Bangkok nightlife options
Posted by Sukhumwit Steve on August 6th, 2010 filed in NightlifeFrom fantastic costumes and gorgeous girls, pumping beats and delicious cocktails to simply relaxing under the stars, Thailand offers a wide range of entertainment options for those out and about in the evening.
Most of the more vibrant nightlife can be found in Bangkok, and while most bars, restaurants and clubs have a 1am curfew, there are usually one or two places around where you can continue drinking if you want.
Bangkok is by far the best place to go clubbing in Bangkok. There is an incredible variety of clubs where you can dance the night away, from the classy Bed Supperclub in Sukhumvit, to the male-orientated DJ Station in Silom. Another great option is Royal City Avenue (RCA), where there are dozens of clubs and bars playing everything from Thai disco music to hardcore Drum and Bass, Hip Hop and Techno. Expect to pay a cover charge at most clubs (300 baht+) and take a photocopy of your passport for identification.
Go-Go bars are generally located in special areas and can be easily identified by the flashy neon signs and scantily dressed women in the doorways. In Bangkok, head for Soi Cowboy, Nana Plaza or Patpong.
Karaoke Bars can be found all over Bangkok. Imported from Isaan, these bars specialise in loud Isaan music, flashing coloured lights and sexily dressed women crooning on stage. Many bars also have a selection of Western songs and Westerners are welcome to sing, although be aware that a charge for this is often included in your bill.
Alternatively, if you just want to take it easy, there are movie theatres all over Bangkok. All show movies in English with Thai subtitles, even in small villages. When booking, make sure you ask for the ‘subtitle’ movie. A tribute to the king is played at the start of the movie, and you are expected to stand and show respect along with everyone else. The movie theatres are highly air-conditioned and can be a bit chilly, so it is a good idea to take along a light jumper or jacket.