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General Information
Chonburi
Chon Buri The Nearest Seaside Retreat
Chonburi, Bangkoks nearest seaside town, is located on the eastern coast of
the Gulf of Thailand, only 80 kilometers from Bangkok. The area boasts
abundant natural resources, which are highlighted by delightful beaches,
local colors, traditions, delicacies and fresh seafood. This is a popular
resort among Bangkokians who seek the nearest escape from hectic weekly
schedules as Chon Buri has something for everyone. In addition, Chon Buri is
the center of the Eastern Seaboard Development Project, with its industrial
parks and fishing villages.
Pattaya General Information (Click to more information)
How to get to Chonburi
Travelling to Chon Buri
By Car
Chon Buri is a one-hour drive from Bangkok along Highway No. 34 (Bang
Na-Trat). Alternatively, taking the Motor Way (new Bangkok-Chon Buri Route)
will reduce travel time.
By Bus
The 1.5-hour journey from Bangkok can be made on regular buses originating
from the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai). Air-conditioned buses leave Ekkamai
every 40 minutes from 5.30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tel: 0 2391 9829. Non
air-conditioned buses leave Ekkamai every 30 minutes from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Tel: 0 2391 2504.
There are also air-conditioned buses leaving the Bangkok's Northern Bus
Terminal (Mochit 2 Bus Terminal) on Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road from 6.30 a.m. to
6.30 p.m. Call: 0 2936 2852-66 for more information. In addition, Si Racha
Tour, Tel: 0 2936 4029 operates air-conditioned bus services to Chon Buri
and Bang Saen.
Travelling to Pattaya
By car
Pattaya can be reached in a 2.5-hour drive along Bangna-Trat Highway via
Bang Pakong, Chon Buri and Si Racha. However, visitors can avoid Chon Buri
by opting for Highway 36, the new Chon Buri - Pattaya - Rayong route or
taking the motorway from Rama 9 Road.
By bus
Air-conditioned and regular buses depart from the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai)
and Bangkoks Northern Bus Terminal (Mochit 2 Bus Terminal) on Kamphaengphet
Road daily. Buses (air-con) depart the Eastern Bus Terminal every 30 minutes
from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. and from Mochit II (Northern Bus Terminal) from 5.00
a.m. to 7 p.m.
Departure times and fares may be obtained from the Eastern Bus Terminal,
tel. 0 2391 2504, 0 2391 8097 or the Northern Bus Terminal, tel. 0 2936
2852-66.
There are also minibuses that travel directly from Bangkok Airport to
Pattaya at 9.00 a.m., 12.00 p.m. and 7.00 p.m. daily. For more information,
contact the Bangkok International Airport, tel. 0 2535 1111.
In addition, most hotels in Bangkok provide bus services to Pattaya. Contact
the tour desk at your hotel for details.
By train
The State Railway of Thailand offers a daily train service departing
Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Station at 06.55 a.m., tel. 0 2621 8701. It takes
about 5 hours to reach a station located near the Siam Country Club.
By Air
Bangkok Airways provides daily flights connecting Ko Samui and U-Taphao
Airport. (Approximately 30 kilometers south of Pattaya).
Travelling in Pattaya
Pattaya City is divided into four major zones: North Pattaya, Central
Pattaya, South Pattaya and Chomthian. It should be noted that there is a
small mountain known as the Hill, located between South Pattaya and
Chomthian. For a visual illustration take a look at the Map of Pattaya and
Chomthian with the Hill.
Motorbikes are the most popular mode of transport in Pattaya. However,
transportation in the city is facilitated through the use of special cars
(song taew), customized pickup trucks with passenger seats in a covered
overhead back cabin. These pickups, known as Bahts-Bus, can easily carry
8-10 passengers in the back, plus 1 or 2 passengers in front. They circle
around the city and are allowed to stop anywhere. In addition to
motorbike-taxis, the Bahts-Buses are the only form of public transport
permitted in Pattaya. If not occupied, they also can be hired as private
taxis. In fact, they are private vehicles in most cases belonging to the
drivers. There are so many of them that they end up looking for passengers.
This compact city consists of 3 major roads that parallel each other. Right
along the beach is Beach Rd., which is a one-way road from the north to
south that is a few kilometers long. Second Rd. is a hundred or so meters
away and carries city transport mainly from the south to north, although it
is partly a two-way road. The last road is Sukhumvit Rd, a continuation of
the highway leading to Bangkok. Many small streets called Soi(s) cross the
roads. And it's advisable to walk some of the small streets, which are
enumerated from north to south, although some have names. Second Rd.
continues on to South Pattaya and turns to Chomthian reaching Chomthian
beach within 5 minutes, and continues alongside Chomthian beach, which is
approximately 20 kilometers long with some secluded escapes.
Chomthian Beach Rd., which is a two-way road, also parallels Sukhumvit Rd
and is the only road in the Chomthian area, except for some connecting
streets. On the other side of Sukhumvit road are several country clubs, golf
courses and typical Thai rural villages, providing charming escapes on the
banks of sweet-water lakes and small streams in the leisurely and relaxing
countryside.
Many kinds of motorbikes, convertible monster Jeeps, sport and passenger
cars are offered for rent. A driver's license is not required for driving
around Pattaya and vicinity, so many tourists are tempted get behind the
wheel. It should be noted that in Thailand drivers drive on the left lane,
as in England and Japan.
Attractions
Amphoe Bo Thong
Ang Phak Nam waterfall
Ang Phak Nam waterfall is a big 5-level waterfall situated on the Khao Yai
range. Visitors can walk along the 1.5 km. path through the forest to reach
the waterfall. On the way, visitors can stroll and relax in the fresh forest
atmosphere and look out for evidence of wild animals, and many kinds of
birds. Tourists can contact local guides, or ask for more information about
facilities at Phluang Thong Branch Office at tel. 0 3871 2467
Khao Cha-Ang
Khao Cha-Ang is a stone mountain situated in the middle of a plain in Bo
Thong District. It has gold, minerals and semi-precious stones and is
approximately 30 km. away from the district center, Khao Cha-Ang also
features a cave; home of over one hundred thousand fruit bats and 5 levels
of Khao Cha-Ang features the natural wonders of stalactites and stalagmites.
Khao Cha-Ang is also a religious place where monks can a religious place
where monks can observe Buddhist principles, known as Dharma. The mountain
caves are classified as the Water Cave, Bat Cave, Laplae Cave, and te Dragon
Cave. After visiting all these caves tourists can continue to the Ang Phak
Nam waterfall
Amphoe Ko Si Chang
Chao Pho Khao Yai Shrine
Chao Pho Khao Yai Shrine is situated on a northern hill on the island. The
shrine is a natural architectural masterpiece, highly respected by both Thai
and Chinese. The place offers a scenic, breathtaking front view of the
island, coupled with a panoramic view of Si Chang community.
Hat Tham Phang
Hat Tham Phang and Khao Tham Phang are located towards the back of the
island. The sloping beach is located on the leeward side of the island. It
is a perfect spot for swimming as the sea is clear and somewhat calm or
relaxing on the beach to admire the sunset.
Khao Khat Pass and Hat Hin Klom
The name "Hat Hin Klom" originated from the rounded rocks on the beach which
have been naturally "rounded" by the westerly wind that flows from March to
September. The white sand gives the beach a clean and clear look. Khao Khat
Pass on the other side of the island is a fascinating and romantic point
from which to watch the sunset.
Ko Si Chang
Si Chang island is a perfect getaway for travelers addicted to history and
having fun. This tiny island has a population of only 500 people, mostly
fishermen who practice the old way of life.
Travelling to Ko Si Chang
There are boats departing to Ko Si Chang daily, on an hourly basis from the
Pier in Si Racha. The first boat leaves at 6.00 a.m. and the last departs at
7 p.m. The fare is 30 bahts/person. (one-way). If you dont plan to stay
overnight on the island, try catching the last boat which leaves at 6.00
p.m. from the island back to Si Racha.
Travelling around Ko Si Chang
Motorcycle taxis will take you anywhere on the island. The fare ranges from
20 30 bahts, depending on the destination. You can negotiate the fare down
to the local price after shopping around.
Phra Chuthathut Ratchathan
Phra Chuthathut Ratchathan, which was named after Prince Chuthathut who was
born here, is the only palace located in the sea. King Rama V had it built
in 1892 as a holiday retreat and a convalescence home for his wives and
children. The funds for the construction of this palace came from his
private treasury.
The king loved to visit Ko Si Chang to admire its magnificent scenery and
tranquil atmosphere. However, in the later years, the island served as a big
cargo station where numerous transactions with foreign ships took place.
Si Chang Palace
Si Chang Palace was built during the reign of King Rama V as a summer
palace. The landscaping of the palace compound was carefully planned with
residential quarters, lawns, pools, and swamps designed and located in
ascending tiers from the beach up to the top of the hill, alternated with
frangipani trees (Plumeria acuminata) of different colors.
Each building was named after the Kings consorts who supervised its
decoration, for example, Watthana Mansion, Phongsi Mansion, and Aphirom
Mansion. On the beach there is a green house made of wood decorated with
gingerbread patterns.
The palace was abandoned when the French occupied the island in 1894. Thus,
the construction of the main throne hall called "Man-That Phairot" was
unfortunately stopped. In 1910 the king ordered the removal of the
incomplete hall to Dusit Palace in Bangkok, where construction was finally
completed and was later granted with the name "Vimanmek". The place is now a
museum and is open to the public.
The white Chedi that overlooks Hat Tha Wang, is definitely part of a temple
called Wat Atsadang Nimit". Built near the palace, the temple was the place
where King Rama V meditated. The temple, which was a mix of western and
eastern architectural styles, houses an outstanding Buddha image.
Adventure lovers should not miss the opportunity to explore Tham Saowapha,
located not far from Wat Atsadang Nimit. This relatively large limestone
cave plunges deep into the island.
Amphoe Mueang
Ang Sila
A seaside-fishing village situated approximately 5 kilometers from town, Ang
Sila is well known for its granite products. The fishermen are not only
skilful in catching fish, but also in making implements from granite and
have passed on their craftsmanship from generation to generation. Their most
renown products are the mortar and pestle which are widely used in Thai
households, and decorative items such as figurines of animals i.e. lions,
elephants and horses.
Bang Saen
This ever popular seaside town is situated approximately 14 kilometers from
the city. To get to Bang Saen from Sukhumvit Road, take a right turn at Km.
104 and proceed for another 3 kilometers. Bang Saen is especially popular
amongst Thai visitors who enjoy strolling along the long white sandy beach
and tasting the delicious seafood available from vendors along the pavement.
Unlike weekdays, weekends are always particularly crowded. A wide range of
hotels and bungalows are located by the sea and recreational gear and
bicycles for rent are available in shops nearby. For budget travelers,
several buses depart daily from Ekkamai Bus Terminal throughout the day. In
addition, there are local ''Song taew'' or local transport services
connecting Chon Buri town-Nong Mon Market-Bang Saen.
Ho Phra
Located on Wachiraprakan Road, approximately 500 meters from the town hall,
the shrine houses a replica of the Phra Phutthasihing the one that was cast
in pure silver. The image receives utmost respect by the locals.
Khao Sam Muk
A low hillock situated between Ang Sila and Bang Saen on the road that runs
along the seashore is Khao Sam Muk a place known by most Thais for its
tragic love story. According to the legend, two lovers jumped off of the
cliff to declare their eternal love after facing parental objection to their
marriage. A panoramic view of Bang Saen beach can be seen from the hilltop.
Good quality Thai and Chinese seafood restaurants are located at the foot of
the hills providing reasonably priced sumptuous dishes.
Nong Mon Market
This market is located on Sukhumvit Road along the way to Bang Saen and has
gained popularity over the years. Nong Mon Market offers a vast variety of
locally produced seafood products such as fish, squid, and shrimp, both
fresh and preserved. In addition, sweets and other local sweetmeats are also
popular with the most popular item being Khao Larm a traditional thai-style
dessert cooked and served in a bamboo tube.
The Institute of Marine Science of the Burapha University
The University operates a modern aquarium with real underwater environment
and a marine science museum which opens daily, except Monday, from
8.30a.m.to 4.30 p.m. For more information, call (038) 391671-4.
Wat Yai Inthraram
Located on Chetchamnong Road, the temple, which is believed to have been
built in the Ayutthaya period, clearly shows the influence of
Ayutthaya-style architecture. The Ubosot and Vihan were built in their
distinctive Gunwale Curve base and the Mondop were built over the Holy
Footprints.
The Ubosot itself was renovated during the reign of King Rama lll using
glassware to decorate the gables and windows. Within the Ubosot are murals
covering the entire four walls, which have been continuously restored over
the years. In front of the temple stands a statue of King Taksin the Great
who according to legends once stopped his troops here while on the way to
set up his base in Chanthaburi during the Fall of Ayutthaya in 1767.
Amphoe Phanat Nikhom
The Promotion Centre for Bamboo Basketry Skills
Long known for its fine basketry products, Phanat Nikhom originally made
them for daily use. The products were gradually developed into more
elaborate and marketable handcrafted items. Major shops are on Ko Kaeo Road
behind Municipal Market I. To see the production process and higher quality
items, visit the Promotion Centre for Bamboo Basketry Skills on Intha-asa
Road near the District Office. The centre is a project initiated by Her
Majesty the Queen.
Amphoe Sattahip
Ao Dong Tan
Next to Sattahip Market is the curved bay lined with fan palms called "tan"
trees from which the name of the bay is derived. The peaceful and quiet
atmosphere of the bay attracts local regulars who enjoy tranquility in the
sun.
Bang Sa-re or Bang Saray
A fishing village located approximately 16 kilometers south of Pattaya, Bang
Saray can be reached by taking a right turn at the Km. 164 marker (along
Sukhumvit Road). South of Bang Saray is a deep bay suitable for angling.
Accommodations and dining facilities are located to the north along the
beach.
Chong Samae San
This village offers good fishing opportunities and is located approximately
17 kilometers further from the Sattahip deep-water port. Bungalows are
available for serious fishing visitors and boats can be chartered to go
fishing in the nearby islands. All these small islands are under the
jurisdiction of the Royal Thai navy.
Hat Nang Ram
This 200-meter long beach is situated close to the Sattahip deep-water port
and attracts tourists who admire pristine beaches in serene settings.
Located towards the end of the beach is the shrine of Kromluang
Chumphonkhetudomsak, the Father of the Royal Thai Navy. The atmosphere is
very peaceful with shadowy pine trees and rows of frangipani trees.
Hat Sai Kaeo
is a long white beach approximately 1,700 meters in length and situated in
the Chumpol Sattahip Naval School. The sand is very beautiful and the
surrounding scenery is perfectly natural. The beach is a protected tourist
location and does not allow any private access to the beach. Visitors must
travel around with beach car service. The beach provides tents, rooms and
bungalows, including water sports accessories and kayak availability. For
more information please contact the Chumpol Naval Scool at Tel. 0 3843
6187ext. 2201-2
Hat Thian Thale
is a new tourist location inside the Navy's Surface to Air and Coast
Department General Headquarters. Thian Thale Beach is a sand beach dotted
with small knolls, and is approximately 900 meters long. It has a fantastic
scenery from the beach, cliffs in different shapes and offers an opportunity
to view beautiful sunsets. It also has a marine research center, kayaks for
rent, and restaurant for tourists. For more information please contact Tel.
0 3824 5753-60 ext 066-6176.
Hat Toei Ngam
Rows of toei trees (Pandanus kaida Kurz) on the 200-meter crescent beach
adds to the tranquil atmosphere. Attractions on the northern side of the
beach include a naval museum and monument. Toei Ngam Beach is under the
supervision of the Royal Thai Navy, however, it is open to the general
public from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day.
Khao Chi Chan
features a sculptural image erected to honor His Majesty King erected to
honor is Majesty King Bhumibol on te occasion of te 50th anniversary of his
enthronenment. The image is a sitting figure called Pang Man Wichai and
copied from Phra Phuttawarachabopit which combines both Sukhothai and Lanna
arts. The images is 109 meters in eight and 70 meters and the figure is
named Phra Phuttamaha Wachirauttamapat Satsada that means the Buddha who has
brightness and sublimity like Mahawachira. There are many kinds of plant
surrounding and huts for the visitors
Ko Kham Undersea
is a small island situated in the south of Sattahip District approximately 9
kilometers from land, and 45 minutes by boat. It has an approximate area of
61 rai under the responsibility of the Naval Coast Guard. The northern part
of the island if full of caral and aquatic animals. Tourists can take the
boat to Kham Island from Sattahip harbor market, or the Samaesan Fishing
Port, or Tel. 0 3843 2170.
Suan Nong Nooch (Nong Nooch Garden)
Located approximately 18 kilometers south of Pattaya, the Garden can be
reached by taking a left turn from Sukhumvit Road at the Km. 163 marker. The
Garden is a sprawling recreation park in a typical Thai setting. A group of
traditional Thai pavilions and gardens of different flowering plants are
positioned around the beautifully landscaped site. Daily cultural and
elephant shows are available for tourists with show times at 10.15 a.m. and
3.45 p.m. Admission fee is 300 baht. Tel: 0 3842 9321, 0 3842 9958, 0 3870
9358-62 or Bangkok Office Tel: 0 2252 1786
Wat Yansangwararam
Situated approximately 15 kilometers south of Pattaya City, the temple,
which covers a total area of 146 acres, can be reached by turning left from
Sukhumvit Road at Km.160 marker. The temple was built in 1976 to pay respect
Somdet Phra Yanasangwon, the present Supreme Patriarch and was later
graciously admitted to be under the patronage of His Majesty the King. The
temple grounds is comprised of: a mondop (pavilion with four gables)
enshrining a replica of the Buddha's footprints, a large stupa where the
relics of the Lord Buddha and his disciples are enshrined, Phra Yanaret
Vihan and an international pavilion representing the architecture of several
countries.
Wihan Sian
A Chinese-style structure called Wihan Sian which was built by Thais of
Chinese descendants. Within the beautiful structure Chinese antiquities and
an exhibition of Chinese religious beliefs are housed. The place is open
daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission fee is 50 baht.
Amphoe Si Racha
CMT Flying Club
This is a world-class sports flying complex located at Km.10 marker, off of
Highway No.36, on the way to the Khao Kheow Open Zoo. The CMT Flying Club
provides a manicured turf runway for use by both light and ultra-light
aircraft and has designated flying areas for radio-controlled (RC) model
aircraft flying. The club also provides comprehensive facilities for its
members and visitors, including a government certified flying school,
aircraft maintenance centre and RC model shop. Taking an enjoyable,
15-minite flight on a light aircraft with a skilled instructor will cost
1,300 baht per person. The club is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m.
to 6 p.m. Call 0 3827 3250-7 for more information.
Ko Loi
A small island near the northern shore of Si Racha, Ko Loi is connected to
the mainland by a bridge. This is a popular recreational location for the
local people. A flight of stairs leads up to the breezy hilltop, which
offers a delightful view of the sea.
Namtok Chan Ta Then
Situated about 15 kilometers from Sukhumvit Road on the same route to the
Khao Kheow Open Zoo is Namtok Chan Ta Then. The section of the road close to
the waterfall is quite steep. This 5-tiered waterfall can be reached on foot
along the path running along side the stream. The best time to visit is
between August-November when the water is clear and plentiful.
Saithip Butterfly Garden
The garden is located at Km. 10 marker off of Highway No.36. Covering an
area of 15 acres, the garden is recognized as Asia's largest butterfly
garden. A bee museum and an orchid farm, which is located next to the
butterfly garden, are also worth visiting. The garden opens daily from 8.30
a.m. to 5.30 p.m. Admission fee is 80 baht for adults and 40 baht for
children. Call 0 3829 8330 for more information and reservations.
The Khao Khiao Open Zoo
Covering a vast tract of forest land, the zoo is located approximately 20
kilometers south of Chon Buri from Sukhumvit Road. To get there, take a left
turn at Bang Phra, and follow the clearly posted signs. Operated by the
Zoological Garden Organization, the zoo has more than 200 species of
domestic and imported wildlife living in their natural habitat. Open daily
from 8.00 a.m. until 6.00 p.m., the zoo also puts on shows of well-trained
animals and birds. A new feature is the Night Safari Tour by auto-trams.
Advance booking at Tel: (038) 331485 and 330763 is recommended.
The Si Racha Tiger Farm
The farm, which is situated at Km. 20 marker on highway No. 36, raises a
large number of Bengal tigers, as well as large crocodiles. Visitors will be
amazed to witness tigers, pigs and dogs living together in the same
quarters. The farm opens daily from 9.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. Call 530-7412-3
or (038) 296556-8 for more information and reservations or visit
www.tigerzoo.com for more information.
Pattaya
Attractions (Click to more information)
Festivals
Chon Buri Buffalo Race
Chon Buri Buffalo Race is a long-established celebration of this most useful
animal of Thai farmers. A fun-filled event, it is held not only in Chon Buri
itself but also in Ban Bung and Nong Yai districts. The beasts of burden are
dressed outragerously or with admirable creativity by owners depending on
their imagination. Assembled in the courtyard in front of the town hall, the
buffaloes partake in racing, or take part in physical fitness and fashion
contests.
Chon Buri Red Cross Fair
Chon Buri Red Cross Fair is held about mid-April. There is a Phra
Phutthasihing Procession. Also organized are cultural shows, exhibitions and
stalls offering various type of products.
Local Products
Chaeng Lon
This is Chon Buri's special delicacy which uses the same ingredients as Ho
Mok, with coconut shreds to replace coconut milk. The mixture is hand molded
into small buns on a stick, and charcoal-grilled until cooked.
Hoi Cho
This Chinese delicacy is Chon Buri's famous dish because a special kind
of sea crabs is used as the main ingredient.
Khao Lam
This specialty is made with sticky rice, sugar and coconut cream cooked in
specially-prepared bamboo rods.
Shopping
Amphoe Mueang
Ao Nat Phop
82 Mu 5 Pattaya-Na Kluea Road (Thai food), CHONBURI
Tel :: 0-3822- 5446, 0-3822-5800, 0-3822-5446
Pattaya Shopping (Click to more information)
Dining
Amphoe Mueang
Ban Khun Ya
270 Mu 13 Bang Saen, Amphoe Mueang, Chonburi
Tel :: 0 3838 3027
Chawan
888 Sukhumvit Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chonburi
- Thai Chinese European food
Tel :: 0 3827 3800-3
Chom Tha-le
Bang Saen Beach Resort, Amphoe Mueang, Chonburi
- Thai, Chinese, European food and seafood
Tel :: 0 3838 1675-7, 0 3838 1628-9
Di Phrom
240 Mu 13 Bang Saen, Amphoe Mueang, Chonburi
- Thai food, seafood
Tel :: 0 3838 1622
Ngo Seng Ki
66/31 Sukhumvit Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chonburi
- Thai Chinese food
Tel :: 0 3827 2768, 0 3828 2768, 0 3828 8125
Noppharat
17/15 Soi Noppharat, Bang Pla Soi, Amphoe Mueang, Chonburi
- Thai food
Tel :: 0 3828 7325
Pakarang
Bang Saen Beach, Amphoe Mueang, Chonburi
Tel :: 0 3838 3331
Saen Sombun
229 Bang Saen Beach, Amphoe Mueang, Chonburi
- Thai, Chinese food
Tel :: 0 3838 1636, 0 3838 3801
Sang Hi
844/31 Opposite Thai Danu Bank, Sukhumvit Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chonburi
- Seafood
Tel :: 0 3828 2227
Si Niyom
850/3-4 Sukhumvit Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chonburi
- Chinese food
Tel :: 0 3828 2630, 0 3828 2522
Tamnak Nam Seafood
Wachiraprakan Road, Amphoe Mueang, Chonburi
Tel :: 0 3879 2219
Wang Muk
Bang Saen Beach, Amphoe Mueang, Chonburi
Tel :: 038384020-1
Amphoe Si Racha
Bang Phra Seafood
Bang Phra, Amphoe Si Racha, Chonburi
Tel :: 0 3834 1674
Seaside
9 Choemchomphon Road, Amphoe Si Racha, Chonburi
- Seafood
Tel :: 0 3831 2537, 0 383 23851
Tai Hi
13 Sukhumvit Road, Amphoe Si Racha, Chonburi
- Thai, Chinese food, seafood
Tel :: 0 3831 1306, 0 3831 2880
Pattaya Dining (Click to more information)
Chonburi Hotel
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