Just 2 hours' drive from Bangkok is Pattaya, the renowned recreation centre on the east coast. Its fine sand, blue sky and limpid sea are among many other good things that prove irresistible to both foreign and domestic tourists. Although Pattaya is the cream of Chon Buri (81 km), other places of interest are plentiful in this province -- Khao Sam Muk, where stands the Chao Mae Sam Muk Shrine highly revered by Thais; Bang Saen, the nearest-to-Bangkok beach resort for families; Ko Sichang, a paradise island whose name has become the title of a song. Chanthaburi (245 km), a coastal province famous for its gemstones, fruits, hot pepper and Chanthabun mats.