Pattaya

Pattaya is one of the major tourist destinations in Thailand. You can read a lot about Pattaya on a google search. I wasn’t too impressed with the city or the beach, but the surrounding area has some interesting places to explore. I took a day trip to Ko Si Chan (Si Chan island; Ko = island). I spent quite a while at a Buddhist monastery. Guided by a nun, I learned a bit about Buddhism, which I’ve decided is the best religion because they have the prettiest temples :)

The island also has an old palace (remember that Thailand is a kingdom), and just walking around was interesting. Ice is brought from the mainland, and they use some interesting methods to unload it and transport it. This is probably the same ice they serve me with drinks, but so far, I haven’t been sick.

Before leaving Pattaya, I went to a go-kart track. They have a “beginners” track like those in the States. They also have a track with real 10 or 15 HP karts (as well as an off road track and a bungee tower). Guess which karts I chose to race... The warning sign says there’s an additional charge if they have to pull your kart of the lake. You understand the reason for the warning the moment you step on the gas (specially with cold tires at the start). The kart takes off and can go a lot faster than the turns permit. I spun out twice but nowhere near the water. 10 minutes of this was long enough, but I may have to go back.