Serviced Apartments On Beach Resorts Tourism Essay

Serviced Apartments On set down mends Tourism strainA preliminary computer simulation of descent reading factors was created from both literature review and interviews conducted with global serviced apartment operators in Singapore. Subsequently, the model was being tested in a typesetters case cogitation visit to Pattaya. The field cogitation encompassed observations, interviews with g every arrangenment officials, serviced apartment operators and facilities operators. Through these modes of information gathering, the pilot model of business instruction factors was modified. A post model was drawn up to acquaint the final list of business development factors, as wellnessy as terce other complementary factors which affect the setting up of serviced apartments indirectly. primal findings complicate the importance of extended checkout commercialises, sources of expatriates, a possible and well-situated touring car market, good deport connectivity, avail dexterity of facilities, proactive government support, elevated level of bail and safety, warm and stable climate as well as affordability of the topical anaestheticization. The prospective development of serviced apartments on bound employs is similarly explored to include the possibility of venture into timesharing, vacation club, fractional property ownership or hybrids of the above mentioned.The history of bank resorts, or seaside resorts, dates back to enormous Britain in the mid 18th century. Back then, visitors often went to bound resorts for their latest practice of sunbathing in a belief that it will help in disease treatment (The great British seaside resort a brief history, 2009). However, times have changed and this curve has replacemented from Europe to Asia peaceable. Hobson (1994) identified that future gain in the Asia Pacific region will be center on the expansion of resort-type terminuss, particularly in countries such(prenominal) as Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia.With the development of strand resorts in Asia Pacific, try-on has changed within varied stages of development, as reflected in the Beach furbish up Model (Smith, 1991). Serviced apartments ar one of the radicaler trying on types implant on rim resorts, arising from the ineluctably of modern travellers such as expatriates who be trying an extended confront in a location, and families who intend to impediment in a location for a greater holiday.As hardly a(prenominal) studies have been done on serviced apartments on brim resorts, a case learn on Pattaya beach resort was done to dampen toil the business development characteristics for establishing serviced apartments at that channelise.ObjectivesThis paper firstly aims to suffer insights on the latest growth and penetration of serviced apartments on beach resorts. Secondly, it seeks to recommend a model of business development factors that lead to the growth of serviced apartments in Pattaya and too brings crosswise how these factors whitethorn influence beach development and vice-versa. Finally, the implications of the business development factors to divers(a) stakeholders of serviced apartments argon studied.ScopeThis paper is written in the context of beach resorts in Asia Pacific.Value of ResearchThis paper provides knowledge about the different business development factors in contributing to the success of serviced apartments on beach resorts. Various stakeholders, especially developers and operators who argon interested in establishing serviced apartments in Pattaya, will find this knowledge useful. For owners and operators of existing properties, this knowledge burn enhance their management abilities.LimitationsBeing full-time undergraduates, this study was conducted on a part-time basis. As such, only when one case study was conducted collectible(p) to time and cypher constraints. Additionally, the topic of serviced apartments on beach resorts is dummy up relat ively sweet and non widely explored. Therefore, there is restrain information available. Further to a greater extent than, available publications mostly focussed on the Western context, thereof not specific to Asia Pacific.CHAPTER 2 books REVIEWServiced ApartmentsDefinitionWhile there is no standard comment of a serviced apartment, serviced apartments argon typically considered to purport self-contained accommodation with redundant serve. The apartment will generally include a small kitchen or kitchenette, with a living room in addition to the bedroom(s), or a studio bedroom (Foxley, 2001). Apartments atomic number 18 cleaned weekly and more than often if node prefers, and a round-the-clock reception desk for queries and advice is usually available (Collins, 2007). The appeal of serviced apartments is that they offer the comfort and facilities of a hotel, with the privacy and facilities of denture (Foxley, 2001). In addition, it is a cost-effective accommodation sol ution as guests ride outing for longer periods of 7 nighttimes or more will normally benefit from a reduced price per night (The Association of Serviced Apartment Providers, 2009).Globally, serviced apartments be sometimes referred to as serviced residences, condotels, extended stay hotels, and the like (Serviced Apartments Association Singapore, 2005).Target SegmentsWith changing work practices and attachd globalization of business, business executives atomic number 18 increasingly required to work away from home on a short to medium term basis (Foxley, 2001). Hence, serviced apartments provide the perfect solution for this group of professionals, who form the primary segment for serviced apartments. With a relatively long stay away from home, these business executives seek more space and a friendly home-from-home feel (Fearis, 2006). Besides business travellers, leisure time markets with an extended stay intention argon withal tailed by serviced apartment operators (Harris , 2008). Greater international leisure travel and a ontogenesis expressive style towards taking extended breaks between jobs, vacations and working(a)-holi geezerhood ar also resulting in the remove for temporary accommodation (Foxley, 2001). Families form an integral part of the leisure market as the space and facilities serviced apartments offer suits their needs.Current Trends and GrowthServiced apartments business has been growing at 15-20% annually comp argond to a modest 6-8% notched by hotels (Choudhury, 2009). correspond to STR Global, demand for extended-stay accommodation had been growing by 4.9% in 2004, the fastest run since 2000, and surpassing the 4.6% jump reported for the overall hotel manufacturing (Ligos, 2005). One pigment driver for this trend is tight corporeal budgets. The recent global stinting turmoil forced many companies to reduce their travel expenses in an set about to minimise costs, allowing serviced apartment operators to ride on this by mat ching limited budgets with competitive prices (Chinmaneevong, 2009). This was reflected in Asia, where demand for serviced apartments remains high despite the crisis (Harris, 2008). The make up in supply of serviced apartments is throw out bolstered by the predicted continuous growth in global business travel, with Asia Pacific being poised for substantial growth between 2008 and 2013 (NBTA/IHS Global Insight, 2009).Another driver for this surge in popularity of extended-stay hotels is that more companies ar willing to pay to relocate new employees (NBTA/IHS Global Insight, 2009), or send them for cross-b hunting lodge corporate training plans (Foxley, 2001). Employers regard this as an investment collect to the lack of qualified and travellled labour (NBTA/IHS Global Insight, 2009). The percentage of such willing employers has change magnitude from 2007 to 2008 by 14% (Fryson, 2008).LocationsThe locations of serviced apartments will determine the blend in of studios, one-be droom and two-bedroom apartments (Geieregger Oehmichen, 2008), as well as the quality of accommodation and service (Foxley, 2001). Typically, serviced apartments atomic number 18 found in urbanised locations (Harris, 2008), where many multinational companies establish their supply or manufacturing plants. This facilitates movement of business executives in cities for meetings and conventions. However, serviced apartments can also be found along beaches.Beach remedy DevelopmentBeach resorts atomic number 18 defined as geographic atomic number 18as offering a variety of facilities, services and activities which be orientated towards seaside recreation for the accommodation, use and enjoyment of visitors (Smith, 1991).Resort morphology goes by dint of a predictable sequence of stages from pre- tourerry low through high-density development to an urbanised state (Andriotis, 2006 Smith, 1992). Barrett (1958) first noted the significance of the seafront in the structure and locat ion of the commercial core, distinct zonation of accommodation types which expands in a semi-circular fashion inland from the commercial core and an elongation of settlement pair to the coast. Stansfield (1970) later observed the development of the Recreational Business District (RBD) consisting mainly retail, food and beverage and entertainment services along the beach front. The commercial-grade Business District (CBD) is distinctly separated from the RBD and commonly found more inland. Pigram (1977) noted that improved public remove played a meaning(a) part in the arrangement and evolution of zones of land-use. In addition, recreational businesses and accommodation establishments tend to orientate themselves on study access routes to the resorts.Smith (1991) created the Beach Resort Model (BRM) which describes ad-hoc beach development from stages 1 to 8. The stages were determined by 6 categories of change morphology, physical, surroundingsal, social, economic and polit ical. Four coastal resorts in Asia Pacific were studied in developing the BRM however, it can still be use at abundant to other coastal resorts. BRM documents the start of a beach resort from a settlement in pre-tourism datum to a in full urbanised city resort. appointment Development on Beach ResortsAccommodation at resorts fall into two groups traditional and self-catering (Stallibrass, 1980). Traditional accommodation includes in the flesh(predicate) service both in the private rooms and public areas spot self-catering accommodation is self-contained, with its own kitchen facilities.Accommodations on beach resorts frequently start with atomic go 16 homes, followed by hotels which are the traditional accommodation (Smith, 1991). There would be morphological changes to accommodation typically at the last two stages of the BRM, because resorts mature and press accommodation bases diversify to include significant components of all classes of accommodation (Smith, 1991). In a ddition, changes experienced when a beach matures, such as greater approachability and new facilities, results in visitor profile changes (Strapp, 1988). This also affects the type of accommodation in demand.Multi-titled tourism accommodations (MTTA), which include serviced apartments, have been on the rise delinquent to lower financial risks compared to single-titled properties, and the king-sizer target market available due to its mixed use ( holidaymakers and residential) (Warnken, Guilding, Cassidy, 2008). MTTA complexes now represent an integral part of, or even dominate many popular seaside and ski resorts in many move of the developed world (Warnken Guilding, 2009).Serviced Apartments on Beach ResortsIn later stages of beach development, beach resorts may start to see year-around residency. The area could engender more of a residential community with hatful staying well former(prenominal) the traditional tourist season (Strapp, 1988). Anecdotal show suggests an inc rease in demand for self-catering short holidays (long weekends up to one week) amongst two-year-old families and self-catering accommodation for increasingly wealthy retirees (Warnken et al., 2008). Together with increased demand for accommodation, suppliers are encouraged to add higher quality infrastructure typified by a shift from inexpensive motels to resort apartments such as serviced apartments (Prideaux, 2000). Majority of internet accommodation search engines for study coatings returned listings with MTTA-style complexes (Warnken et al., 2008), and these include serviced apartments.Reasons which could have spurred the establishment of serviced apartments on beach resorts encompass the followingbearing of an expatriate market working in advanceby industrial hubs requiring temporary accommodation (Appendix A, B C)Presence of a retired silver-haired market moving to beach resorts during winter months in order to stay in warmer climates (Foster Murphy, 1991 Williams, Ki ng, Warnes, Patterson, 2000)Transport connectivity for convenient access to the beach resort (Appendix C)Top-notch facilities such as schools, medical safekeeping and entertainment (Appendix B)Serviced Apartments on Beach Resorts in Asia PacificServiced apartments were the fastest growing segment of the tourist accommodation sector in Australia during the late 1990s (Foxley, 2001). The number of serviced apartment properties in Gold Coast has been increasing over the past hardly a(prenominal) years. In 1998, the number of serviced apartment guest rooms was 3,180 (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 1999), tour in 2007, this number was 5,371 (BusinessGC, 2007). In the year ended June 2009, serviced apartments saw the strongest increase in establishments (0.9%) and room nights available (2.4%) out of all accommodation types, composition the motel and hotel sector experienced a contraction of 4.7% and 6.1% respectively in number of establishments (Tourism Queensland, 2009).Currently, here are not many major international operators placed on beach resorts in Asia Pacific. Some international operators feel that there are opportunities for serviced apartments to be located on beach resorts in the region. With intelligence information releases indicating the plans of Ascott and Oakwood to enter Pattaya, Thailand (The Ascott Limited, 2005 Viboonchart, 2009), it suggests that development of serviced apartments on beach resorts in other parts of Asia Pacific is gaining momentum. Currently, Frasers infirmaryity already has a property in Pattaya named Fraser Resort Pattaya.CHAPTER 3 PROPOSED MODEL OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT FACTORS FOR ESTABLISHING SERVICED APARTMENTS ON BEACH RESORTSThe percentage of the market has not been the main focus in existing search for the development of beach resorts. The following section takes a closer opine at market conditions and operation of the supply side in gain ground beach resort development, specifically the development of ac commodation to include serviced apartments. The three most important stakeholders in a beach resorts are guests (who are the main cause for incurd development) hosts (who by supporting development and by being involved in tourism contribute to the success of a destination) and politics (which influence overall development) (Andriotis, 2006). As such, the factors which are considered below are greatly influenced by characteristics of these three stakeholders.Industrial areas and city centresRelocation of corporate personnel would generate demand for serviced apartments. For beach resorts, there would usually be a presence of expatriates if there are nearby industrial areas and take city centres (Appendix A C). Moreover, coastal areas are emerging as major centres of economic activity and new powerhouses of tourism interest (Prideaux, 2009), possibly obstetrical delivery in an expatriate market. practicable and thriving tourist marketDuring weekends, serviced apartments target le isure travellers to fill rooms. This is supported by Foxleys (2001) observation of a trend amongst the international leisure travellers to take extended breaks. In addition, there is ostensibly an increase in demand for self-catering short holidays amongst young families (Warnken et al., 2008). Hence, a viable tourist market should also be present for serviced apartments to tap on. checkup tourism medical examination tourism has grown rapidly in the past decade (Connell, 2006). People travel long distances overseas to obtain medical, dental, and functional care mend simultaneously being holidaymakers. Reasons for the growth of this niche tourism are high costs of treatment in developed countries, long waiting lists, relative affordability of air travel, and favourable exchange rates (Connell, 2006).Medical tourism has grown in Thailand who deliberately linked medical care to tourism, hence boosting beaches attractions (Connell, 2006). The Phuket wellness and Travel website state s that it aims to combine health and holiday aspects of travel. Their health and holiday package could include hotel accommodation, pre-doctor appointment, sightseeing, island tours and night entertainment attraction bookings (Phuket Health Travel, 2009).As medical tourism gains popularity, operators may establish serviced apartments next to large hospitals to cater to this kind of demand (Sharma, 2005).Transport ConnectivityTransport access to the resort is likely a key determinant of the resorts rate and size of growth. Kim (1998) mentioned that the sagacity of tourism potential would place great emphasis on transport communications and general access to the area. As accessibility improves through new road, rail, sea and air services, new and more distant markets will be neck accessible (Prideaux, 2000). In addition, a good transport carcass is indispensable in bringing customers to the apartments doorsteps, and bringing customers to their destinations in the day.FacilitiesGues ts of serviced apartments require nearby facilities for underlying living essentials and recreational activities. Recreational activities include sports, shopping and entertainment (Prideaux, 2000), while basic essentials encompass healthcare and educational institutions. Healthcare and educational institutions are especially important for expatriates who have brought their families along when they are relocated by their companies (Appendix B).Political aspectsGovernment policies can hasten the development of beach resorts (Prideaux, 2000) and also implement favourable conditions to boost tourism which potentially encourages serviced apartment establishments due to healthy tourist market prospects. National Tourism Organizations are also responsible in wooing tourists to the country. Ooi (2002) discovered that the political environment can have a significant influence on the image of the destination and tourism promotion policies.Safety and SecuritySafety is a major concern for tou rists (Kim, 1998). Davidoff and Davidoff (1994) concluded that people would not travel to a location believed to be unsafe. Given that expatriates can stay up to a enormous period of time and may bring their families along when they are relocated, security for the family and self becomes an important concern.A summary of the above mentioned factors are structured into the table below dodge 1.pngThe factors identified above can possibly shape future growth and development of beach resorts. Additionally, they also caution in future planning by recognising supply short-comings and predicting rising needs of the market, allowing sufficient time and space for operators to cater to these trends.CHAPTER 4 RESEARCH methodologyCase SelectionThe case method (Yin, 2003) is used in this study and the unit of research is a beach resort. The case selected in this study is Pattaya. In Pattaya, there is one major international serviced apartment operator, Fraser Resort Pattaya. Interestingly, a huge industrial development is located east of Pattaya. As a developed beach resort, Pattaya has good facilities and infrastructure in place to support its tourism activities. These indicators provide an inkling of the entry of more international operators eventually, thus providing adequate data for this study.Data CollectionFormal interviews were conducted with major international serviced apartment operators headquartered in Singapore to gain a better understanding of the industry. A preliminary model was created through book, journal and internet research, newspapers and interviews in Singapore. A field study to Pattaya was then conducted from 8 to 11 December 2009 to collect primary data.Details of the site visit areInterview withan international service apartment operatorseveral local anaesthetic operatorsan official from the Tourism Authority of Thailand ( viscidness), Chon Buri (Pattaya)international hospitalsPhysical observations of the facilities, establishments and ge neral environmentSubsequently, a post-trip model was constructed. This is a refined and condensed model after further knowledge gathered through the field study. Complementary factors which contribute to the listed factors are also identified to provide a wider perspective.CHAPTER 5 PATTAYA CASEA seaside province located on Thailands east coast, Chon Buris scenic views earns itself a reputation as one of Thailands popular sanctuaries for holiday retreats. Situated near the city of Chon Buri is Pattaya, a holiday paradise for fun-lovers. As Thailands premier beach resort that attracts a large number of tourists, Pattaya is charmed by a tropical resort atmosphere suitable for total relaxation. Besides its doomed natural beauty, Pattaya also offers a wide range of water sports and vibrant nightlife (TAT, 2006). Today, it boasts the unique distinction of a beach resort with a city status (TAT, 2007).5.1 Accommodation Development in PattayaThe increasing influx of visitors over the yea rs has stimulated changes in accommodation types. Most of the large hotel chains, resorts and serviced apartments are located in two regions north and central of Pattaya city. In the reach out right in front of the coastline, the smaller hotels or budget accommodations are found. This stretch is also the region where there are many restaurants, bars, pubs and a number of shopping malls spread out along the coastline. Although most of the serviced apartments are in the north and central region of the city, there are still a some serviced apartments located in the beachfront stretch (Appendix T).This occurrence as described by the BRM model is due to development saturation of the reliable beachfront strip causing subsequent accommodation to develop along the similar strip but extending further inland (Smith, 1991). As serviced apartments are only recently developed on beach resorts, their locations are thus further away from the beachfront. In addition, beachfront region is consi dered to be nosier with activities ongoing till late. Since serviced apartments are targeted at long-term stay visitors who might want a more conducive environment, serviced apartment operators have thus established the apartments away from the noise. The contrasting location of some serviced apartments in the beachfront stretch is due to their smaller sizes and absence of a serviced apartments full capacities.CHAPTER 6 CASE EVALUATIONThe business development factors in the preliminary model are assessed against observations and interviews conducted at Pattaya. Further findings are also indicated.Evaluation of Preliminary ModelIndustrial Areas and City CentresAs business executives are the primary target audience of serviced apartments, the existence of sources generating expatriates, such as industrial areas and city centres, are vital. In Pattaya, industrial areas are of notable importance as a driving factor for guests in serviced apartments.Chon Buri province is located in the industrial development region of Thailand, a short drive to southeast capital of Thailand (Tanvatanakul, Saowakontha, Amado, Vicente, 2007). Business executives who work in both Bangkok city and Chon Buri are thus able to modify to Pattaya quickly. Besides Chon Buri, Rayong province also houses several industrial areas and is nigh 220 kilometres from Bangkok (Bangkoksite.com, 2009). Five main industrial areas (Appendix N) situated in both provinces Laem Chabang , part Ta Phut, Eastern Seaboard, Amata City and Pinthong, are sources of the expatriate market who seek accommodation in Pattaya city (Appendix I). Some local operators revealed that the bulk of their customers come from the industrial areas. The close proximity to both provinces makes Pattaya a preferred place for many expatriates to stay in (Thailand Guru, 2007). This spells business opportunities for serviced apartments.Positive statistics draw link to a possibly burgeoning expatriate market coming to Pattaya, as r eflected in the rise in tourist arrivals in Pattaya for business activities over the years. Arrivals base on business pur astonishs increased by 38.08% from 349,010 in 2006 to 481,916 in 2007 (TAT, 2007). In addition, the attribute of these business arrivals out of total arrivals also increased from 5.7% in 2006 to 7.21% in 2007. For conference/seminar purpose, figures rose from 95,887 in 2006 to 260,695 in 2007 (TAT, 2007), representing an astounding 171.9% increase. The proportion of this conference/seminar-driven tourism out of total tourist arrivals increased from 1.6% in 2006 to 3.9% in 2007. These trends may further spur the growth of serviced apartments in Pattaya.Viable and Thriving Tourist MarketApart from business travellers, serviced apartments may also serve leisure travellers who are on extended holidays. A burnished inflow of tourists is likely to affect the growth of serviced apartments. The following section assesses the tourist market in Pattaya based on figures retrieved from TAT for years 2005 to 2007. TAT indicated that figures for 2008 and 2009 are not available.Tourist ArrivalsTable 2.pngTable 3.pngFigure 1. internal Tourism in PattayaTourist arrivals have been increasing steadily from 1997 to 2007. It increased by 14.55% in 2006 as compared to 2005, to a decade high of 6,680,658 in 2007 (+9.25%). The main purpose of visits has been for leisure, which comprises about 83 90% of tourist arrivals in years 2005 to 2007. This shows a thriving leisure tourist market.Table 4.pngInterviews conducted with local serviced apartment operators revealed that their main customers are Europeans. Figures have shown that out of the 4,481,630 international travellers who visited Pattaya in 2007, 40% are Europeans. As Pattaya remains a popular beach resort destination for European visitors, the European tourist market in Pattaya will either maintain its size or expand in the future. Local operators also mentioned that these Europeans customers can stay for long periods ranging from a few weeks to a few months. Aside from Europeans, Pattaya is also a popular destination amongst Asians due to its location and reputation for providing a beach getaway.A gloam in figures is expected for 2008 and 2009 due to the global economic recess and H1N1 pandemic. another(prenominal) sources suggest that following a 5% increase in tourism numbers in the first half of 2008, international tourism began to behindhand down rapidly in mid-2008, reflecting rising oil and commodity prices, fickle exchange rate fluctuations, political instability, and the impact of the global economic recession (UNWTO 2008 UNWTO 2009a UNWTO 2009b). However, as the world emerges from the recession, tourism in Pattaya is expected to pick up in late 2009 or early 2010 onwards.Tourist ReceiptsTable 5.pngAccommodation expenses generally comprise the bulk of tourist expenditure. Furthermore, tourist taxation have been increasing from 48,522.13 million baht in 2005 to 59, 347.61 million baht in 2007. As both tourist arrivals and expenditure increase, this means more business opportunities for serviced apartments in Pattaya.Average Length of Stay of TouristsTable 6.pngThe average out length of stay has decreased from 3.41 days in 2005 to 3.13 days in 2007. However, local operators revealed that the average length of stay ranges from a few days to a few months for leisure travellers, while the average length of stay can be up to 2 years for expatriates.Major Attractions and rising PlansThe two principal beaches are Pattaya and Jomtien beach, which offer a range of recreational and entertainment services. Aside from the beaches which saw 61% and 31% of total tourist arrivals in 2007 respectively, other key attractions include bars and nightclubs (30%) and shopping malls (13%) (TAT, 2007). As beaches remain the most visited place in Pattaya, plans are proposed for a large new pier and marina for sporting and leisure craft on Pattaya beach (Channgam, 20 08), rejuvenating the beach and thus keeping it attractive for tourists.In addition, the Pattayas mayor wishes to shift the image of Pattaya away from a red-light district to one full of other exciting activities such as a possible indoor ski resort which could attract more international business chains and induce more long-stay guests (Appendix J).Hence a viable and thriving leisure tourist market helps to raise occupancy rates in serviced apartments. Nonetheless, the tourism industry needs to keep improving to sustain or develop new interest in tourists.Medical TourismThe presence of international hospitals may stimulate the establishment of serviced apartments next to them to cater to potential medical tourists who stay for long-term treatment. Three international hospitals dominate Pattaya, namely Bangkok Pattaya Hospital (BPH), Pattaya International Hospital (PIH) and Pattaya Memorial Hospital (PMH). Of these hospitals, only BPH is programme certified by Joint Commission Intern ational. It also has 400 beds, having the ability to accommodate more patients as compared to PIHs 70 beds, and PMHs 80 inpatient beds. However, from interviews with the hospitals, it was revealed that patients are largely locals and to a lesser extent, international visitors. Medical tourists are hence an insignificant contributing long-stay market. Nonetheless, it may grow in significance in the future.Transport ConnectivityFavourable transport connectivity helps visitors and locals to orientate their way to and around Pattaya easily, a basic essential factor required to draw guests to stay. Features affecting transport connectivity are analysed belowDistance and time to airportLocated approximately 110 kilometres away, Pattaya has close proximity to Suvarnabhumi Airport, with travelling time around 1.5 to 2 hours. This relatively short distance and travelling time makes Pattaya a craved city to visit.Modes of transport to PattayaVisitors can access Pattaya conveniently via air, r ail, taxi, coach or local buses.Modes of transport around PattayaThe most commonly seen transport is the baht Buses, which are transformed from pickup trucks. Other forms of transport include motorcycle, bicycle, car, local bus and taxi. Local buses, however, are not easy to spot and thus often underutilised.Road InterconnectivityCUsersLoyAppDataLocalTempRoad Map.jpgFigure 2. Pattaya Road MapThe road system can be complex and confusing for first-time visitors. However, after gaining familiarity, it is simpler to navigate around. From normality to South, there are Beach Road (also known as showtime Road) which faces the sea, Pattaya Second Road and Pattaya Third Road. Beach Road is a unidirectional road which runs southwards, while Second Road runs northwards. These one-way roads pose inconvenience and a hassle to travel. In between these roads are smaller and busier streets which connect the three roads together. From East to West, there are the North Pattaya Road, Central Patta ya Ro