I booked my flight to Bangkok for the 17th of January on the eighth. It was at least thirty percent cheaper than when I had considered booking in September. The flight was maybe 75% full. Booking hotels at a cheap price on arrival was not a problem. People just aren’t travelling as much.
The reason why westerners haven't traveled to Thailand during the high season, is because the airfares are much more expensive, whereas it's cheaper flights for the Asian from the Far East countries and India.
I’m here now from the west coast. Paid $980 round trip for a January 10th flight. It’s more expensive in the summer months I’ve always seen. Plus, why sit in winter time there when it’s always summer over here
@@portlandGTR I'm here now and have seen 100's of Brits, Russians, and Germans but only a handful of Americans. I had a google alert set up for the entire year of 2023 for flights to BKK from the US West coast and they never dropped, but there were plenty of deals to Europe and Latin America. I finally booked a flight for Jan 2024 in Dec 2023 at $1400 after junk fees for seat assignments, etc. I was pretty disgusted. Last time I was here was at the end of 2019, just before the pandemic, on a crazy good deal on ANA... $500 RT LAX-BKK. Normal prices back then were more like $800. So yeah, In my experience the airfares from the US to everywhere else have dropped, but going to SE Asia is still expensive. Hopefully that has changed or will change soon
I agree with you. I have been in Thailand for almost 3 years now. The last 7 months in Pattaya, returning to Isaan end of June. I wanted to golf and spend an entire year here to experience the difference. In the future I will stay up county in high season and travel Thailand and golf during the months of June, July and August. Short Island trips for a week or two at most during November and early December as well as April and May. Island trips in hot season are fine as you are in the crystal clear sea and pool a lot anyway. I will not spend extended periods in Pattaya in December through February again as it is too busy for me and honestly too many farang (I'm farang but like to have the place to myself). May through August is great, less people, cheaper pricing, smaller golfing groups and golf prices and the traffic is considerably less as well. I love Thailand in low season.
For me this is among the best of your vlogs. Weather is important and I have only been to Patts in mid Jan to mid Feb before. Heaving with tourists and high prices I thought about April/May... but not any more! Hanging about in the UK for probably yet another cold and miserable summer I reckon a July/August trip next seems like a plan instead. Don't need the hoards of high season and warm rain isn't same problem as in England... so thanks for the important heads up Daz.
FUNNY I always go late September early October when you said not to go. Hah! I had occasional rains no problem. Once when i was leaving a GoGo on walking street at night with a lady there was medium rain and i thought that would be a problem but my umbrella was fine with her. Another time there was heavy rain at night on Soi Diana when i was done for the night, and the street was flooded! I tried to wait it out for an extra hour but ended up taking my shoes off and just walking back to my hotel.😜 Rainy Season is fine.😃
I used to come in December and I hated it because it’s too busy for everything and the prices is too high,,, I changed to April until June and I found it a lot better because I can find seats in bars restaurants and I got better chance of choosing because basically no customers or little customers
Your analysis is likely right. Thanks for the video, I plan on returning late April to see how hot it gets and *IF* I got the endurance for it as I plan to live in Thailand full time starting in 2025.
@@portlandGTR If your working for a company in the west holidays are normally taken in the summer months but I suppose single guys can choose when they like to take their holidays
@@Steven-t9s I live in Portland Oregon. I got lucky and started a business for sneakers back in 2015 and haven’t punched a time card since. Was some really bad luck that ended up being a really good thing. Life is what happens when we are making other plans. If possible, come here January Feb. I’m here now and it’s perfect. Has not rained one time in the past month. Been to Phuket, Pattaya, and now BKK and fly off tomorrow. I’m gonna cry on the plane. I could not imagine coming to Pattaya with a wife or gf that isn’t Thai. But I see a lot of people here that are couples. You see a lot of the guys with their heads to the ground when with their wife or gf. They do not look happy. Sand to the beach as they say. Got lucky and met a good girl. Had to leave her after a week cause I could feel that feeling starting. Dangerous
After seeing you eat the chicken A very interesting video would be all your favourite thai foods you eat daily or weekly and an actual grocery shop would be interesting great video as always thanks
Your advice is good. I've been to Thailand about 7 times. The most recent trip was March 20-April 10 (Hua Hin/BKK). The weather was so swelteringly hot with the "real feel" temperature of 119 for 3 straight weeks. It was the first time I couldn't get out to see the sights during the day-just wasn't worth it to battle the heat. I didn't realize how different the climate could be for those few weeks from a few weeks earlier or later.
Thanks for the comprehensive coverage of visiting times. I visited October 2022 and caught the back end of the rain. July last year didn't see too much rain and now coming mid February in a week's time for the high and dry season 😊
You're right on a lot of months to stay in Thailand. Was there for 2 months, I extended my Visa and it was 10/6 to 12/1. In pattaya for 26 days in late October to end of November. I did notice hotel rooms there were going up every week, same hotel, but nothing to complain about, and weather was good. Started to get busy in late November. Still had a great time and will be back again this year. So thanks again for the update. Take care
If you look at the stats on the numbers of visitors to Thailand. There was a 5 year high between 2015 and 2019. 2023 very close to 2015 numbers of visitors at 28 million. Uk visitor numbers are about 10% down on the numbers even during the peek years. I think part of the feeling that Thailand and in particular Pattaya seems quieter is because the City has grown and has a lot more party areas. People are more spred between all the entertainment areas and the many places to visit. Could be a case of the good old days. When, in fact. Its just as good or better today!
Thailand had way too many tourists (many of them zero dollar or zero quality) in 2019. It's good to see them coming back post-CCP virus, but better if they don't ALL come back.
The growth of Pattaya is definitely impactful upon once teeming areas. I found this more stark after a 7 year absence from January 2015-Dec 2022. From Feb '07 - April '10 Soi's 7&8 seemed to be the places to be seen around, along with the obvious Walking Street. Then about Dec '10 - Dec '13/4 New Plaza was all the buzz. But after my 6-7 year hiatus, Treetown emerged as a popular haunt, along with LK Metro which is now a-go-go central. I recall getting cheap accommodation in LK about '09-'12 when it was empty after 9pm as everyone has gone to New Plaza, Soi's 7&8 etc. But the biggest shock is Soi Chayapoon. In April '10 there were only about 5-7 operational bars along its entire length, everything else was either for sale (at rock bottom prices) or in disrepair. I wish I'd have taken a holiday there many years earlier to witness the dramatic growth over its subsequent years, as I turned down an opportunity in 1994 to go to Pattaya and didn't actually get there until Feb 2007.
The number of tourists in Thailand dropped from 39 million to 6 million after pandemic. Even before pandemic I met one German guy in the bar who was coming to Pattaya for number of years. He told me that he is not going to come back again. As a curiosity I asked the reason. He said everything is getting more and more expensive here.
Sounds good, I'm arriving in Pattaya on the 21st of October and leaving 8th of November. 1st time visiting from England, flying with Singapore Airlines and got 2 weeks of 4* hotels booked for under £1200. Love the informative videos 🙂
I really appreciate this I don’t know much about jomtiam and I haven’t been in Thailand Pattaya for 12 years and I’m coming back with an eight year old child by myself so I’m looking to keep her entertained and we are going to live stay in Jomtiam. This was very helpful thank you
@@008overrated Songkram ,you gonna get soaked and every where packed and some real crazy over the top activity..Great if you like that but not for me...Watch Your phone etc also with the Water..
Hey Daz, im coming to Pattaya from today (5th of April) until the 8th and then going to Phuket. This really helps make me feel better about my decision because its right before the Thai new year! Would love to have a chat over a beer if you're around. Watched a lot of your videos before my trip. Cheers.
@@tw25rw Same here. I spend my nights engaging in all sorts of debauchery and the day sleeping and enjoying the girls I took back that night. Late afternoon I bid them farewell, go get some food and start all over again. Happy days, but no tan.
I'm here right now and it's 35 degrees. Costs are higher, and while the dollar is 20% better than it was 5 years ago, bar prices for fun and drinks are up 30% or more. It's still a lot of fun, just have to shop more deliberately to get good value.
Daz. Air fairs have doubled in the last couple of years. Interest rights are up and we are facing a recession if not already in it. Westerners are feeling the pinch. Good video.❤
@@0bob0cya Stock markets always rise early in a recession... they are always forward looking... markets are anticipating rate cuts in the second half of 2024. Inflation has definitely taken a bite out of the spending power of most westerners.
I love seeing these markets. It brings back memories. I stayed right next-door to the Jomtien night market for a while during my visit. I bought my dinner there every night. That was in October. The temperatures were a little high for me. I would like to visit in January or February when it’s cooler.
Great video - enjoyed the market walkaround as well. Re time to visit - eh, anytime is good 😅 .. Sensible comment - I've visited in just every month except December and January and it's always rewarding in one way or another. Agree May is probably too hot / humid. Re high season - I suspect another reason for the change is cost. Airfares are pretty horrific at the moment (I fly from Perth, Australia so it's cheaper than London, Manchester or other European cities.) Also the cost of living is through the roof. Finally , the first day I ever arrived in Thailand was a songkran! (1982!!! gawd I'm old) .. had no idea why I was being surrounded and covered in paste and water!! Soon learnt and had a great day - but the water trashed my passport (still used it once it had dried - just looked awful!)
the best time to go depends on the purpose of visit, if going for the beaches and outdoor activities, then high season is the best time, if going for the ladies, i found July and August to be the best months to visit
Hey Daz. just wanted to thank you for the recommendation of our hotel. I watched an older video of yours couple months back and I ended up booking a reservation with hotel KTK in Pattaya. We just got here today and so far so good I really wanted to thank you too bad I couldn’t thank you in person, well thanks again and keep those great vids coming buddy
For Pattaya I dont know, will give it a try coming May. Was mid December 23 till mid January 24 in Phuket/Patong. Between Christmas and New Year you couldnt get any hotel beside some hostels. After 02.01.2024 lot of rooms where available again.
Hi Daz. Great Video Mate👍 Usually I visit Thailand 🇹🇭 twice a year: High season and June or July depending of my work schedule. I must confess that last year during low season I had such a lovely time. Lots of good looking girls pretty much in every bar and less busy so obviously you have more female attention and room for negotiation. I’m just back home a couple of weeks ago from my last trip to Pattaya in January. It was busy but yeah you right nothing like years ago . I guess is the sign of the times. Definitely demographics are changing in Pattaya. Prices for flight tickets still far too expensive for so many people. Thanks again Daz for sharing your Videos. By the way I was eating a couple of times in that market and the food is pretty good and very cheap as well. Look after yourself and get well soon 🙏👍
Daz, 25 degrees it's night, currently it's 32, 33 degrees, and from Sunday they announce 34 degrees with a feeling of 40 degrees. I never go out in the morning and I take a nap in the afternoon.
First time I went to Thailand was last January, went again in April for songkran, then again end of July. Always had a good time, I don’t think there is a bad time lol. Heat, rain, crowds, songkran, etc, I can roll with whatever lol end of the day the good of Thailand outweighs any inconveniences
As many are saying, it's the air prices from europe and the US that's stopping people from coming over. Booking my trip in May was £800 just for the flights. The hotel was just under £500 for the month. Put spending money on top of that and it becomes a potentially *very* expensive vacation.
I was in Pattaya late November - early December and the same time last year. 2022 was definitely much busier. 2023 Walking Street was dead with a lot more Indian night clubs and Indians soliciting. I enjoyed Soi 6 and Soi Buakhao area. I'm returning next month and I'm taking the same flights as I did in December and the price is $500 cheaper ($1,055, December was $1,555).
Hi Daz, hope you get over your cold quickly. I think many Western countries are suffering with post COVID issues relating to cost of living increases (inflation is high in many countries due to introduction of stimulus packages) , airlines price gouging, lack of flights (Thai Airways are reintroducing direct flights from Perth to Bangkok in March). I believe the Thai government have offered incentives to India, China and Russia to entice them. In Australia, our Summer is Dec, Jan and Feb so its more enticing to stay home, plus personally I dont like crowds so would avoid high season. It's more attractive for Australians and NZ to come to Thailand in our Winter (June, July and Aug) and cheaper hotel rates, less crowds. I'm booked for July . . . . 😀
I think the brightest weather occurs in February, the hottest is definitely mid/end of April and the highest risk of flooding is October, for sure. I've yet to set foot in Thailand or any other place in S.E. Asia from July - October due to the monsoon season.
Totally agree, Daz putting people off Songkran. Ive been twice and not been soaked after sundown, never seen it short of girls. its great fun. I am coming as well this year. Just dont go for the full week in pattaya, Im going to Hua Hin and get back to Pattaya on Friday before main day (sunday)
Thinking about going mid october to mid november for 4-5 weeks, 2nd half of october is alright even if the first two weeks are alot of storms and flooding? Thanks in advance and good informative video as always.
The best thing about low season is less tourists. Some of these videos all I see is western tourists with the odd Thai. Also I wanna do Sokran sounds like fun
I have some flexibility as to when I will begin my retirement in Jomtien. How about 1 year leases on condos? Would I be able to lock in a lower monthly rental price if I begin the lease during low season? Maybe there are more condos to choose from? Are there any downsides to beginning a yearly lease in low season? Thank you for your videos.
I think July would be good time ...better hotel prices...I would be leaving from USA and almost anytime flight's prices I saw was between 1400-1600 round trip... Great info sir
I was in Pattaya Jan 21 and stayed a week. I stayed longer than planned and the hotel I was staying at couldn't extend my stay until the end. Looked like a golf tournament/company outing? Other hotel did let me extend another day. Pattaya definitely looked more lively than the videos of what I saw in December... On the one hand, they were heavily promoting Lunar New Year while I was there so I would expect a lot of people from Asian countries, but on the other hand you're generally suppose to be with your family during this time. You don't really (or shouldn't) travel away from your family. I'd be interested in seeing if there are really huge numbers during that time.
Thx Daz for all these videos...i'm agree with all the people for the costs of flight....after the first of january the prices go down about 30% less....but i wanna suggest U an argoment for one next video....in one of your last video , U told us about the control of your teeth , so there're many people that come to thai for dentist...they say like you that it's very cheep...why don't U make a video about dentist?? thx a lot again for your videos...greetings from Rome Italy....
You make some good points,but airfares from the us were crazy during dec . I like to come in june or july. It rains but not much and prices are good. I avoid songkran,i hate it.
I´m thinking about visiting Thailand for the first time in August. I´m not the type who needs sunshine and beach every day, and I prefer destinations when they are less crowded. But my only doubt is that maybe too many of the bars will be closed and there won´t be enough nice girls because it´s off season. I´m still relatively young, in my 30´s, so I would primarily be visiting the bars with girls in their 20´s. Is this an unreasonable doubt to have? I heard you mention in the video that the bars, clubs etc. will still be fully staffed even during off season.
Thank you for the quick answer. 30.000 is still a lot, and probably theres alot less customers so the ratio might be even better. Is this also true for places like Phuket and Bangkok? If you have that knowledge :)
Pepp´s should really try to drink at least one coconut per day. I drink a coconut in the morning, then i drink beer all day. I end the evening with one more coconut. Try to squezz in a couple of eggs as well every day. I usually only drink half a bottle of water ( 50cl ) during a day and that´s at night time. I just have a bottle by the bed. I do this for the duration of my 3 week trips and i never feel depleted or dry. Might be because i´m only 46yrs old/young and very healty, but i think pepp´s should try it!
Someone was taking the Micky, all the expats leave Pattaya in Song Kran, no point in being here between 13 and 19 April. Hottest and most sweaty time of the year All the lookers who have made some money in Hi Season, go home for 2 weeks, leaving mostly the 2nd raters. You have been WARNED
I travel there most years in July for the marathon. That's my cover story anyway! I go home with a medal, pics and shirt as proof! Low season. Cheap hotels and it's not too busy.
I'm here in Vietnam, waiting to retire in Jomtien, on an O visa, because I'm waiting for some of the greedy renters to stop using "high season" as an excuse to inflate. (I want a 6 month/1 year contract) and got spoiled when I saw your earlier videos on studios around $250 -300 ;-)
I'm working towards 2-month annual visits in Jan & Feb (UK's coldest months) but if I add a 3rd month in 2026, it will be Dec. My pre-existing health conditions, linked to the vagaries of Thai health insurance, make a Retirement visa unlikely at this stage.
I am planning on going in November as a birthday treat for myself. I would like to come for six weeks to take in Christmas, but was wondering about the visa situation. Is it true that the visa only lasts one month? If so, can an extension be made for the extra two weeks? Great video, btw. Have subscribed to be kept informed.
Think your theory is sound Daz. I still think the Airfares are a big put off. Been coming 20 years and the price was £400 approx to now £1100 that I paid, whilst my hotel price has risen about 10% in that time. I know the baht has dropped, but it still represents excellent value and you can’t beat the weather.
The best secret going is to go to Pattaya/Thailand in June. - The serious heat is largely gone, it's still hot but not as oppressive as April/May. I find Thailand normally gets hit with a few weeks of rain in early May then eases at the end of May for 4/6 weeks of beautiful warm weather before the rain really comes in July/August. - There are low tourist numbers but enough to have fun. - All the girls are back from their Songran holidays and happy to party, most sick of village life, even the so called models! - Domestic hotel and flight prices are cheap and the golf courses are empty. - Alot of Japanese travel in late April/early May they have lots of public holidays, so by June girls aren't asking for stupid amounts for ST and LT - Lastly all the girls are more open to bargaining knowing that 4 months of low/wet season are coming.
When you say December was dead, are you only talking about in the bars? Because the fireworks show and music festivals were absolutely rammed. I don't drink but there seemed to be plenty of traffic, beaches and markets were full.
Daz..great videos..was thinking of retiring there but hesitant due to the high humidity...do you regret moving there during the hot, humid months? How do you cope? Stay inside most of the day in the AC?? The best weather seems only 1/2 of the year (or less)....
Hey daz , a great video again , I will be in Thailand on the27th of this month , I found a flight for 520 U.K. pounds with etihad , a 6 hour wait on the way out ,But only 90 minutes on the way back , I am happy with that , I will spend a few days in Bangkok to enjoy my hobby and then come to Pattaya for 3 weeks , my dilemma is where to stay , I have stayed at view talay 6 for the last few visit s , it’s great for the beach , but the action seems to be bukao now , any advice daz
I think that the rise in the price of airfares has a lot to do with the lack of westerners, especially from the USA. I know right now that the airfare from eastern US to Bangkok round trip is 72000, to 78000 THB. And with layovers it takes you 3 days to get there and back.
Of course Daz says April to May should be avoided because that's when I arrive in Pattaya. The friday when Songkran begins. Haha I actually chose that time on purpose. I've been before Late-October into November, which was great, but I want to experience a tougher time of year because im seriously considering Patts as a retirement location and im not going to make that move without being as informed as possible. As for the quietness, that can be chalked up to the airfare. They were astronomical for a while there. I wound catching a great credit card points xfer bonus to Emitates inbound. Then a few weeks later Singapore dropped their fares to reasonable level. Beyond that, everyday inflation was kicking our western asses and many just couldnt pull together the funds because eggs and milk were headed to gold bar status!
The december thing I think your spot on daz and i think its a sign of things to come on a more permanent basis. Would you recommend visiting in june is that a decent month?
Didn't know, i booked flight paid for nov 12th "high season" i better get my hotel booked soon i guess? I need a very nice hotel i can smoke in my room, any thoughts, thanks.
Another reason why most of the people come between November and march because it winter in Europe it snows in some country in other it rainy and temperatures around zero
5:10 I live in Florida, I don't start sweating until it hits 95 degrees here and then it's not bad. when it hits 98+ then it's a problem. I get cold when it's 74 and starts freezing in the 60s :p
I have lived in central Florida 26 years...its Cold from Nov-April....Florida is cold 50% of the year...the other half is warm/hot...im leaving Florida because i cant stand how cold it is half the year.
2:50 : out of curiosity, do you have any idea where do those Xtian tourists go nowaday? Do they stick to their homeland? Do they go to the North Pole? Thank you for your info. By the way : splendid deep voice. All the chicks should be running after you!
I have always wondered if it is actually safe to eat these pre-prepared meals they are selling at the markets? I mean, how do you know how long these were sitting there already? What's the recommendation on this from somebody with experience?
I'm coming in June 22nd till August 3rd I'm just curious what do you think how crowded do you think it'll be people wise as I would rather it be quiet as I as well would like things to be a bit cheaper I'm hoping
Been here almost a year the ‘winter lower temperature season’ lasted 3/4 days here in bkk haha 😊. You’re right , the best can sap your energy for sure. I often walk 🚶♀️ early morning & occasionally doze off pm. The rainy time lasts 1/2 hours maximum too.
I think a big reason is that the air fares have doubled in price as well as the accommodation so I think that plays a big part
Accomodation has not doubled in Price, i do not know who has told you that
accommodation hasn't changed at all.
@@davidkemp5798 I said that already ,in fact i was there last year a lot and i got some great room rates even some Slightly Cheaper ..
Instead of accommodation you probable mean the girls.
I booked my flight to Bangkok for the 17th of January on the eighth. It was at least thirty percent cheaper than when I had considered booking in September. The flight was maybe 75% full. Booking hotels at a cheap price on arrival was not a problem. People just aren’t travelling as much.
This exactly. I’m here now and paid under a grand round trip. Add $300 for travel insurance on the ticket and under 1300 usd round trip
The reason why westerners haven't traveled to Thailand during the high season, is because the airfares are much more expensive, whereas it's cheaper flights for the Asian from the Far East countries and India.
I agree with you
who cares@@dongshengdi773
I only go in high season just like everyone else, hence its called high season.
I’m here now from the west coast. Paid $980 round trip for a January 10th flight. It’s more expensive in the summer months I’ve always seen. Plus, why sit in winter time there when it’s always summer over here
@@portlandGTR I'm here now and have seen 100's of Brits, Russians, and Germans but only a handful of Americans. I had a google alert set up for the entire year of 2023 for flights to BKK from the US West coast and they never dropped, but there were plenty of deals to Europe and Latin America. I finally booked a flight for Jan 2024 in Dec 2023 at $1400 after junk fees for seat assignments, etc. I was pretty disgusted. Last time I was here was at the end of 2019, just before the pandemic, on a crazy good deal on ANA... $500 RT LAX-BKK. Normal prices back then were more like $800. So yeah, In my experience the airfares from the US to everywhere else have dropped, but going to SE Asia is still expensive. Hopefully that has changed or will change soon
I agree with you. I have been in Thailand for almost 3 years now. The last 7 months in Pattaya, returning to Isaan end of June. I wanted to golf and spend an entire year here to experience the difference. In the future I will stay up county in high season and travel Thailand and golf during the months of June, July and August. Short Island trips for a week or two at most during November and early December as well as April and May. Island trips in hot season are fine as you are in the crystal clear sea and pool a lot anyway. I will not spend extended periods in Pattaya in December through February again as it is too busy for me and honestly too many farang (I'm farang but like to have the place to myself). May through August is great, less people, cheaper pricing, smaller golfing groups and golf prices and the traffic is considerably less as well. I love Thailand in low season.
For me this is among the best of your vlogs. Weather is important and I have only been to Patts in mid Jan to mid Feb before. Heaving with tourists and high prices I thought about April/May... but not any more! Hanging about in the UK for probably yet another cold and miserable summer I reckon a July/August trip next seems like a plan instead. Don't need the hoards of high season and warm rain isn't same problem as in England... so thanks for the important heads up Daz.
FUNNY I always go late September early October when you said not to go. Hah! I had occasional rains no problem. Once when i was leaving a GoGo on walking street at night with a lady there was medium rain and i thought that would be a problem but my umbrella was fine with her. Another time there was heavy rain at night on Soi Diana when i was done for the night, and the street was flooded! I tried to wait it out for an extra hour but ended up taking my shoes off and just walking back to my hotel.😜
Rainy Season is fine.😃
I like the way you narrate your thorough videos. good job.
Thank you
I used to come in December and I hated it because it’s too busy for everything and the prices is too high,,, I changed to April until June and I found it a lot better because I can find seats in bars restaurants and I got better chance of choosing because basically no customers or little customers
Your analysis is likely right. Thanks for the video, I plan on returning late April to see how hot it gets and *IF* I got the endurance for it as I plan to live in Thailand full time starting in 2025.
Great vid Daz, I have been coming to Thailand 🇹🇭 since 1990.
I usually chose May and November.
I do prefer May,hot weather and not many Falangs.
I think anywhere in the world June is the best month to have a holiday abroad including Thailand.
@@Steven-t9sonly part of that I can think to disagree with is its summer in the states in June, so why not come here in the winter to avoid the cold?
@@portlandGTR If your working for a company in the west holidays are normally taken in the summer months but I suppose single guys can choose when they like to take their holidays
@@Steven-t9s I live in Portland Oregon. I got lucky and started a business for sneakers back in 2015 and haven’t punched a time card since. Was some really bad luck that ended up being a really good thing. Life is what happens when we are making other plans. If possible, come here January Feb. I’m here now and it’s perfect. Has not rained one time in the past month. Been to Phuket, Pattaya, and now BKK and fly off tomorrow. I’m gonna cry on the plane. I could not imagine coming to Pattaya with a wife or gf that isn’t Thai. But I see a lot of people here that are couples. You see a lot of the guys with their heads to the ground when with their wife or gf. They do not look happy. Sand to the beach as they say. Got lucky and met a good girl. Had to leave her after a week cause I could feel that feeling starting. Dangerous
After seeing you eat the chicken A very interesting video would be all your favourite thai foods you eat daily or weekly and an actual grocery shop would be interesting great video as always thanks
You have a great voice for this. Very relaxing to listen to you explain the minutiae of Pattaya life and Thai culture.
Wow, thank you
Your advice is good. I've been to Thailand about 7 times. The most recent trip was March 20-April 10 (Hua Hin/BKK). The weather was so swelteringly hot with the "real feel" temperature of 119 for 3 straight weeks. It was the first time I couldn't get out to see the sights during the day-just wasn't worth it to battle the heat. I didn't realize how different the climate could be for those few weeks from a few weeks earlier or later.
Thanks for the comprehensive coverage of visiting times. I visited October 2022 and caught the back end of the rain. July last year didn't see too much rain and now coming mid February in a week's time for the high and dry season 😊
Great Video I love how you give such great insight on all your videos
I appreciate that!
You're right on a lot of months to stay in Thailand. Was there for 2 months, I extended my Visa and it was 10/6 to 12/1. In pattaya for 26 days in late October to end of November. I did notice hotel rooms there were going up every week, same hotel, but nothing to complain about, and weather was good. Started to get busy in late November. Still had a great time and will be back again this year. So thanks again for the update. Take care
If you look at the stats on the numbers of visitors to Thailand. There was a 5 year high between 2015 and 2019. 2023 very close to 2015 numbers of visitors at 28 million. Uk visitor numbers are about 10% down on the numbers even during the peek years. I think part of the feeling that Thailand and in particular Pattaya seems quieter is because the City has grown and has a lot more party areas. People are more spred between all the entertainment areas and the many places to visit. Could be a case of the good old days. When, in fact. Its just as good or better today!
Thailand had way too many tourists (many of them zero dollar or zero quality) in 2019. It's good to see them coming back post-CCP virus, but better if they don't ALL come back.
The growth of Pattaya is definitely impactful upon once teeming areas. I found this more stark after a 7 year absence from January 2015-Dec 2022. From Feb '07 - April '10 Soi's 7&8 seemed to be the places to be seen around, along with the obvious Walking Street. Then about Dec '10 - Dec '13/4 New Plaza was all the buzz. But after my 6-7 year hiatus, Treetown emerged as a popular haunt, along with LK Metro which is now a-go-go central. I recall getting cheap accommodation in LK about '09-'12 when it was empty after 9pm as everyone has gone to New Plaza, Soi's 7&8 etc. But the biggest shock is Soi Chayapoon. In April '10 there were only about 5-7 operational bars along its entire length, everything else was either for sale (at rock bottom prices) or in disrepair. I wish I'd have taken a holiday there many years earlier to witness the dramatic growth over its subsequent years, as I turned down an opportunity in 1994 to go to Pattaya and didn't actually get there until Feb 2007.
The number of tourists in Thailand dropped from 39 million to 6 million after pandemic. Even before pandemic I met one German guy in the bar who was coming to Pattaya for number of years. He told me that he is not going to come back again. As a curiosity I asked the reason. He said everything is getting more and more expensive here.
Sounds good, I'm arriving in Pattaya on the 21st of October and leaving 8th of November. 1st time visiting from England, flying with Singapore Airlines and got 2 weeks of 4* hotels booked for under £1200.
Love the informative videos 🙂
I really appreciate this I don’t know much about jomtiam and I haven’t been in Thailand Pattaya for 12 years and I’m coming back with an eight year old child by myself so I’m looking to keep her entertained and we are going to live stay in Jomtiam. This was very helpful thank you
I like low season, but I have promised myself to never suffer another Songkran, 555 :)
I hate Songkan,Early March is my choice of Time to visit but thats just me.
@@008overrated Songkram ,you gonna get soaked and every where packed and some real crazy over the top activity..Great if you like that but not for me...Watch Your phone etc also with the Water..
It's where that water comes from that bothers me!
@@itsbrilliant-bt8sv Defo agree...
Water wars,,,, I always won,,,, can’t beat the kettle 5555 😎🙏🙏 ( joking of course Karen) 😘
Hey Daz, im coming to Pattaya from today (5th of April) until the 8th and then going to Phuket. This really helps make me feel better about my decision because its right before the Thai new year! Would love to have a chat over a beer if you're around. Watched a lot of your videos before my trip. Cheers.
That big market looks brilliant daz thanks for showing 👍
Thanks for making informative videos like these. You're my favorite UA-camr but I'm not exactly planning to move to Thailand yet.
I've been there at all times of year. Dry season is definitely more comfortable, but any time is good. That said, i rarely go out in the daytime.
You must be Dracula !!!! 😂😂😂
@@NEILBAGELSTEIN123 Party all night and sleep during the day 🤣
@@NEILBAGELSTEIN123 well, people always ask me why I don't have a tan when I get back..
@@tw25rw Same here. I spend my nights engaging in all sorts of debauchery and the day sleeping and enjoying the girls I took back that night. Late afternoon I bid them farewell, go get some food and start all over again. Happy days, but no tan.
I'm here right now and it's 35 degrees. Costs are higher, and while the dollar is 20% better than it was 5 years ago, bar prices for fun and drinks are up 30% or more. It's still a lot of fun, just have to shop more deliberately to get good value.
Daz. Air fairs have doubled in the last couple of years. Interest rights are up and we are facing a recession if not already in it. Westerners are feeling the pinch. Good video.❤
Facing a recessation?
Highest Stock Market ever.
Unemployment at 3.7%.
USA has lowest inflation rate in the G7.
Recession? Please.
@@0bob0cya Some people are experiencing it. Definitely not all are experiencing it.
@@0bob0cya Stock markets always rise early in a recession... they are always forward looking... markets are anticipating rate cuts in the second half of 2024. Inflation has definitely taken a bite out of the spending power of most westerners.
Ah, I was wondering who out there that still believes in government statistics heh heh. @@0bob0cya
@@0bob0cya if You believe those government figures and propaganda , I wish you all the best
I love seeing these markets. It brings back memories. I stayed right next-door to the Jomtien night market for a while during my visit. I bought my dinner there every night.
That was in October. The temperatures were a little high for me. I would like to visit in January or February when it’s cooler.
Great video - enjoyed the market walkaround as well. Re time to visit - eh, anytime is good 😅 .. Sensible comment - I've visited in just every month except December and January and it's always rewarding in one way or another. Agree May is probably too hot / humid. Re high season - I suspect another reason for the change is cost. Airfares are pretty horrific at the moment (I fly from Perth, Australia so it's cheaper than London, Manchester or other European cities.) Also the cost of living is through the roof. Finally , the first day I ever arrived in Thailand was a songkran! (1982!!! gawd I'm old) .. had no idea why I was being surrounded and covered in paste and water!! Soon learnt and had a great day - but the water trashed my passport (still used it once it had dried - just looked awful!)
the best time to go depends on the purpose of visit, if going for the beaches and outdoor activities, then high season is the best time, if going for the ladies, i found July and August to be the best months to visit
Agreed
enjoy listening to u thanks for keeping it real.
Hey Daz. just wanted to thank you for the recommendation of our hotel. I watched an older video of yours couple months back and I ended up booking a reservation with hotel KTK in Pattaya. We just got here today and so far so good I really wanted to thank you too bad I couldn’t thank you in person, well thanks again and keep those great vids coming buddy
Great to hear!
For Pattaya I dont know, will give it a try coming May.
Was mid December 23 till mid January 24 in Phuket/Patong. Between Christmas and New Year you couldnt get any hotel beside some hostels. After 02.01.2024 lot of rooms where available again.
I arrive on 25th April, songkran finished but still plenty of entertainment opportunities, weather will be hot day and night
Another great Video Daz wishing You A Speedy Recovery mate all the best from back here 🇬🇧👍
Thanks 👍
My one stop economy flight from the UK on Emirates is circa £250 more expensive this year ( paid £667 in 2022 ).
Hi Daz. Great Video Mate👍 Usually I visit Thailand 🇹🇭 twice a year: High season and June or July depending of my work schedule. I must confess that last year during low season I had such a lovely time. Lots of good looking girls pretty much in every bar and less busy so obviously you have more female attention and room for negotiation. I’m just back home a couple of weeks ago from my last trip to Pattaya in January. It was busy but yeah you right nothing like years ago . I guess is the sign of the times. Definitely demographics are changing in Pattaya. Prices for flight tickets still far too expensive for so many people. Thanks again Daz for sharing your Videos. By the way I was eating a couple of times in that market and the food is pretty good and very cheap as well. Look after yourself and get well soon 🙏👍
One more day until I arrive!!!
Curious to see the mixed busy/quiet vibe around Buakhao and Jomtien.
Take care Daz. Get some vitamins and rest.
Yes, I am
Daz, 25 degrees it's night, currently it's 32, 33 degrees, and from Sunday they announce 34 degrees with a feeling of 40 degrees. I never go out in the morning and I take a nap in the afternoon.
First time I went to Thailand was last January, went again in April for songkran, then again end of July. Always had a good time, I don’t think there is a bad time lol. Heat, rain, crowds, songkran, etc, I can roll with whatever lol end of the day the good of Thailand outweighs any inconveniences
Hola Señor Daz. Gracias for all the great info.
Thank you, i am taking notes for next trip, im planning to come in low season next trip because im on a budget
As many are saying, it's the air prices from europe and the US that's stopping people from coming over. Booking my trip in May was £800 just for the flights. The hotel was just under £500 for the month. Put spending money on top of that and it becomes a potentially *very* expensive vacation.
I was in Pattaya late November - early December and the same time last year. 2022 was definitely much busier. 2023 Walking Street was dead with a lot more Indian night clubs and Indians soliciting. I enjoyed Soi 6 and Soi Buakhao area. I'm returning next month and I'm taking the same flights as I did in December and the price is $500 cheaper ($1,055, December was $1,555).
Pattaya, Pratumnak and Jomtien are unbelievably busy at the moment.
I’m here now.
@@DiscoDrew That's good pal
Hi Daz, hope you get over your cold quickly. I think many Western countries are suffering with post COVID issues relating to cost of living increases (inflation is high in many countries due to introduction of stimulus packages) , airlines price gouging, lack of flights (Thai Airways are reintroducing direct flights from Perth to Bangkok in March). I believe the Thai government have offered incentives to India, China and Russia to entice them. In Australia, our Summer is Dec, Jan and Feb so its more enticing to stay home, plus personally I dont like crowds so would avoid high season. It's more attractive for Australians and NZ to come to Thailand in our Winter (June, July and Aug) and cheaper hotel rates, less crowds. I'm booked for July . . . . 😀
I think the brightest weather occurs in February, the hottest is definitely mid/end of April and the highest risk of flooding is October, for sure. I've yet to set foot in Thailand or any other place in S.E. Asia from July - October due to the monsoon season.
Cheers, Daz! Very informative!
I am visiting late March to the end of April. Hoping it won't get too too hot.
Good luck. 43° last year🔥
Ha, Ha no, not too hot only over 100F every day !!!
4th trip in one year in a few weeks...2nd trip was in high season.
I’m coming for Songkran. I’m 55 years old and love it! My 10th one over the years!
Totally agree, Daz putting people off Songkran. Ive been twice and not been soaked after sundown, never seen it short of girls. its great fun. I am coming as well this year. Just dont go for the full week in pattaya, Im going to Hua Hin and get back to Pattaya on Friday before main day (sunday)
Thinking about going mid october to mid november for 4-5 weeks, 2nd half of october is alright even if the first two weeks are alot of storms and flooding?
Thanks in advance and good informative video as always.
The best thing about low season is less tourists. Some of these videos all I see is western tourists with the odd Thai. Also I wanna do Sokran sounds like fun
Everybody enjoys their first Sonkran.haha
Thanks for the information Daz. :)😊
Great info as always, thx Daz
I have some flexibility as to when I will begin my retirement in Jomtien. How about 1 year leases on condos? Would I be able to lock in a lower monthly rental price if I begin the lease during low season? Maybe there are more condos to choose from? Are there any downsides to beginning a yearly lease in low season? Thank you for your videos.
I always try to do that, you have more choice and can haggle the price.
I think July would be good time ...better hotel prices...I would be leaving from USA and almost anytime flight's prices I saw was between 1400-1600 round trip... Great info sir
You are right my roundtrip from Vegas to Bangkok $1325
I think you're partly right but coming from England 🏴 the air fairs at Christmas have gone very expensive for me personally
Had to book for April 16 for 3 weeks. Hope its not that bad then.
So it sounds like a good idea is to come visit Pattaya in early/mid march maybe?
Another great video Daz. Can you tell me the name of that stuff you said you can get from the chemist for 7 baht? Thanks.
Royal D electrolyte salts
I was in Pattaya Jan 21 and stayed a week. I stayed longer than planned and the hotel I was staying at couldn't extend my stay until the end. Looked like a golf tournament/company outing? Other hotel did let me extend another day. Pattaya definitely looked more lively than the videos of what I saw in December...
On the one hand, they were heavily promoting Lunar New Year while I was there so I would expect a lot of people from Asian countries, but on the other hand you're generally suppose to be with your family during this time. You don't really (or shouldn't) travel away from your family. I'd be interested in seeing if there are really huge numbers during that time.
Good video , hope you feel better soon 🙏
Thank you!
I was considering to go there for Christmass last year, untill I checked ticket prices.. starting at 1700Euro, where usually I paid 700-800
Thx Daz for all these videos...i'm agree with all the people for the costs of flight....after the first of january the prices go down about 30% less....but i wanna suggest U an argoment for one next video....in one of your last video , U told us about the control of your teeth , so there're many people that come to thai for dentist...they say like you that it's very cheep...why don't U make a video about dentist?? thx a lot again for your videos...greetings from Rome Italy....
Watch the 2nd half of this video
ua-cam.com/video/CQoRTHknwNM/v-deo.html
You make some good points,but airfares from the us were crazy during dec . I like to come in june or july. It rains but not much and prices are good. I avoid songkran,i hate it.
Im looking to stay a whole month with my family, I dont mind a little rain if the storms are short. When do you suggest?
Avoid Sept and the 1st half of Oct
I´m thinking about visiting Thailand for the first time in August. I´m not the type who needs sunshine and beach every day, and I prefer destinations when they are less crowded. But my only doubt is that maybe too many of the bars will be closed and there won´t be enough nice girls because it´s off season. I´m still relatively young, in my 30´s, so I would primarily be visiting the bars with girls in their 20´s. Is this an unreasonable doubt to have? I heard you mention in the video that the bars, clubs etc. will still be fully staffed even during off season.
Don't worry Pattaya has 40,000 girls in High Season, in Low Season this drops to about 30,000, and 95% of the bars are still open.
Thank you for the quick answer. 30.000 is still a lot, and probably theres alot less customers so the ratio might be even better. Is this also true for places like Phuket and Bangkok? If you have that knowledge :)
Pepp´s should really try to drink at least one coconut per day. I drink a coconut in the morning, then i drink beer all day. I end the evening with one more coconut. Try to squezz in a couple of eggs as well every day. I usually only drink half a bottle of water ( 50cl ) during a day and that´s at night time. I just have a bottle by the bed. I do this for the duration of my 3 week trips and i never feel depleted or dry. Might be because i´m only 46yrs old/young and very healty, but i think pepp´s should try it!
I’m visiting Pattaya in April and I’m dreading the heat, last time I was in Thailand was oct 98 and was told then to come for sonkran,
Someone was taking the Micky, all the expats leave Pattaya in Song Kran, no point in being here between 13 and 19 April.
Hottest and most sweaty time of the year
All the lookers who have made some money in Hi Season, go home for 2 weeks, leaving mostly the 2nd raters.
You have been WARNED
I’m there 12-22
best period is from 1 January to 31 December 😁 always worth being there
the end of the rainy season is definitely lagging into early November these days
Great content like allways
nice vid Daz! That portion of teriyaki chicken was huge! How much?
100 baht ( $2.80 )
That was my guess. I usually pay 50B a meal, and that looked like lunch and dinner lol.
I'll be back in2 weeks
I also beleive that in the cooler months u end up spending less on transport as I end up walking every where
I travel there most years in July for the marathon. That's my cover story anyway! I go home with a medal, pics and shirt as proof! Low season. Cheap hotels and it's not too busy.
I'm here in Vietnam, waiting to retire in Jomtien, on an O visa, because I'm waiting for some of the greedy renters to stop using "high season" as an excuse to inflate. (I want a 6 month/1 year contract) and got spoiled when I saw your earlier videos on studios around $250 -300 ;-)
Prices should come down again after Song Kran is out of the way,
I'm working towards 2-month annual visits in Jan & Feb (UK's coldest months) but if I add a 3rd month in 2026, it will be Dec.
My pre-existing health conditions, linked to the vagaries of Thai health insurance, make a Retirement visa unlikely at this stage.
I am planning on going in November as a birthday treat for myself. I would like to come for six weeks to take in Christmas, but was wondering about the visa situation. Is it true that the visa only lasts one month? If so, can an extension be made for the extra two weeks? Great video, btw. Have subscribed to be kept informed.
The visa lasts 30 days, but you go to immigration in Jomtien and extend for 30 more days for 1900 baht
Think your theory is sound Daz. I still think the Airfares are a big put off. Been coming 20 years and the price was £400 approx to now £1100 that I paid, whilst my hotel price has risen about 10% in that time. I know the baht has dropped, but it still represents excellent value and you can’t beat the weather.
The best secret going is to go to Pattaya/Thailand in June.
- The serious heat is largely gone, it's still hot but not as oppressive as April/May. I find Thailand normally gets hit with a few weeks of rain in early May then eases at the end of May for 4/6 weeks of beautiful warm weather before the rain really comes in July/August.
- There are low tourist numbers but enough to have fun.
- All the girls are back from their Songran holidays and happy to party, most sick of village life, even the so called models!
- Domestic hotel and flight prices are cheap and the golf courses are empty.
- Alot of Japanese travel in late April/early May they have lots of public holidays, so by June girls aren't asking for stupid amounts for ST and LT
- Lastly all the girls are more open to bargaining knowing that 4 months of low/wet season are coming.
I was there in Pattaya last year
June/July..Not too busy,plenty going on and Weather was great and got good room prices..Cheers
Yes, I agree about Jun, Jul and Aug
That's good to hear, I already booked June to July last month. Flights and accommodation are much cheaper than November 2023, that's for sure.
As long as it’s hot I don’t mind the rain as I am use to the rain living in wales 🤣 so any month is good for me to go to Pattaya
When you say December was dead, are you only talking about in the bars? Because the fireworks show and music festivals were absolutely rammed. I don't drink but there seemed to be plenty of traffic, beaches and markets were full.
Only Thais go to the Thai music festivals and the fireworks, I'm NOT talking about Thais.
Daz..great videos..was thinking of retiring there but hesitant due to the high humidity...do you regret moving there during the hot, humid months? How do you cope? Stay inside most of the day in the AC?? The best weather seems only 1/2 of the year (or less)....
Just April and May, I use the a/c all the time.
You get acclimatised 28 degrees is cold. 25 degrees is freezing.
Keep well Daz👍
Hey daz , a great video again , I will be in Thailand on the27th of this month , I found a flight for 520 U.K. pounds with etihad , a 6 hour wait on the way out ,But only 90 minutes on the way back , I am happy with that , I will spend a few days in Bangkok to enjoy my hobby and then come to Pattaya for 3 weeks , my dilemma is where to stay , I have stayed at view talay 6 for the last few visit s , it’s great for the beach , but the action seems to be bukao now , any advice daz
View Talay 6 is only 10 mins walk to Buakhao, AND now you can just walk straight thru MYTH NIGHT, right across the road.
@@everythingPattaya thanks daz. 🙏
I stayed at the Amtheyst Hotel last year, amazing location for Soi Bukhaow, Boomerang, LK metro, Treetown etc
@@ruudebwoy77 thanks buddy , unfortunately it’s sold out on my dates
How is August in terms of weather and prices?
Good for both, low prices and only showers for 30 mins maybe twice a day
@@everythingPattaya appreciate it!!
I think that the rise in the price of airfares has a lot to do with the lack of westerners, especially from the USA. I know right now that the airfare from eastern US to Bangkok round trip is 72000, to 78000 THB. And with layovers it takes you 3 days to get there and back.
Of course Daz says April to May should be avoided because that's when I arrive in Pattaya. The friday when Songkran begins. Haha
I actually chose that time on purpose. I've been before Late-October into November, which was great, but I want to experience a tougher time of year because im seriously considering Patts as a retirement location and im not going to make that move without being as informed as possible.
As for the quietness, that can be chalked up to the airfare. They were astronomical for a while there. I wound catching a great credit card points xfer bonus to Emitates inbound. Then a few weeks later Singapore dropped their fares to reasonable level. Beyond that, everyday inflation was kicking our western asses and many just couldnt pull together the funds because eggs and milk were headed to gold bar status!
The december thing I think your spot on daz and i think its a sign of things to come on a more permanent basis. Would you recommend visiting in june is that a decent month?
Yes June is good, not too hot and only short rain showers.
Didn't know, i booked flight paid for nov 12th "high season" i better get my hotel booked soon i guess? I need a very nice hotel i can smoke in my room, any thoughts, thanks.
You must book a room with a balcony for smoking, you cannot smoke IN the room in ANY hotel
Hi Daz,
Thanks for the video.
I have been here since 2 weeks ago and it becomes boring. How did you manage to live here for 21 years?
I have always worked online, even before UA-cam
@@everythingPattaya
Thanks, that makes sense
Another reason why most of the people come between November and march because it winter in Europe it snows in some country in other it rainy and temperatures around zero
5:10 I live in Florida, I don't start sweating until it hits 95 degrees here and then it's not bad. when it hits 98+ then it's a problem. I get cold when it's 74 and starts freezing in the 60s :p
I have lived in central Florida 26 years...its Cold from Nov-April....Florida is cold 50% of the year...the other half is warm/hot...im leaving Florida because i cant stand how cold it is half the year.
2:50 : out of curiosity, do you have any idea where do those Xtian tourists go nowaday? Do they stick to their homeland? Do they go to the North Pole? Thank you for your info.
By the way : splendid deep voice. All the chicks should be running after you!
Ha Ha
I have always wondered if it is actually safe to eat these pre-prepared meals they are selling at the markets? I mean, how do you know how long these were sitting there already? What's the recommendation on this from somebody with experience?
Watch the stall and pick one which has just been cooked and is still hot
Nice video thanks for sharing....
Best: June/July and Nov/Dec.
Good Observations.
I'm coming in June 22nd till August 3rd I'm just curious what do you think how crowded do you think it'll be people wise as I would rather it be quiet as I as well would like things to be a bit cheaper I'm hoping
As well I'm hoping it is less crowded in the bars more option for us men for the ladies LOL thanks my friend
Do you think rates are cheaper in the bars for the girls or do they stay the same??
Everything will be cheaper then, also not so busy
Been here almost a year the ‘winter lower temperature season’ lasted 3/4 days here in bkk haha 😊. You’re right , the best can sap your energy for sure. I often walk 🚶♀️ early morning & occasionally doze off pm. The rainy time lasts 1/2 hours maximum too.
Get well soon take it easy
Thank you