From
its humble beginnings as a small fishing village, Pattaya grew
in prominence during the Vietnam War as destination for American
and Australian Soldiers on a break from the fighting. Today Pattaya
is a leading tourist destination famed for its resorts, beaches
and entertainment options. The people of Pattaya rely on the vibrant
tourism industry which is a source of employment and income for
many. Tourism attracts over three million visitors to the city
each year.
Sports:
Pattaya is an adventure sporting paradise. The waters off the
area’s coast are the scene for a variety of water sports
such as; scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, bungee jumping,
windsurfing and water skiing. There are also a number of sporting
and recreation
facilities such as the Pattaya Sports Club which offer; bowling,
golf courses, beach volleyball and shooting ranges.
Beaches and entertainment:
Pattaya has a wide range of restaurants serving local Thai and
foreign cuisine, the City has a vibrant nightlife which features
a wide selection of bars, nightclubs and discotheques. The main
beaches are; the Pattaya beach (which is where almost everyone
heads to), Jomtien Beach and Naklua Beach.
Other places to visit in Pattaya are; the Wat Khao Prayai Temple,
the Ripleys believe it or not museum adopted from the popular
television program, the Pattaya Water Park, the Mini Siam miniature
city, elephant village and the Sriracha Tiger zoo.