Phase 1 of the Dongtan Beach facelift is complete and the popular Jomtien Beach zone has an entirely new look.
Tourists interviewed Feb. 12 nearly all gave results of the 45.4-million-baht redevelopment a thumb’s up. A Briton who identified himself only as David said he thinks Pattaya did an impressive job and looks completely different and better than a year ago, he said.
New trees have been planted, roads widened to five meters and a wider footpath from the Rabbit Resort to Dongtan police box put in. Vehicle traffic is banned from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. to maintain Dongtan’s traditionally peaceful atmosphere.
A new parking area was built and parking is now free, instead of 20 baht. Overall, the area looks fresh, clean and tidy, something that has been aided by the ban on smoking on the beach.
Beach-goers shouldn’t get too comfortable, though: Pattaya is planning to bring out the bulldozers and jackhammers again in November as its launches Phase 2 between the Rabbit Resort and Lifeguard Department.
