There are two main reasons we visit Pattaya these days, work, or rugby. This one was rugby (yeees). We hit the streets of Pattaya early to find somewhere half decent to stop; somewhere that wasn't too divey, nor expensive (tricky as it was a Saturday, when prices are higher). Having checked out a couple of semi-grimy, overpriced resorts, we had a stroke of luck and stumbled across a real gem, the Aiyara Palace on Nagula Road.
I admit when I got out of the car to fetch a price list I thought, probably 3000 odd baht, out of our budget... so I was a little shocked when the girl behind the jump said 1800 B (around 30 quid a night).
You find this sometimes in Pattaya. Some hotels / resorts will stick to the book price, come rain or shine. Others will do a deal on the door, and sometimes a very good one (depending on how full they are) so if you have the time, it's often well worth driving around a bit, checking the nicer looking resorts, to see if they want your business (this applies more in low season, and not on a weekend). The great thing about the Aiyara is that this seems to be the book price in low season, and on a Saturday...
This place is in North Pattaya, so a bit away from the crazy stuff (but only a short walk / bus ride if that's your poison). It's clean, well put together. The pool and jacuzzi on the top floor are smashing, with great views of the town, all finished in a clean, traditional Thai modern style.
I confess, I'm starting to like Pattaya more and more with each visit. It has everything, so much to do and see, and you can have a pleasant family break here.... When you find a good place like the Aiyara, at such good value, it really gets you off to a flying start..
(one view from the pool) The food is a bit special as well, very tasty Thai and European / American cuisine, plus, included in the 1800 B you also get good parking under the hotel, free breakfast and free internet access in your room (so take your laptop).
If you are digging around in Pattaya, looking for a nice place to stop during the low season, head for the Aiyara Palace for a great deal.














