Rayong is like many other smaller cities throughout Thailand. The availability of Western conveniences is slightly lower, but the lower prices and quieter pace of life make it unique and attractive to many visitors.
An increasing number of travellers wish to avoid tourism hotspots. Therefore, Rayong is gaining popularity as a more laid-back and affordable option compared to its bigger brother, Pattaya. It is also located the same distance from U-Tapao airport as Pattaya, which makes it convenient to travel to.
Getting a rental straight from the airport saves a lot on taxi and tuk-tuk fares while travelling. Luckily, U-Tapao International car rentals are easily obtained via Drive Car Rental’s convenient meet-and-greet service at the airport to take you to your rental–just tell us your flight date and number, and we’ll meet you there!
Here is a quick guide on life in Rayong as a foreigner:
Fewer Crowds
Many locals describe Rayong as what Pattaya or Phuket were like before the high-rise condos started popping up. The streets are generally far less crowded and rush hour means little more than a slightly longer line at the red lights.
There are still plenty of beaches to be seen, but with smaller crowds and a more tranquil atmosphere. The town begins to close down earlier than the tourist hotspots, as this port town wakes up early to fish and farm.
Lower Prices
Prices in Rayong are more comparable to life in everyday Thai cities and towns. Without throngs of tourists driving up prices, meals can be found for a bargain, and the same is true for hotels.
Rayong is also an abundant farming and factory area. This means that prices need to match what local workers can afford, making prices more attractive to a Westerner, as well.
Western Conveniences Are Still Available
As prices rose, western expats who lived in places like Pattaya sought lower-cost options. Many moved to smaller cities like Rayong with their families and set up Western-oriented businesses.
While not as plentiful as in the larger cities, decent Western conveniences can still easily be found in Rayong, including shopping malls, theatres, and English-speaking staff. Slowly, it is becoming a destination of choice for those seeking something different from the big cities.
Rayong as a Business, Farming, and Factory Hub
The coastal areas surrounding the Gulf of Thailand have long been a hub for businesses, farms, and factories. This is thanks to the superb infrastructure and easy access to major ports.
The price of real estate rises the closer to Pattaya and Bangkok you get. Because of this, businesses looking for lower-cost options are increasingly turning to Rayong to build out their farming estates and factories.
In many ways, Rayong has become a hub for business travellers from foreign corporations invested in the area. Some come to check in on their factories, while others scout out potential locations to set up operations.
Thailand understands that the key to its economic success is its solid infrastructure. New highways, railways, and ports are being constructed all around the country. Rayong is no exception to this–brand-new Western-level infrastructure is another key driver of so many businesses setting up shop in Rayong.
Rentals Are the Most Economical Way to Get Around
Rayong is home to many industrial estates and factories. This means many business owners, expats, and travellers stay for several months visiting and working at locations around the city. Commuting between work locations daily makes the cost of taxis unsustainable.
Therefore, Drive Car Rental provides the option for long-term and monthly rentals and leases. We also offer chauffeur services for those who prefer to leave the driving to a local more accustomed to heavy Thai traffic!
For tourists travelling around Rayong and Thailand, Drive Car Rental provides the flexibility to pick up in one location and drop off at another to make your trip as flexible as possible! Be sure to book in advance to save more with early bird discounts and help guarantee the vehicle of your choice.