Living in Jomtien offers various pros and cons for expats considering this beachfront area. Pros include proximity to Bangkok, nice condos, beautiful beaches, access to affordable food options, and generally a more relaxed atmosphere than nearby Pattaya. However, there are notable cons as well, such as the struggles with the local immigration office, a perception of being too close to Pattaya's nightlife, fewer recreational activities, and the notable presence of foreign communities, particularly Russians. Overall, Jomtien is favored for its affordability and lifestyle, though it may not be seen as a true representation of traditional Thai life.
Pat ****
Pros: many pros in the bars
Cons: many cons to fall for
Dan ********
Cons….it’s basically Pattaya and lots of Russians.
Pros….Nah,can’t think of any.
Andy *******
Many Pro's & Cons. I liked it for 8 months. Far enough away from the noise/wildlife and close enough to enjoy it, on occasion. The final straw were the # of drunk Europeans, many in only Speedo's.
Martin ********
Pros: It sucks.
Cons: It sucks.
Lawrence *******
A lot of "pros" live there to take care of farang clientele. A ton of "cons" choose to live there to victimize tourists following release from prison.
Paul *******
Pros: little mask wearing and almost no Covid Karens. Lots of foreigners to make you feel comfortable.
Cons: perhaps a little expensive. Not considered to be "the real Thailand" by some.
Alan ******
The pro,a are your not in pattaya lol, over hyped, overrated, drunken farangs on bikes every single day, cocky arrogant piss heads, other than that, it's ok.
Russell *********
Con: you will be living in a Russian community. I guess that could be a pro depending on how you feel.
Obviously, considering the hilly terrain in parts of Jomtien. Pattaya only really floods along beach road and nearby areas, since there is a slope as you move further inland.
Obviously? Most middle class and upper class residents of Bangkok own a car and often a motorcycle too. This includes expats. I'd say if you didn't, you were an exception.
mmm i know many foreigners and none of them owns cars nor motorbikes… taxis are too cheap in bkk to buy a vehicle (pay insurance, parking, fuel, incur in police checks, etc etc)
i live in bkk for several years…. i OBVIOUSLY don’t have neither a car nor a motorbike. that’s simply perfect. ok i agree that bkk and pty are different…
Pros ; plenty of stuff happening , lots a great golf courses , awesome inexpensive food options , close to Bangkok , can live anyway you like , can be super fit or a complete slob , as much Thai or Western as you like .
Cons ; the immigration office arrrggh ( no thanks , so much easier here ) Main beaches are not great , that the ferry to HH is no longer .
James *******
Pros: Nice condos, nice beach, Direct bus to BKK.Short drive from Pattaya.
Cons: Not much to do nearby.
Richard **************
I agree that the immigration office is horrible. Fewer tourists. I just left On Nut last week. I did like having everything I need close by including soi 30 and 33 if you know what I mean and I think you do.
Mike *******
My advice would be don't be in a rush to live anywhere travel Thailand and see what fits for you. I've lived a few places in Thailand now and prefer the islands in the south currently 2 years in koh tao. Rent fully furnished place a month at time and when you find what makes you happiest then make the decision.
Ricky ******
Watch Everything Pattaya on YouTube. Daz is a great blogger, and everything is covered
We enjoy the OnNut area. There now, and will be for a few months. We enjoy Bangkok life, and no small reason is the public transportation - makes it so easy to get around. For us, while we enjoy Jomtien & Pattaya, Bangkok has so much more to offer. And a weekend or week long trip to Pattaya area seems to be enough.