The shady side of Bangkok's nightlife
Alleys jam packed with shady people, overpriced dance bars and money talks, in a bad way.
Guess we have to talk about this too in a civil manner. Bangkok is one of the major destinations for visitors looking for a “good time”. Bangkok has everything to offer in that department but we would recommend staying away, without putting any moral stigma on that.
There are many so-called red-light districts in central Bangkok. Girls line the streets and alleys round the clock trying to hook a tourist to earn some money. These girls are always from a small village in the countryside and are sent to Bangkok to make extra, much needed money for their families. Some are standing outside the different bars and beer gardens and are employed by the venue to attract clients. Some line the alleys as freelancers. No matter what, these girls are skilled professionals who take as much money from you as they can.
However you look at it, these activities are technically illegal by Thailand law. The special tourist police are ever present but are not all too willing to help if there is a problem. You can ask for assistance but basically you are left all alone to fight it out with the bar owners, the security team or the gorilla bouncers. You will always end up losing whatever the problem is so in that case we strongly suggest you stay away.
The drinks are cheap but if there is a chance to water them down or serve you something extra, they will. Look, they are in the business making money, not friends. Always ask first how much a drink is and then order. As your drink is served, you will get a small receipt in a cup on your table for every order. A new order generates a new bill and after quiet some time you have lost track of what you have ordered and the bill can be astronomical. And trying to sort the bill out afterwards, and in a sorry state, is just not possible. If you still want to go and visit, pay for every drink as they arrive and don’t rack up bills. There have also been reports of people being served laced drinks in bars or in the hotel room so be aware. Never let your drink out of sight, not even going to the washroom for some minutes. The drugs they lace your beverage with are often both tasteless and colourless and you will not notice it until it’s too late.
And then when it comes to the girly side of things, we leave it up to you and your consciousness to decide. And please always be in control of your belongings. Pickpockets and thieves are very skilled and in a jiffy you can lose a phone, a wallet, a bag or any valuables. Good luck in finding it again.
