Joanna James
As one of Thailand's top beach holiday hubs, Pattaya is also a popular base for remote workers. From getting around to reliable internet access, here are 5 tips to help digital nomads make the most of their working holiday in the beach paradise.
Those who are heading to Pattaya for a short working vacation or a work trip should ideally time their visit. Although it is possible to work and live in Pattaya at any time of year, digital nomads who wish to see the beach town and experience some of its best activities and excursions should visit between November and February. This is when the weather is perfect in this part of Thailand and the chances of rain are virtually zero. The temperatures are also not too warm or too cold as it is the peak travel season for most beach hotspots in the area.
It is best to secure a mobile SIM card and an accompanying data package upon your arrival at U-Tapao International Airport where all Pattaya-bound flights land. Three major telecommunication companies provide internet services in Pattaya, and they include CS LoxInfo, 3BB, Internet KSC, Loxley Broadband, and the Internet East Company. The average download speed offered by most local internet service providers is 36.9 Mb per second while the upload speed is 25.7 Mb per second.
The best way to get around from your base at Avani Pattaya Resort or any other location is to hop on a songthaew. These converted pick-up trucks are the cheapest way to travel short distances as commuters can hop on and off at any point along the route. Remote workers who are trying to tick off items on their Pattaya things to do list will find that the fares to tourist attractions and beaches really depend on the distance. Local buses are also available in Pattaya but are not as reliable while those who don't mind spending a few extra baht can travel around via taxis. There are a number of taxi booking apps available for download and reserving a vehicle is quite simple.
If you happen to be an expat already working in Thailand, your Thai Work Permit will suffice and there will be no need to secure a digital nomad visa. Those who are hoping to spend less than 3 months in the country can also get by on a tourist visa as it is common for travellers to spend up to 180 days in Thailand without applying for any other type of visa. As long as your income sources are not based in Thailand there is no need to pay taxes on what you earn during your time in the country.
When it comes to the trendiest locations to set up your work base in Pattaya, the beach areas of Jomtien Beach and Pattaya Beach reign supreme. Other neighbourhoods that are perfect for remote workers include Ko Lan and Naklua.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
