Living in Central Pattaya
In the middle of everything. My honest verdict after 20 years in Pattaya.
By Shane RuddlePattaya resident since 2007Central Pattaya is where the action is: restaurants, bars and the buzz of the city on your doorstep. If I were in my thirties again, that's where I'd be. It's where I started myself, before moving to Pratumnak.
Space is the trade-off. Central is where your money buys the least.
Who it suits
- Young singles who want the buzz
- People who'd rather not drive
- Anyone who eats out most nights
Who should look elsewhere
- Families with children
- Anyone who wants space for their money
- Pet owners, as few condos allow them
What does ฿20,000 a month get you?
A small one-bed. Central is where your money buys the least.
My Central Pattaya picks
Short answers
Is Central Pattaya a good place to live?
Yes, if you're young and want the buzz. Restaurants, bars and shopping are on your doorstep. The trade-off is space: ฿20,000 a month gets you a small one-bed.
Do I need a car in Central Pattaya?
No. Most of what you need is close by, and Grab and the baht buses cover the rest. A car makes more sense once you move further out.
Where is the nightlife in Pattaya now?
Walking Street is still there, but it's changed a lot. If I wanted a drink now, I'd skip it and go to Soi Buakhao.
Read more
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Ask Shane
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