More about hotels in Chonburi
Introduction to Chonburi
The nearest seaside town to Bangkok is Chonburi, lovingly called Muang Chon by locals. It’s a gorgeous scenic area comprised of great beaches, delectable regional dishes, plenty of local traditions to learn about, and fresh seafood. Cassava, sugarcane and rubber trees are other major industries of this town. The Eastern Seaboard Development Project is located here, so there are a few industries activities to engage in, as well as a few fishing villages to visit and golf courses to explore.
A common town for a quick getaway for the locals of Bangkok, the main attraction here is the beach town of Pattaya. Although Pattaya’s image has been tarnished in recent years for being a party town, it is slowly recovering and becoming more geared towards families and couples looking for a quick and easy getaway to the beach.
History
Chonburi was mostly a fishing village in the late 1960s, and slowly attracted American servicemen who were stationed near Pattaya to visit. Over time, the town became more built up to accommodate the militarymen who wanted to come and relax on a beautiful beach when they had some time off. Even when the Vietnam War ended, there were already enough amenities in Pattaya area to warrant more tourists to come and enjoy the beauty and local hospitality of the region.
Surrounding Environment
Samut Prakan
A province just south of the Chao Phraya River, the history of this province dates back to the Ayutthaya days. There are many rice paddies and shrimp farmers who live here, making it one of the best destinations to sample their wares of seafood. It’s also the site of the Erawan Elephant Statue, not to be confused with the Erawan Shrine in Bangkok.
Chachoengsao
Perched on the banks of the Bang Pakong River, this town was also established during the Ayutthaya era. It’s also a rice farming town, and has plenty of gorgeous temples and “slow life” elements to it. Not particularly worth a visit if you’re going out of your way, but is a beautiful pitstop on the way to somewhere else.
Bangkok
A metropolis of high buildings, Bangkok is often the first stop that makes a true impression on any traveler. Most people will have to pass through Bangkok one way or another, and there’s plenty to do in the city for any kind of traveler.
Rayong
The jump off point for many travelers heading to Koh Samet, Rayong is actually a pretty charming town in and of itself, although most who are just passing through don’t usually notice. There’s plenty of industries in Rayong, including fruit production as well as some chemical plants.
Hotels
With the popularity of Pattaya within the province, there’s no shortage in options in terms of accommodations. Here are some our favorites:
Fifth Jomtien Pattaya
A luxurious property with a few different options for rooms, the Fifth Jomtien Pattaya is modern chic combined with convenience. There’s a market nearby, and the property is only a 10 minute walk from several beaches. The breakfast that’s included is quite delicious, and there’s no lack of amenities. A coffee shop, 24 hour reception, fitness center, outdoor pool, restaurant, and cable TV in the room ensure that you have everything you could desire during your stay.
Balcony Seaside
Chic and hip accommodations are found at Balcony Seaside. Fully decked out rooms are available here, both for short term and long term stays. A restaurant is open on premise to ensure your comfort and ease of access, separate male and female steam rooms, meeting rooms, a golf simulator, a putting green, swimming pool for both adults and children, 24 hour fitness center, bike parking spaces, and a playground for children.
Way Hotel Pattaya
Right on Crescent Moon Beach, and next to The Sanctuary of Truth, this beautiful hotel has plenty of amenities such as a coffee shop, fitness center, swimming pool, 24 hour reception, and a restaurant with plenty of options for food. The view from the pool is absolutely splendid, and a beautiful place to relax and enjoy a cocktail as the sunset relaxes you in time for evening.
Citrus Parc Pattaya
Only a 5 minute walk from Dongtan Beach, Citrus Parc Pattaya pulls out all the stops to be one of the best hotels in the industry. The staff are known to be helpful and ready to answer any questions and grant requests quickly, and the pool is one of absolute beauty. The facilities are modern, and relaxation comes naturally at this chic hotel in Pattaya.
Atlantis Condo and Water Park
With single and double rooms available, this new landmark in Pattaya is one to be visited. The sheer size of the property is massive, and there’s of course a water park on site. Fully furnished condos are available for short term and long term rentals, within just a few minutes from Jomtien Beach. These exotic tropical gardens feature swimming pools, natural waterfalls, classic Thai mixed with modern architectural design, as well as multiple jacuzzis and a fully equipped guy for the adults, and a playground with water features for the children. A truly unique property not to be missed!
Transportation
By Plane
The nearest airport is in Bangkok. Once you arrive to the airport, a taxi can be hailed, or you can take transportation to one of the stations for buses or minivans described below.
By Train
You can take the train from Hua Lamphong station in Bangkok, getting off at Phlu Ta Luang station. While not the quickest way to get around, it is a scenic and unique way to reach Chonburi area. The train should take
Phlu Ta Luang is the only station in the city; however the only trains originate in Hua Lamphong; this is the station in the capital #Bangkok#, so is quite a quick method of transport to the area. However it isn’t as frequent as the bus.
By Bus
The Eastern Bus Terminal provides busses to the region every 40 minutes and costs approx 200 THB. These are relatively comfortable and you can get either air conditioned or non airconditioned buses. This shouldn’t take more than two hours, although traffic can be unpredictable.
By Taxi
This is by far the most efficient way to get to Chonburi. Depending on traffic, it should only take an hour or two. You usually have to negotiate a fare prior to getting in the taxi, although sometimes the driver will let you take the meter. Make sure you take the expressway, it’s almost always worth it unless you’re driving late at night.
Getting around in Chonburi
There are plenty of songtaews ( modified truck beds) around town that you can hop on and off of easily. Different colors signify different routes, and drivers are usually able to speak enough English to help you get to your destination. You hop on the back and pay when you get out. Make sure you ask what the fare is before getting on. Holding onto the railing is a good idea, as stops can be quite sudden, especially when there is traffic. You can also hail a motorcycle taxi for short trips or for the day. Again, make sure you ask for the fare before you get on.
Activities
Ramayana Water Park
Decked out with 21 incredible water slides, 2 dedicated kids zones, a record breaking double wave pool, a lazy river with mystical caves, geysers and bubbles, there’s not a moment to waste when arrive at Ramayana Water Park. Visit the floating mark within the park, meet real elephants and experience the amazing nature in and around the park with green hills, lakes and rivers. Simply Thailand at its best! Ramayana Water Park is built to the highest international standards – using only premium equipment and even crystal clear drinking water from the park’s own wells.
Opening hours: 10:00 to 18:00, daily
Entrance fee: Adults at 1,190 THB, children at 890 THB. There are family passes available and group discounts.
Koh Larn
A quick day trip from Chonburi is the nearby island of Koh Larn, also known as Coral Island. There are plenty of water activities to partake in such as parasailing and swimming. It’s quick and easy to catch the ferry from Pattaya, and a great way to explore an island for the day. There are a few accommodations to stay in if you wish to spend the night.
Opening hours: always
Entrance fee: none
Attractions
Sanctuary of Truth
A modern temple made of wood and covered in carvings, it is well worth seeing for yourself. As of 2016, it is still under construction, and thus tourists sometimes have to wear hard hats in order to enter the establishment. It’s worth a visit just to see the state it is in now, and then perhaps being able to see the finished product.
Opening hours: 08:00 to 17:00, daily
Entrance fee: 500 THB
Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden
A beautiful tropical garden with the added benefit of a cultural show at select times, this is an attraction not to be missed when in Pattaya! A wonderful place for a picnic or simply to get away from the hustle and bustle of the town. There’s even an elephant show for the kids.
Opening hours: 08:00 to 18:00, daily
Entrance fee: 500 THB for foreigners and 100 THB for Thais.
Travel Tips
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The Chonburi Buffalo RAce is held every year in October. It’s a long established celebration that also occurs in Ban Bueng and Nong Yai. Buffalos are dressed outrageously by their owners and partake in races and other contests. Definitely an event to check out if you’re in area in early October.
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