Bangkok Gay Scene

Generally, Bangkok and mostly the rest of Thailand are extremely friendly to gay and lesbian visitors. There are many venues both of entertainment and hospitality which cater specifically to the needs of the gay community. The environment for gay and lesbians is quite laid-back and relaxed. This could be because there exists a large indigenous gay and trans-gender community in most cities in Thailand.

Thai Gays

The Bangkok gay scene has it all and whatever your preferences, you are absolutely guaranteed to find what you are looking for here. If discrete and sedate is your style, there are hotels, bars, massage parlours and restaurants to satisfy your requirements. But there are also overt, lively and openly gay venues, in which you can really let your hair down and be yourself. Everything is on offer here.

While you are on vacation in Bangkok, and Thailand generally, you are sure to notice that there are many more gays and lesbians who are Thai, than you would generally notice in other capital cities. Gay Thai boys and men find it easier to be open about their sexuality in a generally accepting environment.

And a trip to gay and lesbian Bangkok would not be complete without an encounter with a “ladyboy” (Katoey in Thai). The majority of ladyboys are “she-males” who are unable to pay for a full sex change operation, and so are exploiting their comfort with being with either men or women. They often do not comply to the generally subservient nature of Thai women, and can be fairly feisty, but they are also renowned for taking good care of their health.

Thai Ladyboy

Although smaller than the male gay community in Bangkok, a lesbian community does exist, albeit more discreetly. The accepting attitude of Thais to lesbians makes it a perfect place to live, visit or meet new friends. Investigate the several bars and restaurants on Sukhumvit Road in Bangkok to check out popular haunts for lesbians.

You may care to investigate “Pink Ink” and “Pink Maps” who offer a monthly online gay and lesbian newsletter and a gay map of Bangkok, respectively. The Aquarius hotel in Bangkok is one of the few exclusively gay guesthouses, and although rooms are generally clean, they are styled in a very simple way. The Montien Hotel is in a good spot for exploring what Bangkok has to offer, as is the Tawana Ramada.

If you are seeking good food and hospitality and you are gay, then Cabbages and Condoms, Harmonique and The Old Dutch make the gay and lesbian visitors feel especially welcome.

If you are seeking gay and lesbian nightlife, then you should be sure to head for Silom Road, Soi 4 (soi is Thai for a side street off a main road). Most of the establishments in this area are reputed to be clean and safe.

There are many good bars in this location too, including the Freeman Dance Arena, and DJ Station. Café Society is a gay and lesbian-friendly spot close to the Sky Train station near Sois 2 and 4. The coffee is great and it is a superb spot for people-watching, also offering free internet access.

All in all, there are not many capital cities where gays and lesbians can be so relaxed, open and welcomed without prejudice. Many gays and lesbians are regular visitors to Bangkok, coming back year after year.

Bangkok Nightlife Guide

Gay Areas of Pattaya

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