20 km north of Pattaya there is the deep-sea port at Laem Chabang with a vast industrial estate and another development zone at Map Ta Phut near Rayong to the south.

Pattaya City is well located to be a major business centre serving these two giant industrial communities. There are five international schools and four international hospitals in the area.

Whereas most other beach resorts rely simply on natural surroundings for their charm, Pattaya makes an all out attempt to provide the best of everything.

It has such variety that it appeals to all types of visitors. While there is plenty to keep the children happily occupied, there is also everything for the sports enthusiast, for couples of all ages seeking rest and relaxation and for those who are simply looking for warm sunshine.

After dark options include open-air bars, nightclubs, cabaret shows and discos. The nightlife centre is South Pattaya, popularly known as "Walking Street", but if this is a tad hectic for some tastes, there are an abundance of alternative quieter spots for evening fun in a more relaxed style.

Shopping too, can be an evening attraction. Most establishments close late and the dedicated bargain hunter can find all of Thailand`s best buys - silk, gems and jewellery, tailor made clothing, handicrafts and more.

Pattaya is one of the oldest and best established diving centers in this part of Asia. It has a year-round diving season with good visibility. The waters have a mean temperature of 28 degrees C and there is a rich variety of marine life and coral. Pattaya offers a wide choice of well-stocked and safe PADI and NAUI operators with competitive prices and deals.

Residents & visitors can windsurf, water ski, sea walk, swim, sunbathe, snorkel, sail, or take trips to offshore coral islands. They can rent jet skis to explore Pattaya Bay, and motorcycles or jeeps to explore neighbouring beaches.

Tennis can be enjoyed at the courts of leading hotels. Further entertainment includes bowling alleys, snooker halls, shooting galleries and archery.

Also there is an abundance of INTERNATIONAL STANDARD GOLF with 30 courses within easy reach.

Pattaya Elephant Village is on the Siam Country Club road. The elephants display their forestry skills, perform cute tricks, and even play football.

Panarak Park also on the Siam Country Club road has a tropical garden setting. The park is equipped with fishing gear and a well-stocked lake. There are also, restaurants, jogging and cycling paths, boating and water-cycling.

Bira International Circuit located at KM14 on Route 36 to Rayong, offers international motor and motorcycle racing. The 2.4 kilometre track is ideal for formula 3 races. If you want to experience speed, the circuit is open everyday.

Jomtien, located 15 minutes from The Vineyard has become increasingly popular for water sports and activities because it has a long straight coastline and there are fewer boats anchored in the area.

Pattaya Park is between South Pattaya and Jomtien and is a water amusement park with water slides, whirlpools and a large pool for children.

Nong Nooch Village is about 15 km from South Pattaya, and is a Thai village style recreation park.