PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya tattoo shops are seeing a noticeable increase in customers following the arrival of a US Navy vessel at Laem Chabang, with American sailors visiting the city during their shore leave. Bee, a manager at Glory Tattoo Pattaya on Soi 8, Beach Road, said the tattoo business had previously been relatively quiet, with fewer customers while operators continued to face rent, equipment and staffing costs.
The arrival of US military personnel has brought renewed activity to the shop, with sailors coming in for tattoos and helping increase revenue during a slower period. Popular designs include portraits and tattoos inspired by religion, beliefs and personal experiences. Among the designs requested are images of Jesus, angels and devils, as well as artwork representing significant memories or experiences.
Tattoo placements range from arms and legs to full-back designs, with each customer choosing artwork based on personal preferences and the meaning they want it to convey. The shop operator said the sailors’ visits have not only added color to Pattaya’s tourism scene but also generated spending for local businesses. The increased activity has provided a welcome boost for operators that have faced sluggish business in recent months.
