The history of Pattaya as tourist center and its bars

Pattaya is a coastal city in Thailand that is known for its beaches, nightlife, and entertainment. The city has a rich history, dating back to the 1960s when it was a quiet fishing village. Over the years, Pattaya has transformed into a bustling tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world. One of the main attractions in Pattaya is the gogo-bars, which have become famous for their lively and exotic performances. In this article, we will explore the history of Pattaya and how it became a hub for gogo-bars. Early Days of Pattaya Pattaya was once a small fishing village on the east coast of Thailand. In the early 1960s, it was discovered by American servicemen who were stationed at a nearby airbase. They found the area to be a quiet and peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, and it quickly became a popular vacation spot for American soldiers. Soon after, other Western tourists began to visit Pattaya, drawn by its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. The Rise of the Gogo-Bar Scene In the 1970s, Pattaya began to develop a reputation for its gogo-bars. Gogo-bars are establishments that feature women dancing on stage, often in revealing clothing or lingerie. The origins of the gogo-bar scene in Pattaya are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been influenced by the sex industry in nearby Bangkok. As the gogo-bar scene grew in Pattaya, it began to attract a diverse range of visitors, including young backpackers, wealthy businessmen, and curious tourists. The bars themselves were often located in small alleyways or side streets, away from the main thoroughfares of the city. The performances were typically lively and entertaining, featuring a mix of traditional Thai music and Western pop songs. The Dark Side of Pattaya's Gogo-Bar Scene While the gogo-bars in Pattaya were a major attraction for many tourists, they also had a darker side. Many of the women who worked in the bars were from poor rural areas and were often lured into the industry with promises of high-paying jobs. In reality, many of them were subjected to exploitation, abuse, and human trafficking. Despite these issues, the gogo-bar scene in Pattaya continued to thrive, attracting a steady stream of visitors from around the world. In the 1990s, the Thai government began to crack down on the sex industry, implementing stricter laws and regulations. This led to the closure of many gogo-bars and other establishments, as well as a decline in tourism to Pattaya. Pattaya Today Today, Pattaya has evolved into a more family-friendly destination, with a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. The city is home to a number of world-class hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers, as well as a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences. While the gogo-bars are still present in Pattaya, they are no longer as prominent as they once were. Many of the bars have shifted their focus to other forms of entertainment, such as live music and DJ performances. Additionally, there has been a growing movement towards ethical tourism in Pattaya, with a focus on sustainability, social responsibility, and community engagement. Conclusion The history of Pattaya and its rise to fame as a hub for gogo-bars is a complex and multifaceted one. While the gogo-bars have played a significant role in the city's development and tourism industry, they have also been the subject of controversy and criticism. As Pattaya continues to evolve and change, it will be interesting to see how