Slang

On your travels around Pattaya you’ll come across a bunch of slang that is either unique to the region, unique to Thailand, or unique to Pattaya, all of this can be confusing on your first trip but don’t worry everyone goes home with their head spinning after their first trip to Pattaya.

Pattya Slang Glossary

Falang (also Farang) – A term used to describe any Westerner, the origin is under dispute but often believed to be derived from the Khmer (Cambodian) word Barang which means the same.

Expat – A foreigner who resides longterm, in this case, in Thailand

Sexpat - An expat who stays primarily for sexual reasons

Sex Tourist - One who travels to enjoy the carnal side of life (Warning – prostitution is illegal in Thailand, but it is common practise to help out a poorer friend and in Thai culture you gain face by doing this).

Pats - Some people find 3 syllables too much and shorten Pattaya to this single syllable word, not unlike a Thai Girl using a single Syllable of her real name for day to day usage.

Fun City – Another term for Pattaya City, originally coined I believe by Stickman Bangkok.

Short Time – A period of 15 minutes to 2 hours of a negotiated time you and a girl can spend together. Make clear what this period of time means to you both before embarking upon any partying, or you might find yourself partying alone.

Long Time – Generally taken to mean overnight or until dawn. Again discuss with your new friend what this would mean for her and get agreement to avoid disappointment

Teeluk (also Teeruk) – Translates roughly as dear in English, the affectionate usage of the word dear, not the animal.

Darkling – A derogatory Thai word sometimes used by a sneaky girl in place of “Darling”

ATM - Automatic Teller Machine, not the machine you see at 7-11, this generally refers to a Foreigner with “too much money” who is throwing it around. ie he’s dispensing cash like an ATM machine.

Kwai - If you hear this one you are in trouble, it means Buffalo, and refers to being big and stupid and easily lead around.

Beach Road – The road that runs along the Beach at Pattaya Beach, careful along here at night time. Muggings, druggings and misfortunes are constant sources of danger to the unwary or drunk.