUB 91,916 | 80,382 rub. | RUB 80,786 |
| July | RUR 82,198 | RUB 91,456 | 80,382 rub. | RUB 80,786 |
| August | RUB 91,456 | RUB 91,916 | RUB 92,382 | RUB 92,846 |
| September | RUR 84,882 | RUB 85,309 | ||
| October | RUR 84,882 | RUB 85,309 | ||
| November | 63,822 rub. | RUB 91,169 | RUB 70,885 | RUB 73,233 |
| December | RUB 58,520 | 161044 rub. | 68,127 rub. | RUB 109,712 |
The trip will cost you much less if you take advantage of the early booking promotion or track last-minute tours on websites. Pay attention to spring tours: this is the rainy season and prices fall. But don’t be afraid to ruin your holiday with changeable weather - the rain lasts only a few hours, and the next day you won’t notice a trace of the previous thunderstorm. During holidays and vacations, prices become 2 times more expensive - it is better to wait a couple of days and buy a tour at the regular price.
All inclusive or breakfast
Despite the fact that a tourist's holiday in the minds of the Thais should look different, they still adapted to the lazy regime of the Europeans and provided them with the All Inclusive service. But is such food really necessary in the country? active rest and extreme entertainment? Meal schedules are strictly followed and tie you to the hotel.
But many attractions are located several kilometers from your settlement, and as a result, you will have to give up something: either incur additional costs for lunch in a cafe on the spot, or explore museums, gardens and monuments in an accelerated manner, constantly looking at your watch. Experienced travelers prefer to save several thousand on a tour and pay only for breakfast, and eat as needed in the free time, especially since the prices in street cafes and restaurants will not hurt their pockets.
Seafood, vegetables, and fresh fruits are sold on every corner at ridiculous prices - this is much more profitable than hotel food: for a decent dinner for two, consisting of a meat dish, seafood and wine, you will pay a check of $30-40, and street eateries offer hearty snacks 1-3$ each.
Beaches
Phuket beaches - advantages and disadvantages
- Kamala - a sparsely populated clean beach for a family holiday away from entertainment
- Nai Harn is a convenient beach with a gentle slope to the sea and inexpensive hotels
- Kalim - clean but rocky seabed
- Kata is an increasingly popular beach with a wide range of services
- Nye Tone is excellent a place for surfers in low season
- Nai Yang is an abandoned area with an excess of dirt and debris, steep bottom
- Yanui - wild beach with only 1 hotel on site, suitable for snorkeling
- Bang Tao is the longest and most expensive beach with excellent service
- Karon - located far from hotels, suitable for active recreation
- Patong is a beautiful crowded expensive beach, an ideal place for swimming
- Surin - beautiful landscapes with pine trees instead of palm trees, high prices
- Freedom - a sparsely populated beach with white sand in the middle of the jungle
- Mai Khao - the sea has a deep bottom from the first steps, deserted
- Rawai is a haven for fishermen and gypsies who put on performances
Patong, Karon and Kata are youth beaches, where the music never stops, there is a lot of entertainment, shops and restaurants. For a heavenly holiday in peace and quiet, Thais recommend Nai Harn, Mai Khao and Freedom surrounded by exotic wildlife. Active tourists should go to Kalim, Yanui, Karon, which from April to October will give crazy waves to surfers. Nai Yang and Nai Ton are susceptible strong winds, but the bays are protected by reefs, so vacationers are guaranteed calm sailing and calm.
Pattaya beaches - advantages and disadvantages:
- Central - a busy noisy beach with dirty water
- Ban Ampur - nice beach with developed infrastructure and golden sand
- Jomtien - a well-maintained beach next to the highway
- Bang Saray - located next to the fishing town, palm alley on the shore
- The military is a clear sea, White sand and a water park on its territory
- Nang Ram is the most visited beach with bungalow hotels
- Dongtan is one of the cleanest beaches, suitable for children, there is a water park
- Kozi - beautiful view of the bay, a lot deciduous trees in the shadow
- Wongamat - the cleanest sea of the entire coast, gently sloping shore, view of the bay
- Naklua is a quiet place to relax with children, good pricing
- Pratamnak is an isolated beach surrounded by rocks, popular among Russians
Unfortunately, Pattaya cannot boast of clean beaches and turquoise sea waters, but some of them have much less garbage: Dongtan, Wongamat, Pratamnak, Nan Ram and Military. If you have long been hunting for the paradise landscapes from the Bounty advertisement, then you can go to the neighboring islands of the Gulf of Thailand: Ko Lan, Ko Sichang, Ko Samet, Ko Kood and others. There are crystal clear waters and picturesque nature.
Vacation with children
Families with children go to Phuket mostly for the sea and the sun, and therefore it is very important to choose a good beach with a sandy bottom, a gentle entrance and a calm sea, these include: Kata, Karon, Patong. Near them there are many shops, children's entertainment and restaurants with familiar Russian cuisine. As for leisure, long exhausting excursions are not suitable for children, but horseback riding and elephant riding ($31/hour), 3D museum ($9 for children, $14 for adults), zoo ($10 for children, $16 for adults) ), an aquarium ($2 for children, $3 for adults), a dolphinarium ($19 for children, $22 for adults), a bird park ($10 for children, $16 for adults), amusement parks and other entertainment centers filled the entire island.
In the northern part of Phuket there is a water park called Jungle Splash ($20 for children, $40 for adults), which you can visit if your hotel does not have water slides. Good game and water parks are included in the price of your stay and are available in the following hotels: , .
Although Pattaya is considered a resort for adults, they also took care of little guests. In addition to the fact that every hypermarket has playrooms where you can send your child for a while, in Pattaya there are also kindergartens with qualified Russian-speaking staff. For a relaxing holiday, it is better to choose the areas of Naklua, Pratamnak, Jomtien. The hotel is more suitable than others for families with children. It is equipped with cots, high chairs, splash pools, playrooms and water slides.
Among the less expensive ones are the following: , . The southeastern resort has more than 30 children's leisure options, the most memorable of which are: elephant village ($19-62), tiger zoo ($13 for children, $20 for adults), oceanarium ($8 for children, $16 for adults), sheep farm ($11 for children, $16 for adults), crocodile farm ($6 for children, $12 for adults), 3D gallery ($10 for children, $16 - for adults).
Shopping
Considering that shopping centers are scattered throughout Pattaya and Phuket, shopping can take 1-2 days, or even more. Therefore, it is better to immediately decide what you need:
| What to buy? | Where can I buy? | ||
| souvenir products | magnets ($0.3-1.5); decorative plates for the wall ($6-15); cases, lighters, key rings ($1-2); masks of mythological characters ($10-20); figurines of turtles, elephants, crocodiles, Buddhist deities ($10-100); ceramic and wooden dishes (from $10) | Phutai Market, Turtle Village, Ocean Plaza, Chatuchak market, Phuthai Souvenir Market, Phuket Indy Market | Thepprasit market, Lukdod Shop, Pattaya Night Bazaar |
| cosmetical tools | natural deodorant made from natural salt crystals ($1.5-5); salt scrubs ($3); herbal face masks ($0.6); coconut oil ($20); aloe gel ($15) | Weekend Market, Phuthai Souvenir Market, Lemongrass House | Pattaya Beauty Mall |
| things for the home | latex pillows and mattresses (from $30) | Home Pro Village | Siam Royal Latex, Natural Latex Foam Co |
| health products | tiger balm ($2-5); noni juice ($9); herbal toothpaste($2-5); ointments and tinctures with venom from snakes and scorpions (from $25) | Jinda | Fascino |
| decorations | pearl necklaces ($800), gold jewelry (from $500) | Gems gallery | A.C.D.Thailand, American Diamond Cutting, Au Silver & Jewelry, Best Gems, Ben’s Jewelry Inter Gems, Eastern Gems |
| cloth | crocodile leather goods, wallets ($5-30); bags ($15-140); silk; famous brands | Phuket Central Festival, Jungceylon Phuket, The Plaza Surin, Mr Singh Fashion Gallery, R. K. Fashions | Central Festival, Royal Garden Plaza, Outlet Mall, Harbor |
| culinary products | dried shrimp ($15); durian chips ($5); fruits, coconut milk ($1); Thai rum (from $15); rice wine (from $5); tincture of snake, scorpions ($10-20) | Downtown Market, Tesco Lotus, Pornthip (Sea Store), Villa Market, Banzaan Fresh Market | Big C, Naklua Sunday Market, Naklua fish market |
Conclusion
It is preferable to visit both resorts in the high season - from November to May, April. During this period you will pass bad weather and showers, but in Pattaya the rainy season is less pronounced, so if you really want to, you can go there in the fall. But this city also has significant disadvantages that married couples complain about - muddy water, dirty coastline, noisy, among tourists there are many young people who come here for night entertainment, and therefore on the beach even in the daytime you can meet “moths” and gay people who lure vacationers to shows in entertainment venues.
Phuket may be considered boring by young people, but it is famous inexpensive tours, clean beaches and a lot of cultural attractions, and night bars and restaurants on the island are still available on Bangla Road, although not in such abundance as in Pattaya.
Climate
Here the championship is definitely for Pattaya. This resort, in our opinion, is the best in Thailand. In the dry season from November to April, precipitation occurs 1-2 times a month and lasts no more than half an hour. The rest of the time the sun shines, which you miss so much in autumn and winter in Russia. In , from May to October, precipitation occurs only a couple of times a week (it can rain for a week, and then not for a week), and even then it is small. True, the sky is often overcast and the sun will not always please you. But that’s why it’s the rainy season; in the rest of Thailand (including Phuket) it’s much worse.
In Phuket, during the dry season, precipitation occurs 1-2 times a week, and in the “wet” season there can generally be an hour or more every day (read more about). Although it doesn’t happen year after year and sometimes there may be a couple of rainy days a week, the fact remains that in terms of weather better than Pattaya, not Phuket. But if we consider the cleanliness of the air, then everything will be the other way around.
Another disadvantage of Phuket in the low season can be high waves and dangerous currents. Be sure to follow the warning red flags on the coast.
Ecology
Half of Phuket is occupied by forests, and in Pattaya there are not even parks left where you can breathe clean air. Of course, there is no such gas pollution here as in Bangkok or Moscow, but still in terms of ecology better than Phuket than Pattaya.
Sea
This indicator is perhaps the most important when choosing a holiday destination - after all, we fly thousands of kilometers precisely to swim and sunbathe, and only then to see the sights, get acquainted with Thai cuisine or buy souvenirs.
So, if we consider the question of where is better in terms of the sea, then of course it will be Phuket.
In Pattaya there is not a sea, but one name, the purity of the water is one of the worst in Thailand. Although if you compare it with some Russian resorts, it can be called good. The main beach offers a huge number of motorized water activities, which naturally affect the cleanliness of the sea. Plus, crowds of tourists, and the Thais themselves throw who knows what into the water - bags, leftover fruit, pieces of paper. More or less normal on neighboring beaches - and.
But Phuket is much cleaner, especially where there are no crowds of tourists. And on the beach, the most popular among tourists, the sea is much better than in Pattaya. And on the southern beaches you can generally see fish swimming near the shore.
So that you do not lose the desire to go to Pattaya, we note that there are several near the resort (for example,) where the water is very clean. You can travel to Koh Larn every day by ferry for 30 baht (one way, travel time 45 minutes). If you wish, you can even spend your entire vacation there, since there are hotels and guesthouses (for example, we lived in).
Beaches
Here again Phuket takes the lead.
Pattaya has three main and several minor (small) ones. Much more, and they are wider. Thanks to such diversity, you can choose a corner to your liking - some are quiet and deserted, and some are noisy and party-like. In Pattaya, there are no uncrowded beaches - there are a lot of people everywhere.
Attractions
But here the island in the Andaman Sea is much inferior to the resort in the Gulf of Thailand. Although there are few interesting places in Pattaya itself, it is only a two-hour drive from Bangkok, where the main cities of Thailand are located. They will introduce you to the history, culture, religion and architecture of the country in full. Inspecting them can take your entire vacation. Plus, in three hours it’s easy to get to the old capital of Thailand, where there is also a lot of interesting things. If you wish, you can go for a couple of days to, which is generally the cultural center of Thailand. There are excursions to other places. The choice is very large.
But Phuket is located “on the outskirts”. It takes 12-14 hours to get to Bangkok or Ayutthaya by bus or you have to fly. It’s also difficult - there are only a couple, plus waterfalls. Everything else is not particularly interesting (like the Butterfly Farm). But the statue was built in the 2000s and has no historical value. Staying on the island will only lift the veil of Eastern culture and give you the most superficial idea of it.
Thus, in terms of attractions, it is definitely better to go to Pattaya.
Prices
Diving, snorkeling and fishing
Phuket and its surrounding areas are an excellent place for diving, fishing and snorkeling. In Pattaya itself there is no such opportunity at all, and on the islands next to it there is not such a rich undersea world, as in the Andaman Sea (read about).
