I expect to go to Pattaya in a couple of weeks for the first time in maybe ten years. I would appreciate suggestions for hotel/guest house. I am basically cheap - in Bangkok I stay at the Malaysia, but might go a bit upmarket in Pattaya.

Also, what is the going tip rate in Pattaya - not stingy, not over generous. When I was last there, 500-600 baht seemed fine, but I assume it is more now (like everything else).

Thanks.

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There's a lot of possible responses to either question. Regarding accomodation, if you want inexpensive and near Sunnee, Howard's Guesthouse is reasonable: ::: Howards Pattaya :::

If you want slightly more expensive to decidely more expensive and in Boyztown, there are the traditional Ambiance: Ambiance, premier deluxe gay hotel in Pattaya, Thailand and Le Cafe Royale: Reservations - Le Café Royale Hotel Restaurant & Piano Bar Pattaya Thailand

There are many other possibilities, including staying in Jomtien.

As to tips, I would say the minimum is B1000 to B1500. Better service or overnight would be B1500 to B2000.

I'm sure the kee nieow will say that's too much.

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My last visit there (in December) I stayed at the Poseidon in Jomtien and was more than satisfied. Not cheap, but not too expensive.

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Too right mate!! I am in Pattaya a lot! I have never paid more than 1,000 for an overnight stay and never had a hint of complaint. With the lack of customers at the moment I doubt 500 would be sniffed at, (especially for short time) but I think 1,000 is fair to both parties. I always offer them a feed as well, both before and in the morning, plus the contents of my "cocktail cabinet," use of internet etc. Treat them as friend and the money is a welcome bonus.

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I'm in Pattaya more or less permanently and don't want to take advantage of the economic slow down to exploit anyone... nor do I wish to get a bad reputation in my home town.

I've been with boys who have seen some familiar farang, which prompted either some contemptuous tales about their sticky-shittedness or favorable comments about how “good” he is. I even know someone who hasn’t worked in the bars for 5 years and still, if we are together at Jomtien and he spots a couple of old time regulars, he mutters “there sticky shit!”

I don’t go into the bars that often, but when I do I’d prefer to be thought of kindly and, considering the tough economic times, I’d prefer to be a little too generous to help these guys survive. They of course get fed and can watch TV or use the Internet if they are interested.

I try to be generous with friends. Paying them as little as possible and giving them a little food & booze seems an odd approach to friendship.

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Please don't tell me that Bt 1,000 in hand is not generous ! You also ignore the fact that for many UK and Ausse clients (whether tourists or retired ) the value of their $ or GBP is now worth 30% less than last year. Add on drinks, off fees, meals and often a little "shopping trip" for essentials like new jeans, T shirts, runners etc, and I am very comfortable with my treatment and respect for these boys. ... and they are invariably very happy to cum back for seconds whenever if I repeat.

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So these impoverished tourists are getting reduced prices at the hotels & restaurants? Or is stiffing the boys just the easiest way to save money?

If I can't afford something, I either go without or do with less, I don't expect businesses to adjust their prices based on my income of the moment.

Yes and I imagine they tell you they love you and you're sexy and their sister needs an operation.

Of course they act happy in the hopes they get a better tip. Behind your back they may feel otherwise.

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Actually this isn't such a bad idea.

I'm just going down to the supermarket now. I plan to put about B 1500 to B2000 worth of things in my cart. When I get to the check-out, I'm going to tell the clerk that I want her to be my friend and that some of my investments haven't been doing so well recently.

I'm sure if I hand over B1000 she won't complain.Just the opportunity to be my friend should be enough, so the money will be a welcome bonus!

After all, why should they be shielded from the slow down.

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