According to forum posts, there are regular bus services from Bangkok to Pattaya that depart from the Ekamai Bus Terminal. These buses end their journey at the North Pattaya Road bus station. Travelers have mentioned that no reservation is needed, and if there are more passengers than seats, additional spare buses are provided.

Some travelers also mentioned a direct bus service from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya, which could be a convenient option for those flying into Bangkok and heading straight to Pattaya. This service is highlighted on the official bus service website, airportpattayabus.com.

For travel from Pattaya to Bangkok's airports, the Bell Bus service picks up passengers from their hotels in Pattaya and delivers them to Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport, allowing online booking. Another option mentioned is taking a bus from the Jomtien bus station directly to the main Bangkok airport.

According to forum posts, some popular beach hotel options in Pattaya include the Hard Rock Hotel, located on Beach Road, known for its family-friendly amenities and vibrant atmosphere. The Hilton Pattaya is another favorite, appreciated for its central location and connection to a shopping mall, offering convenience and upscale amenities.

Travelers have also suggested the Avani Hotel for its strategic location with easy access to both Beach Road and Second Road and its proximity to the Royal Garden shopping plaza. The Wave Hotel is highlighted for its direct beach access across Beach Road, making it an appealing choice for those looking to stay close to the beach.

For those seeking more luxurious stays, the Hotel Baraquda and Dusit Thani have been mentioned as upscale options with good services and amenities. It's important for travelers to consider their budget as these hotels can be on the pricier side compared to other local options.

According to forum posts, Pattaya offers various wildlife attractions, albeit with mixed reviews regarding ethical practices. The Sanctuary of Truth is noted for its intricate carvings but criticized for dolphin shows and elephant riding, which some travelers find controversial. Additionally, the Pattaya Elephant Village has been mentioned, with past reviews indicating potentially objectionable practices involving elephants.

Some travelers have called out specific attractions for ethical issues. The Tiger Park and the million-year-old stone and Crocodile Farm were highlighted for not aligning with modern animal welfare standards, with chained tigers and crocodiles kept in poor conditions being points of concern. These attractions were created during a time when ecological and animal welfare was less of a priority, primarily aiming for profit.

For travelers interested in more ethical wildlife experiences, suggestions are limited within Pattaya itself. However, discussions suggest exploring other areas or focusing on non-animal-related attractions might be a more responsible choice.

According to forum posts, many travelers recommend the TT Currency Exchange as a reliable option for exchanging money in Pattaya, often offering competitive rates. TT Currency Exchange is frequently mentioned alongside other local exchangers like Its Me and Sabai, which are also noted for providing good rates.

Forum users suggest that while rates at TT Currency Exchange are generally good, sometimes other nearby exchangers on 2nd Road offer slightly better rates. For instance, the Its Me exchange booth has been noted to occasionally beat TT's rates.

Travelers have called out that currency exchange rates in Pattaya can fluctuate frequently. It is advised to check rates regularly and compare different exchange booths to secure the best deal. Many users also point out the importance of exchanging money in reputable booths to avoid any hidden fees.

Some travelers mentioned that larger denominations are preferred and that clean, unmarked notes are essential for exchange in Thailand. It's also common advice to exchange a small amount at the airport for immediate needs and then look for better rates in the city.

According to forum posts, Baht buses in Pattaya operate on set routes and are widely used by locals and tourists. They are commonly available at key locations like the Pattaya Bus Terminal and travel through major areas including South Pattaya Road and Walking Street.

Travelers have mentioned that the fare for Baht buses is generally around 10 baht for routes around central Pattaya, regardless of the distance traveled. It is advisable to carry small bills and coins for payment. For longer routes, such as from central Pattaya to Jomtien, the fare might increase to 20 baht.

Some users noted that Baht buses can also be negotiated for custom rides, especially if traveling to more remote locations. It's important to have a good understanding of the bus routes or a map handy, as this helps in navigating and determining where to alight.

According to forum posts, the Hard Rock Hotel in Pattaya is frequently mentioned as a family-friendly option, known for its activities, pools, and child-oriented entertainment. Another recommended option is the Holiday Inn, noted for its kid-friendly amenities like rooms with fish-shaped beds and a kids' club that offers free meals at certain times.

Travelers have called out that Pattaya Beach is not ideal for swimming due to cleanliness concerns, suggesting hotel pools as an alternative. For family activities, the nearby Jomtien Beach is often recommended due to its cleaner environment and quieter atmosphere. The Sanctuary of Truth and the Ripley's Believe It or Not museum are popular attractions suggested by many users.

Some users have shared that Pattaya has a vibrant night market and several shopping centers, which are suitable for families in the evenings. For dining, the top floors of malls like Terminal 21 offer a variety of eateries that cater to families.

For getting around Pattaya, the use of Baht buses, which are very economical, is widely recommended. These can be easily flagged down and provide access to main areas of interest throughout the city.

When booking hotels, families often discuss the need for either family suites or connecting rooms to accommodate children comfortably. It's suggested to review hotel offerings carefully to ensure they meet the specific needs of a family traveling together.

According to forum posts, Songkran in Pattaya typically extends from the 11th to the 19th of April, with the main festivities occurring on the 19th. During this time, the city is known for its vibrant water-throwing activities, which are a central part of the celebration.

Travelers have noted that while traffic jams are common on the main day (19th April), accessibility around the city remains relatively manageable on other days. Water throwing tends to quiet down after 8 pm, except on the 19th.

Forum users recommend taking precautions to protect valuables from water, such as using waterproof bags available at local stores like 7-11. Clothing that dries quickly is also advised to enhance comfort during the festivities.