Pattaya Is Very Safe for Tourists

When traveling to a foreign country, especially one that is second or third world, one of the chief concerns is usually how safe that location is for foreign travelers.

Those of you seeking to visit Pattaya, Thailand will be happy to know that it is extremely safe here for both tourists and full-time expats. In fact, that is one of the main reasons why I have decided to live here for the last four years.

You can go literally anywhere in the city at any time of the day or night and not have to worry about your personal safety. I’m somewhat of a night owl and like to go out in the middle of the night to the beach and various places, and I’ve never had a problem with anyone trying to rob or mug me.

The culture here is not aggressive, and you will not have any problems as long as you are low-key and respectful of others. The only time a person would become aggressive towards you is if you were openly disrespectful or displayed anger towards them. Otherwise people will leave you alone.

Pattaya has a lot of money flowing through the city from the constant influx of tourists, so the locals don’t have to resort to crime for money. In fact, they know that their reputation as a safe place is vital to keeping the foreigners coming. For this reason, aggression or theft is not tolerated towards tourists.

Have I convinced yet? If not, I can tell you that I feel safer in Pattaya that I did in many locations in my own city back in the United States. Just use common sense and you won’t have any problems.

Although no one will try to forcibly take anything from you, the locals will do their best to convince you to give up your money willingly by offering a variety of services and trinkets. On the beach, for example, the constant deluge of hawkers can get tiresome. Put yourself in their shoes and be patient with them, as they are just trying to eke out a living.

Tip: in order to say “no, thank you” in Thai, simply say “Meow Cap” if you are a man, or “Meow Ka” if you are a woman.