Pattaya, Thailand — Known internationally as a major hub for sex tourism, Pattaya continues to attract millions of visitors annually, fueling a complex and controversial industry that remains illegal yet economically significant. Located about two hours by road from Bangkok, the city is home to thousands of women who work as sex workers, many of whom have migrated from rural areas and support young children and families.
Pattaya’s sex trade dates back to the Vietnam War era, when U.S. soldiers frequented the city during leave, establishing its reputation as a destination for men seeking sexual services. Today, the industry reportedly generates nearly $1 million per hour, amounting to an estimated $8.7 billion annually for Thailand’s economy.
The city’s nightlife is characterized by brightly lit streets, lively bars, and explicit establishments, with venues carrying names such as Exotica, Booty Call, and Sex In The City. These areas, especially in Pattaya’s red-light districts and nearby Jomtien Beach, offer a range of services at widely varying price points. Sex workers in Pattaya charge around $130 for their services, while in Jomtien Beach, prices can range from $40 on the streets to $80 in bars. Some hostesses at bars also earn commissions by encouraging patrons to buy drinks, a dynamic often described as providing the “girlfriend experience.”
Recent attention has focused on the darker sides of this trade following the death of 17-year-old Tunchanok Donhomla, who was strangled last month. A Ballarat-born Australian man, Simon Carman, has been accused of the killing, reportedly after a dispute over a payment offer of $21 for sex. The case has spotlighted issues of underage involvement and exploitation within the sector, provoking strong reactions from local and expatriate communities.
Some residents and foreign nationals living in Pattaya express concern over media portrayals that have labeled many foreigners in the city as pedophiles, arguing that such generalizations are unfair and do not reflect the complexity of the situation. Still, the illegality of prostitution in Thailand remains a significant factor complicating efforts to regulate or protect those involved.
Individuals working in Pattaya’s sex industry often face difficult economic circumstances. "Milky," a 23-year-old hostess, reported that she has been working in the city for six months to help support her mother in their hometown of Surin province.
The vibrant yet controversial environment in Pattaya continues to draw tourists, many of whom are motivated by the city’s reputation. Bars along Soi 6 and other nightlife districts are known for their loud music, neon lights, and bustling crowds — elements that some liken to an Asian version of Las Vegas, where the sex trade remains both an open secret and a source of ongoing debate about legality, social impact, and human rights.