Talk about the nightlife in Thailand and obviously the first thing that will come to mind is the bustling and very lively red light districts of Thailand – Patpong, Soi Cowboy and Nana Plaza. In fact, Thailand has become famous (or is it infamous?) for its very sexy and titillating nightlife brought about by these places.
But of course, thinking of this is quite one dimensional. Although Thailand is known for its sexy bars and shows it is just one aspect of a very active social environment that the country has been nurturing for many, many years. For example, Thailand has great night clubs and bars where one can mingle with some of the movers and shakers in the country along with celebrities and socialites. There are also a variety of music events that are held in certain parts of the country. Of course, Thailand being a mecca for tourists, it is but natural that it plays host to many world class performing artists.
Below are some of events and happenings that you can visit when in Thailand:
Cabarets
Thailand has become known worldwide for both its female impersonation artists and transvestites (also called by some as ladyboys but more commonly called katoeys in the country). In fact, these impersonators / artists have created a thriving business in plying their skills in mimicking women, especially world famous female icons.
Those who are visiting Chonburi can visit the Alcazar Cabaret, which has practically become a tourist attraction. This is a straight up cabaret that is marked with full blown and extravagant musical and dance numbers. Most of the performers wear extremely elaborate evening wear that would not look out of place in a transvestite’s wildest fantasies. This is no budget production either as state of the art lights and sounds are used for the performances. Visitors can eat at a number of restaurants and cafes before and after the show. As a way attracting more visitors, the Alcazar Cabaret hosts the annual Greatest Lady-Man Pageant in the World – a beauty contest for transsexuals.
Probably the most famous cabaret of this type in Thailand though is Tiffany’s Show, also in Chonburi. The show has been held for over 30 years now and consistently fills the 1000 seat theatre where it mounts the show. When it comes to lasting power, quality of shows and sheer chutzpah, Tiffany’s Show has no equal.
Entertainment Areas
The Royal City Avenue in Bangkok can arguably be the biggest secret in the whole of Thailand. This area is located in the capital of the country and yet this is probably the least known attraction in the country. The RCA is a long road that has a multitude of bars and clubs lining it. Most of the youth of Bangkok hang out here. Whatever your musical preference you will most likely see an establishment that would cater to it. You can eat, drink and socialize in a wide variety of establishments that have diverse themes and concepts. Be warned though that the demographic here is YOUNG, many tourists say that you will most likely not enjoy yourself if you are over 30 since the activities hear are really geared towards teenagers. This is a great place to hang out if you are relatively young and will be staying in Bangkok for a extended period of time.