Krung Thep is what the Thai call their capitol, a much-shortened nickname for what is the longest city name in the world (ask a Thai to recite the whole thing for you). In typical Thai fashion, Bangkok’s epic poetic title has been simplified for everyday use to its practical essence: City of Angels.

Most tourists experience Bangkok in similarly boiled down little sweet or sour bits: disarming charm, dazzling smiles, exotic temples, bustling markets, choking traffic, 5-alarm peppers, pestering touts. But poke past the polished tourist veneer and Bangkok rewards the explorer with magic moments amidst its free-for-all collision of old and new, rich and poor, the sacred and the profane.

“Paradise” is a word that is often applied to describe the abundance of what Bangkok has to offer. It’s a genuine paradise for shoppers, from the bargains at Chatuchak, the world’s largest outdoor market, to the refined silks and jewels of this royal kingdom. It is also a paradise for foodies, from the singular specialties of its sidewalk hawkers, to the finest cuisine from around the world served up here at stupefying low prices. It is certainly a paradise of 5-star accommodation, service, and even world-class health care (get your nose, eyes or dental work done here and your holiday will pay for itself).

Many have also described Bangkok as a paradise for gay life. It certainly may seem that way to visitors, for its sheer abundance, high visibility, and “anything goes” reputation. In fact, GLBT life here is just as complex and contradictory as anywhere else in the world. And while Bangkok’s queer scene seems amazingly diverse, it’s just the tiny tip of an iceberg: most of the Thai gay world is invisible and inaccessible to tourists.

The key to enjoying your time in Bangkok is to relax, take it easy. When you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by culture shock, go sit in a quiet temple courtyard. When you’re wound up by the entire sensory overload, pamper yourself with an afternoon in a spa or sauna. When your emotional dam threatens to burst, go light some incense at a phallic shrine. Take a deep breath. What’s that smell?

Don't go with touts who want to take you anywhere or taxi drivers that don’t turn on their meters, and use your common sense. Do look both ways when crossing the streets. No one will assault you here; just don’t tempt anybody to enjoy their “good luck” by leaving your valuables unattended. Relax and remain receptive for one of those unforgettable magic moments that Bangkok inevitably supplies when you least expect it.

The population of Bangkok is nearing 10 million people. That's getting close to half a million Utopians.

• Bangkok Gay Scene Updates message board
• Bkk4You Gay-owned Thai web portal explores the Big Mango top to bottom, including Pink Links.
• Lesbian listings
• Men in Bangkok message board
• Travel in Bangkok message board

  Navigating the local gay scene is easy with our interactive Utopia Map of Gay & Lesbian Bangkok:

The updated and expanded Utopia Guide to Thailand offers a comprehensive glimpse at the gay and lesbian scene in 23 cities including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Samui, and Pattaya. Listings include organizations, bars, discos, accommodations, spas, restaurants, and more. A special section highlights venues that are especially welcoming for women. Enjoy savvy comments and recommendations from hundreds of local Utopians and gay travelers. Click here to order the collector's First Edition

• Bangkok Counselling Service
  Unit 707, Kasemkij Bld, 120 Silom Rd, Utopia Map, 02-632-7299, email. Providing Counseling and psychotherapy to individuals and couples in Bangkok. Working with gay men and specialising in the areas of sexual health, relationships, sexuality, identity, sexual problems, and working with those affected in any way by HIV. Utopia Member Discount
• Excelsior
  115/1 Siamheritage, Suriwongse Rd, 081-234-5923, 02-234-2399, email. Gay-friendly custom made clothier with over 30 years of business experience. Worldwide mail order. They keep your measurements for 10 years. Utopia Member Discount
• Savile Row
  118 Rose Hotel, Utopia Map, 085-844-1307 , 02-235-4427, email. Gay-friendly tailor shop, only a minutes walk from the Rose hotel and the gay scene. They have been catering for the international gay community for over 22 years. Reasonable prices on a wide range of quality fabric to choose from. Have your custom tailoring done in 24 hours. Their specialty is fitting large to extra large men. To copy your favorite size or style, just bring it with you. Ask for Aron, the director. Utopia Member Discount

• Anjaree lesbian group
• Bangkok Pride Coalition
  Email. Gay businesses and community supporters who organize the annual Bangkok pride week and parade.
  
  Click Here for pictures and a report from
  The 8th Annual Bangkok Pride Parade.
  Photos and report from Bangkok Pride 2005
  Photos and report from Bangkok Pride 2004
  Photos and report from Pride in the Park 2004
  Photos and report from Bangkok Pride 2003
  Photos and report from Pride in the Park 2003
  Photos and report from Bangkok Pride 2002
  Photos and report from Pride in the Park 2002
  Photos and report from Bangkok Gay Festival 2001
  Photos and report from Bangkok Gay Festival 2000

• Bangkok Rainbow
  Email. A support group that tries to bring comfort to gays, their parents and friends. They seek to produce educational materials with positive stories of gay lives and unbiased information. They welcome members who would like to volunteer their time.
• Long Yang Club
  Email. The purpose of this Thai chapter of the international group is to provide a social group offering friendship and support to men from East and West. It has monthly activities including Club Nights (Silom Road, Bangkok) and "Dinner with Friends" at different restaurants. There are other events such as beach trips, movie nights, karaoke contests, parties, and dinner river cruises.
• Pride Festival Organization
  159 The Beach Residence Bld, Ratchadapisek Rd, Dindaeng, Bangkok 10310, Thailand, 02-691-5769, 02-691-5770, ext. 2901-2, Email. Non-profit organizer of Bangkok's annual Bangkok Pride festival, a volunteer-based organization that produces entertainment, education and informational events to promote a positive image of the gay, lesbian and transgender community in Thailand, and raises money for needy Thai charities.
• Rainbow Sky Association
  5/F Panjaphat Bld, 1 Patpong Rd, Suriyawong, Bangrak, Bangkok, 02-632-6957, 02-632-6958, English language assistance: 081-341-4591, FAX 02-632-6956, email. Thailand's first officially registered gay association, a private non-profit organization working for a better quality of life for, and the sexual health issues of, Thailand's gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender communities.
• Sexualities, Genders, and Rights in Asia: an International Conference of Asian Queer Studies
  2005 Queer Studies Conference organized in Bangkok by The Office of Human Rights Studies and Social Development, Mahidol University, Bangkok and The AsiaPacifiQueer Network.

• All In Travel
  3/F 849 Vorawat Bld Unit 305, Silom Rd, Utopia Map, 02-635-3604, 02-635-3608, email. Gay-friendly travel agent offering air tickets, hotels, tours, and visa information.
• Bangkok Tour Guide for Gays
  086-229-6629. Gay-friendly Bangkok tour guide. Bangkok sightseeing tours, nightlife for gays tours, shopping and tailored tours, translation and assistance in English and Thai. Utopia Member Discount
• Gay Guide in Thailand
  085-936-9409, email. Personal gay-friendly tour guides offering introductions to quality Thai culture, traditions, tourist sights and non-tourist places; all with a professional attitude and great service.
• Image Golf
  406/20 Jomtien Plaza Condotel, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi, 038-756-658, FAX 038-251-521, email. Image Golf offers inclusive packages with transfers, hotel and golf on Thailand's East Coast at 20+ beautiful courses. Utopia Member Discount
• Image Limousine
  406/20 Jomtien Plaza Condotel, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi, 038-756-658, FAX 038-251-521, email. Image Limousine offers transfers to/from Bangkok Airport to hotels in Bangkok, Pattaya and Hua Hin in luxury limos with CD player and English-speaking drivers. Utopia Member Discount
• Phil Travel Guide
  083-701-6569, email. See the sights with your own personal Thai licensed gay guide. An alternative to being herded around unfamiliar places with a crowd of strangers, experiencing exotic sights through the windows of a bus. Phil offers a range of specially designed tours for discerning gay travelers who wish a more personalised service. Utopia Member Discount
• Purple Dragon
  119/5-10 Surawong Rd, Utopia Map, (662) 238-3227, FAX (662) 634-0292, email. Asia's oldest and largest gay tour company offers hundreds of options using local English-speaking guides throughout Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar (Burma), India, China, Singapore and Bhutan. Specializes in programs focusing on culture, cuisine, adventure and aesthetic improvement programs.

Click here for Bangkok hotels and accommodations.

Click here for Bangkok bars and clubs.

Megabooks 2/F Nana Square (BTS Nana), Utopia Map, email. Gay-friendly magazine and book retailer offering reasonable prices on reading materials to both foreigners in Thailand as well as the growing number of Thais who buy English-language magazines and books. Utopia Member Discount

Click here for Bangkok cabaret.

Click here for Bangkok discos.

• Pathumwan Princess Hotel gym
  At Maboonkrong Shopping Center, Utopia Map, 02-216-3700. Serious gym popular with Asian gay visitors, especially Singaporeans. Not gay, be discreet.

Click here for Bangkok karaoke.

Click here for Bangkok massage for men.

• Lumpini Park
  Utopia Map. Especially from dusk until closing and also the first two hours before sunrise when the park opens for early exercise. Lots of business men out for a jog and then a stroll through the darker areas of the park perimeter.
• Shopping Centers:
  • Amarin Plaza
    Next to the Erawan Hotel, Utopia Map.
  • Big C
    Utopia Map.

    Comments from Utopians:

    "Try Big C super center opposite Central World, on any floor, the facilities at the entrance from the car park. Crowded with gays any time, but don't be too out coz the guard comes and checks every hour. Have fun." -- anan, Apr 1, 2009

  • Discovery Center
    Siam Square Sky Train Station, Utopia Map. Upper floors.
  • Emporium
    Sukhumvit 24 (Phrom Pong Sky Train Station), Utopia Map.
  • Robinson Silom
    Utopia Map.
  • Silom Complex
    Utopia Map.
  • Thaniya Plaza
    Soi Thaniya, Silom (Saladaeng Sky Train Station), Utopia Map.
  • Tesco Lotus
    Onnut branch, Utopia Map. 1/F facilities, near Swensen's.

Sphinx Silom Soi 4, Utopia Map, 02-234-7249, email. Bangkok's friendliest Thai restaurant has been offering the very best in Thai hospitality for over ten years, winning awards and rave reviews in both local and international publications. Their menu ranges from regional specialties to Royal Thai cuisine. Romantic decor, expansive menu, fine china, and excellent service from their charming and well-trained staff. Utopia Member Discount

CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT -- Silom, Suriwong, Sathorn, Lumphini, Chinatown

• Bug & Bee
  18 Silom Rd, Utopia Map, 02-233-8118. A café popular with gays and just a hop, skip and jump from DJ Station and the Sky Train. Great food, reasonable prices, friendly low key environment and open 24 hours. Great for chilling out, checking email with their free Wi-fi and people-watching with a cup of coffee.
• Café Ease
  Silom hangout near the gay night spots.
• Coffee Society (coffee and snacks)
  12 Silom Rd, Utopia Map, 02-235-9784, (near Silom Soi 2, between UOB Bank and Burger King), email. New location for this very popular gay-owned and patronized hang-out. Convenient location in the heart of Silom's popular nightlife and shopping.

  Eat Me Restaurant (modern international and regional) 20m off Convent Rd (in Soi Pipat 2), Utopia Map, business card, reservations: 02-238-0931, email. Romantic, modern interior complimented by fine art exhibitions. Inventive, superb cuisine, plus friendly service from owner Darren and staff. Menu changes monthly, with daily specials and choice deserts and cocktails. Handsome waiters and patrons (lots of stars and trendsetters). Rich music selection and occasional live jazz performances. Utopia Member Discount

• Full Moon (Thai)
  144/12 Silom Soi 10, 02-634-0766. Gay-owned, modern decor, and delicious food at moderate prices. Next door to the funky Oi Perfect karaoke/cafe.
• Hansaah Restaurant (Thai)
  44/7 Soi Sri Bumphen, 083-544-8245, email. Gay owned and managed, Hansaah Restaurant is proud to propose quality Thai dishes (and some western ones also) at reasonnable prices. In the kitchen, the owner's Mum and Dad prepare true and tasty dishes, following traditional recipes. Their friendly staff will welcome you Mon-Sat from 9am (breakfast with real coffee, fresh orange juice and homemade marmelade!) to 10pm. Utopia Member Discount
• Le Cafe Siam (Thai and French)
  4 Soi Akson, Chua Ploeng, Utopia Map, 02-671-0030. A gorgeous, turn-of-the-century Thai mansion and garden, restored and filled with antiques. A Chinese period theme carries over to the waiters' charming uniforms. The food is superb, especially the Thai selections. Dine downstairs or upstairs in cozy over-stuffed sofas.
• Lumba Lumba (Hong Kong style seafood)
  31 Soi Langsuan, Ploenchit Rd, Lumpini, 02-652-1973. Large (350 seat) restaurant with Balinese style decor. Lunch specials. Located on Langsuan Rd, right behind Lumpini Park. Utopia Member Discount
• Mali Restaurant (Thai and international)
  43 Sathorn Soi 1, 02-679-8693, 02-286-7311. A cozy, gay-owned restaurant between Babylon and The Malaysia Hotel.
• Mango Tree (Thai)
  37 Soi Tantawan (turn left off Surawong Rd, just past Tarntawan Place Hotel), Utopia Map, 02-236-2820. Tasty urban Thai cuisine in a beautiful, old house. Close to Patpong and a great place for first-time visitors.
• O..Ho...Restaurant (Thai and western)
  2/8 Soi Sri Bumphen, 02-286-5292, email. Located just around the corner from the Malaysia Hotel, 25m down Soi Sri Bumphen. Gay owned and operated, fully licensed restaurant with a la carte menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Air conditioned. Soft background music with mood lighting. Prices are very reasonable with most dishes B$40-220. Open daily 9am until midnight. Utopia Member Discount
• Starbucks (coffee and snacks)
  Surawong Rd (near Soi Duangtawee), Utopia Map. Cruisy day and night.
• Sukhothai Hotel (Sunday brunch buffet)
  Utopia Map, reservations: 02-287-0222. Fabulous, expensive and frequented by higher class gays. In addition to their Sun brunch, don't miss their afternoon tea time chocolate buffets!

  SUKHUMVIT -- Sukhumvit, Thonglor, Ekkamai

• Bonjour French Restaurant (fine dining)
  1217/2 Sukhumvit Rd (between Soi 59 and Soi 61), Utopia Map, 02-714-2112, email. Open daily for lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. The owner has patiently restored his beautiful house and created a French garden complete with fountain. Cozy and chic. Private room available. Parking. Gay and lesbian-friendly. Utopia Member Discount
• Khingklao (Northern Thai cuisine)
  61/1 Sukhumvit 22, Utopia Map, 02-259-5623. This Lanna style restaurant is a cool oasis in the bustling city -- filled with charming Thai crafts, handsome staff, and an award-winning menu with such hard-to-find specialties as tom yum huablee (banana flower soup), nor oo-a (stuffed bamboo shoot), and khao soy (soft and crispy noodles in a coconut cream broth).
• Vega (mixed)
  Sukhumvit 39, Utopia Map, 02-258-8273, 02-662-6471. A new place owned by a group of dees and toms. It's a kind of casual, trendy pub and restaurant. There are usually several tables of lesbians in groups. At night they have live bands and late at night people just get up and dance. Upstairs they have a karaoke room, also.

  OTHER AREAS

• Kalong Home Kitchen (seafood and Thai food)
  Take Sri Ayuttaya Rd all the way to the river, Utopia Map. Inexpensive and homey, with attentive service by matronly ladyboys. Popular with gays. Don't miss some of the best examples of Thai specialties served here including yam huablee (banana flower salad), kai pahd medmamuang (fried chicken with dried peppers and cashew nuts), yam tuaploo (crunchy wing bean salad), yam pladookfoo (crispy catfish with sour green mango), and fresh shrimps and fish prepared in a variety of tasty ways. Metro Magazine High Fives Award for their seafood.
• Sala Rim Naam (Royal Thai cuisine)
  Oriental Hotel, Utopia Map, reservations: 02-437-6211, 02-437-3080. Take the hotel shuttle boat from their private pier inside the Oriemtal (you must be well-dressed to enter the hotel). Superb river-side experience at the world's top hotel. The lunch buffet is cheaper than the evening dinner show and you'll be able to sit by the windows for a gorgeous view of the river.

Click here for Bangkok saunas for men.

CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT -- Silom, Suriwong, Sathorn, Lumphini, Chinatown
• Art at Play
  114/5 Silom Soi 4 (Across from Sphinx), Utopia Map, 02-632-8767, email. Featuring original abstract art from contemporary Thai artists. The gallery anticipates holding ongoing exhibitions featuring a variety of cutting-edge art forms and media from both local and international artists. Within easy walking distance of Saladaeng BTS Sky Train Station. Opening nightly until midnight.
• Body Style
  Silom Soi 4. Hot designs for hot bods.
• Cutey and Beauty
  3/F Thaniya Plaza, Silom, Utopia Map, 02-231-2315, email. Bangkok's premier gay salon, conveniently located on the 3rd floor of Thaniya Plaza, on Soi Thaniya, just a minute walk from the Saladaeng Sky Train Station. Charming, well-trained staff specialize in treatments ranging from cut and color to foot and facial masseurs who are ready to help you recuperate from jet lag, or get you looking your best for your night on the town. They even have henna tattooing! Utopia Member Discount
• Domon
  3/F Siam Center, Utopia Map. Undergear.
• Eros
  3/F Thaniya Plaza, Soi Thaniya, Silom, Utopia Map, 02-231-2015. Erotic crafts of Thailand including carvings, paintings and ceramics. Quite a lot of same-sex depictions sprinkled amidst the imaginative and often humorous couplings of humans and creatures.
• Gai Pied Club
  3/F Siam Center, Utopia Map, 02-656-1315. Sexy swim wear and gay apparel.
• HAIR2 Centre @ SILOM
  69/4 Saladaeng Soi 3, Soi Saladaeng, Utopia Map, 02-636-3087, 02-636-3088, email. HAIR2 Centre @ SILOM is Thailand's only specialist gay-friendly hair loss solution centre. HAIR2, sold in Thailand for over 10 years, has no chemicals and proven clinical results. HAIR2 is for both men and women and the treatment of hair loss, thinning hair and hair regrowth. They also use it for the growth of facial hair and eyebrows. Open: Mon-Fri 10am-7pm or by appointment. Closed Sat and Sun. Utopia Member Discount
• The Legend
  3/F Amarin Plaza, Utopia Map and 3/F Thaniya Plaza, Soi Thaniya, Silom area, Utopia Map. Superior Thai crafts.