Hello, I am Seally-Go-Round, the sea lion.
This is a personal account of the author's daily life in Pattaya, Thailand. The author describes their routine of working in the kitchen and occasionally going out to shop at Makro, Big C, or the Larn Pho Market in Na Kluea.
Today is Sunday, a day off, so I wanted to make the most of it and recharge myself. On a day like this, I didn't want to waste time traveling far, so I decided to stay in the neighborhood. The farthest I went was to Saensuk, Sattahip.
One Day in Pattaya-Sattahip: Where to Go, What to Eat, and Where to Stay
- 9:00 AM: Embark on your journey!
Where to go:
- Pattaya Beach: Soak up the sun and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic beach.
- Wat Yansangwararam: Explore this stunning temple with its intricate architecture and serene gardens.
- Nong Nooch Tropical Garden: Immerse yourself in the beauty of this vast botanical garden, featuring diverse plant life and cultural performances.
- Sattahip Naval Base: Witness the impressive naval fleet and learn about Thailand's maritime history.
- Khao Chi Chan: Hike to the summit of this mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.
What to eat:
- Seafood: Indulge in the freshest seafood dishes, from grilled prawns to spicy tom yum soup.
- Som Tam: Savor the tangy and refreshing flavors of this papaya salad, a staple of Thai cuisine.
- Pad Thai: Enjoy this classic stir-fried noodle dish, available in various styles and flavors.
- Mango Sticky Rice: Treat yourself to this sweet and creamy dessert, a perfect way to end your day.
Where to stay:
- Luxury Resorts: Pamper yourself with a luxurious stay at one of Pattaya's many five-star resorts.
- Boutique Hotels: Find unique and stylish accommodations in charming boutique hotels.
- Beachfront Bungalows: Experience the laid-back atmosphere of a beachfront bungalow, offering stunning ocean views.
- Guesthouses: Opt for a budget-friendly option with a cozy and comfortable guesthouse.
Join the conversation and share your experiences!
I planned to sleep in until 9 or 10 am today to make the most of my day off. However, my body forced me to wake up earlier than expected. I felt that I couldn't afford to waste time sleeping, and that I needed to make the most of my limited time.
After showering, getting dressed, and packing, I set off from my home near central Pattaya. My first destination was...
We are hungry, so let's go find something to eat. Our usual weekend spot is the boat noodle shop, Mr. Mechanic (we don't go there on non-weekends because it's out of the way to the market, and we're too lazy to drive there).
Before heading to the noodle shop, let's build up the excitement and pretend that we're tourists visiting Pattaya for the first time. Let's forget that we're locals and embrace the experience as if we're on vacation. Today, we'll be tourists in Pattaya!
There is a specific point that, whenever I pass it, I feel like I am arriving in Pattaya. This point is located here.
The curve that leads down to the road along North Pattaya Beach. I don't know if others feel the same way, but every time I pass this point, I feel like I'm really on vacation. 555
The sky is clear and beautiful today. They say the sea is even more beautiful than usual as winter approaches.
Sunbathe together.
Tourists took a tour to Koh Lan.
Drive along the beach until the end, turn left onto the road in front of Walking Street, and continue straight along Pattaya Tai Road. We will find Mr. Chang's noodle shop on the left-hand side.
::: Mr. Chang's Boat Noodles :::
The restaurant is located in a secluded area and is very spacious.
This location was likely once a food garden.
Previously, I used to eat at the Thepprasit branch, but since this branch opened, I prefer to come here. The atmosphere is more inviting.
This menu is 15 baht per bowl, 30 baht for a special.
A small bowl for 15 baht is a reasonable price.
However, what I really like is the crispy pork. It's amazing.
Delicious taste, perfectly seasoned, no need to add anything.
Very satisfying...at an affordable price. Delicious too. If you're visiting Pattaya and craving boat noodles, I highly recommend this place. It's definitely a standout (I've tried boat noodles all over Pattaya, and this is my favorite by far ^^).
The finale is over, and we can continue our journey! This morning is very relaxed, no rush, no special plans. We just need to check in to the accommodation we booked for tonight in the afternoon. So, this morning is freestyle, just driving around.
Early in the morning, the driver asked for a cup of coffee.
I stopped by a lovely new cafe on Sukhumvit Road near Wat Yannawa called Love Your Tree.
: :: Cherish your tree :::
The walrus once promised after the post 10 cafes 10 styles in Pattaya.
Mini-Review of Two New Cafes in Pattaya
This excerpt appears to be the introduction to a mini-review of two new cafes in Pattaya, Thailand. The author mentions that they plan to review more new cafes in the future, but due to limited time and opportunity, they are focusing on two cafes in this particular review.
Here is a possible translation of the excerpt:
I plan to review new cafes in Pattaya on a regular basis, but opportunities and time are limited. Therefore, I will provide a mini-review of two new cafes in this post.
A charming new cafe has recently opened, rumored to be owned by the same proprietor as Maharak Cafe on Koh Lan. This new establishment boasts a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with a verdant green color scheme that complements its name.
The place is full of trees.
This establishment offers a variety of coffee, snacks, and meals.
The restaurant offers both air-conditioned and outdoor seating areas, with the latter situated under the shade of large trees in the center of the establishment.
Juicy
Parking is available in front of the store.
The image at the provided URL depicts a group of people gathered around a table, seemingly engaged in a discussion or meeting. The individuals are dressed in formal attire, suggesting a professional setting. The table is adorned with a bouquet of flowers, adding a touch of elegance to the scene. The overall impression conveyed by the image is one of seriousness and purpose.
The coordinates are: The shop is located on Sukhumvit Road, Pattaya side, heading towards Sattahip. It is just a short distance past the entrance to Wat Yansang.
If you're traveling near Bang Sare, Sattahip, or Saemsarn...
Take a break and snap some beautiful selfies at Love your tree.
This morning, during my day of leisure, I had no specific plans. I simply wandered around, passing the time until my 2:00 PM check-in at my accommodation.
Since I'm already near Sattahip, I might as well stop by a familiar place around Saensuk.
::: Luang Pho Dam Shrine, Saensuk :::
The seals love the sea near Samae San. It's not far, but the water is crystal clear. Today, I didn't plan to cross over to Samae San Island because I've been there 2-3 times already. Koh Kham is not yet open to tourists, so I decided to pay my respects to the Buddha and enjoy the sea view at the Luang Pho Dam Temple in Samae San.
A previous review of this location can be found in this thread: http://pantip.com/topic/33814327/desktop. It includes Percula Farm, the clownfish farm, the Luang Pho Dam temple, and Bang Saen. Today, the focus is not on the locations, but rather on the views. The sea view from the Luang Pho Dam temple is stunning.
The view from the parking lot is breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista of the ocean below.
This corner features cacti, creating a bohemian vibe.
The clearer the sky, the brighter the sun, and the clearer the seawater, the more inviting it is to swim.
The sky is very clear. ⛅
Once we finish paying our respects at the temple, let's head down to see the ocean below.
Today, a group of young students came to learn how to use snorkels.
I envy them, I want to play too 555
No problem, let's sit on the rock and take some UV photos.
The weather is excellent, although a bit hot. However, the water is crystal clear.
Crystal clear like the South Sea.
Travelers passing through Samesan should stop by the Luang Pho Dam temple to pay their respects and take in the breathtaking views of the crystal-clear Samesan sea, rivaling the beauty of Koh Kham and Koh Samesan.
In the early afternoon, we decided to head back to Pattaya to check into our hotel. We wanted to maximize our relaxation time, as we would need to check out early the next morning to return to our shop and resume work.
Our accommodation today is located near Khao Phra Tamnak. In fact, we had a lot of options to choose from initially.
The decision-making criteria include price, utilities, and location.
• Price: No more than 2,000 baht (including breakfast if possible)
• Amenities: A swimming pool, large enough to take a refreshing dip, would suffice.
• Location by the sea, quiet and private atmosphere, not too far away so that you don't have to travel, but not too close to home because you'll feel like you could just sleep at home (like the last time I tried Flipper Lodge on Pattaya Beach Road http://pantip.com/topic/34138409/desktop, which felt a bit too close to home, so I could have just walked back. Therefore, this time, the beach road is not an option.
In conclusion, there are two remaining options: Pinnacle Grand near Na Jomtien, close to Glasshouse, and Golden Cliff House at Khao Phra Tamnak. Both options are priced the same.
Ultimately, we decided on Golden Cliff House. Let's explore the reasons behind this choice.
::: Golden Cliff House :::
** **
We checked in around 3 pm today. It was a Sunday evening, and there were very few people, making it very private.
The accommodation here is spread across multiple buildings.
The seals are resting on the castle-like building. The design is quite unique.
(The prince here has a pickup truck, lol)
Upon entering the grand hall below, I was tempted to rent an evening gown and waltz with a prince. The walls were adorned with faux chandeliers, creating an enchanting ambiance.
The knight figures are creepy enough to resemble those in the Chamber of Horrors play.
This accommodation has 4 floors. Importantly, there is no elevator. Elderly people or those with knee problems may find it a bit difficult.
Stair railings and chandeliers (and chandelier shadow stickers)
Fortunately, I got a room on the 2nd floor, so I didn't have to climb too many stairs and get out of breath.
The air conditioner was freezing cold when I entered the room.
The room is spacious and comfortable.
Bathroom
Peeking from the bathroom, a hint of sexiness.
The king-size bed is spacious and comfortable, ensuring a restful sleep without the worry of falling out.
This room is a Deluxe Castle room booked through Agoda. The price for one night's stay, including breakfast and tax, is approximately 1,700 baht. However, if you want to earn Big points from AirAsia, the price will be 1,881 baht, which will give you 700 Big points.
Let's explore the hotel and then change into our swimsuits to go swimming.
She descended the stairs like a princess making her grand entrance.
Looking down, you'll see an outdoor dining area.
Walk down from the castle to the beachfront pool area.
Pattaya has been experiencing some rainfall recently, which has kept the gardens green and lush, unlike the dry and barren conditions depicted in reviews on Tripadvisor and Agoda.
The pool area downstairs is in disarray, but the seals don't seem to mind.
Before booking, it's crucial to conduct thorough research and consult multiple sources. While online reviews can provide valuable insights, it's important to consider the possibility of biased or overly critical perspectives. Some reviewers may have unrealistic expectations or be overly sensitive to minor imperfections. It's essential to maintain a balanced perspective and weigh the overall consensus of reviews.
After considering all the reviews, decide for yourself how seriously you take them. If not, overlooking some shortcomings can make your trip more enjoyable and relaxing.
The beach is less crowded today as it is a Sunday evening. There are 4-5 foreigners lying down.
The tranquil atmosphere feels like a getaway to a secluded island, making one forget they are in Pattaya, even though their home is just a few kilometers away.
The weather is pleasantly cool, with the sun being obscured by clouds despite it being past 3 pm. Fortunately, it is not raining here, although there are dark clouds over Pattaya city.
Let's head to the upper pool for a swim instead.
The rooftop swimming pool is connected to the reception building, which is separate from the building where the seals are housed. This pool is located near the dining area.
The upper pool is cleaner and has a slope on both the shallow and deep sides. It is suitable for non-swimmers.
Truly serene. If you're seeking a peaceful getaway, consider staying on a Sunday night or a weekday night. Fewer crowds, more privacy. Perfect for relaxation.
After a relaxing soak in the water, we spent the day lounging, playing, and taking photos, enjoying the freedom and relaxation of a freestyle day.
The cool breeze is so refreshing. I'm praying that it won't bring rain and wind.
The view across the way is Koh Lan, but the atmosphere here is more peaceful than Koh Lan, even though the room rates are comparable. Koh Lan might even be more expensive, but it's a different vibe. It depends on what you prefer. Personally, I prefer places that are quiet and peaceful, so this place ticks all the boxes. (It probably helped that I came on a Sunday evening and didn't encounter any tour groups, so it was nice and quiet.)
A refreshing breeze...
The twilight will not be visible today due to the cloud cover.
It's strange how whenever I'm working from home, the sky is always beautiful in the evenings. But when I take time off to relax, the weather doesn't cooperate.
Fortunately, it didn't rain, which is a blessing in itself.
As dusk approaches and hunger pangs set in, let's embark on a quest to find a delectable dinner for our feline companions.
While the hotel does have a restaurant, we'd prefer to venture out and explore the city. (exploring a familiar city)
Restaurant zone with a stunning view
This evening, let's go feed the seals at the Up to Sea restaurant on Jomtien Beach.
::: Up to sea :::
Up to Sea Restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat seafood grill buffet for 399 baht per person, with no time limit. Drinks are not included, but free water is provided.
The shop is located on Jomtien Beach, just before the end of the road.
Fresh crab, fresh shrimp, how can it not be fresh? It's still alive.
(For those who are not confident in grilling, we can provide ice-cold drinks beforehand. Alternatively, if you prefer not to grill yourselves, our staff can assist you. However, please note that on Friday and Saturday evenings, the restaurant may be busy, and you may need to grill your own food.)
Fresh oysters
Cheese is also available.
Fresh, high-quality food and attentive service.
The only thing that made the dining experience unpleasant was that the restaurant served live shrimp and crab. This caused me great distress.
He did not intend to burn himself alive... Rest in peace, we apologize.
The Paradox of Freshness: A Meditation on Seafood and Suffering
The seared flesh of a perfectly grilled shrimp, the succulent legs of a crab glistening with butter – these are the hallmarks of a delightful seafood feast. Yet, beneath the surface of this culinary pleasure lies a hidden truth: the fresher the seafood, the greater the suffering it may have endured.
As the flames dance across the grill, a profound realization dawns upon the cook: the very essence of freshness, the lifeblood of the dish, is inextricably linked to the pain of the creatures that once swam freely in the ocean. The succulent texture, the vibrant colors, all bear witness to a life abruptly cut short.
This realization sparks a philosophical inquiry: can true enjoyment be derived from a meal that necessitates the suffering of another being? Is the fleeting pleasure of our taste buds worth the sacrifice of a life?
The paradox of freshness presents a moral quandary, forcing us to confront the ethical implications of our culinary choices. While the allure of fresh seafood is undeniable, it is imperative to acknowledge the cost of this indulgence.
Perhaps, the true essence of a seafood feast lies not solely in the fleeting pleasure of the palate, but in a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of life and death. By acknowledging the sacrifice inherent in our meals, we can approach them with a newfound respect and appreciation, honoring the lives that were taken to nourish us.
This newfound awareness can guide us towards more mindful consumption, prompting us to seek out sustainable sources and to savor each bite with a deeper understanding of the complex web of life that sustains us.
If you're looking for a fresh seafood buffet by the sea, check out Up to sea on Jomtien Beach. You can park at the Sigma Hotel before reaching the end of the road.
It's better to go back to the hotel and get some sleep. I have to wake up early tomorrow to go home and continue working.
.....6.00 a.m. New morning
This morning is bright and sunny, with no rain. However, the air conditioning in my room is very cold.
Pack your belongings and let's go have breakfast.
Breakfast on weekdays is served as a set menu, with a choice of fried eggs, scrambled eggs, or omelets, bread, pancakes, or French toast, tea, coffee, and juice. On weekends, when there are more guests, breakfast is served as a buffet.
This establishment offers a comprehensive breakfast service starting from 6:00 AM.
Full, check out, go home to continue working.
Accommodation Summary:
- Quiet and peaceful accommodation with air-conditioned rooms. The price of around 1,000 baht with breakfast is good value for a 3-star hotel.
- The overall decoration may seem confusing and lack unity. Some areas lack maintenance.
- Suitable for a quiet and relaxing stay. However, there may be more people on Fridays and Saturdays than on weekdays. (The reviewer stayed on a Sunday night, and it was very quiet and private with few people.)
- The hotel has 4 floors and no elevator. It may not be suitable for elderly people or those with difficulty climbing stairs.
Before heading home, I stopped by to drop off the barista at work and review a new cafe in Pattaya.
::: Ordinary Coffee :::
Read the full review here:
Ordinary Coffee, a stylish new small coffee shop in Pattaya
A newly opened coffee shop in Pattaya, this shop truly excels in coffee. It is a genuine coffee shop, offering both a slow bar and an espresso bar.
The small shop has a cozy atmosphere with seating on two floors.
I would like a hot green tea this morning, as the seal does not drink coffee.
The atmosphere of the small shop is lovely.
Calling all coffee enthusiasts!
If you're looking to explore the world of specialty coffee, including drip coffee and other unique brewing methods, this is the place for you. True coffee aficionados, come and join the experience!
Coordinates: Located along the Huai Yai railway line, on the inbound side of Pattaya, before the Talad Nam Si Pak market.
One day and one night of rest is over. Time flies.
It is now 9:00 AM, time to return to the shop and resume work.
See you again for the next review.
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Seally-Go-Round
Friday, September 27, 2024 10:43 AM