Walking Street, Pattaya

Walking Street is a famous and vibrant part of the city located in south of Pattaya. It is a location that is well-known to many tourists visiting Thailand, and especially to the male visitors. It is also known as International Meeting Street. Walking Street runs from the Beach Road to the Bali-Hi Pier, and there are entrance arches at either end. The street is traffic-free at night (from 18.00 hours), and car parking is at the Bali-Hi end.

Night life

There are go-go (dancing girls) bars, beer bars, discothèques, strip pubs, and night clubs. In 2004 the local press reported that there were 30 of the air-conditioned go-go bars on the street (as of February 2008 there are over 50 in the street itself and adjoining sois). The street is also known for the amount of glowing colored neon signage used on and above the street at night. The city's prostitution is concentrated here at night. In the earlier part of the evening one can also find live bands and fine dining. Closing time is usually about 02.00 to 02.45am.

Visitor safety

Although this part of the city is safe, pickpocketing is a common problem, and the bulk of one's money should be concealed. Travellers should follow the same basic safety rules here as they would in any other unfamiliar city. Offering the exact change, for anything from a taxi to buying drinks, is always a good idea in order to avoid any misunderstandings. It is also recommended that visitors only visit well-lit venues and venues with a proper and permanent sign showing the venue's name; information can then be given to the tourist police if required. Although some western visitors drink heavily in the bars, this does not usually cause problems.

External links

* [http://www.pattayaphotoguide.com/?HSuRUrJokcoE Pattaya Walking Street] - Panoramic Walk-through
* [http://www.pattaya.com/interview_scoop/interview_pop.asp?id=35 Interview with the Chairman of the Walking Street Committee]