Pattaya, a well-known Thai tourist destination, is estimated to host at least 60,000 sex workers. The city's population includes approximately 120,000 registered Thai residents and up to 70,000 foreign expatriates.

Observations of the city have noted a significant presence of foreign men, including British pensioners, in relationships with local Thai women. The economic dynamics within the sex industry are such that women working in bars often earn a small sum for drinks sold to customers and have discretion over whether to engage in further services.

Women working in the bars typically earn just over £1 for each drink they persuade a man to buy – and they decide if they wish to go off with them for sex

Despite efforts by local authorities, such as the mayor of Pattaya and his team, to transform the city's image into a family-friendly resort, its long-standing reputation persists.

Despite the best efforts of the mayor of Pattaya and his team, this city has a way to go to rid itself of its tawdry reputation and transform it into the family holiday resort of their dreams

The author, Ian Birrell, described Pattaya's party scene as unparalleled, drawing from his extensive journalistic experience covering various global locations.

I have visited more than 100 countries, witnessing many sleazy scenes and dark places as a journalist – but Pattaya’s ‘party’ scene is without parallel