I've been to Pattaya around 10-12 times, my advice to a newbie is this
1- Stay around Soi Buakhao, close to Metro and buzzing. I stay in Nukom Court soi Longkee, basic at around 600 baht but always felt safe and secure, soi 6 is a bit hard core mate.
2- If your a piss head find a bar you like and make some friends, you might need them and they'll look after a regular punter.
3-If (LOL) your looking for a lady for the night get one from a bar, don't pick up the indies, that takes experience.
4- Only carry the cash you need for the night with you, and don't get in fight with the Thais, you fight one you fight them all.
5-If you find a girl that you like keep her, many will disagree with me but I find they get even better once they trust you.
6-Don't even contemplate not going without travel insurance.
7-If you buy counterfeit stuff take all the tags off before you return.
8-Have a look at the Pattaya forums b4 you go, I like Pattaya Secrets
9-Theirs two types of ladyboys, sweet girls with a dick and the other, foul mouthed and dangerous, if you see a group cross the road and give them a wide birth.
10- The advice I give is for a newbie, Pattaya is a great place and quite safe if your switched on, start insulting the locals, wander about pissed and shagging an indie your asking for an experience you don't want.
11-And the most important Devils Den!Metro...