The main event arrives this weekend with two full days and nights of intense water play on April 18-19, featuring non-stop splashing from midday until midnight along the beachfront. Visitors can enjoy a rich mix of entertainment, Thai culture from all four regions, lifestyle zones, and live concerts by top Thai artists will take place this weekend.

Pre-Wan Lai Concert Lineup Still to Happen
April 16: Retrospect
April 17: Blackhead

Main Wan Lai Beach Party Lineup:
April 18: Singto Numchok, Zeal, and sexy DJs
April 19: Paradox, Num Kala, and more DJs

The festival also includes cultural performance zones, lifestyle activities, traditional and religious areas, and blessings for good fortune, creating a one-stop destination that combines fun, tradition, and positivity.

Central Pattaya invites tourists from around the world to join this major beachside attraction, which serves as a central hub for international-level entertainment during the Songkran period. The event is expected to boost the local economy and tourism during the high season.

Don’t miss this year’s Songkran celebrations! Head to the “Central Pattaya Songkran-Wan Lai Festival 2026”! Come experience the ultimate beach rock splash and create unforgettable memories by the sea.

For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.

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Happy Songkran 2026 to all our customers, Pattaya residents, and visitors celebrating Thailand’s most joyful and refreshing festival.
As the streets of Pattaya come alive with water, music, and laughter, there is no better time to discover one of the city’s most exciting culinary destinations: Tora Tapas.

Located in North Pattaya within the stylish Again development, Tora Tapas has quickly established itself as a standout restaurant and bar, offering a vibrant blend of Asian-inspired tapas and creative cocktails in a lively, social atmosphere. The concept is simple yet compelling, small plates designed for sharing, encouraging diners to explore bold flavours and inventive combinations that reflect a fusion of cultures and techniques.

From the moment you step inside, the venue strikes a balance between contemporary energy and relaxed charm. Guests can choose between an inviting indoor dining space and a relaxing outdoor seating area, perfect for unwinding with friends after a long day in the Songkran heat. The ambience is further elevated by a dynamic bar scene, where expertly crafted cocktails complement the diverse menu of dishes spanning Asian and fusion cuisines.

Tora Tapas is also a destination for entertainment. Every Saturday night, the venue comes alive with a DJ night, transforming the space into a great hub for music lovers and night owls. Meanwhile, its thoughtfully designed green space hosts frequent special events, adding a refreshing dimension to the dining experience. This month, guests can enjoy outdoor movie screenings every Friday and Saturday, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed evening under the stars, though booking ahead is strongly recommended.

The menu itself is a celebration of creativity. Diners can expect an eclectic mix of dishes, from baos and skewers to seafood, salads, and signature cocktails, each crafted with attention to detail and a spirit of experimentation. Every plate is designed not just to satisfy, but to surprise, reinforcing the restaurant’s philosophy of “bold bites made to share.”

For those who prefer to stay dry during the festive water fights, Tora Tapas offers a practical alternative: their menu is available for takeaway via Grab, allowing customers to enjoy the same high-quality food from the comfort of home, without risking a soaking.

Open daily and ideally suited for everything from brunch to late-night drinks, Tora Tapas captures the spirit of Pattaya itself, diverse, energetic, and endlessly inviting. Whether you are seeking a lively night out, a relaxed evening outdoors, or simply exceptional food, this rising hotspot delivers on all fronts.

This Songkran, as the celebrations continue across the city, Tora Tapas stands out as a place where flavour, atmosphere, and community come together making it a must-visit addition to Pattaya’s dining scene.

Website:
https://www.toratapas.com/
Social Media:
Instagram: @toratapaspattaya
Facebook: Tora Tapas Pattaya

Location Address:
Tora Tapas Restaurant & Bar
672/21 Moo 5, Na Klua, Bang Lamung, Chon Buri 20150
Thailand

Sponsored content.

For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.

The post Tora Tapas: A Look at Pattaya’s Fantastic Dining Hotspot Blending Flavour, Music, and Atmosphere! appeared first on Pattaya Unplugged.

Songkran is one of the most exciting times in Thailand.

But let’s be honest, not everyone wants to get soaked.

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with choosing to stay dry this Songkran. In fact, more people are embracing a quieter, more convenient way to celebrate.

That’s where the Fu King Chinese Restaurant comes in.

With the countdown to Songkran started I wanted to check out places that deliver over the water pistol days. I decided to try a takeaway from Fu King Restaurant Chinese after coming across their Facebook page that led me to Grab, and I have to say, it turned out to be one of those rare finds that instantly earns a place in your regular rotation. The page itself shows dishes that look “well-balanced” and “easy to enjoy in every bite,” which set my expectations fairly high before I even placed the order, and thankfully, it lived up to that promise.

From the moment I placed the order, everything felt smooth and efficient. The delivery arrived exactly on time, and what really impressed me was that the food was still piping hot despite the distance it had travelled. That’s not something you always get with takeaway, and it immediately set a positive tone before I’d even opened the containers.

The standout dish for me was the beef in black bean sauce. Honestly, this is a dish I’ve had countless times over the years, both in restaurants and as takeaway, and this version ranks firmly in my top 10 of all time. And I have had a few. The beef was tender, the sauce rich and deeply savoury, and everything was perfectly balanced. If I had to guess the secret to the best beef and black bean recipe, it’s all about layering flavours: a proper fermented black bean base, garlic, a touch of sweetness, and just the right level of heat, all brought together without overpowering the natural taste of the beef. This one nailed it.

The chicken fried rice was equally impressive, an easy 10 out of 10. Each grain was cooked just right, not greasy, with plenty of flavour and generous portions of chicken throughout. It complemented the beef perfectly and could easily stand on its own as a main dish.

Another detail that didn’t go unnoticed was the drinks. They arrived properly chilled, not lukewarm like you sometimes get, which shows a level of care that goes beyond just the food. On top of that, they offer some genuinely great daily deals, making the whole experience even better value for money.

All in all, I would definitely eat here again. It’s not often you find a place that ticks every box, quality, consistency, timing, and value—but this one does. Safe to say, I’m glad to have found my new go-to place for Chinese food.

Stay dry. Stay comfortable. Let Fu King Restaurant bring the celebration to you. Available on LINE, Grab, and Shoppee Food as part of over 20 restaurants from Virtual Kitchen! And yes, the name is really Fu King

For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.

The post Guest Food Review: Skip the Splash, Keep the Flavor During Songkran Delivered by Fu King Chinese Food appeared first on Pattaya Unplugged.

Pattaya’s official Songkran festivities this year run from April 17th to the 19th, 2026, transforming the city into a major water festival destination. The main action centers on Pattaya Beach Road, featuring multiple concert stages and activities. While the event promises non-stop fun, officials are implementing strict traffic measures to ensure safety amid expected large crowds, especially on the final day.

April 17–18: Main Festival Days
The primary zone is Pattaya Beach Road
Five concert stages and various activities will keep the atmosphere lively.
Daytime: Normal vehicle access remains open.
Nighttime: More than 800 police officers and volunteers will manage traffic across Pattaya and Jomtien.

April 19: Wan Lai Pattaya The Biggest Day
Crowds are expected to be significantly larger than previous days as people flock to the beach and indeed all of Pattaya for the traditional “Wan Lai” water fights.

Beach Road Closure: The 3-kilometer stretch of Pattaya Beach Road will be completely closed to all traffic from the Dolphin Roundabout to the Wat Chai Mongkol intersection.
Time: 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM (noon to midnight).

Emergency Access: Sois 1 through 13/4 (connecting Beach Road to Second Road) will remain open exclusively for emergency vehicles. Residents and visitors are strongly requested not to park in these lanes to ensure ambulances and rescue teams can pass freely. Regular traffic will NOT be allowed on these sois.

Parking Options: Ample parking will be available at shopping malls and public lots in the northern, central, and southern zones of the city.

Travel Advice
Organizers recommend planning ahead to fully enjoy the festivities. Leaving private vehicles at home and using public transport or designated parking is strongly advised, it will make the experience far more enjoyable and help reduce congestion.

Songkran and Wan Lai in Pattaya combine traditional Thai New Year water fights with modern concerts and beach parties, drawing both locals and international tourists. While the event is expected to be highly entertaining, cooperation with traffic measures will help keep everyone safe and ensure smooth operations throughout the celebrations.

For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.

The post Pattaya Prepares for Massive Crowds During Songkran and Wan Lai Festival Big Days Next Weekend appeared first on Pattaya Unplugged.

Organized by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Pattaya Office, Pattaya City, and the Chonburi Provincial Cultural Office along with MONOMAX, the event is to elevate Thailand’s Songkran festival to a global stage. The festival runs from April 17 to 19, 2026, from 12:00 PM to midnight daily at Pattaya Central Beach. Admission is free, though visitors are encouraged to pre-register via the PEEP SHARE application.

The event promises a full spectrum of activities along the beach, including intense water play zones, live concerts featuring top Thai artists, and cultural experiences that mix music, sports, and Thai heritage.

A focus is the “Sard Sin Rim Thale – The Charm of Songkran in Pattaya” project, which offers spaces to preserve Thai traditions. Visitors can participate in water-pouring rituals on sacred Buddha images and relics from all four regions of Thailand, as well as the province’s revered Buddha statues, for blessings in the Thai New Year. Additional cultural attractions include sand pagoda sculptures, folk dance performances, traditional Thai games, a “Taste, Shop, and See” zone featuring regional Thai cuisine and community products, and a tourism exhibition showcasing all 11 districts of Chonburi Province.

Music lovers will enjoy a powerhouse lineup of Thailand’s leading artists performing across the three days, including:

INK Waruntorn, Tattoo Colour, 4EVE, Jeff Satur, New Country, Lipta, PROXIE, THX, F.HERO, INDIGO, Maiyarap, and Joey Boy.

On April 19th, the excitement continues with a live broadcast of the English Premier League match between Liverpool and Everton, allowing football fans to cheer along the beach on large screens.

INK Waruntorn, Jeff Satur, and 4EVE, some of the event’s artists, shared their excitement:
“We feel thrilled and truly honored to be part of Pattaya’s Wan Lai this year. It’s a festival that beautifully combines concerts with traditional Thai Songkran culture. We invite everyone to come join the fun, splash water, and create wonderful memories together. This event is guaranteed to be packed with excitement in every dimension and will be an absolute blast by the beach!”

The festival offers a fresh dimension of entertainment tourism, perfectly fusing tradition and modern vibes right on Pattaya’s iconic shoreline.

Mark your calendars and get ready to party: “Pattaya Songkran Wan Lai 2026” takes place April 17–19, 2026, at Pattaya Central Beach. Pre-register via the PEEP SHARE app for easy access.

#MONOMAXวันไหลพัทยา2026 #MonomaxSongkranPattaya #วันไหลพัทยา2026

This press release was provided by the Public Relations Department of Mono Next Public Company Limited.

For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.

The post Pattaya to Host Epic “Songkran Wan Lai 2026” Beach Festival with Star-Studded Lineup and Non-Stop Entertainment appeared first on Pattaya Unplugged.

Then morning arrives, and suddenly your body feels like it’s been through a full-contact sporting event. Your head is pounding, your energy has vanished, and even standing upright feels like an ambitious life choice.

The reason Songkran hits so hard isn’t just the partying, it’s the science quietly working against you. Even though you’re drenched all day, your body is losing fluids continuously through sweat in the tropical heat. Add alcohol into the mix, and things escalate quickly. Alcohol interferes with your body’s ability to retain water, increasing fluid loss and accelerating dehydration.

At the same time, essential electrolytes like sodium and magnesium are depleted, which contributes to fatigue, dizziness, and that foggy, sluggish feeling. Throw in late nights and poor sleep, and your body simply doesn’t get the chance to recover properly. The result is a hangover that feels stronger, longer, and far less forgiving than usual.

Most people respond the traditional way: They drink water, grab some food, and attempt to sleep it off. While these methods are helpful, they tend to work slowly, especially when your body is already running on empty.

Hydration through drinking relies on absorption through the digestive system, which takes time, and by the time you start feeling better, half your day can already be gone.

This is where IV hydration has gained attention as a faster alternative.

Clinics such as RejuveHub offer IV recovery treatments designed to deliver fluids and nutrients directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the slower digestive process. From a physiological perspective, this allows for rapid rehydration and immediate replenishment of key vitamins and electrolytes. Ingredients commonly included in these treatments, such as vitamin C, NAC, vitamin B complex, and magnesium, play roles in supporting energy production, reducing oxidative stress, and aiding the body’s natural recovery processes.

Many people report feeling noticeably better within a relatively short time, often under an hour, which can make a significant difference during a multi-day festival.
Songkran is not just a single event but an ongoing celebration, and how quickly you recover can shape your entire experience. Spending your days recovering in bed is hardly the goal when the streets are alive with energy. Taking care of hydration and recovery allows you to enjoy more of what makes the festival special without losing time to fatigue.

In the end, Songkran should leave you with memories, not exhaustion. Understanding what your body is going through, and giving it the support it needs, can mean the difference between surviving the festival and fully enjoying it. As a note, the five pictures in this article are great tips from Rejuvehub on staying healthy during Songkran!

For more information on special Songkran IV drip promotions n Rejuvehub click or tap here!

For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.

The post Songkran Survival Guide: How Not to Feel Like a Melted Ice Cube the Next Day! appeared first on Pattaya Unplugged.

Lawson (108) is a well-known Japanese convenience store franchise founded in 1975, renowned for its fresh, high-quality ready-to-eat meals, snacks, and beverages. With thousands of stores across Japan and several other countries, Lawson has built a strong reputation for offering authentic Japanese favorites such as oden, bento boxes, onigiri, sandwiches, and seasonal desserts, all available 24 hours a day in a clean and convenient environment.

The new store, which began operations on April 9th, 2026, is open 24 hours a day, providing convenient round-the-clock access for shoppers and tourists in the bustling Pattaya area.

Customers can now enjoy a wide selection of authentic Japanese-style products, including popular favorites such as Oden, Bento boxes, fresh sandwiches, and a variety of delicious desserts. The store wants to bring a genuine taste of Japan to Pattaya with its carefully curated range of ready-to-eat meals and snacks.

To celebrate the grand opening, Lawson is offering attractive promotions from April 9 to April 12, 2026, or while stocks last:

– Promotion 1: Buy 1 Get 1 FREE on Coffee
– Promotion 2: Spend 200 THB and receive a FREE gift

Both promotions are exclusive to Lawson Members.

The grand opening has generated excitement among locals and visitors alike, who can now experience Lawson’s signature convenience and quality at the heart of Pattaya’s Royal Garden Plaza.

For more information, visit the store at Royal Garden Plaza Pattaya or follow Lawson Thailand on social media.

For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.

The post Lawson Opens First Flagship Store in Pattaya at Royal Garden Plaza appeared first on Pattaya Unplugged.

The parade is scheduled for Friday, April 17th, 2026, at 3:30 PM. The procession will begin at the Pattaya Central Intersection and proceed to Royal Garden Plaza Pattaya. Authorities will temporarily close one lane of traffic on the beach side to facilitate the event and minimize disruptions to traffic flow.

The organizing committee recently met with Pattaya city executives to invite the Pattaya Mayor to participate and to request full support for traffic management and security along the parade route.

The Pattaya Mayor expressed strong backing for the parade, stating that the city is ready to work with all sectors and provide comprehensive support. The goal is to add vibrancy to tourism, enhance the city’s image, and join in congratulating Chonburi’s representative on her national achievement.

The Pattaya News notes this will also be during the three day city Songkran/Wan Lai festival and will be another event to attract visitors.

News: Ms. Natthacha Traipiphat
Photos: Mr. Somprasong Phochonphan
Public Relations Division
Tourism and Sports Office

Note: The winner of Miss Grand Thailand 2026 is Patthama Jitsawat (also known as Ning Patthama), representing Chonburi!

For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.

The post Pattaya to Host Grand Parade Celebrating Miss Grand Thailand 2026 Winner from Chonburi appeared first on Pattaya Unplugged.

As one of Thailand’s most dynamic tourism destinations, Pattaya has long been powered by a deep pool of hospitality talent. But as the industry becomes more sophisticated and globally competitive, experience alone is no longer enough.

According to Chris Meylan, COO of the Asian Institute of Hospitality & Management (AIHM), the conversation is shifting—from experience to expertise.

From Experience to Professionalisation

“Pattaya has always had strong operational talent,” Meylan explains. “But today, the expectations of guests—and employers—have changed significantly.”

With international brands, evolving guest expectations, and increasing competition across Asia, hospitality professionals are now expected to bring more than hands-on experience. Formal qualifications are becoming a key differentiator.

“We’re seeing more working professionals actively seeking structured education,” he says. “They recognise that career progression—especially into management—requires a deeper understanding of leadership, finance, and global standards.”

The Skills Gap in a Changing Industry

While Pattaya’s workforce is experienced, there are clear areas where development is needed.

“The most common gaps we see are in leadership and people management,” Meylan notes. “Many professionals have grown through operational roles but haven’t had formal training in managing teams, making strategic decisions, or understanding financial performance.”

Equally critical is the growing importance of digital capability.

“Hospitality is no longer just about service—it’s about data, revenue optimisation, and increasingly, digital and AI-driven decision-making,” he adds. “Professionals need to be comfortable operating in that environment.”

This combination—leadership, financial literacy, and digital awareness—is now essential for those aiming to move into senior roles.

Studying Without Stepping Away from Work

One of the biggest barriers to further education has traditionally been time. For many professionals, leaving full-time employment simply isn’t an option.

Meylan is clear: “It has to be realistic. If education requires people to step away from their careers, it becomes inaccessible to most of the workforce.”

This is where flexible learning models come in.

“Programmes today are designed to fit around working schedules,” he explains. “That means modular learning, blended delivery, and practical application that connects directly to the workplace.”

Rather than interrupting careers, education becomes part of ongoing professional development.

Programmes Designed for Career Progression

At the centre of AIHM’s offering is the Postgraduate Diploma in International Hospitality Management, designed specifically for professionals looking to step into leadership roles.

“This programme is ideal for supervisors, managers, or even career switchers who want to accelerate their progression,” Meylan says. “It combines strategic thinking, leadership development, and a strong understanding of global hospitality practices.”

For those earlier in their management journey, the Certificate in International Hotel Administration provides a more focused pathway.

“It’s about strengthening operational knowledge while introducing key management concepts,” he explains. “It gives professionals the structure they need to move from operational roles into supervisory or managerial positions.”

Alongside these, AIHM offers short executive courses and professional development programmes, which Meylan describes as “highly targeted and practical.”

“Not everyone needs a full qualification at once,” he says. “Sometimes professionals need specific skills—whether that’s revenue management, leadership, or digital tools—and short courses allow them to upskill quickly and efficiently.”

Real Career Outcomes

The impact of these programmes is tangible.

“We see graduates moving into supervisory and management roles, taking on greater responsibility, and in many cases transitioning into international career opportunities,” Meylan notes.

Formal qualifications also provide credibility in an increasingly competitive job market.

“When you combine experience with an internationally recognised qualification, it significantly strengthens a professional’s profile,” he says. “It shows not only capability, but commitment to growth.”

Raising Standards Across Pattaya

Beyond individual careers, Meylan believes upskilling has a broader impact on the city itself.

“As more professionals gain formal training, the overall standard of service and management improves,” he explains. “That has a direct effect on Pattaya’s reputation as a global destination.”

In a market where travellers have more choices than ever, consistency and quality are critical.

“Investing in people is ultimately investing in the destination,” he says. “A highly skilled workforce strengthens the entire hospitality ecosystem—from hotels and restaurants to tourism and service industries.”

A More Accessible Future for Hospitality Education

What is changing most, Meylan concludes, is accessibility.

“International-standard education is no longer something professionals have to leave Thailand to access,” he says. “It’s available here, in Pattaya, and it’s designed to work alongside their careers.”

For a city built on hospitality, that shift could prove transformative—empowering professionals to grow, lead, and compete on a truly global stage, without stepping away from the industry they are already helping to shape.

For more info:

official website is www.aihm.ac.th and email address is

contactus@aihm.ac.th or

www.aihm.education and contactus@aihm.education)

For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.

The post Upskilling Pattaya’s Hospitality Workforce appeared first on Pattaya Unplugged.

Many of our readers will remember Mr. Elson as the popular owner of a local restaurant, Tropical/Tropical Berts, as well as for his dedicated service as the long-time British Honorary Consul in Pattaya. He was also highly active with the Royal British Legion, where he made significant contributions over the years.

During his tenure as Honorary Consul, Mr. Elson assisted numerous British nationals in distress and was widely regarded for his professionalism, compassion, and approachability by both the expatriate community and local authorities.

His retirement in 2023, after a decade in the role, as we covered here, was marked with gratitude and recognition from the British Embassy and those he had helped.Mr. Elson’s passing is a significant loss to Pattaya’s British and international community. He will be remembered for his kindness, public service, and the positive impact he made on so many lives.

Rest in peace, Mr. Bert Elson.

For those who wish to pay their respects, the details of the funeral ceremony, including times and location, are provided below.Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who knew him during this difficult time.

For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.

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