Is Pattaya's Sea and Drinking Water Safe for Expats?

If you’re planning to move to Pattaya, Thailand, you might be worried about the quality of sea water and drinking water. You’re not alone! Many expats have expressed concerns about the safety of swimming in the sea and drinking bottled water. Let’s break down these concerns and provide you with practical advice on how to stay safe and healthy in Pattaya.

Sea Water Quality

Firstly, it’s true that Pattaya’s sea water quality has been a concern in the past. In 2019, a video went viral showing a large amount of waste water being released into the sea, causing widespread pollution. However, since then, the local authorities have taken steps to improve the sewage system and reduce pollution.

That being said, it’s still important to exercise caution when swimming in the sea. Here are a few tips:

• Check the current water quality before swimming. You can do this by checking the local news or asking your hotel or resort about the current conditions.
• Avoid swimming in areas with visible signs of pollution, such as trash or murky water.
• Consider swimming at beaches that are further away from the city center, such as Jomtien Beach or Dongtan Beach.

Drinking Water Safety

When it comes to drinking water, it’s generally safe to drink bottled water in Pattaya. Most supermarkets and convenience stores sell bottled water from reputable brands, such as Singha or Nestle.

However, if you’re concerned about the safety of bottled water, you can take a few precautions:

• Choose a reputable brand and check the expiration date before drinking.
• Consider using a water filter or purification tablets to ensure the water is safe to drink.
• Avoid drinking tap water, as it may not be safe for consumption.

Other Health and Safety Tips

In addition to taking precautions with sea water and drinking water, here are a few other health and safety tips to keep in mind:

• Make sure you have all the necessary vaccinations before traveling to Thailand.
• Avoid eating undercooked meat or raw vegetables, as these can pose a risk of food poisoning.
• Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Conclusion

While there are some concerns about sea water and drinking water quality in Pattaya, there are steps you can take to stay safe and healthy. By exercising caution and taking a few simple precautions, you can enjoy all that Pattaya has to offer without worrying about your health.

If you’re looking for more information on staying safe and healthy in Pattaya, I recommend checking out the following resources:

• The Thai Ministry of Public Health website (in Thai and English)
• The Pattaya City website (in Thai and English)
• The Expats in Thailand Facebook group (a great resource for connecting with other expats and getting advice on living in Thailand)

I hope this helps, and happy travels!