The bay of Pattaya runs from Hat Pattaya, the largest beach in the resort, through its curved length and along to quieter Hat Jomtien. While being only two hours from the capital city of Bangkok it feels a world away although you should consider combining the two destinations for an excellent twin-centre holiday. 

The resort is reached by flying into Bangkok International Airport (BKK), after a flight time of around 11 hours from the UK. Transfers are quick and easy to Pattaya's resorts. And there's plenty to do in Pattaya once you've arrived at your accommodation and unpacked your warm-weather wardrobe.

Watersports are hugely popular during Pattaya holidays, with jet skiing and parasailing to be had above the shimmering surface, and the exploration of coral reef and wrecks under the water for keen divers. There are a number of golf courses too, if you fancy putting your way around Pattaya. 

Attractions include Mini Siam, which is home to tiny versions of Thailand's landmarks and historical sites, such as those found in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. The Elephant Village is open to the public and offers a glimpse of the country's orphaned elephants. More elephants are on show at Nong Nooch Paradise, where traditional Thai performances take place amid the beauty of the Tropical Gardens.

You could also sail away from the hustle and bustle of Pattaya for a while and visit the islands of Koh Larn, Koh Krok and Koh Sak, where brilliant white beaches will dazzle visitors.

But it's when night falls that Pattaya offers what it does best: invigorating nightlife. Pattaya is the entertainment capital of the mainland and this wild-child town will not disappoint if you're after busy bars and thumping clubs. Walking Street is a red-light district and the area is bustling with tourists, both men and women, of all ages and from every corner of the globe.

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It's a rare day in Pattaya that the temperature drops below 30C, with the highest evening temperatures to be enjoyed between April and August. 

Rain can fall at any time here, and the driest time to visit is from December to March. However, rain showers often come and go and in no time at all the sun is back out and shining.

Wan Lai; April: Also known as Songkran, this is a wild water-throwing event, to mark the New Year on the Buddhist calendar, that will have you drenched and laughing. It used to be the young pouring water on the old, then on the images of Buddha, then on everyone. The traditions still exist, but the water throwing has become the star of the show.

Pattaya Festival; April: Join in the fun of the festival in April as Pattaya puts on a show of dancing, singing, music, Thai boxing, parades, partying and plenty of local food. Pattaya Vegetarian.

Festival; September/October: The Chinese community play a part in this 11-day event, which features huge amounts of vegetarian food and a grand procession featuring Chinese deities. It is traditional for attendees to wear white. 

Relaxing: For a taste of incredible Thai architecture, take a trip to the Sanctuary of Truth. Made entirely from wood, this peaceful and serene building is filled with intricate carvings of Hindu and Buddhist gods and goddesses.

Active types: Jump into Pattaya's turquoise sea and experience the wide variety of water sports on offer. Parasailing and diving are popular here, so get your adrenaline pumping!

Grown-up families: Explore the beautiful tropical gardens of Nong Nooch Paradise. This adventure park has something for all the family including Thai cultural shows, elephant rides, a mini zoo and a sports car collection. 

Shopping: Pattaya has a selection of shopping malls as well as its Four Regions Floating Market which combines both cultural shows and local handicrafts from all over Thailand.