Introduction

Location

Pattaya city is located on the eastern coast of the country at latitude 13° N and longitude 101° E in the area of Chon Buri province. It is 147 km. from Bangkok. It lies parallel to Sukhumwit Road on its east and the coastline on its west.

Area

Pattaya occupies an area of 208.1 sq. km. that is divided into 53.44 sq. km. of land and 154.66 sq. km. of islands and sea. Its coastline is 15 km. long.

Climate

The climate of Pattaya can be divided into 3 periods: cool to warm (from November to February), hot and humid (from March to May), and hot and rainy (from June to October).

Topography

Pattaya has a plain on the coast with some high mountains on its south. The area on the east slopes down toward the sea on the west.

Population

The total population is 104,318 (end April 2007) with 49,386 males and 54,932 females. They consist of Thai-Buddhist, 80%; Muslim, 16%; Christian, 2%; and others, 2%.

**Note** The total population includes only permanent residents.

Administration

Pattaya city has been administered under a special autonomous system since 1978. It has a status comparable to a municipality and is separately administered by the mayor of Pattaya city who is responsible for making policies, organizing public services, and supervising all employees of Pattaya city administration.

Language

Standard Thai language. English is widely used.

Products

90% of labour in Pattaya work in tourism that is the highlight of Pattaya. Tourist attractions including land and marine destinations, and nighttime entertainment. There are no native products.