Flight and Logistics
Your journey to Thailand begins with a flight to Bangkok. Air Astana operates regular flights from Almaty, and in winter, additional flights are offered by AirAsia. It is recommended to stay in the capital for 2-3 days to explore its attractions, after which you can comfortably transfer to Pattaya in about two hours.One of the main advantages of Pattaya is the ability to relax at any time of the year. Due to its location, the resort is protected from prolonged rains, making it attractive even during the rainy season, although evening showers may occur at this time. However, lower prices for tours and various excursions can compensate for this drawback.
Preparing for the Trip: Visa and Necessary Documents
To enter Thailand, you will need the following documents: a passport (valid for at least 6 months after your return), flight tickets, accommodation voucher, and medical insurance. For children traveling without one of the parents, a notarized permission for departure is required.Citizens of Kyrgyzstan can obtain a visa for 15 days upon arrival at the airport. This requires two color photographs (4x6 cm), a completed application form, and a return ticket (approximately $70). The visa can also be arranged in advance.
Starting from May 1, 2025, filling out a digital arrival card (TDAC) online 72 hours before departure has become mandatory for entry, which can also be done through travel agencies.
Practical Tips: Money, Laws, and Daily Life
The currency used in Thailand is the baht (THB). You can exchange dollars at numerous points located in tourist areas, where the rates are often more favorable than at the airport. $100 is approximately equal to 3,200 baht.For internet access, you can purchase an eSIM in advance or buy a physical SIM card at the airport, provided you have a passport for registration. Prices for SIM cards with good internet at the airport can reach $35.
Keep in mind that the import, use, and storage of electronic cigarettes and vapes are strictly prohibited. Violating this law can lead to hefty fines or prison sentences. Regular cigarettes can be imported, but it's better not to attempt to carry electronic devices in your hand luggage.
Transportation in Bangkok and Pattaya: How to Get Around
Getting around Bangkok and Pattaya becomes easier if you know the basic rules. In Bangkok, it is best to use the metro (BTS and MRT) to avoid traffic jams. For trips to temples, it is convenient to use river taxis. Taxis are inexpensive, but be sure to insist on using the meter.In Pattaya, the main mode of transport is songthaews (open pickups), which cost 10 baht. Just raise your hand to stop the vehicle and press the bell to get off. Do not ask the driver questions about the route to avoid turning the trip into an expensive taxi ride. For quick trips, you can use motorcycle taxis, where the price is agreed upon in advance, as well as order taxis through Grab and Bolt apps, where cash payment is possible.
Attractions in Bangkok: Immersion in Culture
Visiting Bangkok is an opportunity to see the diversity of Thailand: from ancient temples to modern shopping malls. This city of contrasts immerses you in its energy, where historical monuments and ultra-modern buildings coexist.Start with the Grand Royal Palace, which impresses with its luxury and is a must-see. Within its grounds is the main shrine of the kingdom—the Emerald Buddha statue.
Nearby is Wat Pho, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, which houses a giant 46-meter golden statue.
Wat Pho, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha.
After crossing the Chao Phraya River by ferry, you can reach Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, whose towers, covered in Chinese porcelain, are especially beautiful at sunset. In Chinatown, you will find the Temple of the Golden Buddha with a three-meter statue made from 5.5 tons of gold.
The Chao Phraya River.
To feel the atmosphere of Bangkok, take a stroll along the famous Khao San Road, which transforms into a shopping street during the day and a party spot with street food and music at night. Chinatown has a completely different atmosphere, filled with the aromas of spices and roasted duck. The Chao Phraya River and its canals (khlongs) offer a unique way to see the city from the water.
After a busy day, we recommend heading to the observation deck of the Baiyoke Sky Tower or the MahaNakhon SkyWalk with a glass floor at over 300 meters high to enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
Baiyoke Sky observation deck. Photo from the internet.
It is also worth visiting one of the rooftop bars, where you can enjoy a cocktail with a view of the city lights. If you seek tranquility, head to Lumpini Park—a green oasis in the city center where you can relax among lakes and alleys.
Lumpini Park. Photo from the internet.
In the evening, you can attend the theatrical performance Siam Niramit, which even features elephants. There is also a water park and an oceanarium for children.
Bangkok is the shopping capital. In shopping malls, you can find both international brands and affordable Thai labels.
Where to Stay in Bangkok
Choosing the right area to stay in Bangkok is key to a comfortable vacation. For most tourists, the ideal option will be the modern and vibrant Sukhumvit area, which runs along the Skytrain metro line and offers access to the best shopping malls and restaurants.Here you will find hotels for every taste and budget—from the stylish SILQ Hotel & Residence 5* to the luxurious Chatrium Grand Bangkok 5*, located near the main malls.
If you want to immerse yourself in history, choose the Old Town, known for its colonial architecture and proximity to the Royal Palace. Here you can stay at Pranakorn Heritage Hotel 4* or Siri Grand Bangkok Hotel 3*, which offer rooftop pools with views of the historic quarters.
For a romantic getaway, hotels in the Riverside area are ideal, offering beautiful views of the Chao Phraya River and Wat Arun. It is convenient to get around using river taxis, and evenings can be spent by the pool enjoying the panorama. An example of affordable and quality accommodation is the River Home Bangkok 3* hotel.
Riverside area. Photo from the internet.
Pattaya: Sea, Sun, and Active Recreation
After busy days in Bangkok, it's time to head to the sea for relaxation and entertainment.The choice of area in Pattaya can significantly influence the nature of your holiday. You can stay in the center of nightlife or find quiet corners.
For active recreation enthusiasts, Central Pattaya is suitable, with many nightclubs and restaurants. However, the beaches here are not the best. This area offers both budget hotels and quality five-star resorts.
Central Pattaya is the heart of the resort with shopping malls like Terminal 21 and the famous Walking Street. There are many hotels here, such as Grande Centre Point Pattaya 5* with a water park and the stylish Wave Hotel Pattaya 5* in Art Deco style.
Budget options are also available, such as Arden Hotel and Residence 4*, as well as boutique hotels like VENTURA Boutique Residence 4* and HOP stays-Pattaya.
If you are looking for a balance between good beaches and accessibility to entertainment, consider the southern areas—Jomtien and Na Jomtien. Here, the atmosphere is more tranquil, with long and clean beaches, and you can easily reach the center by tuk-tuk. This area is suitable for different types of tourists, offering both high-rise hotels like D Varee Jomtien Beach 5* and stylish designer resorts like Veranda Resort Pattaya MGallery 5*.
For those who prefer a quiet holiday and clean beaches, the northern and southern areas of the resort—Pratumnak, Naklua, and Wong Amat—are ideal. Here you will find the cleanest beaches and high-class hotels, such as Royal Cliff Hotels Group 5* and Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort 5*, offering excellent conditions for family vacations.
Attractions in Pattaya and Surroundings
Pattaya offers not only beaches and nightlife but also many interesting places, including temples and amusement parks.The Sanctuary of Truth is the main architectural structure of the resort, under construction for over 40 years. This wooden building stands 105 meters tall, with each detail being a work of art reflecting Eastern philosophy.
The Big Buddha Mountain is a pilgrimage site and viewpoint featuring a 15-meter golden statue.
The Wat Yan complex, located by a picturesque lake, showcases temples in various Asian styles.
The Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, one of the most beautiful in the world, offers themed gardens, an orchid collection, and elephant shows.
Not far from the resort is the Khao Kheow Open Zoo, where you can observe animals and see how they are fed. Two-day trips with rafting on the Kwai River are also popular.
Khao Kheow Open Zoo.
To get acquainted with the symbol of Thailand, visit the Elephant Village, where you can not only watch performances but also ride elephants through the jungle. The floating market offers a unique experience of Thai trading, where you can try local food and buy souvenirs.
Although the beaches of Pattaya cannot compare to the islands, Wong Amat Beach is considered one of the cleanest and most pleasant for swimming.
Photo from the internet.
For those dreaming of white sand, a trip to Koh Larn Island, just 40 minutes by ferry, is a must.
Photo from the internet.
In the evening, Pattaya delights with bright shows, including the famous cabaret shows "Alcazar" and "Tiffany".
Families with children will enjoy the Underwater World oceanarium, where you can walk through a glass tunnel, or Mini Siam Park with miniatures of famous landmarks.
Oceanarium in Pattaya. Photo from the internet.
What to Bring Back from Thailand: Best Souvenirs and Gifts
Shopping in Thailand offers a variety of unique products, including cosmetics and jewelry. Popular souvenirs include natural Thai cosmetics, especially coconut oil, and aromatic herbal teas, which are best purchased at pharmacies or supermarkets. Thai medicine and various dietary supplements are also well-known.Products made from 100% latex, such as orthopedic pillows and mattresses, should be bought from specialized factories with quality certification. Pay attention to items made from exotic leather—crocodile and snake.
For more valuable gifts, jewelry with precious stones is suitable, which is best purchased at large jewelry factories. Handicrafts, such as carved wooden panels and ceramics, are also popular among tourists.
Don’t forget about exotic fruits—these are among the most common souvenirs from Thailand. Make sure you know your airline's rules.
