Top 10 Gay Experiences in Bangkok

Coming neck to neck with DJ Station is Babylon. Voted best sauna in Southeast Asia, or arguably, the world – according to seasoned sweatbox fiends, not only does this fabulous men’s complex feature wet and dry saunas, it also houses a dark maze, well-equipped gym, pool, restaurant, private cabins and hotel rooms. A firm favourite among local and international visitors, Babylon has something for everyone (provided you’re not too picky). Whatever rocks your boat, lose the garb and get lost (or found) in this ancient city, where its exclusively male inhabitants are perpetually ready, willing and able…

Even the most avant-garde club in Bangkok couldn’t resist. Put on your Sunday’s best and head to Bed Supperclub, the latest known victim to have succumbed to the fabulous power of pink, throws what can be described as Bangkok’s first GLBT night every Sunday. Satisfying all the gays, the curious and their admirers with the sound of delicious disco and funky house, DJ Fred Jungo and DJ Eddie Frampton take turns spinning sizzling tunes well into the wee hours. And don’t miss the city’s classiest Burlesque show, a smorgasbord of satirical sketches with a saucy edge that guarantees to leave you in stitches!

Leave your inhibitions at home before entering this ‘twilight zone’. Known locally as Soi Pratuchai, this street off Suriwong Road (behind Silom Road) is strewn with several establishments specialising in many variations (and interpretations) of ‘sexy shows’ and go-go dancing. Depending on what tickles your fancy, fight off the hassling and have a look around before settling down as each place caters to a different fantasy. Eye-opening spectacles and astonishing talents will leave you gasping for air. Be warned, though, you’re likely to emerge from this little alley a little corrupt…

One of the city’s long-established gay nightlife spots, Silom Soi 4 is known for its small concentration of chic restaurants, bars, karaoke as well as award-winning pubs like Telephone and Balcony Bar. The overall atmosphere here is jovial and friendly. And if you enjoy dramatic diva impersonations or random fashion shows, stick around for the lip-syncing staged nightly right in the middle of the street. An unofficial pre-requisition to the real action in Silom Soi 2, Soi 4 is a perfect place to just chill, chat, break the ice, eat, drink and watch people (plus plenty of eye candy to drool over!).

This is where the local boys let it all hang out. The name is an abbreviation for Marketing Organization for Farmers, whose office and market are on Kamphaeng Phet Road behind the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market. Some of the most popular places include Mogue, ICY and ICK. The mood is unmistakably Thai, with loud local music and a lot of university students. The good news for the ‘rice queens’ is that it’s not as competitive as Silom as you’re likely to be the only foreigner there. The bad news, however, is that the cute guy you’re after might not be a keen ‘potato queen’…

With its several branches permeating the city’s prime locations like Silom, Sukhumvit and Siam (in the posh Siam Paragon shopping mall), this muscle-pumping franchise is mushrooming faster than one can say “wow”. Unwittingly doubling as a meat market, California WOW, along with its sweat-inducing facilities like sauna, steam room, hot yoga room and locker room, has inevitably become a flesh utopia and popular cruise spot. See all those men in skimpy shorts trotting on the treadmills? If you’re lucky enough you can admire AND touch!

Possibly the pinnacle of Bangkok’s sanctuary for size queens, Tawan Go-Go Bar is famed far and wide for its extensive selection of sinewy hosts who will entertain muscle worshippers both on and off stage. Packed almost every night, this bar stages regular shows as well as ‘special shows’. Although not in the notorious Soi Twilight where most go-go bars congregate, Tawan Bar is still only a short walk away from there (Soi Thantawan, off Suriwong Road). Drink prices are steep but worth every baht considering there’s no admission fee.

Tense and sore from the night before? Aching for some kneading attention? There’s no better way to cure stiff muscles than a sedate session of traditional Thai massage – especially when offered by handsome gentlemen! Adonis Massage, one of Bangkok’s best massage parlours, is famed for its impressive range of masseurs (available in all shapes and sizes), a variety of treatments and massage rooms with private showers. Set in Soi Convent off Silom Road, this place is only a stone’s throw away from other gay attractions in the area.

Combining lounge, gym, sauna and a restaurant under one roof, Chakran Sauna is most recognised for its exquisite décor that exudes a sophisticated Mediterranean mood. Snug in Soi Ari 4, Phaholyothin 7 (Skytrain BTS Ari Station), away from the prying eyes, Chakran, which fittingly means ‘virile’ in Thai, is a place to get groped, grabbed and then some. There are plenty of special daily events and activities you can engage in, including fumbling in a dark room, fondling in a private chamber and frolicking by the ultra sexy pool – take your pick!