absolutelyBangkok archive · Culture shock
Originally published June 7, 2011
The Gay Scene in Bangkok
– Being predominantly Buddhist and without an anti-gay establishment to resist, Bangkok could soon be replacing San Francisco as the #1 gay travel destination in the world. However, public displays of affection are still frowned upon whether you are gay or straight. The deep south of Thailand is much more conservative due to the Muslim presence.
You will be delighted to discover the array of LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender community) nightlife in Bangkok. There are numerous gay clubbing areas throughout Bangkok like Soi 2, Soi 2/1, and Soi 4 in the Silom district. Noteworthy clubs in this district offering great happy hour specials include the Telephone Pub and The Balcony, found on Silom Soi 4. Another great place to party is DJ Station, which is found on Silom Soi 2.
Previously known only for its go-go bars, Bangkok girls, and sex clubs for straight men, the Patpong Red Light District comes as a big surprise hosting many gay bars and cafes to settle back at. Take a stroll along Surawongse Road (off Patpong 2) to find Dick’s Cafe. Located inside Duangthawee Plaza, this newly renovated Casablanca-inspired restaurant and lounge offers an extensive menu and relaxed ambiance.
Another gayborhood less frequented by expats and tourists is the Lamsalee district, which is found around Ramkhamhaeng and Kamphaeng Pet Road. Unlike the Silom district, you won’t find money boys or tourists , but 20-something gay Thai men and business professionals. Check out the eccentric ICK Pub or Club 9 Cafe for hot beats and big surprises.
Note that there are also a handful of lesbian night clubs in bangkok city in RCA (Royal City Avenue) District. Stop in at Zeta, which is a strictly all-girl gay club. If you happen to be bar hopping with the boys, send them to Silom! If you can’t get rid of you boyfriends, invite them with you to E-Fun, to share in on some “extreme fun for the ladies”.
Beyond the nightlife, there is much more to this city for the gay traveler. Without a doubt, Bangkok has the most gay spas and bath houses in the world. Most of these hideaways charge around 200 baht for access to saunas, steam rooms, restaurants, bars, and gyms.
The Babylon, located on Soi Nantha and Sathorn Road, offers all of the amenities above plus a classy rooftop bar and nightly room rentals. If your trip to Bangkok is planned during the fall months, don’t miss the Bangkok Gay Pride Event, which takes place every year at the end of September.
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