Pattaya calling: A smart escape when travel gets tricky

TRAVELING at this moment for the majority of people might not be the best time, with all the uncertainties happening nowadays. The oil crisis and conflict in Iran, along with rising oil prices, might increase the cost of flight tickets. But for travel bugs, these won’t stop them from travelling overseas. What we can do is find better, smarter options. Travel close, travel easy. Let’s do Pattaya, Thailand. These are some highlights you might want to indulge in.

Chonburi or Jomtien – Pick your vibe

The flight only takes around two hours from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport. You will arrive at U-Tapao International Airport, a modest-sized modern airport that’s hassle-free and not too busy—perfect if crowds aren’t your thing.

From here, grab a taxi or ride-hailing service and decide: Chonburi or Jomtien?

If you're into seafront promenades, restaurants, shopping malls, and a busy neon-lit nightlife scene, Chonburi is your playground. Prefer something quieter? Jomtien offers a long sandy shoreline, upscale condos, diverse dining, vibrant night markets, and water sports—ideal for a family vacay.

Koh Larn (Coral Island) – Your tropical reset

So you’re done with the nightlife and crowds in Chonburi and need to unwind. Think crystal-clear blue waters, sunny skies and pure island bliss. Enter Koh Larn.

Just 15–20 minutes away by speedboat, this island is the perfect day-trip escape. Head to Bali Hai Pier, where you can easily grab tickets if you didn’t pre-book. Once there, dive into swimming, snorkeling, jet-skiing, or parasailing—it’s relaxation and adventure rolled into one.

Runway Market Pattaya – Street food takes off

Located in the heart of Chonburi, Runway Market Pattaya is a must-visit. And no, the “runway” isn’t for models (sorry!). Instead, you’ll find a massive airplane parked right in the middle—yes, really.

The “runway” is filled with hawker stalls and restaurants serving a variety of local delicacies, including exotic bites like crocodile skewers. The lively atmosphere, colorful lights, and live performances make it a hotspot for both tourists and locals.

Browse handicrafts and souvenirs, then hop on the nearby ferris wheel for a stunning night view of Chonburi—it’s absolutely worth it.

Getting here is easy: walk or hop on one of the open-backed pickup trucks for just 10 baht. For convenience, consider staying at Melia Hotel Pattaya. It’s about a 10-minute walk to the market and 15–20 minutes to Terminal 21 Pattaya—perfectly located for nightlife, malls, and beach hopping.

Malls, malls, malls – Retail therapy, Thai style

One thing you definitely won’t miss in Pattaya? Shopping malls. Two standouts are Central Pattaya and Terminal 21 Pattaya. Central Pattaya leans more upscale—think of it as a Suria KLCC equivalent.

Meanwhile, Terminal 21 offers a more playful experience and is a local favourite. Its food court is a haven for local delicacies—delicious meals at very reasonable prices. The system is cashless: exchange your cash for a card at the counter, pay via QR code, and refund any remaining balance afterward. Easy and efficient.

You’ll also find smaller malls along Pattaya Beach selling souvenirs and handicrafts—perfect for bringing a piece of Thailand back home to family and friends.

Travel smart, not far

Travel may feel uncertain right now, but that doesn’t mean you have to put your wanderlust on hold. Pattaya proves that a short, affordable getaway can still deliver big experiences—from vibrant nightlife and island escapes to street food adventures and shopping sprees.

So instead of waiting for the “perfect time,” make the smart move: travel closer, travel easier and still make it unforgettable. Pattaya might just be the quick escape you didn’t know you needed.