Ladyboy Bars in Bangkok
Estimates vary, but there are approximately 300,000 ladyboys in Thailand. Born genetically male, ladyboys (the term “katoey” is considered to be pejorative) take on female personae at ages as low as 10 or 11. They are everywhere, and are renowned for being talented actresses and make-up artists. Unlike formal ladyboy shows, ladyboy bars are venues where socializing takes precedence over performing. Ladyboy bars are a mixed bag, where being hustled for a drink is all part of the good-natured fun. If you’re easily shocked or offended, we’d recommend a formal ladyboy show instead. Looking for a hot time and a good story? OK, go to a ladyboy bar, and be prepared for anything!
There are too many ladyboy bars in Bangkok to count, but the following are among the most notable.
Located in Nana Entertainment Plaza (Four ladyboy bars). NEP is on Sukhumvit Soi 4, a five-minute walk from the Nana BTS Skytrain station.
GPS Coordinates: N13° 44.492’, E100° 33.187’
- Casanova Bar, located on the middle floor, left rear of NEP, is known for its aggressive ladyboys, who will absolutely insist that you have a drink and get to know them on a more personal level.
- Cascade Bar’s “Mr. Lady” show goes on at 11:30 pm nightly at Cascade, but you can have drinks with the friendly performers anytime. Cascade is located on the back right of the top floor at NEP. Cascade’s ladyboys are among the friendliest and most easygoing at NEP.
- Obsession, on NEP’s ground floor, right rear, features very aggressive ladyboys, along the lines of those you’ll meet at Casanova.
- Temptations, on NEP’s middle floor, right side, features somewhat aggressive, but friendly ladyboys. Like all ladyboy bars in NEP, it’s OK to politely decline buying someone a drink here, but if you do buy one, you’ll be considered “part of the crowd,” and your enjoyment will be enhanced.
Labyboy Bars on Patpong Road
King’s Castle 3, on Patpong Road One, halfway between Suriwong and Silom on the west side of the street, is a bar whose pole dancers rival, in looks, the most dazzling performers in any ladyboy show in Thailand. In keeping with the ladyboy tradition, everyone’s fair game here, including you, so keep a good attitude and enjoy the fun.
GPS Coordinates: N13° 43.727’, E100° 31.904’
