Pattaya or Phuket which is better to choose and where to relax - Pros and Cons of the Best Resorts in Thailand. Pattaya or Phuket: which is better Phuket vs Pattaya price comparison

When planning a vacation in Thailand, tourists usually choose between Phuket and Pattaya. These two resorts are the most popular and visited, but there is a difference between them, which is expressed in literally everything, from beaches to price levels and comfort. In this article, we will compare which is better - Pattaya or Phuket, based on the reviews of tourists who visited both resorts.

Location of Pattaya and Phuket

The conditions for recreation in resorts at different times of the year may differ, since their geographical location is different. Phuket is a southern province and the largest island of the same name, which is subordinate to the Kingdom of Thailand. It is washed by the Andaman Sea of ​​the Indian Ocean, which is why winds and storms often blow here. The island has no land borders, it is connected with the mainland by three bridges.

Pattaya is a populous city with a developed infrastructure. Located on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, 165 km from the multi-million dollar capital - Bangkok. Beaches occupy most of the coastal strip, tourists are offered over 250 hotels, water parks, a zoo and many attractions.

Location of resorts on the map of Thailand

Video “Which is better: Pattaya or Phuket?”

This video presents a comparative analysis of the resorts by one of the tourists.

Comparative review of Pattaya and Phuket

Tourists planning a vacation in an exotic country have probably heard that the island is boring and expensive, while Pattaya is noisy and dirty. Is it so? We will conduct an objective comparison of resorts according to several main criteria.

Climate and weather

As in any tropical country, there is a rainy season here, lasting from late May to October. On the island, it is more pronounced - the whole period the sky is covered with clouds, the waves are raging on the sea, and the water becomes muddy. Heavy rains occur mainly in the evening and at night.

On the mainland, the rainy season is less pronounced, there is practically no bad weather, so you can relax all year round. In addition, due to the location in the bay, there are no large waves and storms in Pattaya.

Another feature of the resorts is humidity. In Pattaya, it is higher. The climate on the island is drier, the air temperature from November to May is kept at +28…+32 °C. On the mainland, the temperature is always a couple of degrees lower, in winter it drops to +20 ° C.

Public transport

Transport infrastructure is well developed only in Pattaya. Rickshaws run from one district of the city to another - motorcycle taxis with benches inside the body. They go fast and are inexpensive - only 10 baht, and by paying a little extra you can agree that the passenger will be taken along the route he needs.

On the island, such "minibuses" only go from the hotel to the beach and cost 30 baht, so the only available transport here is a taxi, which is expensive. Even for a trip to the beach, a taxi driver will require 300-400 baht, while in Pattaya such a trip will cost 30-40 baht.

Sea and beach holidays

The sea in the island resort is clean, the water is sky blue, you can watch colorful fish in it. There are picturesque coral reefs around the island, so snorkeling and diving are the main activities here.

The beaches of Phuket, and there are more than 20 of them, are clean and cultivated, with a gentle entry into the water, located near the hotels. The sand is fine and almost white, which is important for children's recreation.

In Pattaya, the beaches are crowded and dirty. The water is muddy, garbage often floats in it, so visitors here only sunbathe or watch sunsets. It is impossible to retire, tourists and merchants are everywhere. The central beaches are crowded with paid umbrellas and sunbeds, noise is everywhere.

Housing and food prices

The level of prices for housing, groceries and street food is also different. On the island, finding an inexpensive restaurant or cafe is a big problem, while in Pattaya such establishments are within walking distance and lunch for 1 person will cost 70-100 baht. Street food on the beach (meat or fish skewers on a stick) costs 10 baht here, and on the island you need to pay 25-40 baht for it.

Fruit prices differ by 1.5-2 times. In Patong, mangoes are sold for 200 baht, fruit cuts for 120 baht, and local fruit necks for 80 baht. In Pattaya, prices are several times lower, in addition, everything can be bought in large markets or in supermarkets. If we compare housing prices, they are almost the same, but they depend on seasonality - they increase in winter, decrease in summer.

Hotels and rentals

When buying a tour, travelers usually stay in hotels. The cost of rooms and apartments in them depends on the level of comfort (star rating) of the hotel. In Pattaya, it is 500-800 baht / day, on the island - 400-700 baht / night.

Renting apartments in Pattaya is not very common due to the distance from the beaches, but their cost is low - $ 15-18 / day. The most convenient option for travelers is guest houses (guesthouses) of different price categories. A good room in them costs $50-75, a mid-range room costs $22-25, and a cheap one with Spartan conditions costs $8-13.

For a family holiday, you can rent a villa. Such housing is much more comfortable and will cost inexpensively - $ 50-60 per day.

Entertainment and excursions

For excursions and entertainment it is better to go to Pattaya. The city has many temples, national parks, a zoo and objects of interest to tourists: a floating market, an elephant village. From here you can go to Bangkok or the village of Ayutthaya - the ancient capital of the Kingdom.

Nightlife lovers should visit Walking Street. This street is completely filled with nightclubs, bars and restaurants. Here you can buy souvenirs, try the local cuisine and watch an exotic show. In Phuket, entertainment is represented by sea excursions, diving, visiting local temples and viewing platforms.

Shopping malls and shopping

Shopping is also recommended to go to Pattaya. The city impresses with an abundance of shops and shopping centers that do not close even at night. Here you can buy everything from souvenirs to expensive clothes of famous brands. The largest centers in Pattaya: Royal Garden Plaza, Central Festival, Mike Shopping Mall. There are fewer large shops on the island, and they are located only in Patong and Phuket-town.

When going on vacation to Thailand, most tourists choose one of the two largest resorts: Phuket or Pattaya - which is better, tourists' reviews suggest.

The most important selection criteria are sea temperature and the presence of waves, the possibility of comfortable accommodation, general climatic conditions, and, of course, prices. If you're on a tight budget, compare two resorts across the board and pick the best one for you.

Sea

The first factor influencing the selection of a resort is the temperature of the water and the purity of the sea. If you are planning a beach holiday, choosing which is better - Pattaya or Phuket, be guided by the season.

Nai Harn Beach, Phuket / [email protected] flickr.com

Phuket has the cleanest sea in winter - the temperature of salt water is kept at 29 degrees, and the transparency is comparable to a diamond. Phuket is generally considered the cleanest resort in all of Thailand - the presence of coral reefs, fish and marine animals testifies to the purity of the sea. Swimming and sunbathing on the beach, especially with children, is better from January to April. And summer is a great time for surfers. During this season, the waves are especially high, but the rest can be overshadowed by winds and rains.

In Pattaya, due to the large flow of tourists, there is no crystal clear water in the sea - it is muddy, greenish in color, with a lot of garbage. The beaches are crowded even in the transitional season. You can swim there from January to May and from November to December - the conditions for this are favorable. From May to October there are strong tides that interfere with swimming.

It is worth noting that there are a couple of islands near Pattaya with a minimum number of tourists. They are washed by the purest water - the bottom is visible even at a depth. One of these islands is Koh Lan, where a ferry departs daily.

Weather

[email protected]/flickr.com

Climate and weather conditions are the second most important factor influencing the decision - Pattaya or Phuket. After all, swimming even in the clear sea during the rainy season is cold and unpleasant, and sunbathing is completely impossible.

Pattaya and Phuket are similar in climate - the only difference is that the weather is never bad at the first resort - there are three seasons, two of which are favorable, and one is transitional, from June to October. There are heavy tropical showers, and the rest can be ruined.

During the rainy season, you can also have a good rest, visit and shop to your heart's content. An obvious plus of the low season is the minimum number of tourists around. Another distinctive feature of Pattaya's climate is high humidity. If you can't stand it, choose Phuket.

In Phuket, bad weather begins in June and lasts until October, when vacationers do not risk going into the sea, and rarely sunbathe. But a great season for surfers. Velvet time starts from November, when the weather is hot and dry, and swimming is officially allowed. However, even during the dry season, rain is possible - once or twice a week. Travelers who visit Thailand in winter write excellent reviews about the trip, noting the transparency of the water, the relative dryness of the air and the absence of powerful winds.

If you do not tolerate heat well, choose Pattaya - the climate there is milder than in Phuket, and the night temperature rarely drops to 20 degrees even in winter. As for nature, Phuket has a pronounced forest belt and secluded beaches, and the air is cleaner and fresher than in Pattaya - any comparison proves it.

Beaches

Karon Beach / yeowatzup, flickr.com

The beaches of Phuket are more suitable for cultural recreation. You can find a strip of land filled with vacationers and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of general fun, or visit the secluded corners of the island and enjoy snorkeling or diving alone, and meditate in nature. The quietest are Tri Trang, Liberty, Nai Harn, the most crowded is Patong. All beaches, and there are more than 20 of them, are located at a short distance from Phuket hotels, while in Pattaya it takes about an hour to get to the sea.

The beaches of Pattaya are suitable for lovers of active life and bustle - they are filled with restaurants and entertainment centers. But it is better to swim near the islands of Koh Lan and Koh Samet - the coast and water are cleaner there. The cost of moving is from 50 baht, travel time is 60 minutes.

Nong Ram, Pattaya / Thanate Tan, flickr.com

The best beaches in Pattaya itself: Military - a visit to 100 baht; Nong Ram. They are also full of tourists, especially during the tourist season.

Housing

The third criterion for choosing a resort is comfortable housing. Both places, Pattaya or Phuket, offer tourists comfortable hotels or daily apartment rentals.

Hotels

Accommodation prices are the same - Thailand is territorially stable. But in different seasons, the cost of living is also different. In winter, prices rise.

Estimated cost of accommodation in hotels in Pattaya:

1. Pinthong House (3 *) - 700 baht / day.
2. New Nordic Markus (4 *) - 1000 baht / day.

Cost of living in Phuket:

1. Kata Rocks - 700 baht / night.
2. Avista Phuket Resort - 400 baht / night.

It is more convenient to compare the cost of housing in specific hotels on the websites of agencies that sell tours to Thailand and on tourist resources like booking.com.

Flat

Renting a house is not widespread and is cheaper in Pattaya - this is due to the greater remoteness of apartments from the sea than in Phuket. Lodging in Pattaya is simple, with amenities but no frills. But on the island you can rent a villa of fabulous beauty for a price of $50.

Movement

Dennis Yang/flickr.com

Tourists coming to Phuket on the direction of a travel agency stop on the island itself, and not in Phuket Town. For them, the only means of transportation is a taxi, other modes of transport are simply not provided.

Pattaya has a developed public transport system - you can get from one urban area to another for only 10 baht, and if you pay 20, you will be taken to a neighboring city, like Sirarchi or Sattahip. If you wish, you can even get to Bangkok by taking an intercity bus and paying only 100 baht for a ticket. Buses run to the capital of Thailand from any corner of Pattaya.

If you are interested in traveling somewhere other than the beaches, skip Phuket and choose Pattaya.

Excursions

daniel julià lundgren / flickr.com

Pattaya is considered a resort that is more advanced in terms of attractions. If you are interested in the historical value of Thailand, go there. The excursion set in the city is more diverse - each excursion is thought out so that in a day you can visit several places in the city and even go to explore the nearest regions - or the glorious village of Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand.

In Pattaya itself, be sure to see:

• Nong Nooch garden;
• local zoo Khao Keo;
• Koh Chang National Park;
• Temple of Truth and other temple complexes.

There are much fewer interesting places in Phuket - lovers of the sea, water activities and beaches go there. To see the sights of the island, you will need a moped or a rented car - it is too expensive to travel by taxi, from 550 baht. To Bangkok from the island 12-14 hours drive, excluding traffic jams. You can take a plane, but the tour will be expensive. And on the island itself there are no sights that reveal the mysteries of oriental culture.

But sea excursions are amazing - you can go to the nearest islands or to the province with the outlandish name of Krabi. During the trip, you will certainly be offered the possibility of diving and snorkeling - underwater diving with a mask and fins.

In this case, choosing which is better - Phuket or Pattaya, be guided by your own preferences. To be closer to nature, choose a tour to the island, and to people - go to Pattaya.

Entertainment

A.L.P.H.A / flickr.com

If you are looking for active entertainment in a crowd of people, choose Pattaya. The city is famous for its abundance of shopping centers, malls and restaurants, and their range is able to satisfy even the pickiest shopaholic with serious requests. The main thing is to take enough money with you, because spending it in a day in Pattaya is not difficult.

Famous shopping malls in Pattaya:

1. Central Festival (Central Festival).
2. Royal Garden Plaza (Royal Garden Plaza).
3. King Power (King Power).
4. Mike Shopping Mall.

In any of the centers, branded clothing from popular manufacturers is sold, and prices are comparable to the cost of goods in Bangkok.

In Phuket, the number of shops is two to three times less, and the assortment is small. If your travel budget leaves much to be desired, go to the island - there are less temptations to buy unnecessary things. Shopping centers are located on Patong Beach or in Phuket Town. The main ones are:

1. Jungceylon (Jungceylon).
2. Outlett Mall (Mall Outlet).
3. ocean plaza.

In terms of entertainment, they are available in both resorts, but vary slightly depending on where you are. No matter Pattaya or Phuket, both resorts offer tourists all the possibilities of nightlife.

Walking Street / Roman Lashkin, flickr.com

In Pattaya, the key place for recreation is Walking Street. The name is translated as “street for walking”. The street is lined with entertainment venues:

• bars;
• restaurants;
• nightclubs;
• souvenir shops;
• cafe with exotic shows.

In Phuket, rest is somewhat quieter. The main entertainment for tourists during the day:

• diving;
• snorkeling;
• surfing;
• yachting;
• windsurfing.

If it is important for you to be in a party, among people, choose Patong Beach in Phuket. It also works at night - bars and discos are open there. On the other beaches, there is no nightlife.

Finance

The Preiser Project / flickr.com

The cost of a trip to the resort consists of the price of the tour and the financial costs incurred during the trip. Calculate where it is more profitable to go and choose a resort in Thailand that you can afford.

tour cost

In Russia, trips to Thailand are very cheap - 50-60 thousand rubles for two for 8 days, if you order them out of season or "last minute". The cost is about the same and depends on the chosen hotel and transport. Direct flights fly to both resorts, travel time is about 9 hours. But in Pattaya itself, it takes an hour longer to get to the hotel from the airport than in Phuket.

Prices

Tourists claim that prices in Pattaya are lower than in Phuket. Everything is expensive on the island - food, drinks, souvenirs, entertainment. The most expensive beach is Patong, where you can buy mango for 200 baht, pineapple for 50 baht or assorted sliced ​​​​fruits for 120 baht.

In Pattaya, for 40-50 baht, you can order a dinner from a macaroon, and in Phuket, the cost of the same dishes will be 70-80 baht. Fruit shakes in Phuket cost 80 baht, and in Pattaya - only 25. The situation is similar with restaurants and bars.

The only way to save money on food on the island is to buy food in stores and cook it yourself. In supermarkets, prices do not differ. But who wants to “cook” on vacation? It is better to take the time to rest and tan.

Video: Pattaya or Phuket?

Results

Summing up, we can say that each resort has its pros and cons, and the choice must be made, focusing on your own wishes and possibilities. Pattaya is worth a trip if you want to save money on a vacation or are looking for adventure, or maybe a girlfriend. Fans of hanging out and enjoying the architecture of the city should also go to the resort.

Pros of Pattaya:

1. Budget prices.
2. Short distance to Bangkok.
3. Transport infrastructure.
4. Nightlife.
5. No heavy rains.
6. The opportunity to relax in the summer.
7. Comfortable conditions for shopping.

Flaws:

• dirty sea.
• few beaches.
• many tourists.

Pros of Phuket:

1. Clean sea.
2. Over 20 beaches.
3. There are secluded corners of nature.
4. Possibility of diving.
5. Sea fishing and excursions.
6. There is a forest belt.
7. Better ecology.

Flaws:

• high prices;
• no transport;
• expensive and limited excursions;
• little entertainment.

The hotels are the same in both resorts, the residents are friendly towards tourists and are ready to help in difficult situations. The resort areas are thought out taking into account the needs of vacationers in both Phuket and Pattaya. so there won't be any problems with rest. Choose what you like, and boldly go ahead!

Most of our tourists, going to Thailand, ask a sacramental question: where is it better to go? On one side of the scales - sexy and cheap Pattaya, on the other - a quiet and respectable Phuket. Each of these resorts has its pros and cons, which we will try to highlight in this article.

Pattaya and Phuket on the map

Phuket Island is located in southern Thailand and borders the Andaman Sea. In addition to being the largest Thai island, Phuket is also an independent province. Moreover, it is quite well-to-do.
The province is spread over 590 km² and includes 39 small islands.. Bangkok lies 850 kilometers to the north.

An interesting detail: the island is connected to the mainland of the kingdom through the half-kilometer Sarasin Bridge.

Pattaya, being part of the province of Chonburi, is located on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand. Only 165 km separates it from Bangkok. It is easier to get here than to Phuket, and many travelers see this as an undeniable advantage.

Arriving from Bangkok

Let's compare the delights of the transport links of both resorts with Bangkok. We previously wrote that it is better to fly to Bangkok and then move around the country using domestic passenger lines.

It is easy to guess that getting to Pattaya is much easier and cheaper than Phuket. We make a mental note.

Distance from Phuket to Pattaya

Phuket and Pattaya are separated by 993 kilometers which are easily overcome by several modes of transport. Most wanderers prefer buses.

Moving from Phuket to Pattaya

Back in 2011, there was no regular bus service between Phuket and Pattaya. However, over the past 2 years the situation has changed markedly. Having paid about 1300 baht for a VIP seat in a comfortable bus, you can easily reach the coveted island. Pleasant bonuses will be free food and water with a bun, included in the fare.

Travel time will be approximately 14 hours. Departure daily at 18.00. This is the only flight connecting Pattaya with Phuket, so try to be punctual. The starting point is North Street.

Resort comparison

Comparing Phuket with Pattaya is a thankless task. Each of these resorts has its own niche in the tourism sector, each has its own adherents. And yet we dare to go over the main criteria for quality rest.

Weather in Phuket

Vacation in Phuket Best time is October-April. Other months you will remember only endless heavy rains, since monsoon winds prevail in those latitudes. This climate is called tropical monsoon.

The air temperature here in the hot season is 28-32ºС. Rain is a very rare occurrence. In the low season, there is also a chance to "catch" good weather. However, we do not recommend swimming in a storm.

Compare with the weather forecast in Pattaya for a week:

Weather conditions in Pattaya can be divided into three seasons:

• Cool (November-February). The average daily temperature is 30-32ºС. At night, the mercury column does not fall below 21-23ºС. Sometimes there are brief showers. With the advent of February comes a sharp warming.
• Hot (March-June). In some cases, the thermometer shows + 40ºС. The night temperature is around 26 degrees. The sun is extremely active, so you can easily get burned. High humidity makes the local climate a living hell for the inhabitants of the middle zone.
• Rainy season (July-October). The air temperature drops to the 32-degree mark. The rainy peak falls on August-September - at this time the humidity exceeds 90%. The sky is mostly overcast. Mosquitoes appear.

Beaches at resorts

Pattaya, although a resort, is still a large city, so there are not enough beaches here. And those that are are significantly inferior in terms of ecology to the beaches of Phuket. The sandy strip stretching along the coast is narrow. The natural limit is the road. The sea is calm but cloudy. Vacationers seeking tropical nature with its rocky and sandy beaches will have to make an excursion to the nearby islands.

Phuket is confidently ahead of its depraved competitor in the level of beach culture. The sand here is presented for every taste - from snow-white and fine to coarse, crisp like snow. Enough in Phuket and secluded beaches, as well as recreational areas with developed infrastructure.

Everywhere - greenery, waterfalls, mountain rivers. The sea is clear and clean. Each beach is unique, you will be pleased with the environment, invigorate walking and bring a lot of impressions forays to neighboring islands.

Prices

Experienced wanderers calculated that Phuket costs 1.5 times more than Pattaya. Since Phuket is a young and rapidly developing tourist center, all the hotels in Phuket are ultra-modern and newly built. The flight from Bangkok to Phuket will also cost more, since the island is far from the center.

Clothing and food, when compared with Pattaya price tags, more expensive by 10-20%. The same applies to taxis, but the prices that drivers bend are quite fair. The fact is that Phuket is a very vast island, and in Pattaya everything is at hand.

Attractions

There are very few cultural attractions in Pattaya, except for those clubs that put on transvestite shows. There are interesting places in the vicinity of the capital of debauchery, but you still need to get there.

Here is a list of Pattaya "wonders" worth visiting:

• Hill of the Buddha;
• Orchid park;
• Mini Siam;
• Sanctuary of Truth;
• floating market;
• Elephant Village;
• crocodile farm;
• park of million-year-old stones.

Phuket, on the contrary, boasts ancient temples, waterfalls, various natural monuments and educational museums.

We list the most interesting points of the excursion program in Phuket:

• Mining Museum;
• Tiger Temple;
• Phuket Zoo;
• Butterfly Garden;
• Waterfall Ton Prai;
• Museum of sea shells;
• Monkey Mountain;
• snake farm;
• Phra Nang Temple;
• Tai Hua Museum;
• National park.

Entertainment

Entertainment, in principle, is enough at both resorts. The only difference is their direction. In Pattaya, everything is focused on the sex industry, and in Phuket you will be offered a lot of trekking, hiking with tents and exotic night fishing for octopuses.

nightlife lovers, those who went to Phuket for "movement" will have to migrate to Koh Phangan beach- it is there that most of the local discos, bars and nightclubs are concentrated. However, their prices will not please you.

shopping

This is where Pattaya comes forward. Firstly, it is a large city, all the shops and shopping centers of which are within easy reach. Secondly, the famous Floating Market operates here, which is an attraction in itself. And, finally, the determining factor that throws Phuket to the back of shopping is the proximity to Pattaya of Bangkok with its endless shopping malls.

Reviews about Phuket or Pattaya

Analyzing the reviews of travelers who have visited Phuket and Pattaya, we can draw certain conclusions:

1. If you are young and aspire to an active nightlife - head to Pattaya. Holidays in Pattaya are best combined with trips to the tiny islands of the Gulf of Thailand. Then the beach will be yours to enjoy.
2. Strive for solitude and natural purity- save up more money and fly to Phuket. Pattaya beaches make a depressing impression on many.
3. Hotels in Pattaya cause a storm of conflicting opinions. Many people like their budget, but the level of comfort in cheap hotels leaves much to be desired. Tales about rats, cockroaches and unfriendly staff roam the net.
4. Some tourists, paying tribute to the snow-white beaches of Phuket, criticize the scarcity of the entertainment program.

Vacation pros and cons

Summing up, let's try to highlight the negative and positive aspects of both resorts.

• Pattaya. The advantages include: a favorable climate, a wide range of entertainment, cheap accommodation, service focus on Russians. Among the minuses are poor ecology, dirty beaches, problematic family vacations.
• Phuket. Pros: the resort specializes in beach holidays, you are surrounded by luxurious natural landscapes, a high level of service. Cons: the island is remote from Bangkok, high prices, expensive accommodation, little entertainment.

It's high season, which means it's time to make a decision. Both Phuket and Pattaya have their own unique charm, they weave an unforgettable atmosphere filled with fresh sensations around the European. Which of the two resorts attracts you more depends on your temperament and wallet size.. One way or another, Thailand will certainly live up to all expectations and settle in your heart forever.

A selection of characteristic photos of Phuket for comparison

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

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

The beaches of Pattaya and Phuket

As the experience of tourists shows, the beaches of Phuket are much better. They are wider, longer and cleaner. There are always a lot of tourists on local beaches, but there is very little garbage here. In general, the whole island can be called one big beach. And due to the fact that there is little rain in Phuket, the beaches here are visited all year round.
As for the beaches of Pattaya, they are less comfortable. Firstly, there are no large beaches in the resort, and almost all of them are clogged with tourists. Secondly, because of the huge number of tourists. The beaches are not cleaned very often. Basically, this is done closer to the morning, and then not every time. Only beaches that belong to hotels are always clean. Also, the beaches of Pattaya do not always have a rental of water equipment. Or there is too little of her, and she is always busy.

housing and food prices.
Phuket is an island and all food is brought here from the mainland. Therefore, food at the resort costs 20-30 percent more than in Pattaya. Phuket also has more luxurious beaches and hotels, so living here is more expensive by the same 20-30 percent.

Entertainment and excursions.
And here we will say right away - there will be a draw. It's hard to guess what you love the most. For example, there are almost no night parties in Phuket, there are no huge nightclubs here. Quiet holidays are popular on the island. Tourists go to the forests and mountains. They love nature and beautiful landscapes.

What is the result?
And the result is this - we have a draw. Because we will not impose our opinion on you. You have learned about all the advantages and disadvantages of the resorts and you will be able to choose what suits you. Love night parties - then in Pattaya! If you want to sleep peacefully at night, and relax on the beach and enjoy nature during the day, go to Phuket rather.

The category of tourists who have never visited Thailand knows little about the difference between them, suggesting that if they exist, they are very insignificant. It is this circumstance that confuses many when it comes to choosing - you want the maximum return at a certain financial cost.

Tourists are divided in their tastes, some of them want fun, vivid sensations, others strive for a completely different vacation.

If we define this by types, we get two groups:

• The former prefer sightseeing, visiting local parties, getting to know the local cuisine, from time to time relaxing on the beach, swimming in the sea.
• The second choose the full dedication of time to the sea, the 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 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 regarding the climate, prices, number of interesting places, there are differences, and it is worth dwelling on them in more detail.

Pros and cons

In Pattaya, with relative proximity to Bangkok, prices for all types of recreation and goods are lower, while the choice of entertainment programs and excursions has an expanded range. This is a definite plus of the resort area.

Considering that throughout the year there are practically no heavy rains characteristic of this climatic zone, there is simply no better place for shopping.

Single men who do not mind tasting local strawberries, budget tourists, lovers of party holidays, who are interested in historical and simply interesting places, Pattaya is the best fit. Constant sunny weather does not interfere with excursions and trips to interesting places.

Few beaches, not very attractive due to the dirty water in the sea. They are not popular with fishing enthusiasts and "savages", this is the main disadvantage of Pattaya.

The resort has a large number of tourists from Russia, India, China, who fill numerous bars, restaurants, clubs, noisy events. Pattaya is not the right place for tourists seeking peace and solitude.

Phuket favorably differs by a large number of well-groomed beaches. The water in the sea has a pleasant mother-of-pearl hue and is distinguished by extraordinary purity. There are a large number of beaches for savages, where you can accommodate both a single traveling tourist and whole 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 are not interested in anything else. This is a plus of the resort area.

In fact, Phuket is an island connected by two bridges to the mainland. The Similan Islands and the nearby island of Phi Phi have captivated fans of sports recreation, by the way, the Similan Islands are among the ten best places in the world for diving.

The rainy season is used by local staff mainly for repairs, but for those who want to relax during this period, they can make small financial discounts. Even during heavy rains, the ecology contrasts in quality for the better from the continent.

Climate

Pattaya compares favorably in this regard - it is the best resort in the country:

The rest of the country, including Phuket, especially during the rainy season, does not look very attractive:

• During the dry season in Phuket rain is sure to “please” once or twice a week;
• During the rainy season (April - October) precipitation falls almost every day for a duration of at least an hour;
• About air purity everything is exactly the opposite - in Phuket it is unlike other regions of the country.
• Relative dryness and warmth lasts almost half a year (November - March) in the middle of the first month of spring, the humidity of the air is already clearly felt.
• April is the hottest month in this part of the country (up to +40 degrees), the peculiarities of the period: frequent rains, thunderstorms, showers.

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 province of Chonburi, this place is famous for the fact that almost all of its territory is the industrial zone of the country.

Phuket- an island resort, which is 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 Pra Strait. The western part of the island is connected to the mainland by two bridges (Thao Then Krasatri, Sarasin).

The island has an airport, 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 will cost significantly in Phuket. The explanation is relatively simple: Thai companies spend a lot of money to deliver goods and products to the island, which is about 800 km from the capital, and this has affected living conditions accordingly.

Prices in the resort of Pattaya start from 5-6 thousand baht per month. In fact, these are pennies, but housing also corresponds: narrow little 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 the offer.

The price of housing in Phuket the least will cost 15-17 thousand baht per month, subject to payment per day from 1 thousand baht. Service, the condition of 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 look at 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 the Thai village and butterfly garden, a place of unique beauty, where breeders from all over the world constantly come together.
• Handicraft center nearby, it provides samples of folk traditions.
• Twice a day show program provides a classic version of national dances that are performed by the indigenous people.
• Has its own water park, built in 2010 using modern technologies.
• A huge aquarium is modeled for tourists to see., which contains the main species of the tropical water world.
• It also has its own zoo., located on 6 hectares of the island, it also has its own aquarium. Children are very fond of visiting this place: you can ride an elephant, look at unique tropical animals.
• The island has its own temples and local shrines with which many legends are associated. One of them, Wat PraNangSang, 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 the 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 various heights. Next to it 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 caught 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 far from all the places listed, nothing has yet been told about the historical past of Thailand, shopping and entertainment centers, about the famous Thai boxing. Unforgettable shows with crocodiles, elephants and other wild animals are a craft for the inhabitants of this country: the skill and secrets of training are passed down from generation to generation.

Service, hotels

The price policy of tourists staying in hotels and service is different, and this is also due to the location of both resorts.

One of them is an island, and the supply of food and other goods to it is, in a sense, limited by the number of service companies.

Although prices on the island are higher for residential tourists, the service is pleasing: everything is sparkling clean, the staff is helpful and trained, the cuisine and other items do not differ from the level of European countries. The island has 158 hotels for vacationers of all categories.

Pattaya is inferior to the islanders on all points of service, but everything is also different in price - the cheapness is amazing. Hotels (about 300 only in the center of the resort area) Pattaya are ready to serve all categories of tourists.

Car rental in Thailand

Ticket price

In many ways, the price of the tour depends on the time and place of rest. In the autumn months of the year, when prolonged rainy weather begins in our regions, 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 pleasant to stay a little more at the mercy of the warm sea and the bright sun.

Beaches

There are more beaches on the island and they are more well-groomed.

There are no noisy companies of people here, the beauty and cleanliness are perfect, the islanders care about a greater influx of tourists and this is noticeable for many reasons: immediately after the rainy season and storms, the beaches are carefully cleaned of debris and ennobled.

Pattaya is deprived of the number of beaches, there are three main and several secondary ones, but they are always crowded with vacationers.

Attractions

Almost all historical sites of the country are located on the mainland, in this respect the islanders are inferior.

Pattaya is surrounded by unique places, both in historical and other terms: 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 far behind.

But not so much as to deny guests the pleasure of diversifying their vacation with interesting excursions.

Prices in Phuket and Pattaya

It is better for shopping lovers to stay in Pattaya, here it is easier both in price (close distance from the capital) and in climatic conditions. Phuket's pricing policy is much higher, this requires additional costs from guests of the country.

The main problem in this is the distance from the shopping centers of the country and the additional costs for companies that provide the islanders with everything they need.

Order an inexpensive transfer - a 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 the meal, and in advance, 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 arrival at home, often visit Thai restaurants to remember the time of rest, and just treat themselves to their favorite dishes.

Shops and malls

The presence 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 the prices for goods are higher. For shopping for souvenirs and interesting things, you may need to sacrifice one day to go inland, shopping centers and shops are available not only in cities, but also in recreation areas and cultural and historical places.