Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Hat Patong
Sun-seared Russians in bad knock-off T-shirts, beach-buzzing wave runners, a complete
disregard for managed development and a knack for turning the midlife crisis into a full-
scale industry (sorry, Cialis, Patong was here first) make Patong rampant with uninten-
tional comedy. But for all the concrete, silicon and moral and gender bending, there's
something honest about this place.
Patong is a free-for-all. Anything, from a Starbucks venti latte to an, ahem, companion
for the evening is available for the right price. And while that's true of dozens of other,
phonier destinations, Patong doesn't try to hide it. Patong is what it is. And that's refresh-
ing.
Of course, that doesn't mean you're going to like it. But when you arrive you'll take
one look at the wide, white-sand beach and its magnificent crescent bay, and you'll under-
stand how the whole thing started.
Diving and spa options abound, as well as upscale dining, street-side fish grills, campy
cabaret, Thai boxing, dusty antique shops and one of Thailand's coolest shopping malls.
