Pattaya residents protest against negative image of the city

Residents of Pattaya resort city have protested against negative media coverage, which portrays the town exclusively as a centre for adult tourism.

A scandal has erupted in the resort city of Pattaya over the reputation of the popular tourist destination. Khaosod reports that on July 11, local businessmen, community leaders and residents gathered at the entrance to the famous Woking Street to protest the media’s use of terms describing Pattaya as a “sin city” and a “prostitute paradise.”

The protest was prompted by a report by a cable news channel that described Pattaya as a “sin city” and a “grey paradise” for tourists visiting the “land of prostitutes.” This characterization caused a storm of indignation among locals and tourism business representatives.

It is interesting to note that among the protesters were people carrying placards calling for the repeal of anti-prostitution laws and decriminalization of the sex industry. There was also a campaign on social media under the hashtag #SavePattaya, demanding that the media take responsibility for spreading a negative image of the city.

Lisa Hamilton, president of the Pattaya Nightlife Association, emphasized that the city offers much more than just nightlife: “Portraying Pattaya as ‘sin city’ makes people from other professions feel unappreciated. We don’t want the city to be discriminated against because of this viewpoint, and we call for accountability for news stories that damage Pattaya’s image.”

Amporn Kaewsaeng, president of the Pattaya Entertainment and Tourism Industry Association, added: “Pattaya is an economic centre where many people come to earn money to send money home and support their families. We don’t want other tourism-related professions to be looked down upon, noting that night industry workers contribute significantly to the country’s income.”

Businessmen, community leaders and residents gathered at the entrance to the famous Woking Street to protest the media’s use of terms characterizing Pattaya as a “sin city” and “prostitute paradise.”

Boon-anant Pattanasin, president of the Pattaya Business and Tourism Association, urged the media to present more creative news perspectives, portraying Pattaya as a city of opportunity where people come to work legally, follow social rules and bring income to the country.

Manoch Nongyai, Pattaya’s deputy mayor, emphasized that no one in the city likes that characterization. He noted that Pattaya has rich traditions and culture, beautiful beaches, and the famous Lan Island. It also holds many events to boost the tourist economy, including world-class sporting events such as the Pattaya Marathon.

It is worth noting that Pattaya has a reputation as a city with a strong adult entertainment industry, but in recent years, the authorities and the business community have made significant efforts to diversify the tourism offer and improve the city’s image.

For example, family tourism is actively developing in Pattaya. Major water parks such as Ramayana Water Park and Cartoon Network Amazone have opened here, attracting tourists and children worldwide. The city also boasts several theme parks, including Mini Siam Miniature Park and Nong Nuch Tropical Garden.

For those who love cultural tourism, Pattaya has several interesting attractions, such as the Temple of Truth, a grand wooden structure dedicated to Thailand’s philosophy and art, and the Big Buddha, an 18-meter-high Buddha statue on Pratamnak Hill.

Among the protesters were people carrying placards calling for the repeal of anti-prostitution laws and decriminalization of the sex industry

The city is also becoming a popular destination for MICE tourism (business meetings, incentive travel, conferences and exhibitions). Modern convention centres and high-end hotels attract business tourists from all over the world.

Following an apology from the news channel that sparked the protest, Pattaya tourism industry representatives said they hoped the incident would serve as a starting point for more objective media coverage of the city.

"We don't deny there are some problems, but we want the world to see Pattaya in all its diversity," said one protest organizer. "Our city is not only nightlife, but also beautiful beaches, rich culture, modern infrastructure and, most importantly, hospitable people."

In conclusion, like many other tourist destinations, Pattaya needs help in sustainable tourism development. The local government and business community continue to work on improving infrastructure, diversifying the tourism offer and addressing social issues. Time will tell how successful these efforts will be in changing the international perception of the city.