Pattaya can be considered very safe, mostly because there are always lots of people around, virtually everywhere, 24 hours a day.  Not really any such thing as a deserted street here.  But petty crime does happen, so don't flash jewelry.   Motorcycle driveby "snatches" are fairly common, particularly in quieter sois, don't carry anything in a handbag that would ruin your holiday should you lose it.

 When you walk by the areas with the hookers, which is a good portion of the central area, sometimes you'll be approached, and they may try to tug on your arm.  It's mostly playful fun, and you never hear of any horror stories.  It can be considered one of the safest places anywhere.  There have been stories of muggings, but almost always it's at 3 AM or 4 AM... , especially along Beach Road, often involving pimps beating up foreigners who may have either refused the advances of their proteges or may have offended them in some way. Avoid the beach at night.

Muggings do occur at these hours but usually on drunken "easy" targets staggering around and not taking care. It is common sense not to walk around most towns in this state. Pimps are a rarity in Pattaya and would be very unlikely to indulge in fisticuffs with reluctant punters....the usual cause is that foreigners have provoked a late night worker by not paying or insulting a ladyboy. Just don't walk round looking like a victim.

But, pay attention to this:  be very careful crossing the street... look both ways, and take your time.  Watch for fast motorbikes.  There are also hazards on the sidewalks, with uneven pavement, narrow sidewalks, and obstacles in the way.  Be aware that the baht buses may pull away before you or your family are on or off. Accidents are common.

In the rainy season, June till November it's wise to take strong precautions against mosquito bites. The Dengue mossie (aedes) is a day time flyer - prevelant at dawn and dusk - so cover up - wear long sleeved shirt and pants. Use a DEET repellant. It is not only found in rural areas - the mossie loves small stagnant pools of water, e.g. flower pots, car tires etc so it can flourish in an urban environment, too.

Dengue fever is prevalent at this time and a number of ex-pats and locals have caught this particularly unpleasant disease, for which there is very little treatment, save palliative care.