Pattaya, Thailand: A Safe Destination for Family Vacations with Children?
Planning a family vacation to Pattaya, Thailand, can be an exciting prospect, but it's important to ensure that the destination is safe and suitable for your children. In this article, we’ll explore whether Pattaya is a suitable destination for a family vacation with children, and where to stay and play.
Staying Safe and Comfortable
Looking for a comfortable and safe location for your family, you might consider staying in resort-type hotels in the northern area. Options like the Pullman G Grande Centre Point, Amari Centara Grand Mirage, and Space Amari offer large water parks, making for a fun and engaging experience for the whole family. The Amari hotel, in particular, hosts a significant number of Indian tourists, indicating its family-friendly atmosphere.
For a bit more beach access, the Pullman and Centara are located on the bay, providing easy access to the beach and all its activities. This area is surrounded by a variety of hotels, ensuring you can find one that fits your needs. If you prefer to stay in the southern area, Jomtien Beach is a charming alternative. It is suitable for families, and you can find beautiful cafes and restaurants that offer stunning views.
Exploring Pattaya Without the Central Area
Central Pattaya, while safe overall, may not be the most family-friendly area. The alleys between the major attractions can be bustling with activities that might be inappropriate for children. The area around Walking Street, while welcoming, can have a mix of venues that may not be suitable for young visitors. However, it’s not entirely off-limits—there are still numerous safe and appealing options.
Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, pronounced Nong Nuoc, is a fantastic choice for families. Covering hundreds of acres, the garden features beautifully landscaped gardens, dinosaur-themed displays, and flower displays. Visiting some of the temples and the floating market can also be enriching and enjoyable for children.
Ensuring Safety and Comfort
When venturing out of the hotel or attractions, it's important to monitor your children's safety. Avoid highly commercialized areas where the risks of inappropriate behavior from locals and tourists may be higher. If you're traveling with young female relatives, it's best to avoid unattended outings in central Pattaya, as comments and interactions from some western and Indian men can be inappropriate.
However, if you're accompanied by an adult, such as a parent, you can still have a great time and enjoy activities like Songkran. This water festival, celebrated in April, is a thrilling experience for children, and they can enjoy it without much hassle in the more central areas. Just be prepared for unavoidable incidents, and always ensure that your children are within your sight.
Conclusion
While central Pattaya has its pitfalls, the northern and southern areas of Pattaya, Thailand, can be quite safe and suitable for families. Choose a family-friendly resort, explore the gardening and outdoor attractions like Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, and enjoy the beach life in Jomtien without any major concerns. Just remember to stay vigilant, especially when venturing into busier areas. With these tips, your family vacation to Pattaya can be an enjoyable and memorable experience for everyone involved.